Surgical Face Masks have many types of classifications, such as classification by use, composition, material or usage … In this article, let’s learn about Different types of masks are distinguished according to their usages.
Disposable Masks
Types of disposable surgical face masks
Disposable surgical face masks are those used in the medical sector or some industries that are heavily exposed to chemicals such as factory emissions, pesticides, and insect sprays. Insect, fine dust, …
Normal medical masks (surgical masks)
This type of mask is currently the most used by many people, including in normal daily life. Medical masks are made up of 3 to 5 layers, of which: The innermost layer is in direct contact with the nose and mouth, has a strong absorbent effect on droplets, secretions; the outer layer is a waterproof non-woven fabric that prevents water from seeping inside as well as blocking most large-sized dirt; the middle layers (antibacterial filter cloth, activated carbon layer, …) to filter dust are smaller in size. The more layers of masks, the better their ability to filter dust.
The medical face mask has a simple, compact design, is easy to wear and does not hurt the ear, causing discomfort when used for many hours. The price of medical face masks are quite diverse, usually ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 VND / box of 50, suitable for Vietnamese consumers.
N95 respirator
N95 mask is a mask upgraded from conventional medical masks, capable of filtering 95% of particles, bacteria, dust in the environment with a very small size, only about 0.3μm. In addition, N95 respirator is also used to prevent droplets, secretions from other people and the user themselves in case of need.
N95 usually has more than 5 layers, the structure is similar to medical masks, but the quality and features of each layer are improved drastically. Therefore, the N95 respirator is very effective in filtering micro dust such as fine dust.
N95 masks are researched and manufactured based on modern production technology of countries such as Korea, Japan, USA, UK, so the price is higher, on average, from 30,000 to 70,000 VND / item.
N95 masks can absolutely cover the face, but that is why when used for a long time, it will cause a feeling of difficulty breathing and leave a mark on the face. Some N95 respirators are equipped with a one-way breathing valve to make the user more comfortable in all outdoor conditions, but the price of this type will be more expensive.
Reusable Masks
Fabric masks are those that can be used over and over again. Fabric masks are widely used in people’s daily life because they are reusable. This will help families save “a fair amount” of money for buying masks.
Cloth masks
This plain fabric mask has existed for a long time and is always chosen by people to use it to prevent dust and sun in everyday life.
Fabric masks are also available in a variety of types, from regular fabric masks to fabric masks to activated carbon layers. The fabric masks are dustproof, resistant to ultraviolet rays that damage the skin. However, the difference in structure also affects the effectiveness of the product:
- Fabric masks are usually quite cheap, but they can only filter dust with large size, waterproof, drop resistance will be worse.
- Active fiber mask, in addition to beautiful durable cotton fabrics, creating airiness, there is a cloth woven from fibers pre-impregnated with activated carbon, effectively preventing smaller dust and harmful gases in environment. This layer of activated fiber only works for about 2-3 months, the longer it gets, the longer it will lose its use and no longer guarantee the original dust filtration effect.
- Activated carbon mask will have a sheet of activated carbon pressed between two layers of fabric. This sheet can be replaced regularly, so this type of mask you can use for a long time. Activated carbon layers will filter dust, including ultra-fine dust, anti-droplets, anti-toxic emissions, ensuring your safety.
Antibacterial fabric masks
The antibacterial fabric mask is a new product launched in the market in recent days but has quickly won the trust of consumers. This type of surgical face mask is sufficiently dustproof, resistant to droplets and human secretions like medical masks.
Antibacterial fabric masks are usually composed of 2-3 layers of antibacterial fabric processed by modern technology. Currently, the main treatments to put the antibacterial agent on the fabric surface are: Padding, coating or spraying. After treatment, the fabric component is resistant to and kills up to 90% of bacteria after 1 hour of exposure. In particular, depending on the antibacterial agent used, an antibacterial fabric mask can be washed and reused from 10-30 times, the efficiency is only reduced to 60-70% after going through many washing times. So we understand what type of surgical face masks is best for us
