Like all the other health and fashion trends, face masks are going through constant improvements and changes as well. Creative minds from all around the world have started experimenting and coming up with innovative ideas to change the existing traditional styles of face masks. Experts have speculated that the coming revolution in face mask designs will include masks that can resist weather changes. Waterproof masks might just become the new thing.

The Need For A Waterproof Barrier

It has been a while since it was discovered that the COVID-19 virus can spread through water droplets. According to Dr. Seamus Curran and many other specialists, having a piece of covering around your face is simply not enough. He says that large water vapor droplets coming out of our mouths can contain the virus. Thereby, we might be unknowingly putting others at risk.

Apart from this, contaminated water droplets can infect a wide range of materials and surfaces. The disease can live for as long as one to three days on the surface and will contaminate anyone who touches it. This is why you mustn’t touch public items and objects without safety measures and immediately wash your hands afterward. This is also why you should not touch your face unless you are sure your hands are clean.  

Experts have established that a mask is only efficient and effective against the virus if it can block water droplets as well. The need for waterproof masks has become more prominent since then.

Water-Resistant Face Masks Fabrics

A few years back, specialists came up with a hydrophobic coating that made surfaces like wood and concrete completely waterproof. They have formulated innovative ways in which this special waterproof coating could work on face mask fabrics and increase their protection level. The coating will prevent absorption of liquids, and ultimately decrease the risk of spread, while making the face mask fabric water-resistant. 

As great as this idea is, it is not currently within easy reach of the general public. Until that happens, you can opt for face mask fabrics that are tightly woven and work effectively against water droplets. A double-layered, non-stretchy, cotton face mask that fits nicely is your best bet and is highly recommended by experts. Waterproof facemasks are not currently available in the market but there are several speculations that they might start popping up across different stores soon.

Brands Making Waterproof PPE & Facemasks

Realizing the importance of waterproof masks, many brands and companies have started developing such face masks. One such organization is Nikwax, a company that creates environmentally safe aftercare and waterproof technical equipment. Nikwax has developed two new products (sort of like washing powders) for hospital and home usage. These include PPE Wash Direct and PPE Proof Direct, which are particularly for the care of reusable and disposable gowns and masks. They work for all cotton and synthetic PPEs. Simply throw the wardrobe items in a washing machine and add the Nikwax product instead of your usual detergent to make your items repellent to water and add to their protection factor.