It seems only fitting to end the year 2020 with a review of our newest essential accessory: a face mask. Although in some countries, like Japan, these have been fairly common around flu season. They’re available in many different forms, from disposable to washable, from solid colours to colourful prints.
Whether you’re going for neutral and blending in or fashionable, chances are you’ve got one or even a few face masks at home. Still looking for a face mask with a print? These Japanese disposable face masks, with an adorable print, might be just the thing for you.
Important information
Make sure to follow your local government’s rules and guidelines in regards to when and where you should wear a mask. There is still some debate as to which are better: disposable or washable face masks. Whichever you choose make sure to use them properly, by covering both your mouth and nose.
Wash your hands properly before putting on your mask and touch it as little as possible while putting it on.
Recommendations
Keep a small (re-sealable) bag with you to put your used masks in. This way you can either wash or throw them away at home. When using a disposable face mask: be sure to cut the elastic loops, so they can’t get tangled up if they do end up somewhere they don’t belong.
Blippo – Protective Kawaii Face Masks
Price: ±€8,-
First off, the adorable packaging these face masks are in has to be mentioned. The re-sealable pack is colourful and showcases the design of the masks very well. The masks themselves are mostly pink, with a few splashes of yellow, blue and white. The print is adorable and because it’s just colourful enough, and not overwhelmingly so, it is a pretty calm design overall. As the masks are pink they do stand out a little less from a distance than a black face mask would, for instance. Overall a cheerful, colourful and definitely kawaii design, for both the packaging and the masks themselves.
The fabric feels pretty soft and comfortable. The adjustable nose clip didn’t adjust to the shape of my nose quite as much as hoped, it sort of sprung back. Once I took it off and then readjusted the nose clip it did fit pretty well, but this wasn’t something could be adjusted properly while wearing it. It might be easier to pre-shape it a bit before putting on the mask. The ear loops were a bit large for me, but this was easily corrected by tying a knot in them. Even the elastic loops consist of a pretty soft material, which makes them more comfortable to wear.
To test these face masks I’ve worn one for about two hours in a row, inside of my house. My face didn’t get sweaty or itchy and I didn’t feel like it made it harder to breathe. I should mention that I did spend most of this time sitting behind my computer, not exercising or walking around.
I’d definitely recommend these disposable face masks to anyone who uses the disposable variety. I usually use washable masks myself, but I like to keep some disposable ones on hand just in case my washable ones are unavailable or I need to put on and refresh my mask several times in a day.
Whether you’re wearing these or different face masks: we wish you a safe, happy and above all healthy 2021!
