How to keep cool while wearing the mask?

Heading to the great outdoors is the perfect way to exercise, boost your mood and reduce stress. But trying to do this in the summer heat and humidity and while wearing a mask can dampen the experience.

Masks are still needed to prevent the spread of COVID- 1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends in all countries that you wear a mask when in public and enclosed spaces or when you are unable to maintain social distancing outdoors. In fact, recent evidence has shown that masks can reduce the spread of the Coronavirus if everyone adheres to wearing a mask.

But wearing a mask increases the intensity of the heat and causes sweating as well as prevents breathing fresh air, and thus it may be very difficult to exercise or enjoy a picnic in the fresh air with the mask. It is easiest to wear a mask in cold climates, but wearing a mask, especially in hot climates, traps heat near your face and causes a feeling of suffocation. The common moisture also prevents sweat from evaporating and feeling cold.

Fortunately, there are some ways to relax while wearing a mask.

Avoid heat and extreme humidity

To keep your body cool while wearing a mask, avoid during extreme temperatures and high humidity situations that require wearing a mask. If this is not possible, try to do these activities either first thing in the morning or in the evening when the weather is cold.

Take a few minutes of rest

Don’t be afraid to take breaks. If you are outside, stay away from others and remove your mask for a few minutes.

Maintaining body moisture

Whether or not you wear a mask, always stay hydrated while on the go. Dizziness or a rapid heartbeat are warning signs of heat exhaustion. If this happens, take off the mask safely if you are wearing one, drink a good amount of water and get medical attention right away.

Choose the right mask

It is very important to know how to choose a comfortable mask. It’s not just about feeling safe, you also want a mask that you won’t be tempted to touch. The best masks are cotton medical masks that do not cause heat or sensitivity. Cotton masks are the most breathable and comfortable. The masks also work with an outer layer of cotton and an inner layer of flannel. 

Once you have a comfortable mask, make sure you wear it correctly. Your mask should fit your face securely but comfortably and cover your nose and mouth. It shouldn’t be so narrow that it blocks your breathing. Choose a mask that allows you to either tighten or loosen the straps.

Replace it continuously

Wet masks are not only irritating but are actually less effective in preventing coronavirus. If sweat is an issue, change your mask. Keep an extra mask on hand and make sure you store it in a container and have access to it on the go.