When To Wear—and When to Skip—Your Face Mask
With some states mandating the use of face masks—and face masks preventing the spread of coronavirus droplets—you likely own a few and know how to wear them. But do you know when to wear them? We asked doctors on the frontlines when to wear—and when to skip—your face mask, and here's what they said.
When to Wear Your Face Mask
"Masks should be worn anytime you have concerns about spreading a disease like COVID-19 from yourself to other people," says Dr. Warren Michalski. "These trap droplets from your mouth and nose and keep the virus contained within you, assuming you're a carrier." Keep reading to see exactly when and where.
In Any Enclosed Area
According to Eliza Chin, MD, you should wear a mask when "you're in any room or enclosed area where other people, except for members of your own household, are present—and physical distancing is difficult."
When You're Grocery Shopping
With narrow aisles and lines to check out, it's not always possible to remain six feet apart when food shopping. Wear your mask. Some stores won't let you in without one.
When You're on Public Transportation
Since states are reopening now, there will be more people using public transportation. It's more important than ever to continue wearing your mask, as there will be more people that can infect you, or be infected by you.
When You're in a Beauty Salon
Hair and nail salons are slowly reopening as we move through the phases. Beauty salons usually require the client and owner to be up close and personal. As it's nearly impractical to remain at a safe social distance, it's important to wear a mask.
When You're in a Common Area
You should wear a mask when "you're working in—or walking through—common areas like hallways, stairways, elevators, and parking lots," says Dr. Chin.
RELATED: 15 Mistakes You're Making With Face Masks
When You're at a Protest
"It's important to wear your mask if you are in large crowds, especially if you are partaking in a protest and are among people projecting their voices," says Dr. Bindiya Gandhi. "Remember, the virus is spread via respiratory droplets including talking, speaking, singing, coughing and sneezing."
For Pregnant Women in Labor
"When in active labor and pushing, there are many respiratory droplets that get into the atmosphere," says Dr. Madeline Sutton. "Many hospitals are encouraging the wearing of masks in labor to decrease possible transmission of COVID-19."
Any Time Social Distancing Isn't Possible
In any circumstance—at work, at a restaurant, even at a park—wear your face mask if other people cannot stay six feet away from you.
When to Skip Your Face Mask
A face mask isn't always needed. There are times when it just won't make a big enough difference. Read on to find out when and where.
When You're Home
"You do not need a mask while with your immediate family in your home if you have been staying with your family the entire time during the shutdown and have no COVID exposure," says Dr. Dianah Lake.
When You're in the Car
"There is just no reason for this," says Dr. Lili Barsky. "The only time someone should be wearing a mask while still in their car is at a drive-thru, or paying or picking up something curbside. Or in a ride share or taxi service."
When You're in an Open Space With No One Else Around
"With either nobody around or people are spread out far, like in a park or field—take this opportunity to take in some fresh air in a relatively low risk space, as this is something our bodies have been somewhat starved of this year," says Dr. Giuseppe Aragona. "Fresh air can be proven to help with mental health."
When You're Exercising Indoors, Away From People
"If you're on a machine in your apartment gym or on a bike, or surrounded by a small number of people who can keep their distance, it is acceptable to not wear a mask," says Dr. Barsky. "If someone is sick they should not be at the gym or exercising at all." "These activities require exertion, and face masks make it hard to breathe adequately," says Kemunto Mokaya, MD.
When You're Eating
"If you are at a restaurant, you may be able to take off your mask when you are at your table to eat," says Dr. Maggie Cadet. "If you get up to use the bathroom or circulate around the room, a mask has to be placed on."
"In fact, after you take off your mask beforehand, you should store it far away from the table if it is reusable or throw it out if it is disposable and clean your hands to avoid contamination of the food," adds Dr. Barsky.
When You're in the Water
"Masks are also not required for the pool," says Dr. Cadet. Wet masks are more permeable, and it's better and safer to remain a good distance away from people who you don't live with. Same goes with the beach, says the CDC—do not get them wet.
When a Disability Doesn't Permit You To
You can skip wearing a mask when "you have a medical, mental health, or developmental disability that prevents wearing a mask," says Dr. Chin, "or you're hard of hearing or communicating with someone hard of hearing who needs to see your face."
Overall: Follow the Rules of Your State
Laws vary by state and are changing every day. In California, for example, masks have just been mandated. In Montana, there is no mandate. Check with your local leaders, and consider their advice the bare minimum.
As for yourself: To get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don't miss these Things You Should Never Do During the Coronavirus Pandemic.
