How to Put on and Remove a Face Mask

What is a face mask?

Face masks are one tool utilized for preventing the spread of disease. They may also be called dental, isolation, laser, medical, procedure, or surgical masks. Face masks are loose-fitting masks that cover the nose and mouth, and have ear loops or ties or bands at the back of the head. There are many different brands and they come in different colors. It is important to use a face mask approved by the FDA.

For more guidance check out the CDC page.

What is a face mask used for?

Facemasks help limit the spread of germs. When someone talks, coughs, or sneezes they may release tiny drops (droplets) into the air that can infect others. If someone is ill a face masks can reduce the number of germs that the wearer releases and can protect other people from becoming sick. A face mask also protects the wearer’s nose and mouth from splashes or sprays of body fluids.

When should a face mask be worn?

Consider wearing a face mask when you are sick with a cough or sneezing illness (with or without fever) and you expect to be around other people. The face mask will help protect them from catching your illness. Healthcare settings have specific rules for when people should wear face masks. You can see if masks are required in your county by checking here.

To see SF COVID-related masking guidance click here.

Disposable face masks should be used once and then thrown in the trash. You should also remove and replace masks when/if they become moist.

Always follow product instructions on use and storage of the mask, and procedures for how to put on and remove a mask.If instructions for putting on and removing the mask are not available, then follow the steps below.

How to put a face mask on:

Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the mask.
Remove a mask from the box and make sure there are no obvious tears or holes in either side of the mask.
Determine which side of the mask is the top. The side of the mask that has a stiff bendable edge is the top and is meant tomold to the shape of your nose.
Determine which side of the mask is the front. The colored side of the mask is usually the front and should face away from you, while the white side touches your face.
Follow the instructions below for the type of mask you are using.
- Face Mask with Ear loops: Hold the mask by the ear loops. Place aloop aroundeach ear.
- Face Mask with Ties: Bring the mask to your nose level and place the ties over the crown of your head and secure with a bow.
- Face Mask with Bands: Hold the mask in your hand with the nosepiece or top of the mask at fingertips, allowing the headbands to hang freely below hands. Bring the mask to your nose level and pull the top strap over your head so that it rests over the crown of your head. Pull the bottom strap over your head so that it rests at the nape of your neck.
Mold or pinch the stiff edge to the shape of your nose.
If using a face mask with ties: Then take the bottom ties, one in each hand, and secure with a bow at the nape of your neck.
Pull the bottom of the mask overyour mouth and chin.

How to remove a face mask:

Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the mask. Avoid touching the front of the mask. The front of the mask is contaminated. Only touch the ear loops/ties/band. Follow the instructions below for the type of mask you are using.
Face Mask with Ear loops: Hold both of the ear loops and gently lift and remove the mask.
Face Mask with Ties: Untie the bottom bow first then untie the top bow and pull the mask away from you as the ties are loosened.
Face Mask with Bands: Lift the bottom strap over your head first then pull thetop strap over your head.
Throw the mask in the trash. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.

Face Mask Types:

The article mentions several types of face masks, including dental, isolation, laser, medical, procedure, and surgical masks. These masks vary in design and purpose but share the common goal of preventing the spread of diseases.

Purpose of Face Masks:

Face masks act as a crucial tool in limiting the transmission of germs, especially when individuals talk, cough, or sneeze. They help contain droplets released into the air, reducing the risk of infecting others. Additionally, a face mask protects the wearer from inhaling splashes or sprays of body fluids.

When to Wear a Face Mask:

The article emphasizes wearing a face mask when an individual is sick with a cough or sneezing illness, with or without a fever, to protect others from potential infection. Healthcare settings have specific rules for face mask usage, and local guidelines may dictate mask requirements.

Proper Usage and Handling:

Instructions for putting on and removing face masks are provided in detail. Notably, disposable masks should be used once and discarded, and replacements are necessary if the mask becomes moist. Proper hand hygiene is emphasized throughout the process.

Face Mask Placement:

Instructions include determining the top and front of the mask, using ear loops, ties, or bands for secure placement, and molding the mask to the shape of the nose. Distinctions are made based on the type of mask used, whether it has ear loops, ties, or bands.

Removal Process:

The removal process is outlined, emphasizing the importance of avoiding contact with the front of the mask, which is considered contaminated. Different methods are prescribed for masks with ear loops, ties, or bands.

Disposal and Hand Hygiene:

Proper disposal involves throwing the mask in the trash, followed by thorough hand hygiene with soap and water or hand sanitizer.

In conclusion, the information provided in the article aligns with established best practices for the use of face masks in disease prevention, and the emphasis on FDA-approved masks and adherence to guidelines from reputable health organizations underscores the commitment to public health and safety.