The majority of US states have issued an advisory to wear face coverings while in public to prevent the spread of coronavirus as cases spike across the country. Many retailers have started selling masks with various additional protection features, like antimicrobial materials and insertable fillers. However, face masks come with their limitations, which is why medical experts recommend wearing a face shield.
This face shield guide will explain everything you need to know about the protective gear and things to consider while making a buying decision.
What is a Face Shield?
As the name suggests, a face shield is something that covers your face to protect it from aerosol droplets.
It is widely used by health workers across the country and the world.
Shields often comprise a curved plastic plate that hovers right in front of the face and is held in place with tie strings or adjustable straps.
Why Use Face Shields?
Face masks only protect your nose and mouth, leaving the rest of your face uncovered.
In a recent report, it was found that SARS-CoV-2 can infect eye mucus as well.
Face shields can help protect your entire face.
They are instrumental in kids that are more prone to pulling off masks.
Some schools in many countries have decided to reopen after making it mandatory for all kids to wear face shields.
Face shields come in a wide range of designs and styles – from baseball hats with the added shield to tinted plastic covers.
This makes it important to consider your options before picking one carefully.
The right face shield will make you look good while protecting you from coronavirus.
You should look out for a few things while choosing a face shield.
Consider the Material
Face shields are usually made of plastic.
Certain materials are more rigid than others, while others better protect against scratches.
Shields, unlike face masks, can be sanitized and reused.
It may make sense to invest in a face shield that is made of stronger stuff and lasts longer.
Clarity is Important
Face masks leave your eyes open to see things clearly.
Face shields cover everything from your head to the chin/upper part of the neck.
You need to find a face shield that affords a higher degree of clarity.
Many shields come with pre-tinted plastic.
Certain eyewear manufacturers are also offering protective shields with Polaroid technology.
Whatever you choose, make sure you can see clearly through the shield.
Comfort Comes First
Coronavirus is a serious and deadly virus.
While the virus shouldn’t be taken lightly, nothing says you cannot be comfortable while wearing protective equipment.
Many people prefer face shields over face masks because they offer greater flexibility and don’t itch like masks.
Comfort is an important purchase factor for kids who are known to remove and throw anything that scratches or hurts.
You can easily find something that fits nicely and comfortably.
Find the Right Size
Face shields should completely cover your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Keeping things a bit longer and wider doesn’t hurt.
You can have the shield cover everything from the top of your forehead to your upper neck and ears.
However, you need to pay attention to your comfort as well since longer shields usually hurt the neck with prolonged use.
Typically, most shields have the bottom part sitting just below the chin level.
Get the Perfect Fit
It is important to find a face shield that fits snugly but allows enough leeway to breathe easily.
Your breath should not cloud the face shield and make it difficult to see.
If you have glasses, there should be enough space for you to wear them without hitting the shield.
The best way to ensure a snug fit is by paying attention to the suspension or headgear.
This refers to the circumference band on the top.
Most shields come with adjustable headgears to fit comfortably on anybody.
The face shield should have a suspension that sits at ½ – 1 inch above the eyebrows and is centered for optimal balance.
Your face shield should provide enough space for comfortable talking without leaving any room to breathe in sprays from a cough or sneeze.
Single-Use or Multi-Use
Unlike face masks, face shields can be used multiple times.
However, you need to find a shield that is designed to be resistant and long-lasting.
Most multi-use shields are made of rigid material that doesn’t bend easily or wear under stress.
Single-use face shields are manufactured from lighter plastic that can be easily bent and stuffed inside your bag.
Make sure you always sanitize your multi-use face shield after coming home to make it ready for reuse.
Should Prevent Sweat
Sweat can be a major problem when you have something on your head.
This is especially true during the warmer months.
Several products come with neoprene rubber cushions around the headgear to prevent sweat from getting inside the shielded space.
This can be a big help to those that hate getting blinded by sweat in their eyes.
Choose Appropriate Headgear
Manufacturers are becoming excessively creative with face shields.
They come in a wide variety of headgear.
You can choose between thread ties and elastic bands.
Whether you choose head ties or elastic bands, make sure it comes with thick and comfy straps that make wearing easy and adjustable.
Certain face shields are installed on regular caps.
These offer a higher degree of comfort since you are essentially wearing a cap with a shield.
Personalized Features
Depending on your preferences, there are several additional features you can choose from.
Many retailers offer decorated face shields with snazzy headbands.
Certain shields come with protective goggles and face masks as well.
Basic Facets
These tips should help you purchase the right face shield that fits perfectly and suits your purpose.
Make sure you never share your shield with anybody else, even if they are a member of your household.
You can find face shields online or at home improvement, hardware, and medical supply stores.
Resources:
https://72hours.ca/collections/face-shield
https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/face-shields-vs-face-masks-which-is-better-1.5023909
https://www.dezeen.com/2020/04/14/face-shield-coronavirus-interview-epidemiologist-michael-edmond/
https://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20200430/face-shields-a-more-effective-deterrent-to-covid#1