Although masks have become a part of us due to the COVID-19 epidemic, there are still discussions about how protective a mask can be today. In fact, various methods that “increase the efficiency” of masks are shared on the Internet. In some of these methods, the mask is completely taped or adhered to your face.
A study published recently, however, did what many would not have thought: It tried popular mask ‘hacks’ on the Internet, that is, tricks, and measured how much the effectiveness of the mask really increased. This study by Cambridge University also revealed a very interesting result.
Pantyhose turned out to be the most effective ‘method’
In their experiments on KN95 and surgical masks, scientists tried taping, tying the rope, using rubber bands, closing the gaps with various materials, pantyhose (also separated into white and black), and a cloth that covers the mask and face of the person, called ‘mummy’. He included methods such as using the mask. Among these methods, the most effective one is, oddly enough, pantyhose came out.
Moreover, the effectiveness of wearing a mask with pantyhose was not to be underestimated. According to the shared results, it was announced that using the mask with pantyhose as in the image can reduce the amount of viral particles by 7 times compared to wearing a mask normally. Volunteers, who participated in the research and wore masks and pantyhose, stated in their feedback that they had problems talking to the people in front of them and felt a high level of discomfort.
On the other hand, the research also offered some information about other cheats. According to this, wearing a mask with a rubber band put pressure on the ear and face of the person and limited blood flow to the ear in some people. Taping the mask to the face was not a problem for comfort. But removing that tape was the crucial part.