2020: The year of the face mask
We never saw it coming, but due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, wearing a face mask is now very much ‘the norm’.
As it’s now a legal requirement to wear a face covering in shops, bars, restaurants and on public transport, we’ve reached the point where we can’t leave the house without making sure we’ve got our keys, purse… and face mask.
While wearing a mask has become an essential addition to our day-to-day lives, that doesn’t mean it’s a comfortable one for many of us. Those of us with sensitive skin have been complaining about ‘maskne’ since day one, along with those who have never had issues with their skin previously.
Although, it makes complete sense. Wearing something tightly wrapped around your face for a long period of time is a direct route to irritated skin, leading to anything from breakouts to rashes.
Synthetic materials are harsh on the skin, and the constant rubbing can create micro-tears, leading to dirts and oils penetrating deeper into the skin. They’re a breeding ground for bacteria, trapping in moisture from sweat, oils (and your breath!) which can clog the pores and lead to whiteheads or blackheads.
With all of this combined with the general discomfort of nylon, polyester – or even worse, bog-standard biodegradable – face masks, it’s clear to see why so many of us are opting for higher quality silk face masks.
Truth be told, we’ve known about the health and beauty benefits of silk for centuries. We’ve been wearing silk pyjamas and sleeping on silk pillowcases for years due to the undeniable advantages it can have on our hair and skin.
It goes without saying, that all of these benefits naturally recur in the silk face mask, too. If you need a reason to switch out your standard face mask for a silk one, here are a few…
The benefits of silk face masks
They're gentle on the skin
Silk is a gentle, skin-friendly alternative to just about any other fabric on the market. Its well known for its silky smooth texture, and nothing quite compares to it in terms of being soft to the touch.
As opposed to rubbing against and snagging on the skin, silk glides and is so lightweight and soft that you wouldn’t even notice it was there. This makes it a logical choice for anyone with sensitive skin or those who are finding maskne is becoming a real problem.
They're antimicrobial
Silk naturally contains antimicrobial properties. This means that it has the ability to kill or slow the spread of microorganisms – which includes anything from bacteria and viruses to fungi.
This is pretty important when it comes to preventing or reducing the risk of maskne, as it helps to keep the bacteria at bay so your pores remain free from clogging.
They're hypoallergenic
It’s not all just about sensitive acne-prone skin, some of us can also be reactive in other ways to certain fabrics. If you find that you’re prone to eczema flare ups, skin rashes or any other allergic reactions whilst wearing a face mask – a silk face mask could just be your best option.
Silk is naturally hypoallergenic and is free from any additional irritating chemicals. There aren’t many people allergic to silk, as the fibres contain a sericin residue which naturally repels common allergens such as bacteria, dust mites and mould.
They're breathable
This is something we haven’t touched on until now but it’s one of the biggest bugbears of wearing a mask, particularly for those wearing them day in and day out for long periods of time. Masks are designed to limit airflow from entering or exiting the area, so it’s no wonder why sometimes it can feel like you’re suffocating.
When opting for a mask made from silk, you’ll benefit from the cool and breathable properties of the fabric. It’s incredibly lightweight which makes for a more comfortable wear with ease of breathing, and without trapping the hot moisture from your breath inside it.
They're fashionable
If you have to wear something – why not make it fashionable, right? Face coverings have well and truly become a fashion statement this year, and we’re not mad about it! Matching your face mask to your outfit is the new matching your bag to your shoes.
We won’t be the first to say this, but disposable face masks just aren’t the height of fashion. Not only do they wreak havoc on your skin, but they can ruin your well put-together outfit, too. Whereas, it doesn’t get much more fashionable than silk.
It’s luxurious, elegant, oozes style and complements just about any outfit – from smart to casual.
They're affordable
We know what you’re thinking, ‘silk sounds expensive’. Of course, silk is expensive because it’s worth the price tag. However, silk face masks can be snapped up at incredibly affordable prices.
For a real silk face mask, you don’t need to be looking at paying any more than you would for a standard high-street covering.
Our sister company Adamley Textiles is offering a huge range of 100% silk face masks at just £9 each. All face masks are crafted with our high quality 100% silk twill, and printed with various beautiful and unique designs.
Biddle Sawyer Silks are a UK wholesale silk specialist, offering professional silk printing services. If you’re looking for the finest quality silks to make your own face masks – please get in touch with us, we’d love to help!
