Face masks are promoted by the media while face shields are hardly mentioned. Yet face shields are far superior to face masks. Here is a breakdown of how the two types of face coverings match up:
Categories |
Face Shields |
Face Masks |
Protection for the eyes from infected breath |
Yes |
No |
Inhaling someone’s direct breath |
Blocked |
Minor to no blocking |
Wearer’s Exhaled breath |
Blocked and scattered mostly to back of wearer |
Travels 1-3 ft forward |
Keeping hands off eyes, nose and mouth |
Blocked |
No blocking and encourages touching with adjustments. |
Breathing |
Good, but varies with design |
Often annoying, uncomfortable and harmful to some |
Re-usable |
Cleanable with soap and water |
Cloth must be washed. Paper should be disposed after use. |
In clouds of viruses |
Almost no protection |
No protection |
For an in depth explanation of the categories and more click here.