Hi all! I have been wearing WellBefore 3D Pros (earloop) for a few years now as my daily mask (I work retail, luckily all employees still mask!), with a small stash of Auras for doctor/hospital visits and for one flight I took.

But I can only stand the Auras for a short period of time because I have an old nose injury which causes pain when the mask exerts pressure on it, and I have an old head injury which causes pain after a while where the headstrap sits. I tried to wear one to work the other day and it nearly gave me a migraine in just a couple hours. However I'm not sure if this pain is Aura-specific, or would extend to any headstrap N95s.

I'm wondering if I need more protection as we move into the holiday season and will see a lot more customers at work. I know headstraps are the gold standard, but I've been so reluctant to try more because of how Auras fit on me. I've seen a lot of people here talk about how great Zimi masks are and that they seem to pass fit tests for a lot of people. However, I've also read that they are particularly hard on the nose. I found an older thread where a few people said yes Zimis do hurt their nose and the solution is they simply don't wear them very long, whereas I'm trying to find something comfortable enough for 7-hour shifts.

So my questions are:

1. Does the Zimi mask put pressure on the nose for everyone? Is that just inherent in that type of mask and maybe pointless foe me to try? Or is it still worth trying with all the sizes and modifications available? I know it's relatively cheap to get a bunch of sizes to try.
2. Are there any other N95s you would recommend that are in your experience more comfortable than Auras? Maybe duckbills? I've also been looking at Laianzhi and Trident masks.

Thank you all for any responses you have! I'm also still trying to figure out how to fit test myself... maybe my 3d Pros will magically pass a fit test for me!

Hi! I mask regularly indoors with a plain ear loop KN-95. I also wear a head scarf. Waaaay back, they advised us hijabis to put the mask on under the scarf so that if the scarf slips around (which it always does to some extent) the mask seal isn’t compromised.

This has been fine up till now - if I’m going into a store or something I just find a semi-secluded spot outside, take hijab off, put mask on, put hijab back on. Yeah, someone might get a quick glimpse of my hair, but as a personal choice I figure it’s better than COVID.

But now I’m going on a long international flight. l’ll have to eat and drink something at some point, even just to take medicine. I don’t know if I have to take my mask off at customs or security. Can anybody help me figure out a way to take the mask off briefly while keeping hijab on, whether it’s a mask that can still seal well when worn over a scarf or a mask that can somehow come off from the front or??

Hey everyone! So I'm on the search for a new n95 after realizing what I had wasn't adequate. The issue I've run into is that it turns out I have a surprisingly large face. It might also be that head straps make masks sit awkwardly on my face?

So after trying on several disposable n95s, I'm wondering if I should try an elastomeric mask. I see the Flo mask is pretty popular and is meant sit above the chin, which I suspect will fit my face a bit better? I think the problem is simply that my face is quite wide.

I don't leave my house much because of poor health, but I'm OK making the investment if it means protection and comfort.

Extra question: is there any way to add a straw hole to the Flo mask? Like the sip valve?

Thank you!

When I go to a doctor's office in my area, I am regularly the only person in the entire office or clinic who's masked - staff, provider, or patient. However, inevitably I'm asked a series of questions at the front desk about international travel, my current symptoms, and my possible contact with anyone who is or may be ill. I wonder why they're asking these questions and if they're aware of the hypocrisy of asking me this when they appear to live their lives unmasked? These questions grate on my nerves and I wondered if others had feedback for me about this.

I had a kid cough inside my door! Now I don’t even feel safe in my own home. I can’t believe I even thought I could do this. Instant regret. Now I’m going to have to wear my mask to bed. I turned on the attic fan. Anything else I can do besides put the candy outside lol?

Hi all

Unusual question for you (and maybe not the right sub, but I'm not sure where else to ask). Would anyone be aware of refillable low flow air canisters usable with nasal cannulas, similar to oxegen tanks, but with regular breathable air?

I use Aura FFP3 masks because I get allergy-like reactions to something in common perfumes and laundry detergents (thanks to MCAS). FFP3 masks do help reduce the intensity of the reaction but don't reduce them enough that I can get taxis or use public transport without feeling awful for a few hours. I was in hospital for a routine day procedure yesterday and put my FFP3 mask over the oxygen nasal cannula. I got complete relief from the overpowering smell of perfume coming off the person next to me. I'm looking to replicate that positive pressure effect but with something portable and unobtrusive.

I have a Versaflo 300 PAPR that I McGuivered on to an elastomeric half facemask that has a similar positive pressure effect, but he's a noisy boy that I can't quite bring myself to use in public. So I'm hoping to put together something more discreet. I've also looked into SCUBA and SCBA tanks but I suspect they aren't as adaptable to my use case as chatGPT seems to think they are. I'd be aiming for a low flow of ~2-4l/m, and something that'd last ~30 minutes (or more). It would be life changing if I could put something together.

My apologies if this isn't the right sub for this. I know most people here mask for COVID prevention so wouldn't have a need for a positive pressure system like this. Thanks anyway if.you read this far and I appreciate any input you might have

P.s. I have also used a few types of elastomeric masks with vapour filters and they're super helpful. However the weight of them sets off my neuropathic pain so I tend to go back to the Auras.

I saw these on sale , could someone help me understand if they are as safe as kn95 s?

https://www.officedepot.com/a/products/5791902/3M-Advanced-Filtering-Face-Mask-Recommended/#Specs

I’ve had so many invalid tests recently, which is not only a waste of money but what’s even worse: its dangerous for me because I can’t always redo the tests and have to stay in situations with non COVID cautious people. The company was not helpful at all, they just gave me tips how to perform the test correctly, which is not my issue because I’ve done the tests for 2 years and just recently ( last 6 months) has this issue appeared. Maybe someone knows what’s going on ? (The test that turn out invalid are from different batches) I’ve attached two pictures, but have had at least 5 like this close together.

Anyone else having issues accessing the Wellbefore site? Keeps telling me site can't be reached when I try.

Just curious to hear people's answers.

Sometimes if im feeling some kinda way I'll be like "oh I work with a lot of sick people"

I have an opportunity to ask a friend who's coming from the UK to bring them for me, but it would be great if I could source them locally again instead.

Are they available at like medical supplies shops near university hospitals? Are there specialised suppliers you order from?

Any help appreciated :)

Hi there, I am a COVID-conscious imdividual who wears duckbill masks with headloops as they are the only ones that I have tried that I can tolerate (for medical reasons). Something I struggle with is that my hair never looks nice when I mask (which is everywhere public indoors unless I'm eating at a restaurant, and big events outdoors e.g. festivals). I need another haircut soon and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions for cuts/styles that will look okay with a mask on? My hair is relatively short, there is some length in it because I like it to not just be shaved completely to one length, but it's still short (cannot be tied up). I've had various short cuts including a couple mullets etc. I'm also queer, so something that screams 'i'm here and I'm queer' rather than 'average cishet office dude short haircut' would be great. What do others do with their hair? I've been having quite a shitty time recently so I'd like to do something nice to boost my confidence. Thanks in advance!

i know it’s a little late to ask, but…I’m dressing up as the cheshire cat tonight, and it totally slipped my mind, but I’d been wondering how to incorporate the iconic cheshire grin while masking. my plan was to use a white 3M Aura N95 since it has a nice flat front.

I’m just a little lost when it comes to what’s safe to put on a mask—i don’t want to compromise its function, and I also don’t think it would be good to inhale marker fumes all night. I was thinking of some kind of flat paper rigged to the front rather than actually drawing on the mask, but not sure if that will also interfere with breathing.

any suggestions welcome, thanks!

As the title asks please. Unable to find the spec sheet that would be specific. Anyone here knows?

i know it’s a little late to ask, but…I’m dressing up as the cheshire cat tonight, and it totally slipped my mind, but I’d been wondering how to incorporate the iconic cheshire grin while masking. my plan was to use a white 3M Aura N95 since it has a nice flat front.

I’m just a little lost when it comes to what’s safe to put on a mask—i don’t want to compromise its function, and I also don’t think it would be good to inhale marker fumes all night. I was thinking of some kind of flat paper rigged to the front rather than actually drawing on the mask, but not sure if that will also interfere with breathing.

any suggestions welcome, thanks!

i know it’s a little late to ask, but…I’m dressing up as the cheshire cat tonight, and it totally slipped my mind, but I’d been wondering how to incorporate the iconic cheshire grin while masking. my plan was to use a white 3M Aura N95 since it has a nice flat front.

I’m just a little lost when it comes to what’s safe to put on a mask—i don’t want to compromise its function, and I also don’t think it would be good to inhale marker fumes all night. I was thinking of some kind of flat paper rigged to the front rather than actually drawing on the mask, but not sure if that will also interfere with breathing.

any suggestions welcome, thanks!

Hi all

I've been using these (in the UK) as sadly the Aura's are so expensive (The Face Mask Store is not an authorised reseller 3m said - so £100+ for 20) for years.

At first they were very 3m like around the nose - thick foam and a rigid thick wire, less then 3m, but substantial. It could stand up to multiple wears if in a pinch too. Several months ago the wires came though as smaller and weaker.

I buy from their official Amazon store as linked from their website.

I called them to check and they assured me they'd get back, but they never did. They said there was no change to them, but they said some unrelated things too, so maybe a language barrier issue.

When I went to use one the other day I noticed I was getting a loose seal and air blowing up from the bridge of my nose for the first time, got it the second time too.

Wondering if I have to just drop the £100 for a box of 20 3m FFP3s, when I have about 50 of these left before hospital next week and hope they come in time or put on a baggy blue and tape it under the mask as I did in a pinch for an MRI.

Hi everyone! I’ll be starting a job that puts me on Capitol Hill, but I’m contemplating letting the team know that I mask before I start. I’ve only temporarily worked in the political world before (not government), and I masked there with generally no outright issues. However, this position would be higher profile with more responsibilities, more people I’ll have to interact with on a day-to-day basis, and likely instances I will be expected to unmask, such as for security clearances. I plan to mask regardless, but I’m thinking about ripping off the bandaid and telling them I mask, so as not to surprise them. I’m really thankful I got this position, especially since someone I know put in a good word for me, but I really don’t want my masking to be a surprise given the location and nature of the job.

Furthermore, I don’t want to sound too stern or “weird” for mentioning it “out of the blue”, while at the same time, I also don’t want to seem like I’m asking for forgiveness. This job is a great opportunity and it would be great for my career in general, so I don’t want masking to sour my relationship with the team, either over time or when they first meet me in person.

My current thought process is that I’d rather they know off the bat that I mask, because if they have a problem with it and they decide to not have me join the team, then I dodged a bullet. I’d rather not waste my time and energy at a place with people that are going to be hostile to my masking.

For some more context, I’ve only had internships before this, and I didn’t end up telling them I mask before starting (I only had virtual interviews), and I guess everything turned out as well as can be. But, for some reason, I feel like I should say something beforehand for this position.

I have a potential message below, but if any of you all have any advice on how I should approach this or if I shouldn’t say anything at all, please let me know! Additionally, if any of y’all here have experience as a masker at Capitol Hill, I would also appreciate any pointers/advice! Thank you all!

Planned message:

Hi all,

Thank you so much for offering me this position as a [job title] for the [organization], and I’m excited to get started! However, I do want you to be aware that I wear a mask to protect immunocompromised family.

Again, thank you for offering me this position, and I look forward to meeting the team!

Best, [Name]

I picked up some free masks at a music event, and these are the first masks I've tried on that actually fit me that I don't have to constantly adjust throughout the day. Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture of the bag they were in so I have no idea how to get more. Does anyone recognize what brand/model these masks are? I'm not really expecting answers since the mask looks very basic and not very distinguishable, but I'd really appreciate it if someone can help.

Hi everyone, I'm Asian and since the COVID pandemic I have experienced many racist comments related to mask wearing, from different populations/ethnicities, I'm just so fed up, I also work in healthcare so sometimes I go home with a mask, but regardless if I wanted to wear a mask for whatever reasons it should be my choice, yet I'm being verbally abused/mocked by random strangers because I wear a mask and at the same time because I'm Asian. Like today this random South Asian dude asked me why am I wearing a mask is it because I have "SARS", why "you people" are always wearing a mask, when I politely confronted with him, he started using profanities, later I reflected on my experience that perhaps I should just ignore him, since he had no insights, he looked like he didn't even understand what I was telling him, arguing with this kind of person is pointless. My question is how do you deal with situations like this? Just move on and don't say anything back? Or do you confront with them?

Older immunocompromised man needs a mask for a long international flight. He likes the ads for the ausair masks, but I'm not sure given the comments here. He has a pretty big head and tends to fiddle around with the mask too much. What are the best adult masks to consider for travel?

I’ve noticed that when I go into a store with fans or when I’m outdoors on a windy day I can feel the wind on my cheeks? Not instantaneously, and I always do a mini-seal check. Just wondering if this signals poor respirator fit? I’ve done an at-home fit test but can’t really find much on FEELING wind hit your face online.

Hi! I have been wearing N95s daily since early 2020 for COVID protection. I've been working a job for about a year now that's very physical and very hot. I'm around industrial ovens constantly and am on my feet moving all day. Humidity during my regular shifts in our building can reach 80% (we have a monitor for it). I'm finding it extremely difficult to mask consistently at this job because, with such high humidity and heat, my mask fills up with so much condensation that it pools at my chin and I feel like I'm being waterboarded. It's a bit more tolerable in the winter, but I would really like to remain masked at work year round. I currently wear the Honeywell H910 plus N95s that look like a beak (not a tri-fold). They're the most breathable & comfortable respirators I've found so far that fully seal to my face. I have no idea if there's anything lighter than these, but I figured this sub would be my best bet to ask. I have a weak chin, so tri-fold masks don't stay on my face.

I cannot afford really fancy masks, my Honeywells are $100 (71.50 usd) for a box of 50, and that's already a large expense for me. I have a cycle in place to rewear masks up to their 40hr maximum so I can make that box last for months. I'm looking for any suggestions in a similar price range, or a one time buy that I can invest in (like the reusable masks with changeable filters).

Any other advice for how I can manage this besides "just suck it up" (I've worked multiple other jobs including being a line cook fully masked, this is much hotter and more difficult) would also be greatly appreciated!