5 face mask hacks for a more comfortable and effective wear

Wearing face masks have become part of the new normal, especially since it is one of the best ways to protect ourselves from COVID-19.

But did you know there are things you can do with your mask to make it more comfortable and effective?

In a report on Unang Hirit, General and Occupational Medicine Doctor Dr. Gerald Belandres gave some mask hacks that might help people out with the issues they have about wearing one.

1. When your mask has a loose fit: If you get frustrated over a loose face mask, Dr. Belandres said you can tie both strings of your mask into a knot, which should end up looking like an N95 mask.

The excess cloth you see on the edge of the mask should be folded inwards to fully embed the mask on your face.

2.  When your glasses fog up: Those wearing glasses with a face mask know the peril of fog. Avoid it by putting a rectangular layer of folded tissue paper on the upper white or inside part of your mask.

According to Dr. Belandres, your breath which causes fog on the eyeglasses won't get through your glasses because of the tissue.

3. When your ears start to hurt: To solve the discomfort that wearing a face mask may bring to your ears, Dr. Belandres suggests you wrap a cotton or cotton pad around the string so it will be easier and softer on the skin.

4. When your ears still hurt: Another way to save your hurting ears from wearing a mask is to put double-sided tape on the strings. Its softer texture will also keep the strings intact on both ears, Dr. Belandres said.

5. When there are no right-sized masks for your children: If you can't find any surgical masks for your children, Dr. Belandres suggests to fold 1/3 part of your normal surgical mask and use a double-sided tape to make it fit children's faces better.

Remember, disposable, surgical face masks can be used 3-4 hours, if you're often outside and talking.

But this is a case-to-case basis, he said. According to the doctor, users should dispose of their masks when they feel like it's no longer serving its purpose anymore.

Reusable cloth masks are not as effective as N95 and surgical masks, he continued, but they still offer protection against the virus. Please wash them every day. — Jannielyn Ann Bigtas/LA, GMA News