Whether you like it or not, it looks like face masks are here to stay for the foreseeable future. If you need some help in choosing which mask to get, we’ve gathered our top picks, including comfortable and reusable cloth masks for kids and adults, as well as surgical masks that are soft and easy for breathing.
1929 Mask
Designed to be comfortable and durable, the reusable face masks from this family-run brand are non-toxic and anti-microbial. Made of microfibre with five percent spandex for stretchy comfort, the outer layer of the mask is treated with water-repellent qualities. The centre layer is a blend of cotton and polyester; this is to better absorb the anti-bacterial agents that are injected into the masks. These include benzalkonium chloride (BAC), an essential ingredient used in non-alcohol-based hand sanitisers for killing viruses. For the innermost layer, the mask is made of soft, 100 percent cotton for maximum comfort.
Available in a variety of stylish designs (our favourite is the Mountain!), the three-ply masks have been tested to last for 100 washes; the industry average is only 15 to 20 washes. The breathable masks have also passed stringent tests for chemical safety, including for perfluorochemicals, which is a suspected carcinogen.
Gemtier Medical Masks
Medically known as acne mechanica, ‘maskne’ is a skin condition caused by the prolonged wearing of face masks. Masks that impose heat and friction on the skin, combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking or sweating, can cause breakouts, particularly around the mouth and chin. If your mask is wet, bacteria can multiply quickly.
For high quality surgical masks for kids and adults, try Gemtier Medical Masks. What sets these masks apart from the others in the market is that they bear a unique PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) membrane to repel fluids like saliva and sweat, keeping your masks dry throughout while offering higher breathability (<39 Pa/cm²) than industry standards. The membrane provides an impressive bacterial filtration of over 99 percent and high microbial cleanliness, which helps to prevent skin irritation and contact dermatitis. Unlike other polypropylene surgical masks that contain nasty chemicals, Gemtier is chemical-free with no unpleasant smell.
Gemtier adult masks are available on Myhealthscoop and Shopee at a special price of $50 for a box of 50, or $11 for 10. Individually wrapped kids masks are also be available at $45 for a box of 50, or $11 for 10.
Visomio
Visomio’s reusable masks are bright and bold – perfect for making a statement! Available in 12 fabulous, eye-catching colours like lime green, the three-layer cotton face masks come with matching scrunchies; it’s a nice touch for those who want to match their accessories. The local brand, which means “my face” in Italian, was founded out of a passion for simplicity, comfort and style. Functional fashion is their aim, and they believe that looking and feeling stylish can make anyone’s day a lot better.
Made with the highest quality cotton fabrics, the washable masks have a built-in slip pocket for your disposable inserts. Filter inserts are also included in each set, but you can stock up on more on the website. The masks are packed in a resealable, bio-degradable zip-lock bag – super handy for bringing on-the-go.
Maskela
For masks that are ultra-luxe and chic, Maskela is our top pick. Launched in April as an offshoot of designer dress rental company Covetella, Maskela creates designer masks that are just as fabulous as their dresses. With over 80 unique styles to choose from, including bridal masks, silk masks and sequin masks, the brand offers the largest selection of fashionable face masks and accessories (stylish mask chains, anyone?) in Singapore.
Each three-ply face mask features a convex, three-dimensional shape for comfort and breathability, adjustable earloops, a flexible nose wire and a built-in filter for increased protection. You can also shop for filters, specially formulated essential oil mask sanitisers, and place an order for a customised mask. How cool is that?
CYC
Breathe easy in CYC’s reusable cloth masks, which are made of Egyptian cotton fabrics from top European fabric mills for better breathability. Each mask has been treated with a coating of A-Shield anti-microbial solution; this scientifically-proven solution is certified to kill 99.9 percent of microbes.
Having trouble finding a mask that’ll fit you just right? Each CYC mask has adjustable ear loops and comes in three different sizes: kids, small and large. The online store also sells filter inserts and cute fabric mask keepers that are washable and easy to use. Plus, don’t forget to check out the limited-edition Liberty London series, which features gorgeous floral prints!
Masks by Tiara
Masks by Tiara goes beyond just being a business; the passion project was set up with two social causes in mind. The reusable face masks are made by small-scale manufacturing units in Tiruppur, India, which provides livelihood to families in the nearby villages. With each mask sold, $1 goes towards fostering, feeding and caring for abandoned pets and strays in Bangalore, India.
Sustainably made using quality materials that are biodegradable, the breathable face masks are anti-dust, anti-bacterial, splash-resistant and either double- or triple-layered for maximum protection. If you have sensitive skin, check out the range of hypoallergenic Eri silk masks, naturally dyed with ingredients like onion peels, charcoal and turmeric. Masks by Tiara also does bamboo and cotton masks in gorgeous prints. Kids masks are available, too.
Fancies
Underwear brand Fancies has rolled out a new mask collection on its site! The unisex masks are made with ultra-soft and micromodal excess fabric, as part of Fancies’ bid to reduce textile waste. While they’re only available in one size, the masks are priced at an affordable $10 a pop, or $25 for three. Get them in chic colours like sand, tan, tiger and tan tiger.
Peas n Plums
This local label started off with the production of ladies’ and kids’ apparel three years ago. It has a simple goal in mind: to provide comfort with style. In response to COVID-19, it has recently introduced reusable face masks to the product line. As part of the brand’s efforts to go green, production has moved from overseas factory floors to locally craft-to-order creations. Suitable for long hours of wear, Peas n Plums’ face masks are made of two-ply, lightweight cotton or linen fabric with a pocket for filter insert. The straps are adjustable for a good fit, plus you can choose from three sizes: kids, adults and large adults. There’s also an option for you to make it a set, which includes a matching pouch for your mask. Customised designs are available upon request.
FaceWedge
The founders of FaceWedge are avid divers and have always been passionate about the environment – in particular, the oceans. After seeing disposable face masks on the beaches in Singapore, they decided to sell handmade fabric face masks in three kids’ sizes and two adult sizes. The brand uses its sale proceeds to extract plastic and trash from the surrounding waters, working with beach clean-up organisation Seven Clean Seas. The reusable masks feature double-layered protection and soft elastic loops for extra comfort. We love the fun, tropical designs, like this pineapple mask!
Vansewying
What started out as a passion soon became a home-based business for founder Vanessa, who was previously a sewing teacher before the pandemic hit. Vansewying is loved for its variety of prints, from the adventure-themed animal designs (like this gorgeous Aussie Wildlife print) to unique floral-inspired patterns. Made to order, each mask features 100 percent cotton and adjustable elastic straps for extra comfort. Two sizes are available; one for kids and another for adults.
Liked this? Here are more local brands we love!
