Are you ready for the evolution of masks?

The evolution of masks since the time it was made mandatory has happened at an unprecedented breakneck speed making it much more than just a piece of protective gear.

When the lockdown was implemented in March, Priya Sinha, a homemaker in Bengaluru started looking for something she had never bought before. She wanted a mask for the first time in her life and was looking for masks of different sizes for her kids and husband. Naturally, her first stop was at her local medical store and all she found were medical masks. Sounds familiar? Well, all of us have probably experienced something similar but today there are a plethora of mask options like with nanotechnology filters, lowest inhalation and exhalation breathing resistance, designer, embroidered, biodegradable and much more.

Combination of style, comfort and protection

While the N95 mask was a buzzword as we adapted to the new normal, there are several masks available today that promise high levels of safety and germ protection while being stylish and trendy at the same time. “Turms high-quality reusable masks offer 3-layer protection. They are fashionable, lightweight with high breathability and made from Supima Cotton. They offer TÜVRheinland® certified 99% germ protection and employ anti-germ, anti-odour and anti-stain technologies. The masks have soft ear loops, an innovative strap to remove strain on ears and a storage pouch for convenient safe storage when not in use” says Rameswar Misra - CEO and Co-Founder Turms Wear.

Apart from masks having anti-microbial and fluid-resistant properties, there are masks that come with self-disinfecting properties that have become very popular. “The reusable masks from Livinguard have unique self-disinfection properties which make them safer and easier to handle without worries of cross-contamination. They are odour free and quick-drying with low humidity. The soft and stretchy fabric gives a comfortable fit for the mouth and nose” says Sanjeev Swamy, Founder, Inventor & CEO, Livinguard Technologies.

Canvas to promote art, craft, fashion and livelihoods

Masks have also become a unique platform for promoting native folk art and indigenous artisans. There are masks with vibrant Ajrakh, Ikkat, Madhubani and Kalamkari prints. Then there are masks made with the indigenous Narayanapeta weaves, Eri silk, masks embellished with Kantha embroidery and even Toda embroidery that is native to the Nilgiris. Cheriyal paintings of Telangana are also being replicated on masks.

With the festive season in full swing, designers and firms are seeing a steep demand for fancy masks and in fact, this accessory is seen generating income for the fashion industry. Cotton and silk are being viewed as a robust combination to balance function and aesthetics. While the inner layer of the mask has soft breathable cotton, the outer layer is being crafted in silk or raw silk to add an aesthetic appeal. This is further adorned with motifs, block prints and even embroidery. Experts also believe that the combination of these two fabrics is an effective filter.

Apart from handloom masks, there are several options in case you want to opt for designer masks that are customized to match your outfit of the day. “Since it has become a necessity, people want their masks to be unique and one that suits their style. We customise bridal masks to match their outfits in terms of embroidery and colour so it is exclusive and makes them feel special” says Aditi Lal of Aditi Lal Couture.

Tribal artisans are being roped in several parts of the country to make masks to supplement their livelihood. In fact, the handloom masks made using vegetable dyes by the Mirigan community of Kotpad village in Koraput district, Odisha has been seeing a surge in demand. Masks are being made using leftover fabric in order to provide income to economically backward women. The Kerala Kasavu masks have provided a shot in the arm for weavers and have helped them financially.

Youngsters are taking the mask game one notch higher by sporting masks with quirky prints as well as statements with tongue in cheek humour or messages that are socially relevant. Apart from this, there are masks with cartoon characters like batman, spiderman and Doraemon for young children apart from the ones with figures of animals and birds.

So, are you ready to get masked?