Picture a typical trip to the store. Think of the sneezing kids, the sniffling adults, and just…people in all their unsightliness. Imagine them releasing tiny droplets into the air you’re about to inhale, especially during cold and flu season. Words like “droplet,” “moist,” and “secretion” come to mind, and trust me, I really love my mask. In fact, once the COVID-19 crisis is behind us, I might just keep wearing it.
Makeup Has Never Been Easier
A few days ago, while I was prepping my face for a night out, my nine-year-old chimed in, “Mom, why even bother? No one will see it.” Well, kid, I like makeup, and I’ll wear it if I want to, mask or not. But he does have a point. Why apply lipstick when it’s hidden behind fabric? At least a hint of blush may show, and if I’m indoors, my eyes will be visible above the mask. Luckily, I’ve mastered a smoky eye, and I always hydrate to keep those fine lines at bay. Plus, my mask conveniently covers up the worst of my dark circles. Who knew a simple cloth could be the answer to my under-eye struggles?
And if I want to be lazy, I can just throw on my oversized sunglasses. Suddenly, I’m glamorous and mysterious, like a Hollywood star in disguise. I could be anyone behind that combo, and no one would be the wiser.
I wear makeup daily because I enjoy it, but my mask offers me a new level of flexibility.
My Mask Protects Against More Than Just COVID-19
Did you know that this flu season was remarkably mild? According to Dr. Marcus Greene, an infectious disease expert, flu cases have hit “record lows.” Sure, social distancing and hand sanitizing played a role, but masks are also effective against influenza, which spreads via respiratory droplets like COVID-19. With my mask on, I feel like I’m shielded from the flu for good.
I haven’t caught a cold all winter. Sure, I’ve been out less and have upped my hand hygiene game, and that isn’t changing. I’ll embrace my “Crazy Hand Sanitizer Lady” persona and collect various scented bottles like they’re collectible cards. But let’s be honest, my mask is the real MVP in keeping germs at bay.
At the end of the day, I simply don’t want to breathe in anyone’s unpleasant air. I’m not sure how I’ll readjust to the notion of inhaling grocery store air again. My mask acts as a barrier against the worst of what people expel. Plus, I can match them to my outfits!
A Balanced Approach to Mask-Wearing
Once the pandemic is over, I intend to keep my mask handy every time I step outside. Maybe I won’t wear it for the Starbucks drive-thru, but who knows what kind of virus that barista might be carrying?
I’m not planning to turn into Howard Hughes with tissues on my feet, either. If I’m meeting friends at the pool in the summer, I’ll skip the mask. But in winter, I might keep it on during indoor gatherings—unless I’m sipping coffee. And during cold and flu season? Absolutely, I’ll wear it every time I leave the house.
I’ll need some good setting spray for my makeup, especially around the nose area where it tends to smudge. But hey, it’s a small price to pay.
My kids will probably continue wearing masks alongside me. They shouldn’t have to breathe in the germs from grocery stores either, as those can easily come home with them. No thanks! So, when the pandemic finally wraps up, I’m not stashing my mask away. I’ll keep wearing it indoors and during cold and flu season. The pandemic has made me a little quirky, and part of that quirkiness means I’m not interested in your respiratory droplets. Plus, I want to stroll through Target looking like a ninja!
Summary
As the pandemic wanes, many are considering the future of mask-wearing. For some, like the author, masks have become a protective staple, not just for COVID-19, but for overall health during flu season. The convenience of makeup and the mystery it offers are additional perks. The decision to wear masks post-pandemic will vary, but for some, they will remain a beloved accessory.