10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (2024)

  • Fashion

Including NIOSH-approved options and celebrity favorites.

By

Christina Butan

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (1)

Christina Butan

Christina Butan is a Senior Commerce Editor at InStyle, with five years of experience covering fashion, beauty, home, lifestyle, and celebrity news.

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Published on August 14, 2021 @ 09:00AM

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10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (2)

The guidelines to what kind of face mask you should be wearing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 are ever-changing, but it's important to stay up to date with the latest suggestions. As of January 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its face mask recommendations to state that National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved N95 and international KN95 masks offer more protection than loosely woven cloth options.

This falls in line with what most health experts have been suggesting recently, which is to opt for a disposable surgical, KN95, or N95 mask instead of a cloth covering. For example, Dr. Leana Wen, MD, CNN medical analyst and emergency physician, recently said on CNN Newsroom that people should be "wearing at least a three-ply surgical mask," and if you're in a crowded place, "you should be wearing a KN95 or N95 mask," which are made with high-filtration materials and typically fit more snugly against the face. (If you do opt for a three-ply mask in a crowd, Wen recommends double-masking.)

If your face mask stash needs a major revamp, we scoured the internet for some of the most vibrant and stylish disposable, KN95, and N95 options that'll ease the mask burnout and help keep yourself and others safe.

These Vida N95 masks are about as good as it gets in terms of face masks right now. Not only are they approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), but since N95 masks filter at least 95 percent of non-oil-based airborne particles that are 0.1 to 0.3 microns, they're also one of the most protective options you can wear. Plus, they're available in a bright cyan color, which is rare for an N95 mask (a majority of them are only available in white at the moment).

Benehal N95 Face Masks

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (4)

Like most N95 respirators, Benehal's NIOSH-approved N95s are white and feature two head straps, but one tiny detail makes these stand out — a small blue plastic buckle on each side attaches to the head straps, which makes them adjustable. It's a functional addition not seen on many N95s that adds a cute pop of color, too.

Shoppers love that the masks are "good quality," "fit as snug as it should be," and come individually wrapped with "no harsh smell."

Huheta KN95 Face Masks

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (5)

Huheta's KN95s are one of the highest-rated options on Amazon thanks to more than 14,700 shoppers who recommend them. Made with the standard five layers most KN95s consist of — two non-woven outer layers, two melt-blown inner filters, and one moisture-absorbing middle layer — the "sleek-looking" masks come in black or several other colors like navy blue, light gray, sky blue, and burgundy. An ICU nurse called the masks "outstanding" and said they're the "best in comfort, breathability, style, and fit."

Wwdoll KN95 Face Masks

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (6)

If you're looking for a multicolored pack of KN95s, there's this well-reviewed option from Wwdoll that comes with 50 masks in pink, light blue, red, gray, and dark blue. Not only are the "beautiful" masks approved by a self-proclaimed ″fashionista,″ but shoppers say they're "durable, reliable, and stay on."

Even a hospital worker says the Wwdoll masks helped them "survive COVID-19."

"They are comfortable and easy to breathe in," they wrote. "I would recommend these to anyone working in a clinical setting or public services."

Bingfone Disposable Face Masks

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (7)

Simple, affordable, and super colorful, these multicolored disposable face masks are an easy way to upgrade your mask game. The three-ply masks come in a pack of 50 and include five fun colors: pink, purple, yellow, cyan, and green. If you're wondering just how stylish they really are, Rihanna styled a green disposable face mask with a Celine button-down while grocery shopping last spring, so, clearly, they're in. Also, over 6,300 people have left them a five-star rating, saying they're lightweight, "gorgeous," and a good value.

Maskc Protective Mask

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (8)

In case you somehow didn't know, Maskc's disposable and KN95 face masks have been worn by practically everyone in Hollywood, including Katie Holmes, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Hailey Bieber, Irina Shayk, Hilary Duff, and more (seriously, the list goes on and on). Its KN95s are just as skin-friendly and attractive as its disposable ones, and they come in the prettiest colors, like these blush tones that shoppers say gets them compliments "every time" they wear them. Most of Maskc's KN95s are out of stock right now, but you can expect a restock mid-January, per the brand.

Maskc Disposable Face Masks

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (9)

Maskc's regular disposable face masks are just as eye-catching as its KN95s; shoppers describe them as soft, "elegant," and so "breathable," they'll easily get you through Zumba class. They're available in a selection of prints like florals and stars, as well as pretty pink shades and neutral colors.

WeCare Disposable Face Masks

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (10)

Tie-dye fan? Cheetah-print lover? Perhaps you have a soft spot for plaid? WeCare's variety masks add a pop to any outfit. Its popular mystery box comes with an assortment of 50 masks that feature all sorts of designs. The brand's masks have rave reviews from people who love them so much, they've emphasized in all caps that they're "hands down" their favorite masks, and so "extremely comfortable" they forget they're wearing it. The masks are even approved by a registered nurse who said, "When you need to wear a mask every day all day, it's so nice to be able to express your personality."

The brand is known for having a large assortment of colorful and printed masks on Amazon, so check out its storefront for more options including a bright pink pack, summer-y designs, and, believe it or not, more tie-dye.

Evolvetogether is another celebrity-loved (and InStyle-approved) face mask brand, worn by stars like Sarah Jessica Parker, Katie Holmes, Emily Ratajkowski, and both of the Hadid sisters. The super sleek masks are available in black, white, navy, gray, dark green, and khaki, and all feature global coordinates of places like NYC, Paris, Milan, Tokyo, Malmö, and the Amazon river. Made with a water-resistant exterior and moisture-absorbing inner layer, the three-ply masks are lightweight, come in 100 percent recyclable and biodegradable packaging, and are made in an FDA-registered factory.

Evolvetogether Rio de Janeiro KN95 Face Masks

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (12)

Yes, Evolvetogether created an equally polished "I have my life together" look with KN95s. The KN95 masks come in the same colors as the disposable versions, but feature coordinates for different locations like Rio de Janeiro, Mount Fuji, Copenhagen, Santorini, and Marrakech. They're made with six layers: a water-resistant exterior, two moisture-absorbing inner layers, two meltblown filters, and an odor-reducing activated charcoal layer. Most of the masks are out of stock at the moment, but fret not — the brand says a big restock is coming mid-January.

As of July 6, 2021, the Food and Drug Administration revoked its emergency authorized list of non-National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health-approved respirator models manufactured in China due to the increased supply and availability of NIOSH-approved respirators. The KN95 masks included in this story were previously approved by the FDA for emergency use in healthcare settings.

10 Disposable, KN95, and N95 Face Masks That Actually Look Good (2024)

FAQs

Which mask is best for COVID 19 KN95 or N95? ›

Respirators such as nonsurgical N95s give the most protection. KN95s and medical masks provide the next highest level of protection.

Can you wear an N95 or KN95 mask more than once? ›

These medical-grade face masks don't need to be thrown out after each use—but you can't use them indefinitely either.

How effective is a KN95 mask? ›

People should be aware, though, that about 60% of KN95 masks in the United States are counterfeit and do not meet NIOSH standards. In fact, N95 and KN95 masks were found to be 48% more effective than surgical or cloth masks, according to a CDC study.

What's the best face mask? ›

Overall, our favorite face mask is the Rosen Skincare Smooth Jelly Mask because it's affordable, has functional packaging, and features an effective formula that works wonders for calming redness and improving the appearance of dark spots. If exfoliation is the goal, try the Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask.

How many times can you wear an N95 mask? ›

Paying attention to the condition of your mask—and discarding damaged or contaminated masks—can greatly reduce the risk of contact transmission. Do not reuse a mask more than five times. *N95 masks are designed for full protection of clean shaven people.

How long can you wear a KN95 mask? ›

Rotate and use a different KN95 mask every day so you do not wear the same mask more than once every 72 hours. Note: If following this rotation, KN95 masks may be reused as long as they do not become wet, visibly soiled or deformed, causing them to not fit well anymore.

Can I wash my N95 mask and reuse it? ›

Note: If following this rotation, N95 masks may be reused as long as they do not become wet, visibly soiled or deformed, causing them to not fit well anymore. If any of these occur, the N95 should be disposed of. Store wet or dirty cloth masks in a plastic bag.

What does 95 mean in N95? ›

95: Masks ending in a 95, have a 95 percent efficiency. Masks ending in a 99 have a 99 percent efficiency. Masks ending in 100 are 99.97 percent efficient and that is the same as a HEPA quality filter. . 3 microns: The masks filter out contaminants like dusts, mists and fumes.

Do KN95 masks expire if unopened? ›

Generally, KN95 masks have a shelf life of 3-5 years from the manufacturing date. Additionally, inspect the physical condition of the mask. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed or loose straps, damaged nose clips, or deteriorating materials.

Do dermatologists recommend face masks? ›

“When it comes to skin care I tell all my patients that your priority should be cleansing, daily sunscreen and daily moisturizing,” says Dr. Khetarpal. “But a face mask can be complimentary to a good skin care routine.”

How can you tell if a KN95 mask is real? ›

All filtering facepiece respirators—including N95 masks—must be certified by NIOSH before they can be used in the workplace. NIOSH-approved masks always come with an approval label on or inside the mask packaging, either on the box or in the users' instructions.

Does KN95 protect against mold? ›

To ensure better protection against mold spores, individuals may consider using respirators specifically designed for particle filtration, such as N95 masks or KN95 masks. These respirators provide a higher level of filtration efficiency and can offer better protection against smaller particles like mold spores.

Are cheap face masks good? ›

If you're only looking for a pop of hydration or a pick-me-up, cheaper masks will do the trick. But if you're looking for more powerful treatments, you're likely to get better results from masks that tend to cost more. Just read the packaging to make sure they actually contain those stellar ingredients.

What face mask can I use everyday? ›

For hydrating, gentle formulas, such as cream and gel masks, you can experiment with using the face mask daily. If you're using an exfoliating or purifying formula and you're starting to see raw skin or light irritation, it might be best to decrease your frequency to once per week or once every few weeks.

Does KN95 protect against dust? ›

Research and studies affirm the efficacy of KN95 masks in preventing dust inhalation. They're designed to filter out 95% of small particles, including common dust components. As per their specification, they can block particles as small as 0.3 microns, common in most household and industrial dust.

Is it safe to sleep with a KN95 mask on? ›

Even if you want to prevent the spread of germs, wearing a mask during sleep isn't safe. That's primarily because masks can make it more difficult to breathe.

What's the difference between a N95 and NIOSH N95? ›

You may see some respirators on the market labeled as “N95,” but if a respirator does not contain all of the components of the required label, it is not a NIOSH-approved respirator and, therefore, cannot be relied on to provide the same level of respiratory protection.

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