As the weather is shifting from colder to warmer, this is the time when microbial infections surge. Every year, thousands of cases of bacterial and viral respiratory illnesses are reported in the US most of whom need medical attention. However, most of these illnesses are preventable by wearing a face shield vs face masks. But which of these is better in controlling the incidence of infections?
A face shield vs face masks are part of personal protective equipment
In this article, let us find out which is better between a face shield vs face mask in terms of the level of protection they provide.
Face Shields
Face shields are transparent screens that provide full coverage to the wearer’s face. It has a headband or an ear support that fixes the shield or visor over the face and thus protects the mouth, nose, and eyes.
Pros
Between a face shield vs face mask, the benefits of using the prior one are as follows:
Easy to Use and Maintain
Because face shields have a very simple and basic construction, it is easy to use them. The patients can do so without needing any usage instructions which are often necessary when face masks are to be worn for the first time. In addition, cleaning a face shield is also quick and easy.
Unrestricted Airflow
Between a face shield vs face mask, face shields are ideal for people who feel restricted airflow while wearing a face mask. This is because a face mask provides a snug fitting around the mouth and nasal cavity that sometimes hinders breathing. This is often an issue with people who already have an existing respiratory condition.
Enhanced Face Coverage
The face shields provide more coverage against airborne particles, dust, microbes, respiratory droplets, splashes of blood or body fluids, etc. This is because the visor of the face shield covers the face from forehead to chin and thus provides ample protection.
Disposable and Reusable Options
Face shields come in two kinds that include disposable as well as reusable options. The disposable ones are single-use items that are to be discarded after one application. However, the reusable ones can be washed again and again using mild soap and water. Once cleaned and dried, these face shields can then be used until the visor is damaged and needs replacement.
Face shields worn with face masks doubles the protection against germs
Cons
Despite several benefits, face shields also have some cons including the following:
Limited Particle Filtration Efficiency
When a face shield vs face mask is compared in terms of their particle filtration efficiency, the face shields are found to be limited in performance. This is because the snug fitting of a face mask restricts the incoming particles well while the shield cannot do so due to its shape. Therefore, particles can come from under the face shield visor and reach the wearer’s respiratory tract with ease.
Screen Fogging
Another issue with face shields is that their screen often gets foggy from breathing. This hinders the view that could be risky especially when the wearer is outdoors on a street.
Glare Effect
Because of a plastic-based screen, face shields produce a glare effect when exposed to the sun. This glare significantly reduces visibility.
Absence of a Snug Fit
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends, the use of a face cover that provides a snug fitting is the safest option against microbes. In this regard, the NIOSH-approved N95 and KN95 respirators are considered the best choices. When face shields are compared to these respirators, they do not fulfill the criteria of snug fitting and are, therefore, not preferable.
Summary
Face Shields:
- Reusable
- Stop people from touching their faces
- Ideal for people with existing respiratory issues
- Provide coverage to eyes
- Easy to communicate as face shield does not restrict speech
Face Masks
Face masks are products that cover the mouth and nose and provide a snug fit to maximize protection against airborne particles. These are often disposable but some face masks can be used more than once. However, replacements are required when the mask becomes dirty and gets soiled. Similarly, cloth masks are also an option which are reusable after washing and drying.
Pros
Some of the benefits achieved by the face masks include the following:
High Particle Filtration Efficiency
Between a face shield vs face mask, the latter ones are known for their high particle filtration efficiency. This is because the mask fits perfectly on the mouth and nose and does not allow the entry of any kind of particles into the respiratory tract. This level of filtration cannot be achieved with a face shield that is worn farther from the face.
Enhanced User Comfort
As compared to face shields, face masks are comfortable and more stylish to wear. These come in different shapes and colors that the users can choose from based on their preferences. Moreover, masks are also suitable for wearing for longer durations.
No Visual Hindrance
As face masks do not cover the eyes, these do not restrict the user’s view, a common issue with face shields.
N95 respirators provide maximum protection against the airborne microbes
Cons
Apart from their several benefits, face masks also have some limitations including the following:
No Eye Protection
Unlike face shields, face masks do not cover the eyes. This is crucial because the conjunctiva of the eyes can act as a gateway for the microbes that can enter the body and cause infections.
Disposable Items
Most face masks are single-use items that are worn once and then need to be discarded. This adds to the overall cost which can be cut by using either a reusable face shield or a cloth-based, washable face mask.
Breathing Difficulty
Some people feel a hindrance while breathing when a face mask is worn. This is because the snug fit of the mask only allows the entry of filtered air into the lungs. As this filtration takes a little while, the wearer feels uncomfortable. The problem becomes significant if the user already has a respiratory problem. For such people, face shields should be preferred.
Summary
Face Masks:
- CDC recommended
- Easy to make at home
- Highly efficient against microbes
- Reusable
Wearing a face mask outdoors is important for infection prevention
Face Shield vs Face Mask Brands at Health Supply 770: Features and Specifications
A face shield vs face mask is a part of personal protective equipment that is necessary for staying safe when infectious diseases are on the rise. These products cover the mouth, nose, and eyes and thus restrict the entry of pathogens into the body.
Considering their high demand and importance, many brands manufacture face shield vs face masks. Some of the top-quality face shield vs face mask brands are also available at Health Supply 770 and have been detailed below along with their features and purchase links:
Halyard 41204 Face Shield One Size Fits Most Full-Length Anti-fog Disposable Non-Sterile
Halyard 41204 Face Shield One Size Fits Most Full Length Anti-fog Disposable NonSterile
US$119.88
Product Details
Halyard 41204 one-size-fits-most face shields are single-use products that have a strong build. These are constructed using reliable and sturdy material that is free from natural rubber latex, a known allergenic. The product is also non-sterile and keeps the wearer protected against dirt, microbes, splashes of blood body fluids, etc.
Between face shield vs face masks, these Halyard face shields are lightweight and comfortable to the users. Moreover, their anti-fog technology does not allow the screen to become foggy and thus does not blur the vision.
EYESHIELD Face Shields with Glasses, Pack of 2
EYESHIELD Faceshield with Glasses
US$2.88
Product Details
EYESHIELD face shields with glasses have a 2-in-1 construction that eliminates the need for a headband. The screen or visor of these face shields has a frame that is supported by the ears and nose. This way, the product becomes easy to use. As the device is reusable, it can be donned on and off multiple times with ease.
Moreover, these EYESHIELD face shields are non-irritant and can be worn over prescription glasses. Their comfort is also enhanced by their flexibility which adds to their usage. Among face shield vs face masks, these products are preferred by healthcare providers as well as the general public.
Skil-Care Reusable Face Shield (914332)
Skil-Care Reusable Face Shield (914332)
US$11.88
Product Details
Skil-Care reusable face shields are one of the best items among the face shield vs face mask brands. These are highly effective in protecting blood droplets, bodily fluids, airborne particles, as well as other contaminants.
The visor of these face shields is held in place by a headband that is comfortable to wear and does not irritate the skin. Moreover, these Skil-Care face shields can also be worn over prescription glasses which adds to their usability. Being reusable products, the cleaning and washing of these face shields is easy.
3M Aura 9205+ N95 Respirator Mask – NIOSH Approved, Flat Fold, Lightweight
3M Aura 9205+ N95 Respirator Mask – NIOSH Approved, Flat Fold, Lightweight
US$5.88 to $83.88
Product Details
3M Aura 9205+ N95 respirator mask is an NIOSH-approved product that has a flat fold shape and a non-slip design. Being lightweight, it is an easy-to-wear mask especially when donning is required for many hours. The snug fit achieved by these masks helps generate a sealing effect around the mouth and nose and thus enhances protection against airborne particles.
Moreover, these 3M Aura 9205+ N95 respirators have a chin tab that supports their wearing. The product is also seeking to get approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
These 3M Aura 9205+ N95 respirator masks are currently on sale at our shop Health Supply 770 with up to 51% price reduction. Hurry up to place an order!
8210 N95 NIOSH Approved, Mask Face, Respirator Particulate White, Pack of 160
8210 N95 NIOSH Approved, Mask Face, Respirator Particulate White, Pack of 160
US$178.49
Product Details
8210 N95 NIOSH-approved face masks are easy-to-use products that are highly efficacious against airborne particles, dirt, blood droplets, body fluid splashes, etc. These ensure a stronger snug fitting around the mouth with minimum to no risk of leakage.
Moreover, these 8210 N95 NIOSH-approved face masks are up to 95% efficient in performance as they restrict the entry of particles with a diameter of more than 0.3 microns. In addition, the products also have headbands rather than ear loops that make them comfortable to wear.
*Note: The prices mentioned in the article are taken from the Health Supply 770 website. These may vary over time.
The face masks ensure snug fitting that increases filtration efficiency
The face shield vs face mask brands, along with many other medical supplies, can be purchased from Health Supply 770, a reliable name when it comes to medical products. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide your products to you in the shortest possible time. Click the link at the end of the article to check different kinds of face shield vs. face mask brands.
Conclusion
Covering the mouth, nose, and eyes in the seasons in which there is a rise in infectious diseases is an effective measure for their prevention. For this purpose, the use of a face shield vs face mask is often recommended. However, the debate between the efficacies of the two often confuses the users.
When compared for their effectiveness as well as other pros and cons, both the face shield vs face masks have their benefits as well as limitations. As for the preference, it narrows down to the users. Some people feel more comfortable while wearing a face shield while others prefer a mask.
Conclusively, as per the CDC, face masks, particularly N95 respirators, are considered most effective due to their high filtration efficiency and snug fitting. However, the users should also consider their comfort and the overall cost of the face protection before making a purchase.
For purchasing the face shield vs face mask brands, reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 should be approached. They ensure the provision of quality products along with satisfactory services.
References
Read more
Top 10 Medical Face Shields for Healthcare Professionals in 2025
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
