7 Best Air Pollution Masks in India 2021(Onroad co., Xtore, Dettol and More)

Commonly there are three layers of filters in a mask that helps them to react against the different types of air pollutants. The first layer, called the primary filter, can filter large particles like dust and pollen. Pollutants such as PM10 can also be filtered, however, it cannot filter out PM 2.5 pollutants.

The second layer is the particle filter and unlike the primary filter, they can filter out small pollutants like PM 2.5. The third filter is called the carbon filter and it is extremely helpful in removing gaseous pollutants that other filters cannot. It can also filter viruses and bacteria in the air.

If you're staying in areas like Delhi, UP, Mumbai, Gujarat, Jharkhand where the particulate matter is around 2.5 then you can consider having a mask with a carbon filter.

N95, N99, or N100 are some of the common types known to the Indian public but there are a few more like P95 and R95 that are lesser-known. You might be wondering what P, R, N, 95, 99, or 100 means. They have a role to play and function differently.

N, R, and P are certification categories given by NIOSH that protect against respiratory particulates. N means no oil, they cannot filter oil-based pollutants, R means they can filter oil-based pollutants with a continuous shift of 8 hours but needs gap after every shift, and P means they can fully filter the oil-based pollutants and are expensive.

95, 99, and 100 mean that the filter will trap 95%, 99%, and 99.97% out of every 100 particles respectively that are at least 0.3 micrometers. R and P certified masks are not reusable and are mainly for industrial purposes. But for personal use, one can get at least N certified with 95% filter trapping abilities as they are suitable for metropolitan areas.

Getting that perfect fit is very important because a mask will be of no use if the polluted air gets in through the sides. Small size can make the breathing hard and the bigger one will let the particles sneak in through the gaps. 

Medium, regular, or standard is the size that can fit most of the people. However, if you're still unsure check for the word "adjustable"  as some of the companies give the option of adjustable straps or you can always youtube it. People having bulky or heavy beard can still find it difficult to get that perfect size. 

Check out the fabric of the mask before buying, it should be comfortable yet effective. The quality of fabric for the mask is determined by the ability to breathe through them. The material that is suitable for all is cotton or cotton mix as it is soft and breathable. One can go for linen or nylon if they want a thicker version but its hard to breathe through them. 

When you exercise, the rate and depth of breathing increases, although one should avoid covering their face for the smooth flow of air. If you're in a polluted area and have a mask on then it is better to have the exhalation valve. 

It makes the airflow smooth and prevents moisture inside the mask. However, if you're just keeping up with stretches and simple exercises then its not that important. 

Pollution in India is not going to vanish anytime soon, so check out for reusable masks if you think you will be using masks more often, as reusable masks last longer and are cost-effective. 

Reusable masks are also better for the environment and some of them come with replaceable filters that trap the pollutants. You will have to change them after a certain number of uses, so check the description of how long they will last.