Experts Explain Why Silk Masks May Offer More Protection Against COVID-19

A recent update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has added weight to the idea that face masks not only stop you from spewing respiratory droplets, they also protect you from inhaling virus particles in the air around you. The new guidance suggests that even non-medical grade cloth face masks can "reduce wearers’ exposure to infectious droplets through filtration." But another revelation in the update caught the eye of top health officials across the nation: The CDC is closer to understanding which fabrics are most successful at preventing the spread of COVID-19, and it seems silk may be in the running.

Why silk? The CDC says new data suggests two different fabrics may have a leg up on cotton when it comes to filtration: polypropylene — a plastic material used in many disposable surgical masks — and silk. But unlike polypropylene, silk "may help repel moist droplets and reduce fabric wetting" while also being comfortable and breathable. A study published in PLoS One in November found that silk coverings work just as well as surgical masks while being much nicer to wear. "We found that silk face coverings repelled droplets in spray tests as well as disposable single-use surgical masks," researchers shared, adding that silk masks "can be more breathable" than options like cotton, which may trap moisture and humidity.

Which kind of silk face masks should I buy?

Unlike cotton masks that you may have shopped previously, thread counts aren't relevant for silk products due to their unique construction, but you'll still want to select a silk mask that's tightly woven and makes use of multiple layers. You can learn more about the best kinds of face masks to shop for here.

And if you're confused over silk vs. satin, note that satin isn't a fabric, but a finishing weave. Silk is often woven into satin, but there are many satin fabrics that are made from polyester, so it's crucial you check the materials list before purchasing any mask (as well as consider the mask's fit). Polyester can still provide some form of protection for users and people around them, but "silky" masks aren't the same as masks made from pure silk.

How do I clean a silk face mask?

Before you replace all your face masks with silk ones, take note that CDC officials say that cloth masks need to be washed or sterilized routinely in order to be effective — and cleaning and caring for silk is much more complicated than cotton. Unlike cotton, silk is highly susceptible to damage from heat. The mixture of heat, moisture and agitation from being in hot dryers (or washing machines at high speeds) will cause the fabric to pucker up and lose its shape and texture; even hanging it to dry in direct sunlight can alter the fabric. Your mask may come with special care directions, like hand wash only instructions (in cool water!), and it's crucial that you follow them if you want to maintain the mask's structure.

For many, though, it may be worth the hassle, as silk feels super soft and luxe against the skin, is able to regulate temperatures better than cotton, and offers less friction against your face during wear. The following face masks are all made from pure silk, some of which is woven into satin, and offer comfort and breathability. All are designed in a surgical style and can be easily worn while in public, and may provide more protection against invisible infectious droplets and aerosols in the air around you.