Mask or shield? That is the question of the hour. We have all somewhat gotten used to the mask, now are we ready for the shield?
In case you haven’t had the chance to try out the face shield yet, let me fill you in. There are many different types of shields in the market right now, all ranging in price – the shield in these pictures have plastic glasses (not a headband) and fits both kids & adults. You can purchase face shields available on Lazada, Shopee, qoo10, Amazon and other online sites. I purchased this shield for SG$4.50 from Unity Pharmacy (the Guardian, Watsons & Cold Storage did not carry any shields). The same shield is available at Tangs.com and qoo10.
Note: As of 2 June 2020, the Singapore government has stated that
New requirements from 2 June 2020: The Singapore government has indicated that masks must be worn outside of houses at all times for adults. Shields cannot be a replacement for masks. The groups which can wear face shields are as follows, (1) Children twelve years and below, who may have difficulty wearing and keeping face masks on for a prolonged period of time, (2) Persons who have health conditions that may result in breathing or other medical difficulties when a mask is worn for a prolonged period of time; and (3) Persons who are speaking to a group in a classroom or lecture-style setting, where they largely remain at the spot from which they are speaking, and are able to maintain a safe distance away from any other persons. Please click here to be directed to the MOH website for the exact guidelines.
Here is my Pro/Con list about Masks vs. Shields to help those of you that are still deciding.
“SHIELD” Pros & Cons
- PRO: iPhone face recognition works
- PRO: Easy to breathe in
- PPR: Doesn’t itch your face
- PRO Can drink from a straw
- PRO: Can talk on the phone without voice being muffled
- PRO: Can wear with glasses (doesn’t fog up)
- PRO: You can wear lipstick and show off your makeup
- PRO: Lightweight and comfortable to wear
- PRO: Good for people that have allergies
- CON: Has a slight glare
- CON: May cause sunburn in direct sunlight (this theory needs to be tested)
- CON: Have to look presentable because people can see your face
- CON: Not that fashionable. Most come with a band around the head, hat or glasses
“MASK” Pros & Cons
- PRO: Look like a ninja warrior
- PRO: Don’t have to wear makeup
- PRO: Don’t have to smile for selfies
- PRO: Fits in your pocket or purse
- PRO: Lots of different colors to match your outfits
- CON: Difficult to breathe
- CON: Voice sounds muffled when you speak
- CON: People cannot see your facial expressions. Happy & angry both look the same.
- CON: Itchy & scratchy
- CON: Makes your face hot
- CON: iPhone facial recognition does not work
- CON: Dries out your face
SuperMommy’s Opinion
Overall, for kids I definitely think the shield is better. My boys think the shield looks a bit dorky, but they still like it a lot more than the mask. We are definitely pro-shield, especially for school.
For myself, if I am going out to run errands and want to drink & shop at the same time – I might wear the shield. The shield is very comfortable to wear and I have really been missing my usual Starbucks iced chai tea latte while I am shopping. However, truth be told, I do think the shield looks a bit funny on me. For quick interactions & outings, I would go with the mask because I don’t have to worry about my makeup and I can always carry a spare in my purse.
If I really had to choose, I think I would prefer a mask over the shield because, (1) I think I look better in the mask (fashion over comfort), and (2) circuit-breaker life has made me too lazy to put on makeup!
Yes, this is our #newnormal, so we better get used to it and learn how to accessorize.
Keep Safe Everyone!
-xoxo-
SuperMommy