Hemp Face Masks – A Sustainable Solution for COVID-19 Masks?
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a multitude of problems around the world, and one of the biggest concerns has been the environmental impact of disposable face masks.
Like it or not, believe it or not, wearing face masks was one of the first urgent mandates worldwide to curb the transmission of the virus. Previously only used in medical facilities, these simple covers helped limit the travel distance of contagious droplets that spread the virus. But due to the disposable nature, people have thrown away and disposed of their face masks left and right, mostly wrong.
MIT scientists estimate that the pandemic will create around 7,200 tons of medical waste each day, and most of that consists of disposable face masks. There is an opportunity for healthcare workers to decontaminate reusable face masks like the N95 models, which would reduce environmental waste by 75%. And even with the pandemic almost over in many parts of the world, healthcare workers still need to consume a large supply of it.
Sure, people have already developed many kinds of fashionable reusable face masks. They may be stylish, but are they biodegradable?
Enter hemp face masks
Hemp is one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics in the world today.
It’s nothing new: hemp fabrics were used in ancient China and eventually spread around the world to be used by early civilizations. Archaeologists have also discovered remains of hemp fabrics dating back to 8000 BC in Iraq. and 2700 B.C. In 1000 BC, Shen Nung, a Chinese emperor, taught his people how to grow industrial hemp (cannabis) to make clothing.
Hemp has been used since ancient times to make not only clothing but a variety of other textiles, sacks, canvas, rope, and more. Even then, hemp’s durability was unrivaled, plus it has the benefit of being sustainable and biodegradable. Hemp production is also much more environmentally friendly compared to cotton or other materials, especially when it’s organic.
Here are the other benefits of using hemp face masks:
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BREATHABLE: Hemp is naturally thermo-regulating, which means people wearing hemp fabrics can enjoy more airflow. It is also breathable in summer while allowing your skin to self-regulate and have good air circulation even in winter. Wearing a face mask that is difficult to breathe in would simply defeat the purpose – it wouldn’t be comfortable enough to wear.
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Antimicrobial: Hemp is naturally antimicrobial as it limits the growth of odor-causing bacteria. On the other hand, other types of materials don’t possess the same properties unless they’re made with chemicals or other toxic ingredients that you don’t want on your face. In addition, researchers have found that hemp is also naturally antibacterial and may protect against MRSA bacteria.
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UV Resistant: Unlike disposable masks, hemp fabrics are UV resistant. This means that wearing hemp face masks can protect you from the sun’s harmful rays and provide an extra layer of protection from your skin.
So why aren’t more people wearing hemp face masks?
We’ve found that there are some excellent products that you might want to try:
Delilah Home 100% Hemp Face Masks: Made in Europe, Delilah Home hemp face masks are made from 100% hemp with a 180 gram thread count, which is approximately 50% thicker than other masks. It’s thick and durable. Best of all, it has Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification, so you can rest assured that the manufacturer didn’t use bleach or chemical dyes to make it.
Earth Hero Reusable Hemp Face Mask: This ultra-soft face mask from Made with Hemp is made from renewable hemp along with lightweight organic cotton. It features organic cotton ties and a soft pocket lining for extra comfort. Feel free to wash and sanitize this mask so you can use it again and again.
Wishtrend Organic Hemp Face Mask: Made in South Korea, this non-medical reusable hemp mask is made from 55% hemp and 45% cotton. The result is a super soft, gentle face mask.
First Crop Hemp Face Mask: This face mask consists of 4 washable layers and an adjustable nose bridge to adapt to different face sizes. It is equipped with antimicrobial properties and strong hemp fibers and a filtration barrier so you can enjoy its breathable properties while staying protected.
Schoenberg 100% Hemp Face Mask: Made with only 100% hemp and organic cotton threads, this face mask has none of the nasty things that traditional medical-grade face masks have: formaldehyde, chemicals, pesticides, and GMOs. It’s naturally antibacterial and feels really good on the skin. To sanitize, simply soak the mask in hot water for 30 seconds and allow to dry.
With this great selection, there’s no reason not to wear hemp face masks. It’s great for you and the environment – while protecting you from COVID-19.
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