Delhi air pollution This has affected the mental and physical health of every person living in or around Delhi-NCR. Sudden and dangerous deterioration in air quality poses health risks including respiratory problems, heart disease and, in severe cases, premature death. As the winter season begins, the situation of air pollution due to smog may worsen. This increase in pollution levels creates concern, especially for people with outdoor exercise routines like morning walks. Therefore, we often opt for masks as a precautionary measure to keep ourselves safe from pollution. But are they really safe? As air quality continues to worsen, it’s important to know what type of mask will provide you with the best protection.

Here we have listed the commonly available masks and how you can select the mask that suits your needs:

1. Surgical Mask

-What they are: Lightweight, disposable masks designed primarily for medical use.

Protection Level: It provides basic protection against larger respiratory droplets but limited efficacy against fine particles such as PM2.5 or PM10.

– Best for: short-term indoor use or low-pollution environments.

– What they are: High-efficiency masks that filter out 95% of airborne particles, including PM2.5, bacteria and viruses.

– Safety Level: Ideal for severe AQI levels and urban pollution.

– Best: For people living in areas with high AQI (above 200) and doing daily outdoor activities.

-What they are: Advanced masks that filter out 99 percent of airborne pollutants.

– Protection Level: Better protection than N95 masks.

– Best for: High-risk individuals, such as those with respiratory problems or those who spend long periods of time outdoors.

– What they are: Masks with an additional activated carbon filter layer to neutralize harmful gases like VOCs and odors.

– Protection Level: Provides enhanced protection against both particulate matter and gaseous pollutants.

– Best for: Urban commuters and people exposed to industrial emissions.

5. Reusable mask with replaceable filters

-What they are: Eco-friendly masks equipped with replaceable PM2.5 or HEPA filters.

– SAFETY LEVEL: Provides good filtration while reducing waste.

– Best for: Long-term use with proper filter replacement.

– What they are: Made of fabric, these are washable and reusable.

– Security level: Minimum; Inadequate against fine particles unless combined with certified filters.

– Best for: Low pollution settings or as an additional layer over certified masks.

How to choose the right mask?

– For high pollution (AQI 200+): Use an N95, N99, or activated carbon mask.

-For extended use: Opt for reusable masks with replaceable filters.

-For budget-friendly options: surgical masks, but only in moderately polluted areas.

-For specific needs: Activated carbon mask if odors and gases are a concern.

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