A Copper and Hemp Infused 3D Knit Face Mask May be the Next Best Thing in Personal Protection
As the country begins to open and warmer weather beckons, the use of masks amidst the COVID-19 pandemic is more pertinent than ever. The CDC recommendations state that a large portion of those who have coronavirus, lack any symptoms at all, and regardless of if a person is symptomatic or not, they can transmit the virus before showing symptoms. While social distancing and frequent hand cleansing practices are necessary, speaking, coughing, and sneezing (all things that are hard to avoid doing) contribute to the spreading of the virus.
Homemade Masks May Hurt More Than Help
So, what do you do when you want to soak up some sun on the beach or take your kids to the park as temperatures rise? Makeshift masks made from household items are great for a trip to the grocery store but quickly become more of an issue than a solution when worn for a prolonged amount of time. Typically crafted from cotton bandanas or T-shirts, these quick fix masks absorb the moisture from your breath. In fact, cotton can absorb up to 25 times its weight in moisture, causing an uncomfortable feeling and potential chafing/skin irritation, as well as the increased risk for a bacterial infection.
Moreover, multiple studies such as the one conducted by the Department of Biochemical and Microbial Technology at Ghent University in Belgium have found that despite machine washing, untreated fabrics are susceptible to biofilm development. A biofilm is the collection of microorganisms in which cells stick to each other and a surface. These cells become resistant, even to detergent, contaminating other garments that they are being washed with. The 2015 Belgium study concluded that almost all bacteria counted on the cotton sample prior to washing were present after a laundering cycle.
Hemp and Copper Are the Solution
Hemp Black Inc., a hemp technology company, has innovated a seamless 3D knit mask with antimicrobial and anti-odor properties built into its high-performance yarns. The patent pending interior fiber, which has odor neutralizing hemp flower extract embedded in its core, was initially developed for athletic apparel but given the need for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), has since been adapted into the Hemp BlackTM fusion / FACE MASK. (NOTE: this mask is not intended for medical use and is not an N95 or surgical mask).
The hemp flower extract is harvested from advanced hemp seed genetics grown on certified farms in the United States and processed at Ecofibre’s LEED platinum pending certified campus in Kentucky. This extract is fused with advanced sustainable polymers (such as recycled polyester in this case), creating new, exclusive material technology that utilizes the natural power of the plant.
The exterior layer of the mask is constructed with copper infused polyester fibers. Copper has been tested and proven to kill bacteria and viruses within a few minutes, an exponential improvement from the several days they can live on other surfaces. An added benefit of the copper and hemp flower extract technology is that it is engineered into the fibers, not applied topically. This means that the technology is consistent and evenly distributed within the reusable mask, making each millimeter just as effective as the next, even after being washed.
Made in the USA with zero waste, the Hemp Black mask is seamlessly knit, a feature that provides sustainability, comfort, and enhanced protection. Built to contour to the face’s shape, it allows for ample breathability and room to talk while wearing. Additionally, this unique manufacturing technology prescribes the mask with a comfortable and secure fit for added protection. While the knit in stretch straps provide a gentle custom fit, the fusion / FACE MASK now comes in 3 sizes to ensure protection for everyone (C.D.C. guidelines state cloth face coverings should not be placed on children younger than 2 years of age).
All sizes of the fusion / FACE MASK are currently in stock and ready to ship. Receive complimentary shipping with the purchase of two or more.
