Please note : Masks of all specifications, certifications & brands can be sourced. Below are only few of the variants for representative purpose.
Surgical masks
The most commonly available form of masks in the market, surgical masks are the ones which are slightly loose-fitted around the mouth and used to protect a person against large splashes of droplets, water, sprays and used in medical facilities. Since they are so popular and cost-effective, they also come in a variety of sizes, colours and types.
N95 and FFP1 masks
N95 respirator masks are again widely being used right now. It’s slightly more tight-fitted and vague looking, making it a better alternative to surgical masks. Masks with N95 rating filter 95% of particles 0.3 microns or larger in diameter, roughly the size of a single virus and include PM 2.5. Some masks also have an attachment called the exhalation valve, which can filter out humidity build-up. They also work drastically better in filtering out and stopping pollutants, viruses and bacteria from entering the mouth or nasal passageway, with an efficacy of 95%.
Activated carbon masks
As the name suggests, these masks contain an activated carbon filter, which help collect and filter out the pollutants and germs and breathe in purer air. Studies also say that carbon filters present in the mask may even improve your lung capacity and respiratory muscles, making it a good buy if you live in an extremely polluted city.
That being said, these masks work very well in fighting pollution and tiny particles like bacteria and fungi which spread through the air we breathe in, and thereby, prevent allergies. However, they do not work exceptionally well in fighting or preventing viruses like COVID-19 from coming in contact. They can only trap a minuscule number of viruses (10-20%) and hence, may not be the best choice right now.