Tips for Taking Care of Your Silk Face Mask.
(This post was originally published on August 25th 2020 and updated on June 19th 2022)
Face masks provide a physical barrier to droplets and particles, help reduce exposure to respiratory secretions, and serve as a reminder not to touch your face. While no mask is a guarantee against infection, a well-made one is a simple and effective way to reduce risk.
Why We Made Our Face Masks
The face mask market is saturated with options made from synthetic fabrics that can be harsh on the skin. When we set out to create our face mask, we wanted to make something that was gentle and beneficial for the skin, not something that would exacerbate existing skin concerns.
Benefits of Silk and Cotton
We chose to use 100% silk and organic cotton for our face mask because these materials are gentle on the skin and allow for better breathing. Silk is a natural protein fibre that is strong, smooth, and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. Organic cotton is a natural fibre that is also gentle on the skin and breathable, making it a good choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Silk and cotton are also effective at protecting against droplets and upper respiratory infections, and few people have allergies to these fabrics.
How To Wear Your Face Mask
With any silk face covering, your mask should sit comfortably against your face, covering your mouth, nose, and chin, but allowing for breathability. If your mask is too loose, it will not be as effective. You can test the fit by holding it up to your face and taking a deep breath in. If the mask puffs out, then it is too loose, and you should try a different size or style.
Image and copyright Olyinka Lingerie
How To Wash Your Face Mask
We advise that you hand wash your silk mask using the steps below. Please note that we do not advise using fabric softeners, hot water, or placing your silk mask in a washing machine or dryer, as this will damage the fabric.
We cannot stress enough that silk face coverings are not machine washable — but if for whatever reason you do not have time to hand wash, use a silk setting or delicate cycle. We would also advise that you care for your face mask as you would your lingerie.
- Use a pH-neutral gentle detergent or mild soap.
- Dampen the mask with cold water.
- Place a small amount of silk detergent in the centre of the mask and gently wash with your hands for a few minutes.
- Rinse under lukewarm water to wash away residual soap, then remove excess water.
- Gently pull your mask back to its original shape. We recommend air drying — either hang your mask or lay it flat on a towel to dry naturally.
How To Care For Your Silk Face Mask
There are a few things to keep in mind. First, for hygiene reasons, wash the mask regularly, preferably after each use. Second, avoid harsh liquid detergents or cleaners that could damage the silk — for guidance on the best kind to use, see our Top 5 Lingerie Detergent recommendations. Third, silk face masks should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Finally, if the mask becomes damaged, it is best to replace it.
Olyinka Lingerie Silk Face Masks
Experience the comfort and breathability of Olyinka Lingerie's bespoke silk masks. Made from the finest silk, our masks offer a soft, luxurious feel suitable for all skin types. They are designed for easy washing and reuse, combining practicality with elegance. If you're interested in personalised designs or bespoke options, please use our contact form for enquiries.
