The Pandemic Can Go Away—But My Mask Is Here to Stay

March 13 was the last day we ventured outside. By March 20, 2020, I was finally driving to my pharmacy for the first time since the pandemic began, all while donning a mask with an added buff for extra protection. For over a year now, I’ve been consistently wearing a mask—sometimes double-masking with a KN95 and a cloth mask, or a cloth mask and a buff. Sure, my glasses fog up at times, and there are moments when I can’t wait to take the thing off, but I’ve ultimately come to appreciate my mask.

Makeup Just Became a Breeze

Just a few days ago, my nine-year-old son asked me while I was doing my makeup, “Mom, why are you bothering?” He sighed. “No one’s going to see it anyway.” Well, kiddo, that’s true, but I enjoy makeup. I’ll wear it if I want to, regardless of my mask.

But he does have a point. Why bother with lipstick? At most, people will see some blush. If I’m going somewhere indoors, they might catch a glimpse of my eyes. Luckily, I’ve mastered the smoky eye and ensure to moisturize to keep those pesky fine lines at bay. And thank goodness for my mask—it beautifully conceals my dark circles. It’s like I’ve found the secret to hiding them!

Or if I really want to be lazy, I can just throw on my oversized sunglasses. Suddenly, I’m glamorous, mysterious, and channeling my inner Hollywood star. With that combo, I could be anyone behind the mask—Paris Hilton or Betty White—and no one would ever know. So, really, I’m given options when it comes to makeup thanks to my mask.

My Mask Protects Against Other Viruses Too

Did you realize that this past flu season has been historically mild? According to Dr. Mike Davis, an infectious disease expert, the flu season hit “record lows.” Sure, hand sanitizing, social distancing, and staying home when sick contributed to this, but masks also play a vital role as they prevent the spread of respiratory droplets. My mask isn’t just a barrier against COVID-19; it’s likely protecting me from the flu as well.

I haven’t caught a cold all winter, and while my outings have been fewer, I’ve made it a habit to wash my hands and sanitize regularly. I’m now embracing my inner “Crazy Hand Sanitizer Lady,” collecting all sorts of scented bottles. But honestly, my mask is what keeps the majority of germs out of my lungs.

Ultimately, it comes down to one simple truth: I don’t want to inhale your nasty air. I’m not sure if I can go back to breathing the air in grocery stores without protection. My mask is a barrier against unwanted droplets and secretions. Plus, I can find masks in various colors to accessorize with my outfits!

I Won’t Always Wear My Mask

Once the pandemic is truly over, I plan to wear my mask each time I leave the house. However, I probably won’t wear it at the Starbucks drive-thru anymore—who knows what germs that barista is harboring? I’m not turning into Howard Hughes, though; casual meet-ups with friends outdoors in the summer? No mask needed. Winter gatherings indoors? I might keep it on unless I’m sipping coffee. But come cold and flu season, I’ll definitely mask up.

I’ll still need setting spray for my makeup since it tends to smudge around my nose area. It’ll be a small price to pay. My kids will likely wear masks alongside me because they shouldn’t have to inhale grocery store air either. After all, how useful is my mask if they bring home a virus? No thank you!

So when the pandemic is behind us, my mask will not be retired. I’ll keep wearing it indoors and during cold and flu season. COVID-19 may have driven me a little crazy, but it also taught me a valuable lesson about protecting myself from respiratory droplets. Plus, it’s given me a stylish reason to go to Target looking like a ninja.

Say goodbye to my lower face!

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Summary

This article discusses the author’s newfound appreciation for wearing a mask during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the benefits of masks in protecting against not only COVID-19 but also other viruses like the flu. The author shares personal anecdotes about makeup and comfort while wearing masks and expresses a commitment to continue using them in certain situations even after the pandemic is over.

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