So are they effective protection? As we approach the end of lockdown and take baby steps towards resuming our lives, the face mask looks set to become as ubiquitous in the UK as it is in major Asian cities like Beijing and Tokyo.
Already, Transport for London has said that face masks should be worn by passengers. So it was only a matter of time before the big high street fashion players seized this new commercial opportunity.
Among brick-and-mortar retailers, Mango is first off the mark with a line of cotton face masks launching on Thursday. The designs, which retail for £12.99 each, include a floral, an animal print and a plain black version, each with a central seam for a more comfortable fit and elasticated ear loops.
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