High temperature is also foggy, functional masks do not letter

Mist is a combination of fog and haze, both of which can have serious health impacts, especially on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. For individuals suffering from chronic respiratory conditions like bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or COPD, exposure to haze can trigger acute episodes or worsen existing symptoms. Prolonged exposure to such conditions may even increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Moreover, haze has been linked to severe effects on the heart and brain, potentially leading to hypertension, coronary artery disease, stroke, angina, heart attacks, and heart failure.

Winter fog is often called the "winter killer," and many people assume that haze only occurs during cold months or early spring. However, smog can also appear in high-temperature days. For example, on a summer day in Beijing, where temperatures reached 30°C, a yellow alert was issued by the meteorological department. Besides weather conditions, factors such as industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, airborne dust, and even bacteria and viruses contribute to the formation of haze.

Many people turn to masks as a solution for protecting themselves from haze. While medical experts agree that masks can help reduce the intake of large particles, they are not very effective against PM2.5, which is particularly dangerous due to its tiny size. Professional masks are designed to filter larger particles, but they struggle with PM2.5, which can easily pass through small gaps. This means most common masks on the market offer limited protection.

PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 micrometers in diameter—so small that it's less than 1/20th the thickness of a human hair. Although it's just a small part of the atmosphere, PM2.5 significantly affects air quality and visibility. These particles are more hazardous than larger particles because they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, causing long-term health risks.

Experts suggest that if a mask could effectively block PM2.5, it would be extremely tight, making breathing difficult. Most masks available to the public don’t seal properly around the face, allowing PM2.5 to seep in. Additionally, activated carbon filters are mainly used for odor control, not for filtering fine particles. Therefore, claims about anti-haze or anti-PM2.5 masks often don't hold up under scientific scrutiny.

Despite this, many companies now sell various types of masks labeled as anti-fog, anti-dust, or anti-PM2.5. These products come in different price ranges, from a few yuan to several hundred. But do these masks actually work? A recent comparison test by the China Consumers Association found that only a small percentage of masks provided adequate protection. Even among expensive models, there was no significant improvement in performance compared to cheaper options.

Another study by the Zhejiang Consumer Protection Committee tested 29 batches of masks and found that none met national standards. The filtration efficiency ranged from as low as 5% to a maximum of 82.2%. Experts advise consumers to be cautious when buying so-called functional masks, as some online products may be similar in quality to those sold in local markets.

For most people, choosing the right mask can be confusing. It’s important to understand that not all masks are the same. Disposable cup masks and folding masks made from non-woven materials with good filtration are recommended for better protection. These masks should not be washed or reused. If you start to feel discomfort or notice an odor, it’s time to replace them. Also, proper fit is crucial—make sure the mask seals tightly against your face to prevent unfiltered air from entering.

For people with respiratory or heart conditions, the elderly, and children, masks alone aren’t enough. The best strategy is to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers at home if possible. When returning home, wash your face and exposed skin to remove any pollutants. In addition, avoid outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours, typically between 6 and 11 a.m., and consider moving workouts to the evening when the air is cleaner.

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