Surgical face masks are considered by many a useful way to stop the contraction and spread of the new coronavirus. This surgical aids are less common in Western countries despite growing outbreaks in Europe and the United States. But its use has exploded in Asia such as Japan, China and Vietnam. So why face mask popular in Asian?
Infectious Diseases and Air Quality
People wear them to protect the respiratory tract from pollution and infection. They also want to prevent the spread of any pathogens they might be carrying. Many Asian long to protect themselves from sun rays which can age the skin prematurely over time. Smooth, youthful skin is seen as a feature of beauty in Asia. Therefore, Asians wear masks to keep their skin protected from the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to the sun.
Other reasons
Many people assume the Japanese wear surgical face masks because they’re sick, but the number one reason for wearing them is actually due to allergies. Japanese wear masks when feeling sick as a courtesy to stop any sneezes from landing on other people. Some women mask their faces on days when they don’t have time to put on makeup. Motorcycle riders wear masks to deflect vehicular exhausts in heavy traffic. In Taiwan, citizens say masks keep their faces warm in the winter and offer a sense of protection from air pollution, including any airborne germs.
For others, they offer anonymity and a break from social interaction. By wearing a mask, you not only make yourself less approachable, but you no longer have to put effort into the interactions you do have and react accordingly with a smile, frown or laugh, because no one can see it. But although it’s possible that some people wear surgical face masks to avoid interactions with others from time to time, it’s the exception and not the rule.
Summary
Overall, we will never fully be able to answer the question: Why do Asians wear masks, because as it seems the answers are as varied as the people who wear them. Whether for health reasons, fashion reasons, or simply to avoid social interaction, one thing is certain: wearing masks in Asia is here to stay.
