5 On Your Side: Steps to fix common face mask annoyances

During the coronavirus pandemic, masks have been a must have, but we all know that they come with some annoyances.

5 On Your Side’s Monica Laliberte helps us fix the most common bothers.

Comfort is key when wearing a mask.

Irritated ears, acne, foggy glasses: they’re all the new annoying norm.

There are ways to get some relief.

One way to help stop glasses from fogging is to wear a mask with a wire sewn at the top. Pinch the top of the mask so it is tighter over your nose and tighten the sides for a snug fit. Also try wearing your glasses on top of your mask. You could even apply an anti-fogging solution to your lenses.

Mask acne is another issue.

“When you wear your mask for a long period of time, you sweat, which causes bacteria to build up. That can cause acne," said Lauren Friedman, with Consumer Reports. "Make sure your face and your mask are both clean before heading out. If you’re still breaking out, a topical over-the-counter acne cream that contains benzoyl peroxide can help.”

If the elastic loops irritate your ears, rub some petroleum jelly where they meet, or skip the loops altogether and switch to a tie-back mask.

Finally, if your mask keeps slipping, tighten it up. One thing to look for is if your mask moves in and out as you breathe.

Something else many are dealing with is trouble clearly speaking and being understood while wearing a mask. Consumer Reports said the solution is not usually to talk louder, but instead, speak slowly and more clearly.