How to Differentiate between Genuine and Fake Surgical Masks, Don't Make the Wrong Purchase

Kapanlagi.com - Due to the spread of the corona virus covid-19 which continues to expand, masks have become one of the most sought-after items at present. Masks, especially surgical masks, have become scarce items, and their prices can increase multiple times if sold. Then, there are people who sell fake masks. Don't worry, there are ways to differentiate between genuine and fake surgical masks.

There are many ways to differentiate between genuine and fake surgical masks, ranging from simple methods to slightly troublesome ones. However, differentiating between genuine and fake masks is indeed important. Besides avoiding being deceived and suffering losses, genuine and fake masks will clearly have different health effects.

Here are ways to differentiate between genuine and fake surgical masks:

1. Functions of Authentic Surgical Masks

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Masks essentially function to block droplets or water splashes containing viruses or bacteria from the mouth or nose when someone sneezes or coughs.

That is why initially, the use of masks was only recommended for those who were already infected with the coronavirus covid-19. This is to prevent the spread of droplets or water splashes when coughing or sneezing and to prevent transmission to many people.

However, due to the rapid spread of the virus, now everyone is encouraged to wear masks. Especially when going out of the house.

2. Authentic and Fake Mask Layers

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Based on these functions, authentic surgical masks are made with several layers. These layers are usually visible physically, with two different colors, such as green and white or blue and white.

According to klikdokter.com, authentic masks are made with layers that can trap molecules such as bacteria and viruses, thus preventing the transmission of diseases. On the other hand, fake masks tend to be made with only one layer, so they can only filter air and are unable to filter bacteria or viruses.

3. Testing with Water

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After identifying genuine and fake surgical masks physically, the next way to differentiate between genuine and fake surgical masks is by testing them with water.

The method is simple, you just need to pour water into the mask. Then pay close attention to whether the layers of the mask are able to hold the water or if the water leaks or even seeps through.

As we know, genuine surgical masks consist of several layers, so they are not easily leaky. On the other hand, fake surgical masks that are not made with layers will not be able to hold water.

4. Try Wearing

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Actually, you can determine the difference between genuine and fake surgical masks when wearing them. After wearing the mask, you can try exhaling through your mouth or nose.

At that time, place your hand in front of the mask that covers your mouth and nose. Feel if there is any air passing through the mask. Because just like water and bacterial and viral molecules, genuine masks can also hold air.

5. Testing Using a Lighter

The next way to distinguish between genuine and fake surgical masks can be done by using a lighter. This test can be done by lighting a lighter and burning the middle part of the mask. Because the middle part of genuine masks is generally made of materials that are not easily flammable.

So, you can do this method if you buy masks in large quantities in the form of boxes or packs. You can use this method to find out if the mask is genuine or fake. Genuine masks will easily catch fire. Meanwhile, fake masks will be difficult to burn or at least will only melt in some parts.

Those are 5 ways to distinguish between genuine and fake surgical masks, you can apply these methods to avoid fraud. In addition, using genuine masks can also help protect you from the transmission of the coronavirus COVID-19.

(kpl/psp/gen)