The Best Face Masks of 2022

Top Pick: Universal Standard Mask 2.0 | $15 | Universal Standard

There’s a chance that people will be needing to wear masks for while now. While the vaccine rollout has certainly helped, it doesn’t stop COVID from being dangerous to some people, so it’s still a good idea to wear a mask when you’re going to be near large groups of people. It’s not a big thing to do, but it is a considerate thing to do.

However, it doesn’t seem right that you have to look silly in a mask, and a lot of companies are more than happy get involved in making masks that look a little bit better. So, if you’re in the market for a new mask for whatever you get up to in your daily life, then we’ve brought together some of the best face masks around to make sure you can stay safe, but still look good. After all, just because nobody can see the bottom half of your face doesn’t mean you can’t still look stunning, you know? 

Universal Standard is known for high quality, well-made clothing. Its masks, I’m sure, are no exception to that rule. Available in both merlot and slate, this mask is double lined and has a filter pocket, as well as elastic earloops. It’s designed to be fitted, but the jersey fabric offers stretch for a comfortable fit.

It’s a good idea to have different masks for different occasions, and that means it’s worth having one that’s a little bit fancy too. The Three Pebbles Rhinestone Face Mask is a great choice for those times, and it’s not only sparkly, but also washable too. They’ll get the job done and even come in a variety of colors as well, so you can find one for whatever occasion you’re going to. 

If you’re looking for a mask that’ll help you out when you’re starting to get hot, then the NxTSTOP Movement Mask is a great shout. It’s designed to help keep heat away from your mouth thanks to cool ice recycled polyester, and dries really quickly so you can wash it after training with no worries. It’s great in hot temperatures too, so should even survive hot yoga. 

Best Patterned Face Mask: Vera Bradley

This three-pack of Vera Bradley masks is what colorful dreams are made of. Made with breathable lightweight cotton, the masks are made with two layers of fabric that are machine washable. Each mask has a pocket for a disposable filter and elastic ear loops in white or black. This colorful trio includes a butterfly pattern, a flamingo pattern, and a floral pattern.

TCP Global Salon World Safety is selling kids’ face masks in five different bright colors, including yellow, green, pink, and blue. They are three-ply made with a premium PP outer filter layer. It also features soft ear loops and a flexible, adjustable nose clip. These masks come in a wrapped box with a perforated dispenser top, so you only take one mask at a time.

Intended for children between the age of four and 12, these masks should cover your face from the nose to underneath the chin. If you try on the product and it’s too snug, then it’s probably time to switch to an adult-size mask. Note that these masks should never be used as toys and are not meant for children under the age of four.

SKIMS is selling adult seamless face masks in a beautiful neutral color at Nordstrom. These face masks are seamless, machine washable, and are knit to fit closely to your face. There are fewer pleats for comfort and less bulk.

Note that this mask is non-medical and intended to wear in settings when social distancing is hard to maintain.

This story was originally published by Chaya M. Milchtein on 02/05/2021 and updated with new information by Juliana Clark on 02/28/2022.