Delhi Air Pollution: 8 Effective Pollution Masks To Stay Protected From Toxic Air

Delhi air pollution has reached toxic levels yet again. Just when we thought the worst is over, the air quality index has been tipping on the 'hazardous' side, setting off serious health concerns for its residents. According to WHO, Delhi currently ranks as the No. 1 major city in the world with the worst air quality. So needless to say that it's high time for all of us to take measures to look after our health and fight the harmful effects of air pollution. If you thought that wearing pollution masks wasn't a necessity, think again!

Been experiencing an eye infection or a burning sensation? Has your sore throat become a constant? Struggling to get rid of the week long cough and cold? Well, these could all be because of high pollution levels. According to Dr Prashant Saxena, HOD, pulmonology and sleep medicine, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital in Saket, "We have seen a substantial increase in the number of patients complaining of respiratory diseases like COPD, asthma, bronchitis and their flare-ups. There is also an increase in cardiac problems like heart attacks and chest pain etc. Associated allergic problems like nasal discharge/sneezing, headache, eye burning, sore throat etc have also been observed, especially in children. Moreover, maternal exposure can cause fatal growth retardation, fatal deaths and retarded growth of child post-delivery."

While we can't just pack our bags and vacate the city immediately, what we can do is take precautions and make an honest effort to shield ourselves, our home, car and office environment from the toxic air.

(Also read: Air Purifiers: 8 Best Air Purifiers Under Rs 30,000 To Beat Delhi Pollution)

Picking The Right Pollution Masks To Fight Air Pollution

To fight the harmful effects of air pollution, wearing just any ordinary mask is not going to help you. Just like it's important to pick the right air purifier for your home (making sure they come equipped with HEPA filters), you also need to pick effective pollution masks providing superior protection for PM 2.5 particles and other microscopic airborne contaminants.

To help you pick the best pollution masks, we have put together a list of the top rated masks that you can buy right now from Amazon. Take a look:

1. 3M 9332 N99 Pollution Mask Aura

This mask protects against pollution, particulate matter, dust and mists found in a wide variety of applications and other work situations requiring FFP3 protection. This mask can be used outdoors, during cycling, travelling etc. It's a flat fold disposable P3 respirator offering reliable, effective protection against higher levels of fine dust, mists and metal fume.

(Also read: Delhi Pollution: Why You Should Buy Air Purifiers With HEPA Filters)

2. Vogmask Aloha CV (Medium) Reusable Anti Pollution Mask

N95CV Vogmasks contain a microfiber inner and outer layer, N995 particle filtering media, carbon filter, and one exhalation valve for facilitating exit of moisture and co2 from the interior of the mask. Trim and ear loops are made with latex-free spandex.

3. Honeywell PM 2.5 Anti Pollution Foldable Face Mask With Easy Exhalation Valve

The PM 2.5 masks from Honeywell are specially designed to protect the user from probable respiratory ailments and allergies originating from the polluted air in the cities and common allergens like pollen in the environment. These masks have a 3 layer filter media which ensures the best protection. The masks come with a valve for moisture release which reduces stuffiness and heat build up to ensure wearer comfort for longer hours.

4. BodyGuard PM 2.5 Anti Dust and Pollution Face Mask With Exhalation Valve

The mask filters up to 99% of PM 2.5 Pollution Particulates and comes with distinct features. The specially designed SmartValve fitted on the mask allows seamless outflow of exhaled air and Activated Carbon arrests VOCs, as well as bad odour and provides fresh air for easy breathing.

5. Dettol Pollution Mask N95 Cambridge Reusable, Washable, Durable

Dettol Cambridge mask technology is one of the most effective anti-pollution masks on the market meant for daily use when there is pollution, haze, dust or outdoor allergens. The military grade filtration technology in their construction enables them to filter out nearly 100 percent of particulate pollution, most residual pollutant gases.

6. 3M 9504 INV N95 Dust Pollution Mask

This 3M 9504 mask is equivalent to N95 mask. It provides respiratory protection against viruses like swine flu virus, allergens and pollution particles also known as particulate matter PM 2.5 and PM 10.

7. Grin Health N99 Pro Anti-Pollution Mask With Easy Exhalation 2 Valve

This Grin Health mask is superior with features of N99 filter, micro particulate layer and activated carbon layer that help provide extra respiratory protection. The carbon filter provides deodorisation and absorbs/removes potentially harmful molecules while GrinHealth technology helps in protecting against level of organic vapours.

8. IdMask2 Shield, Medium, Black

IdMASK has been developed for the active community. Outdoor play and sport are imperative for cognitive development. More importantly, in Cities with poor air quality, it is prudent to protect oneself through the use of a sports pollution mask.

To browse more pollution masks on Amazon, click here.

Note: The Swirlster Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Swirlster has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.