PPE—But Make It Fashion!

This article includes:  

• Fashion masks to make it more fun 

• Eye-popping makeup looks to rock over your mask 

• Makeup tips for under the mask 

• Cute and comfortable hairstyles to wear with a mask 

• Mask hacks for comfort and fashion  

According to experts, protective face masks and cloth face coverings are here to stay for a while. But it doesn’t have to be a drag! By wearing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), we all do our part to take care of our loved ones, friends, coworkers, and communities safer by helping to flatten the curve. Here are some of our favorite tips for making the most of the mask! 

Get a Great Mask 

Who says your mask has to be boring? From Etsy sellers and DiY tutorials to custom-printed masks and more, there’s a way to make your mask as unique as you are. Think of it as another way of accessorizing! Need to have your mouth visible for lip reading—or just love your lipstick? There are clear face masks and DiY patterns for face masks with a clear panel to make your mouth visible while keeping you and others protected.  

• Etsy Face Mask Marketplace 

• Michaels DiY Face Mask and Shield Patterns 

• Vogue Guide to Stylish Face Masks 

• Red Bubble and Zazzle custom-print face masks  

• DiY Strapless Face Mask for haircuts 

The “Eyes” Have It

Eye makeup people, it’s your time to shine. When you’re wearing a face mask, it’s all about the eyes, lashes, and brows. Here are some of our favorite looks that are perfect to sport when you’re wearing a mask. Remember, if only half of your face is showing, it’s okay to go a little bolder than you might ordinarily. Time to break out your brushes and get colorful!  

• Learn how to combine eye colors for a look that’s uniquely “you!” 

• Try the colored cat eye or turquoise liner for a head-turning summer look! 

• Thinking of getting lash extensions? Read this post by Vagaro’s designer Mia about her lash experience!  

• Curling your lashes? Get the right technique! 

Make-up Tips for Wearing a Mask

While some people may welcome the opportunity to let their skin breathe and go natural under the mask, others may want to maintain their everyday makeup look. Here are a few makeup and skin care tips to avoid breakouts and to get more wear from your look without it rubbing off inside your mask. 

• Don’t forget the SPF – no one wants to get a face mask or ear strap sunburn! 

• Make sure to wash your face every day with a gentle, non-comedogenic facial wash, to prevent breakouts from accumulated sweat, oil, and skin cell buildup underneath the mask area.   

• Get your makeup to stay on longer under a mask by using a light coat of setting powder over your sunscreen or primer.  

• For extra staying powder, spritz with setting spray before applying makeup, then once again after your look is done.  

• Make sure to pay attention to the tip of your nose and chin area, since these are the two places that your mask will rub against your makeup the most.  

Mask-Friendly Hairstyles

Summertime hair is one thing—summertime hair wearing a face mask in another! Because you’ll already have one accessory in the ear area, it might be wise to skip the headband look this summer and take some of the pressure off your temples. Here are some of our favorite hairstyles that are easy to wear with a mask and perfect for beating the summertime heat! 

Space Buns, Braided or Half-Up Space Buns, Pigtails, and Afro Puffs are all fun, youthful looks that keep hair up and out of your face—and away from the ear loops of your mask.  

Bun and Updo styles leave your ears uncovered for easy mask on-and-off, without adding extra pressure to your temples.  

Pixie Crops and other short haircuts make wearing a mask a breeze and guarantee that you won’t get straps tangled in your hair.  

Facial Hair (mustaches, beard, goatees, sideburns) has a dedicated set of guidelines for safely wearing a mask—be sure to check out the CDC graphic on recommended facial hair styles and facial hair grooming for masks and face coverings.   

Masks Hacks for Comfort & Style

Even the most fashionable mask can sometimes get a little uncomfortable—especially if you’ve got tight straps or wear glasses. Here are a few hacks to help make your mask more comfortable, without sacrificing your look.  

• Use a hairclip for a cute look that takes off the pressure of your mask’s straps over your ear.   

• Prevent ear chafing from straps with a button headband or use the S-hook trick.  

• Not the hairclip type? No worries! Use a plastic mask strap extender instead!  

• Worried about the extra plastic? Make your own reusable mask extender with this simple tutorial! 

• Avoid fogged-up glasses by wearing a mask with a nose bridge, or stitch pipe cleaners or twist ties into the nose area to create a fitted mask.  

It’s Not Just About Style 

While you and your clients rock the mask and express your personal style, always keep safety and health your top priority! Make sure you’re following the CDC Guidelines when wearing a face mask. Don’t forget to keep up the practice of washing your hands frequently, remain 6-feet social distance when you’re in public areas, and avoid contact with those who are sick. Prioritize safety and health above all else, and you can let your fashion shine even during a pandemic.

Ready to step up your summertime look? There are brow, lash, and hair professionals on the Vagaro Marketplace who can help you make the most of the mask!