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Anyone who has to wear a gas mask for work knows how uncomfortable it can be. And those who haven’t had that experience can probably still recall the faces of healthcare workers during the pandemic. The masks left marks on their faces where they pressed into the skin. Not to mention the discomfort they caused throughout the day. It’s the result of the one-size-fits-all mentality.
That’s why a new company based in Edinburgh, called Mask Logic, has developed a reusable face mask that adapts to the shape of the face. Nearly one million euros has already been raised for the launch of the world’s first mask that uses 3D technology to mold itself to the wearer’s face.
There is now a mask that adapts to the face
The idea was born during the Covid-19 pandemic. A group of scientists, engineers, and medical experts decided it was time to put an end to uncomfortable masks. One of those experts is Dr. Ken Stewart. As a plastic surgeon specializing in complex facial and ear reconstruction, he saw firsthand how his colleagues struggled with their masks.
“We realized that by combining modern 3D imaging with 3D-printed soft materials, we could create custom-made, perfectly fitting masks that conform to the unique contours of each individual’s face.”
But developing a good mask turned out to be no easy task.
“In our first comparative trial, our masks proved more comfortable than standard disposable alternatives. Since then, we’ve drastically refined our design, but we’ve stayed true to our original mission: to create the most comfortable, personalized respiratory masks possible—designed to fit every face. We believe the days of painful, pressure-inducing masks are finally over,” Stewart told Scottish Financial News.
Securing funding for the mask
In the meantime, the team has been working hard to secure funding for the new mask—and they’ve succeeded. £780,000 has been raised, the equivalent of €913,069, through grants and seed funding. According to Michael Fink, CEO of Mask Logic, they’re now ready to move forward with development.
“This funding marks a key milestone, allowing us to scale up production, secure certification, and successfully enter the UK market. (…) With advanced 3D printing and scanning technology, a talented team, and strong support from investors, Mask Logic is ready to redefine health and safety in the workplace and offer employers a new way to show they care about their staff’s well-being,” said Fink.
A mask that adapts to the face is no longer a luxury
Besides being more comfortable to wear, the mask fits perfectly into the broader trend in PPE development. In recent years, there has been a growing global focus on fit when it comes to items like safety goggles, helmets, gloves, and work boots. Because while we refer to these items as “personal protective equipment,” in practice, many are still made using the one-size-fits-all concept. So, they’re not very personal at all. Or they come in only a few sizes designed for so-called “reference men.” The result is that PPE often goes unworn or is used incorrectly.
Fortunately, more organizations and governments are realizing that the current approach isn’t effective. Earlier this year, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) updated its regulations. Instead of stating that PPE in construction must be appropriate for the task, the new rule specifies that it must fit the wearer. The aim is to ensure that women and people with larger or smaller body sizes receive PPE that fits better. In the UK, steps are also being taken to explore the introduction of a similar regulation.
And rightly so. Because we’re talking about personal protective equipment. Not general protective equipment. And let’s be honest, it’s about time we moved on from the idea that everyone should be expected to wear the same size.
Best,
Aileen