It may not be something that we want to do but let’s face it, wearing masks is going to be the norm for awhile. Since we have to wear it wouldn’t it be good to know How to Freshen Up Your Face Mask Using Essential Oils?
It is a different world we are all living in now. Learning to live with the changes around us. One of those new habits we have learned to adapt to is wearing face masks. No matter what side of the fence you sit on masks are required in almost every place you want to go. It is the premise that wearing a mask protects us and those around us. According to Healthline.com there is scientific proof regarding the effectiveness of masks. Check it out here.
Since we are required to wear masks let’s talk about how to keep them fresh. Aside from wearing disposable masks and discarding that mask every hour there is a better way to freshen up your mask.
We may think the mask we are wearing is clean but…… let’s face it there are germs in our mouth, a lot of them too. Or maybe we didn’t brush our teeth after that pizza for lunch. Inside our masks could get a little funky. There are billions of bacteria that live in your mouth, most are friendly some are not. To learn more about the bacteria in our mouth click here.
Disclaimer: These are ideas on how to use essential oils to freshen your face mask. Essential oils have disinfecting and antibacterial properties but this post does not imply or infer that essential oils can protect or prevent the COVID-19 virus. If you have underlying medical conditions, consult your doctor before starting to incorporate essential oils into your routine.
Which Essential Oils Would Be Best?
There are many essential oils that have disinfecting and antibacterial properties. I will list out some of my favorites that can be used and mixed to freshen up your face mask between laundering or discarding. The oils listed below are suggestions you can use the essential oils of your choice for specific results.
- Cinnamon – A warm and comforting scent. Used in aroma therapy to rid airborne bacteria. Also an antioxidant and antibacterial. Benefits of inhaling this scent include stress relief and mood benefits.
- Clove – A spicy scent that is antibacterial, antioxidant and immune stimulant. Benefits of inhaling this scent include headache relief, improving the immune system and lowering blood pressure.
- Tea Tree – A medicinal scent. It is a disinfectant and antibacterial. Benefits of inhaling this scent include enhancing respiration, boosts immune system and supports healthy sleep.
- Eucalyptus – A woodsy scent with a hint of mint. It is an antiseptic and antibacterial. Benefits of inhaling this scent include assisting with respiratory issues, clear sinuses and assist in the healing of cold sores.
- Lavender – A pleasant subtle scent. It has disinfectant and antimicrobial properties. Benefits of inhaling this scent include alleviating stress, anxiety and tension.
- Peppermint – A fresh invigorating scent. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Benefits of inhaling this scent include sharpening mental focus, clearing nasal passages and soothing tension headaches.
- Lemongrass – A lightly lemony scent with earthy undertones. It is an antibacterial, antifungal and disinfectant. Benefits of inhaling this scent include relieving headaches and boosting energy.
- Citrus Essential Oils – The citrus scents include Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime and Orange. They are antibacterial and antifungal. Benefits of inhaling these scents include uplifting, boosting mood and elevate the immune system.
- Geranium – A lightly floral with herbal undertones. It has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Benefits of inhaling this scent include helping protect the body from infection, natural antidepressant and skin health.
- Thyme – A warm spicy scent from the mint family. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Benefits of inhaling this scent include promote alertness, boosts the immune system and supports the respiratory system.
Mixing Your Spray
The hardest part of mixing up your Freshening Spray is deciding on which essential oil scent you would like. My favorite blends are Lavender & Lemongrass, Cinnamon & Clove(this is a real germ fighting blend) or Peppermint & Lime. Here are the items you will need:
- Spray bottle ( I recommend a small 2 oz. glass bottle that way you can keep it in your purse or at the office easily.)
- Witch Hazel or Isopropyl Alcohol – optional
- Distilled Water
- Essential Oil(s) of your choice
Remember to always wash your hands before and after working with essential oils. Instructions are quick and easy:
- Add 1/2 oz. of Witch Hazel or Isopropyl Alcohol to a 2 oz. spray bottle. If you choose you can omit this ingredient but it does give an additional layer of disinfecting. If you choose to use Witch Hazel, good choice, it is a natural cleanser and astringent.
2. Then add 1 1/2 oz. of distilled water to your bottle
3. Now you are ready for your essential oils. Add 15 – 24 drops of your desired essential oil(s). If you are using multiple essential oils the 15 – 24 drops are the total number of drops. If you are sensitive to smells I would stay on the lighter side of the number of drops you use.
Using Your Freshen Up Spray
Now that you are ready to use your spray just a couple of tips to keep in mind. Always shake your bottle before using, the oils may have a tendency to separate from the other ingredients. When you spray the inside of your mask, just lightly spray, there is no need to saturate it. Enjoy!
NOTE: This Freshen Up Spray is not meant to replace changing out your disposable mask or laundering your cloth mask. This spray is designed to freshen your daily mask use.
This is yet another use for you to discover essential oils. Check out this post for more ideas. While you are here don’t forget to check out Inviting Effects Natural Essential Oil Body Washes and Lotions.
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