Skip to content

Top Navigation

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • FOOD
  • HOLIDAYS
  • ENTERTAINING
  • HOME
  • GARDENING
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING
  • WEDDINGS
  • SHOP
  • DIY
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS
  • LIFE
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Pin FB

Explore Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 7 Things to Do in the Morning to Be Healthier and More Productive

      7 Things to Do in the Morning to Be Healthier and More Productive

      Kick-start your day by making habits out of these mood-boosting tips. Read More
    • Should You Refrigerate Bananas?

      Should You Refrigerate Bananas?

      It's one of your favorite fruits, but does it belong on the counter or in the refrigerator? Read More
    • This 3-Ingredient Homemade Weed Killer Uses Vinegar to Safely Remove Pesky Growths from Your Garden

      This 3-Ingredient Homemade Weed Killer Uses Vinegar to Safely Remove Pesky Growths from Your Garden

      A few easy-to-find ingredients are all you need to create a powerful formula that squashes weeds. Read More
  • FOOD

    FOOD

    See All FOOD
    Our 20 Most Popular Recipes for Summer

    Our 20 Most Popular Recipes for Summer

    • Breakfast & Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch Recipes
    • Dinner Recipes
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Dessert Recipes
    • Drink Recipes
    • Salad Recipes
    • Side Dishes
    • Soup Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Quick & Easy Recipes
    • Vegetarian Recipes
    • Cooking How-Tos
    • Baking
    • Menu Planning
    • Food News & Trends
    • Wine
    • Mastering the Holiday Meal
    • What's for Dinner
    • All Recipes
  • HOLIDAYS

    HOLIDAYS

    See All HOLIDAYS
    The Most Patriotic Flowers for the Fourth of July, According to Symbolism

    The Most Patriotic Flowers for the Fourth of July, According to Symbolism

    Show your love of country by displaying these varieties on America's birthday.
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Hanukkah
    • Christmas
    • New Year's Eve
    • Valentine's Day
    • St. Patricks Day
    • Passover
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
  • ENTERTAINING

    ENTERTAINING

    See All ENTERTAINING
    How to Start Entertaining Friends and Family More Regularly

    How to Start Entertaining Friends and Family More Regularly

    Make gathering with loved ones a priority.
    • Seasonal Entertaining & Decorating
    • Baby Shower Ideas
    • Dinner Party Ideas
    • You're Invited
  • HOME

    HOME

    See All HOME
    We're Putting Up Walls Again—Is the Open Floor Plan on Its Way Out?

    We're Putting Up Walls Again—Is the Open Floor Plan on Its Way Out?

    We asked the experts to weigh in on this popular home design concept.
    • Home Design & Decor
    • Paint Colors & Palettes
    • DIY Home Projects
    • The Well-Kept Home
  • GARDENING

    GARDENING

    See All GARDENING
    A Month-by-Month Hydrangea Care Guide

    A Month-by-Month Hydrangea Care Guide

    Confused about when to do what to your favorite flowering shrubs? We have you covered.
    • Container Gardening
    • Flower Gardens
    • Houseplants
    • Landscaping
    • Vegetable Gardens
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    How to Wash Pillows

    How to Wash Pillows

    They're an essential element of a comfortable bed, so keep yours fresh and in their best shape ever with these expert-approved tips.
    • Cleaning
    • Storage & Organization
    • Laundry & Linens
  • WEDDINGS

    WEDDINGS

    See All WEDDINGS
    Who Pays for What for the Wedding?

    Who Pays for What for the Wedding?

    Get the traditional rules for who pays for the wedding details.
    • Real Weddings
    • Wedding Party
    • Wedding Planning & Advice
    • Wedding Ceremony & Reception
    • Wedding Jewelry
    • Dresses & Style
    • Wedding Beauty & Wellness
    • Wedding Registry
    • Wedding Showers & Parties
    • Love & Marriage
    • Wedding Travel
  • SHOP
  • DIY

    DIY

    See All DIY
    How to Melt and Reuse the Leftover Wax from Candles

    How to Melt and Reuse the Leftover Wax from Candles

    Our easy melt-and-pour method saves the last bit of this home essential.
    • Dyeing
    • Holiday Crafts
    • Kids' Crafts
    • Knitting
    • Paper Crafts
    • Sewing
    • Rescue & Revamp
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    Can Rice Water Really Encourage Hair Growth?

    Can Rice Water Really Encourage Hair Growth?

    This buzzy ingredient is a star player in many new-age hair care products.
    • Beauty
    • Health & Wellness
    • Live Well
  • LIFE

    LIFE

    See All LIFE
    • Family
    • Pets
    • Travel
    • Net Worth
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. marthastewart.com
  2. Health and Wellness
  3. 12 Face Masks That Won't Hurt Your Ears

12 Face Masks That Won't Hurt Your Ears

Caroline Biggs, Freelance Writer portrait
By Caroline Biggs September 02, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Pin
5 masks assorted colors
Credit: Courtesy of Christy Dawn

From tie-back styles to over-the-head options more, these masks are designed for prolonged, pain-free use.

Start Slideshow

1 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
5 masks assorted colors
Credit: Courtesy of Christy Dawn

Let's face it: As crucial as it is to protect yourself (and others) from the coronavirus by covering your nose and mouth with a mask, some styles are more comfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time than others. "While masks are extremely important for everyday use given the current environment, it is important that you find a mask that works for your ears," says Dr. Vishal Saggar of New York Dermatology Group. "Any masks that pull on the back of the ears or cause too much friction can lead to pain, soreness, and even breaks in the skin."

So, what should you do when you have to wear a mask for an extended period of time but don't want to deal with ear pain? "It is possible to alleviate the pressure around the ears altogether by using masks that tie around the back of the head or over the head," Dr. Saggar explains. "In addition to using tie-back masks, you can also lengthen the straps of your face mask with rubber bands, extenders, or straps to offload pressure."

Of course, the material a mask is made of also plays a critical role in how comfortable it is to wear. "Certain material components, such as plastic or rubber straps, may cause an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis in patients with particular sensitivities," Dr. Saggar says. "If this happens, it is important to reach out to a dermatologist immediately." Looking for a reliable face mask that won't hurt your ears? We searched high and low and rounded up several of our favorite pain-free masks for your perusal. 

1 of 13

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

A Tie-Back Mask That Gives Back

woman putting on purple Baggu Reusable Mask with orange trim
Credit: Courtesy of Baggu

The only thing better than a mask that doesn't hurt your ears is one that gives back to the community. Composed of soft, organic quilters cotton, this washable iteration—which comes in packs of three—fits over your head and ties under your ears for comfort; a portion of the proceeds goes to the Black Voters Matter Fund.

Shop Now: Baggu Reusable Mask Set, $32, baggu.com.

2 of 13

3 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Silky and Adjustable

black silk protective face mask
Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

If you are looking for a mask that will feel smooth on skin and stay secure, look no further than this option. Its silk fabric is soft and comfortable and the ear straps are adjustable, so you can make it the perfect fit.

Shop Now: Slip Pure Silk Adult Pleated Face Covering, $39, nordstrom.com.

3 of 13

Advertisement

4 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Adjustable Appeal

2 Amadi Around-The-Head Reusable Face Masks
Credit: Courtesy of Anthropologie

Meld fashion and function with this pain-free tied set, which features two types of neutral stripes.

Shop Now: Amadi Tie-Back Reusable Face Masks in Neutral Motif, $24 for set of two, anthropologie.com.

4 of 13

5 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Easy Over Head

Graf Lantz Anshin Organic Cotton Over Head Face Mask
Credit: Courtesy of Graf Lantz

If you're in the market for a face mask that's every bit as comfortable as it is durable, try this over-the-head style. Made from dense, but breathable organic cotton twill, this eco-friendly option features a long elastic strap that you can customize to better fit the shape of your head. Secure it by tying a loop at the base of your neck.

Shop Now: Graf Lantz Anshin Organic Cotton Over Head Face Mask, $22, graflantz.com.

5 of 13

6 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Know the Ropes

Roopa Pemmaraju Tie-Back Reusable Face Mask
Credit: Courtesy of Anthropologie

Prefer the fit of behind-the ear-masks but don't want to deal with pressure? This colorful, lightweight cotton mask boasts two adjustable rope-style straps that tie behind your ears for prolonged comfort and security.

Shop Now: Roopa Pemmaraju Tie-Back Reusable Face Mask, $12, anthropologie.com.

6 of 13

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Custom Fit

man wearing black TIMBUK2 Reusable Face Mask
Credit: Courtesy of Timbuk2

If you're searching for a comfortable option that you can adjust for a better fit, then we found the one for you. This mask is constructed of super soft jersey cotton; the top and bottom ties can be cut to your preferred length to ensure more personalized sizing.

Shop Now: TIMBUK2 Reusable Face Mask, $30 for set of three, timbuk2.com.

7 of 13

8 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Scarf Mask

woman wearing Amadi Tie Back Scarf Mask in Blue Tie Dye
Credit: Courtesy of Amadi

Why wear a potentially painful mask when you can don a secure, scarf-inspired style instead? Designed with two ties around the head, this tie-back, knit jersey scarf cover mask can be worn around the neck; pull it up to block your nose and mouth.

Shop Now: Amadi Tie Back Scarf Mask in Blue Tie Dye, $24, amadi.com.

8 of 13

9 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Silky Smooth

side view of woman wearing Olive Sustainable Mask in Adult Silk
Credit: Courtesy of Christy Dawn

Few fabrics feel more soft to the touch than silk, which is why it's a great option for a mask. These reusable iterations are made of 100-percent doubled deadstock silk and feature tie straps. They're washable, secure, and pleasant to wear for long periods of time.

Shop Now: Christy Dawn "The Sustainable Mask" in Adult Silk, $28, christydawn.com.

9 of 13

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Soft and Stylish

MISA green floral reusable face mask with ties
Credit: Courtesy of MISA

For a fashionable mask that won't put any pressure on your ears, consider a cotton voile style in a sweet pattern. Each of the reusable face masks in this three-pack set boasts two foot-long tie-back strings for added comfort—and come in an array of cool colors and prints to boot.

Shop Now: MISA Three-Pack Face Masks, $25, misalosangeles.com.

10 of 13

11 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Gentle Cotton

2 Karu Face Masks in Khadi Cotton
Credit: Courtesy of Karu

This tie-back drawstring mask, made from the softest handwoven khadi cotton, is also a sustainable option—each one is crafted from fabric from Karu's previous collections.

Shop Now: Karu Face Masks in Khadi Cotton, $20 for set of two, karu.world.

11 of 13

12 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Floral Ties

Clare V. Bowie Mask in Lilac Floral
Credit: Courtesy of Clare V

Make a statement with this comfortable tie-back mask, emblazoned with a floral print and striped bow ties.

Shop Now: Clare V. Bowie Masks in Lilac Floral, $19, clarev.com.

12 of 13

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 13

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Better Bandana

Inex Gear The Better Bandana v2 in Woodrose
Credit: Courtesy of Inex Gear

Traditional bandanas are not as effective as masks—but this option is decidedly unlike the rest. Complete with an embedded nano-fiber filter that blocks harmful contaminants, this bandana is also composed of patent-pending antimicrobial fabric.

Shop Now: Inex Gear The Better Bandana v2 in Woodrose, $30, inexgear.com.

13 of 13

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Caroline Biggs

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 13
    2 of 13 A Tie-Back Mask That Gives Back
    3 of 13 Silky and Adjustable
    4 of 13 Adjustable Appeal
    5 of 13 Easy Over Head
    6 of 13 Know the Ropes
    7 of 13 Custom Fit
    8 of 13 Scarf Mask
    9 of 13 Silky Smooth
    10 of 13 Soft and Stylish
    11 of 13 Gentle Cotton
    12 of 13 Floral Ties
    13 of 13 Better Bandana

    Share & More

    Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
    Martha Stewart

    Learn More

    • Contact Us
    • Customer Service
    • Media Kit
    • Martha's Blog
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • FAQ
    • Corporate
    • International
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithMartha Stewart is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Martha Stewart. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.marthastewart.com

    Sign in

    View image

    12 Face Masks That Won't Hurt Your Ears
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.