Is There Much Difference Between N95 And N99 Masks?

Enhanced air pollution has been a reality for many years now yet these masks were used by very few people. Today these masks are primarily used to contain the spread of the COVID19 virus. Nevertheless, its regular use has also provided our lungs with a much-needed respite from air pollution. However, even today for most people n95 and n99 are only mask variants. They are unaware that these names have a greater significance that defines their use. To understand this it is important to look at the difference between n95 and n99 masks.

Air pollution is no longer restricted only to the outdoor environment. It is also present indoors but in much lesser intensity. It is, however, not possible to stay confined within the 4-walls of our houses. Going outdoors is an undeniable reality and thus protecting ourselves from air pollution becomes a necessity. This situation gets worse as the seasons change from summer to winter when the polluted outdoor air hangs low and causes more harm, both indoors and outdoors.

Wearing protective gear, specifically masks, is the only option left. The availability of a variety of masks from different companies is further aggravating the situation by confusing us in our selection of masks. However, not all masks are ideal to fulfill our requirements. So how should we choose our masks to maximize their benefits?

The only answer is to base our choice on the certifications that these masks come with. N95 and N99 are two very popular respirator mask certifications. Choosing between the two is easy since the difference between n95 and n99 masks is specific.

The number associated with the alphabet “N” is an indicator of the percentage of pollutants that the mask filters out. But before going to the number, understanding the meaning of using the alphabet “N” is critically important. “N” signifies that the masks cannot filter out oil-based particulates. Fat and oil-based particulates are extremely small and slippery. They can easily penetrate and pass through materials through which even smaller non-oil pollutants cannot enter. Thus, masks beginning with “N” are not suited for oil-based hazardous chemicals to viruses like SARS etc.

Yet the n99 and n95 masks are some of the most popular masks used because:

• ·          They can be worn for long hours,
• ·         Provide adequate protection from airborne particulates like coal smoke, dust etc.

The number that accompanies “N,” as mentioned earlier, refers to a percentage. An n95 mask India can filter out 95% of particulates like fine dust and debris etc. while the n99 mask can filter out 99% of polluted particulates. This means that n99 masks are better for use than n95 masks. It is difficult to judge them just based on their filtration capabilities since the difference is only 4%.

The n99 masks are denser and hence make breathing difficult especially during the summer since sweat build-up could render the mask useless. N99 masks are generally not recommended for children, the elderly and those who are pregnant or suffer from certain lung-related health conditions even though they offer slightly better protection from airborne pollutants.

Correspondingly, the n95 mask India reduces breathing resistance by about 50%. This means that they are ideal for long-duration use since they will not make you feel suffocated. Hence, health practitioners highly recommend the use of the n95 masks for all people, even those with impaired lung function or suffering from COPD, Emphysema, cardio-pulmonary problems or asthma.

Both the n99 and n95 masks offer good protection against air pollution but when choosing one, you should consider the following:

• ·         Physical activity you will be involved in and
• ·         Duration for which you need to wear it,
• ·         Weather conditions
• ·         Health condition and
• ·         Amount of pollutants you need to filter out.

Since both the masks offer adequate protection, you can select the one keeping the above-given points into consideration and keep yourself safe from air pollution.