
Want to know where to buy face masks in the UK? You can buy a face mask from most places these days, such as Amazon, Etsy, and fashion brands like Seasalt and Marks & Spencer as well as John Lewis and department store Liberty.
Even the local corner shops, but which face mask is best and which face mask should you buy?
What are the new face mask rules?
Boris Johnson has announced that face coverings will once again become mandatory in shops and on public transport in England from Tuesday (30 November), as part of measures to target the new coronavirus variant called Omicron.
While wearing a face mask is become the norm for most of us, in July 2021 the rules changed meaning people weren't legally required to wear face masks in England in indoor settings or on public transport. However, because of the new variant and with a tricky winter ahead of us, the law has now been put back in place.
Although these measures are considered "temporary and precautionary", the PM said the masks were important. He also announced that PCR tests for everyone entering the UK will be introduced and all contacts of new variant cases will have to self-isolate, even if fully jabbed.
Britons have also been urged to scale back their socialising in the run-up to Christmas. Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty told a Downing Street briefing on Wednesday (16 December) that people should “prioritise the social interactions that mean a lot to them” in the following weeks.
The Prime Minister added that the public should “think carefully” before attending any social gatherings, especially those involving strangers.
Across the rest of the United Kingdom, the rules differ by country.
In Scotland, face coverings are mandatory in most public places for everyone aged 12 or older. These includes shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs as well as churches and public transport. First Minister Nicolar Sturgeon has refused to rule out additional restrictions if they are required. At a press conference on Friday (10 December) Ms Sturgeon added that the Scottish Government will “consider its next steps very carefully” in the wake of the new Omicron variant.
In Northern Ireland the use of face coverings is now required in all indoor settings accessible to the public including shops, shopping centres, public, private and school transport services, taxis, airplanes, public transport stations and airports, banks, churches, cinemas, and some government offices.
In Wales, face coverings must be worn in all indoor public places, and public transport, including taxis. At present, you don't need to wear face coverings in places where food and drink is served, such as pubs, cafes and restaurants or wear them at a wedding civil partnership or alternative wedding ceremonies.
Read on to find out why face masks help stop the spread of coronavirus and where you can buy face masks online.
Why are we wearing face masks?
Wearing a face mask, or other face covering, in enclosed spaces, such as shops, supermarkets, GP surgeries and post offices, "may reduce the spread of coronavirus droplets in certain circumstances, helping to protect others". Officials have stressed that face coverings are not a replacement for social distancing but are "intended to protect others, not the wearer, from coronavirus" in places where it's trickier to keep a large distance from people.
Can wearing face masks stop the virus?
Face masks won't stop coronavirus from spreading so you still need to follow health officials' advice for social distancing and washing your hands regularly.
What they can do is help reduce the likelihood that you pass it on if you are suffering from the virus – remember that there are also people who don't show symptoms of Covid-19.
As Professor Chris Whitty, the government's Chief Medical Officer, puts it, wearing a face covering "is an added precaution that may have some benefit in reducing the likelihood that a person with the infection passes it on."
Most retailers producing these commercially-available face masks state that the face masks they sell are not sold as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for health and care workers to use in the work place.
Are there exceptions to who wears face masks?
Those with a disability, certain health conditions or are under a certain age do not have to wear a face mask even when it's a legal requirement for everyone else to. Exemption badges are available for those who feel more comfortable wearing something that says you do not have to wear one but this is a personal choice.
The government says: "Face coverings should not be used by children under the age of three or those who may find it difficult to manage them correctly." Children under 11 in England do not have to wear a face mask.
In Scotland, face masks and other coverings should not be used for children under the age of 12. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland says children under 13 don't have to wear face coverings.
Wearing a face covering could be particularly challenging for asthma sufferers to breathe properly and Asthma UK says don't wear one if you are finding it hard.
What to look for in a face mask?
Before you buy a face mask, you'll want to think about a few features that will cover your needs. For instance, is it breathable? Does it fit snugly over your face? Do you have a member of the family who lip reads and requires a transparent face mask? Is it washable? Does it secure around your ears with elastic or tie-up straps?
While the government advice was for people to make their own face masks at home (here's an easy no-sew method) to ensure surgical masks remain available for health and care workers, there are now many reusable, washable and non-medical face masks that you can buy online from well-known UK retailers - from John Lewis to Etsy. These cover various needs, whether you're looking for adult, child or teen face masks.
Which face mask should you buy?
With face masks being mandatory once again in shops and on public transport, below is our roundup of the best face masks to buy online in the UK. From a pack of simple but practical black and white face masks from Amazon to Liberty's beautifully printed face masks, here are 35 you can shop right now. We've even picked some floral-print ones like the Duchess of Cambridge face mask and coverings from Joules and Reiss.
You'll also find face masks for kids, which come in cool dinosaur, rainbow or Disney designs. And when it comes to the teens, there are face masks for Harry Potter fans, stylish leopard-print masks and designs they can customise.
Here are some breathable, lightweight styles for travelling and hot weather, too.
Be sure to wash your hands before touching the face mask to wear it, before removing it and after you have taken it off. *Here's some advice from the World Health Organization on wearing a face mask safely.
You'll be happyto reuse this bright and cheerfulstyle over and over again. Made from100% polyester, with elastic straps and insert slots for filters.
2
Liberty - Where to buy face masks online
Liberty Assorted Upcycled Tana Lawn Cotton Face Coverings Set of Five
We're all partial to a touch of Liberty print. These lovely face coverings areformed from three specially treated layers, offering comfort and breathability for hours of use – available in a pack of five randomly assorted upcycled Liberty prints.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
A super luxe reusable silk mask, madeof 100% mulberry silk, Slipsilk™, which has been specially developed and refined over 10 years for superior shine, thickness, softness, and durability.
The lining of the mask is made from 100% cotton to avoid irritation and help with breathability, while an adjustable nose wire and elastic ear loops allow for a perfect fit for comfortable, long term wear.
Incredibly lightweight, thisKitemark-certified face covering is one of the comfiest designs we've tried. Breathable and featuring sealed silicone air pockets at the nose bridge, it fits perfectly and reduces fogging if you are a glasses wearer.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
5
Woplagyreat Clear Window Face Mask Clean Reusable for Women Fashion Washable Breathable Designer Cloth Fabric Madks,Adult Earloop Mouth Nose Eve,Anti-fog Lip Reading Vision Visor
Now 16% Off
£18 at Amazon
Looking for a clear face mask in the UK? This washable one from Amazon comes in various designs and features a clear window to allow any deaf or hard of hearing family membersto lip read.
The poly-cotton face mask haswhite elastic to secure it on your face and you can simply wash the clear window with soap to help stop it from steaming up.
Love a bit of leopard or zebra print? These animal print face masks from John Lewisare the perfect way to accessorise your outfit. Available in a pack of six, you can either alternate each design yourself or keep a few for you and gift the others. Made from 100% cotton, they are super breathable.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
What we particularly like about this reusable cotton face mask is not only thatit's machine washable but the straps are slightly wider than normal meaning it's so much comfier to wear as it avoids chaffing or rubbing. This is a great option if you have a long train or plane ride where you'llbe required to wear a face mask for the duration of the journey.
8
Accessorize - Where to buy face masks online
Two-Side Face Covering in Pure Silk
Now 70% Off
Accessorize also do a beautiful range of silk face coverings. This particular style has a pink and red side.Made from soft silk with adjustable straps, it will fit comfortably behind your ears.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
For a face mask that's all about the glitz and glamour, this pink sequin one from Revolve is one to turn heads. The sparkly face features a double layer of protection and secures with its adjustable straps.
Whether you're looking to jazz up your day look or looking for something fancier to wear on the train for an evening out, a shiny sequin face mask, as seen on celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, will do the trick.
10
Pacamask - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
Blossom Print Face Masks
Now 75% Off
This fun floral-print face mask from Pacamask is just one of dozens of designs, including stars, ropes, animal print and even monkey styles. It's perfect if you're looking for a floral-inspired Duchess of Cambridge face mask, too.The face masks are made with asuperior polyester cotton antibacterial Silver Ion fabric, which kills 99% of bacteria for up to 50 washes. There aredesigns for both adults and children, plus adjustable elastic ear-loops for asnug and comfortable fit.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
11
Pacamask - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
Pacamask Designer Collection
This fun floral-print face mask from Pacamask is just one of dozens of designs, including stars, ropes, animal print and even monkey styles. It's perfect if you're looking for a floral-inspired Duchess of Cambridge face mask, too.
The face masks are made with asuperior polyester cotton antibacterial Silver Ion fabric, which kills 99% of bacteria for up to 50 washes. There aredesigns for both adults and children, plus adjustable elastic ear-loops for asnug and comfortable fit.
12
Marks & Spencer - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
M&S 5 Pack Reusable & Adjustable Adult Face Coverings
Now 32% Off
Marks & Spencer'santibacterial reusable face masks cover your nose and mouth with a snug fit. They have elasticised ear loops you can adjust andthey're made frombreathable 2-ply cotton.
As they come in a pack of five in neutral colours, you'll have plenty as back-ups or to share among the family.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
13
Joules - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
Joules Non-Medical Face Mask
Now 50% Off
This beautiful Joules face mask is cute as a button, with the adorable bunny logo from the brand. Made from fabric offcuts, this face mask is an eco-option and comes as a double layer of jersey fabric.
The Joules face mask has cotton ear loops and is washing machine-friendly. We like the dark blue and floral face masks from Joules, too.
14
Seasalt - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
Shaped Organic Cotton Face Coverings (Pack of 3)
Now 25% Off
A pack of three breathable face masks for women and men, this set is ideal for sharing among the family. The face masks comein signature Seasalt fabrics, with theouter layers made from tightly woven organic cotton.
The inner layer is made from100% cotton and theshaped, 3-layer design follows the contours of the face for a close, secure fit.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
15
ASOS - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
ASOS DESIGN 2 Pack Face Covering In Cherub And Mystic Print
ASOS has created a pack of twostunning face masks that look luxurious without the price tag. There are two differentface mask designs so you don't have to wear the same print every time you need to grab a face covering.
They're washable and made from one piece of fabric for you to simply place your ears through and the non-surgicalface masks areparticularly good if you don't like the feel of elastic bands over your ears.
16
Baukjen - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
Premium Organic Cotton Face Mask
Now 25% Off
If you're after something more luxe, this cotton face mask from Baukjen is made from premium organic cotton with a high thread countthat's sustainably and ethically produced.
This pretty floral face mask is double-layered, while reusable, washable and recyclable. You'll find other designs for both adults and children too.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
From florals to dogs, you'll find all kinds of fun prints on Red Bubble's face masks but if you're looking for a covering with a message, this Star Wars-inspired 'Stay At Least Six Feet Away' face mask is just the thing.
The non-medical face mask is made of two layers of brushed polyester, with elastic straps for a snug fit.
18
SLIP - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
SLIP Reusable silk face covering
Silk pillowcase brand SLIP has ventured into the face mask market and we like what we see. This silky black face mask is as sexy as they get.Crafted from pure mulberry silk, the face maskreduces friction and won’t leave crease marks.
It's lined with soft cotton, fitted with an adjustable nose wire and elasticated ear loops. Plus, it's easy to keep clean - justpop it into the washing machine after every use.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Cat lovers, you'll adore this face mask packed with felines looking suspiciously around. The non-medical, washable face mask from Red Bubble is ideal for adults looking for something different when they pop to the shops.
The face mask features over-ear elastic straps and are easy to wash after each use.
20
Amazon - Where to buy face masks online in the UK
FM London Accessories Reusable Fabric Face Mask (Pack of 10)
£6 at Amazon
Our Digital Editor Rachel Liddle's pick is this pack of 10 face masks that she says are affordable and comfy. The face mask set comes in black or white and are made from 100% cotton for something that feels soft against your skin.
They're machine washable and the reusable face masks are easy to pull over your ears with their stitched-in straps. If you go for the pack of white face masks, you could even have fun tie dyeing them to create various designs.
Roshina Jowaheer
Roshina leads the digital travel content for Hearst UK, covering titles including Country Living, Red, Good Housekeeping and Harper's Bazaar.
When she's not eating her way around Istanbul or hiking the Dolomites' peaks, she loves nothing more than escaping the crowds of London for a country break.