When haze arrives, fine airborne particles can affect your respiratory health. Wearing a suitable mask may help reduce the particles you breathe in, especially when going outdoors is unavoidable. But with N95, KN95, KF94 and surgical masks available, which one should you choose?

Malaysia Ministry of Health recommends using an N95 respirator to help reduce exposure to fine haze particles when going outdoors. For effective protection, the respirator must fit properly and be worn correctly. However, no mask offers complete protection, so reducing outdoor activities and staying in cleaner indoor air remain important precautions.

Which Mask Works Best for Haze? 

Haze contains fine airborne particles, including PM2.5. A suitable respirator needs both effective filtration and a close fit around your face.

A well-fitting respirator can reduce exposure, but it does not remove gases in smoke or provide complete protection.

How to Choose and Wear a Respirator During Haze

The best face mask for haze is one that fits your face securely. Before heading outdoors:

• Check the product: Buy from a reliable supplier and check the manufacturer and certification details.
• Choose the right size: It should cover your nose, mouth and chin without gaps.
• Follow the fitting instructions: Position the straps correctly and shape the nose clip as directed.
• Check the seal every time: Follow the manufacturer’s seal-check instructions. Try another size or model if air leaks around the edges.
• Watch for facial hair: Hair under the sealing edge can reduce protection.
• Replace when needed: Change the respirator if it becomes damp, dirty, damaged or difficult to breathe through. Follow the manufacturer’s replacement instructions.

Proper fit matters as much as the mask label.

Can Children Wear an N95 Mask During Haze?

Adult N95 respirators may not fit children properly. Prioritise keeping children in cleaner indoor air and ask a healthcare professional about suitable protection for their age and needs. Do not put masks or respirators on children younger than two.

If you have a heart or lung condition, speak to your doctor before using a respirator. If wearing one causes dizziness or breathing difficulty, move to cleaner air, remove it and seek medical advice.

Other Ways to Reduce Haze Exposure

Wearing a mask is only one part of haze protection:

• Check your local Air Pollutant Index (API/IPU) and follow health advisories.
• Reduce outdoor exercise and unnecessary time outside.
• Keep indoor air cleaner and avoid smoking indoors.
• Consider a suitable portable air cleaner to reduce indoor particles.

Seek urgent medical care for severe breathing difficulty or chest pain.

Need Help Choosing a Face Mask for Haze?

Speak to our pharmacy team about respirator types, sizes and fitting instructions. Choosing a suitable mask and wearing it correctly, can help you reduce exposure when going outdoors is unavoidable.