Considering the current situation, mask-wearing has become an important part of our daily routines. Unfortunately, masks can come with even more obstacles and challenges for hijab wearers because our ears are covered. Either you have to put your mask on and then secure your hijab, which means you can’t remove your mask (when it’s safe to) without undoing your hijab, or you have to loosen and re-tighten your hijab whenever you wear your mask - not ideal.

If you’ve struggled to wear your mask comfortably, you’re in the right place. We’ve collected our favorite mask hacks for hijab wearers (or those who just want to give their poor ears a break). (Not all of the hack options we have listed here have their own websites, so we’ve included their Instagram handles, where you can find their products.)

@coqoon_official

You may have already seen mask extenders in the plastic variety but small businesses have been going above and beyond to create beautiful extenders like this gorgeous, ethically made leather one from Coqoon. Using an extender like this allows you to easily stretch the mask over your head and wear your mask comfortably for as long as you need to!

@eshakti

Is your biggest struggle taking your mask on and off throughout the day without disrupting your whole hijab look? I definitely know the struggle. Masks that tie in the back like this stunning tassled one from eShakti solve that issue in a stylish and comfortable way. Their website allows you to customize this tie-back design in a variety of different colors and patterns to make it work for you.

@chinutayco

Unlike regular masks that have two loops connecting the top and bottom of each side of the mask, these masks have one stretchy band connecting both sides of the top and one connecting the bottom which means it can be easily slipped over any hijab style. These masks are made of silk, which also makes them the most gentle on the skin and can be good for long periods of mask wearing. (Please note, we cannot vouch for how effective silk is in filtering out air and virus particles.)

@medhijabs

While not masks, these hijabs were specially designed for hijab-wearing women in the medical field who wear masks for long shifts and want a more comfortable option. The hijabs feature hooks on either side which any mask can be attached to without strain on the ear. Although they were designed for healthcare professionals, they can be worn by anyone who wears masks for long hours.

We have faced an unparalleled amount of new challenges the past year (and moving forward). Uncomfortable masks and how to wear them with hijabs should not be one of them. We hope that these hacks help ease one facet of this pandemic, and we would love to hear any hacks you may have! On a final note, we wanted to remind you to insert a medical grade filter into any mask that does not already include one to make sure to keep yourself and those around you safe.