The haze is back and ‘Smoke Gets in My Eyes’ keeps playing in my head. The PSI has gotten better the last couple of days but the PM 2.5 is still at an unhealthy level. When the haze started getting really bad last week, every one was rushing to buy N95 masks and the masks were flying off the shelves! We were really regretting not stocking up the last time the haze struck.

Fortunately, we were given some AIR⁺ Smart Mask to review. The Smart Mask is the first mask that is ergonomically designed with three mask sizes, nose cushions, and adjustable headstraps to achieve a close fit for protection and comfort. They really are a lot more comfortable to wear than the other brands available on the market, especially when you attach the AIR⁺ micro ventilator to the mask.

With the AIR⁺ attached, you get enhanced protection with the quick removal of heat, moisture and carbon dioxide and can experience greater breathability and cooler airflow when wearing the mask over an extended period of time. This is particularly important for children who may resist wearing a mask because of discomfort.

The AIR⁺ micro ventilator gives the AIR⁺ Smart Mask an edge over the other masks available out there. It is light-weight and fits onto any size of the Smart Mask. The AIR⁺ is powered by a built-in rechargeable lithium-polymer battery and charging is done via USB or power adaptor. With each charge, the AIR⁺ can be used for 2 hours and the average shelf life of the AIR+ is up to 1000 battery hours (or can be used 500 times on a 2 hour/ use basis).

On its own, the Smart Mask offers wearers adequate protection against airborne contaminants. But the AIR⁺ is highly recommended for children, as it removes accumulated carbon dioxide that may result in physiological impact such as giddiness or headache.

The Small, Medium, and Large sizes are based on digital scans and tests performed on Asian facial profiles. The Smart Mask Small size is suitable for a 7 year-old child with a typical Asian facial profile.

To determine the right mask size to purchase, you can use the measurement gauge found on the product packaging to match the distance from the eye to the bottom of the chin. Anya is an S, while I fit an M and the husband, an L.

AIR⁺ Smart Mask is available at Watsons, Guardian and Unity stores island-wide. It makes sense to stock up on some for every one in the family because we know the haze will inevitably be back to terrorise us again.