Mind your mustache!
The CDC has some suggestions about facial hair and respiratory protection, illustrated in a chart that was released in No Shave November/Movember and has resurfaced following the CDC’s warning that we should prepare for a COVID-19 outbreak in the U.S.
But fear not, hirsute friends. The CDC’s nifty infographic is here to help (click here for a larger view). Whiskers, handlebar mustaches, and soul patches? Go forth. Goatees, villain ‘staches, and horseshoes? Rock them with caution (i.e., make sure hair doesn’t cross the respirator seal). Meanwhile, stubble, mutton chops, and full beards, including the bushy “Bandholz,” favored by hipsters everywhere? Nope. These styles, along with the Van Dyke, the French Fork, and the Dali, are not recommended because they can interfere with the efficiency of a mask. (Side note: the “Fu Manchu”? Really, CDC?)
And Nick Offerman can breathe easy. The Walrus is A-OK.