The Project N95 Small Mask Guide
Fit is one of the most important parts of a high-filtration mask and critical to achieving the full level of filtration from an N95, KN95, KF94, or other highly-protective mask. This is always a challenge but particularly for people with small faces. We've put together this list of great small mask options—all available in our nonprofit shop—to help you find the fit, size, and style that you need to stay safe.
The Most Popular N95 Respirators for Small Faces
The Protective Health Gear 6150 N95 works well for medium and small faces. This mask is a new N95 from Protective Health Gear and features a comfortable inner layer that helps make it a customer favorite.
The DemeTECH flat-fold DT-N95-FHS is the same size as the standard DT-N95-FH but attaches with shorter head straps, which makes it great for a proper fit on small heads.
The Champak flat-fold PC520M adjustable N95 is an exceptionally comfortable option: The soft nylon head straps adjust to provide a customized fit and reduce pressure on the head and face, while the plush inner material make this easy to wear.
How to Find a KF94 Mask for Small Faces
KF94 masks—originally for the South Korean market—have become popular high-filtration options in the U.S. thanks to their consumer-friendly design and features. Available in a range of colors and styles, these ear-loop masks come in both 2D flat-fold versions and the more common 3D boat-shaped variety.
Finding the right size, however, can be tricky. We recommend ordering one size up from what you would normally buy; for example, a "medium" KF94 is usually a good fit for small faces.
The Dr. Puri boat-shaped KF94 in medium is a customer favorite for small adults—try this mask if you have petite features.
Popular KN95 Masks That Work for Small Faces
KN95 masks have become a mainstay for the general public. The common flat-fold shape tends to provide a versatile fit, and the typical ear-loop design may prove more comfortable for daily wear in non-healthcare settings. While it’s important to be on the lookout for counterfeits, the nonprofit Project N95 shop carries a range of reliable, fully-vetted KN95 masks.
The Powecom small KN95 mask remains one of the top-sellers and offers an excellent fit for adults with petite features. We suggest you try this if you find traditional masks are too high and push up into your eyes.
Another good choice is the BNX small KN95 mask available in black.
The Best N95 Masks with a Universal Fit
The Gerson 3230 duckbill N95 respirator and 3230+ surgical duckbill N95 respirator fit well on both petite and large faces. These versatile duckbill-shaped masks, which are known for their lightweight and breathable design, are ideal when you need something for a diverse group. Similar choices include the ACI 3120 duckbill N95 and the Blox BLX-9501 duckbill N95.
The 3M 9205+ Aura N95 has a versatile design that allows it to fit well on small faces. The 3D tri-fold boat-shape also provides ample breathing space, which makes this something to try if you find other masks too confining.
The ReadiMask 1902S N95 is a unique small-sized mask that adheres directly to your face—no straps or uncomfortable tugging and pulling.
The Best Small Masks for Kids
As for anybody, the best masks for kids are those they will actually wear—it’s important to find something that fits well and is comfortable enough for all-day use.
The Project N95 shop has a full range of high-filtration masks for toddlers, preschoolers, and kids, but when your adolescent is between kids and adult sizes, a small-sized adult mask may be the best choice. Try a mix of some of the recommendations above to see if you can find something that works for your child.
For more information and suggestions on kids masks, check out the Project N95 Kids Masks Guide.