Why Do Japanese Wear Masks? Pollution And Health

Japanese people have been wearing masks in public for decades, and they became ubiquitous after the SARS epidemic in 2003. While the primary reason for wearing masks is to prevent the spread of viruses and diseases, some Japanese people also wear masks to protect themselves from air pollution, which is severe in large Japanese cities. Masks are also worn for fashion, convenience, and to protect oneself from pollen and other allergens.

To prevent the spread of sickness

The Japanese have been wearing masks since the Spanish Flu hit the nation in the 20th century, and it became ubiquitous after the SARS epidemic in 2003. The primary reason for wearing masks is to prevent the spread of sickness.

In Japan, it is considered disrespectful to not wear a mask when feeling slightly unwell. The Japanese are mindful of the risk of spreading diseases, especially in densely populated cities. They are also aware of the importance of personal hygiene and infection prevention from an early age. Thus, they wear masks to prevent their germs from infecting others. This considerate act is now a way of life in Japan.

Some Japanese wear masks to protect themselves from sickness, especially during the winter when illnesses are more prevalent. Masks can filter out large pollen particles, which is helpful for those with asthma or pollen allergies. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Japanese people wore masks to conform to prevailing behavioural trends.

Masks are easily accessible in Japan and can be purchased at pharmacies, convenience stores, and supermarkets. They come in various types, colours, and designs, including fashionable masks with brand logos, anime-themed masks, and studded black masks. Masks are so common in Japan that not wearing one can be considered unusual.

While the primary reason for wearing masks is sickness prevention, other factors include protecting oneself from air pollution, using masks as a fashion accessory, and hiding one's face from others.

To protect against pollen and allergies

The Japanese have been wearing masks for decades, and one of the primary reasons is to protect against pollen and allergies. Hay fever is prevalent in Japan, with some studies suggesting that 50% of people in Tokyo suffer from pollen allergies compared to 10–30% worldwide. This condition is called kafunsho in Japanese, and it affects almost half of the Japanese population. The pollen season in Japan usually occurs during the spring, with the main pollens being Cryptomeria japonica (sugi or Japanese cedar) and Chamaecyparis obtusa (hinoki or Japanese cypress).

To protect themselves from pollen and allergies, Japanese people often wear face masks. These masks are designed to block pollen and dust particles from being inhaled, reducing the symptoms of hay fever. The PITTA MASK is a popular option, made from polyurethane material that blocks pollen, dust, and even protects the skin from UV rays. Other masks may contain hydro silver titanium, which converts unhygienic protein substances, including pollen, into water molecules.

In addition to face masks, Japanese people may use anti-allergen and pollen sprays to protect themselves from pollen. These sprays can be applied to the face or clothing to prevent pollen from sticking and reduce exposure. Some people may also choose to stay indoors during peak pollen seasons or consult pollen forecasts to plan outdoor activities accordingly.

The practice of wearing masks to protect against pollen and allergies is not unique to Japan. In South Korea, for example, the government and medical authorities have encouraged mask-wearing since the 1970s to combat air pollution and pollen allergies. The conformist nature of Japanese society may also play a role in the widespread adoption of mask-wearing, as it is considered important to follow the behaviour of others.

To avoid air pollution

The Japanese have been wearing masks in public spaces like the streets, the subway, or grocery stores for many years, and it has become a common sight. While the practice of masking existed in Japan for decades, it became ubiquitous after the SARS epidemic in 2003, with people wearing masks outdoors to protect against pollen and air pollution.

Japanese cities, like many other major cities worldwide, suffer from air pollution. Although the air quality is not extremely poor, air pollution is inevitable on busy roads full of vehicles. Japanese people do not want to inhale the fumes and emissions, so they wear masks when they go outside. The air pollution in large Japanese cities is quite severe, and traffic cops wear respirators during peak ozone days. Some of the air pollution in Japan also comes from China, which experiences deadly toxic air pollution in cities like Beijing.

The masks worn in Japan are usually cheap, white surgical masks, easily available at pharmacies, convenience stores, and supermarkets. However, with the increased popularity of masks, fashionable masks with designs, brand logos, or anime characters have also flooded the market. These masks are considered a fashion accessory, especially for young people in Japan.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of masks in blocking out pollution particles is questionable. While Japanese people believe masks protect them from pollution and prevent the spread of infections, the evidence for this is scant. Nevertheless, the practice of wearing masks in Japan is deeply rooted in their culture, with people wearing masks to protect themselves and others.

As a fashion accessory

While wearing masks in Japan is primarily associated with health and safety reasons, they have also become a fashion accessory. This might seem surprising to Westerners, but in Japan, masks are sometimes worn as a fashion item or accessory.

A Variety of Masks

The masks come in a variety of colours, designs, and functions. They can be purchased cheaply and easily at pharmacies, convenience stores, and supermarkets. You can buy disposable masks for about 80 JPY or less. There are fragrant masks, masks with anime characters, studded black masks, pink masks, and masks with brand logos.

Fashionable and Functional

The use of masks as a fashion accessory is especially popular among young people and women. Some sources suggest that masks are convenient for women who want to avoid spending time on makeup. They can also be used to hide one's face from others, including paparazzi. This can be helpful for those who are shy or have social anxiety.

A Cultural Norm

The wearing of masks in Japan has been a cultural norm since the Spanish Flu in the 20th century. It became even more common after the SARS epidemic in 2003 and during the COVID-19 pandemic. While health and safety concerns may have initially driven the adoption of masks, they have evolved into a fashion accessory for many Japanese people.

A Global Trend

The fashionability of masks is not limited to Japan, as people in other countries, including the United States and China, have also been observed wearing masks for aesthetic reasons. The trend has been incorporated into various fashion styles, such as gyaru and harajuku, and has become a popular choice for young women in Japan.

To hide their face

Contrary to popular belief, the wearing of masks in Japan is not related to pollution. The country enjoys good air quality, even in big cities, and does not experience smog. However, one reason Japanese people might wear masks is to hide their faces.

Japanese people may wear masks to hide their faces for various reasons. One reason could be self-consciousness about their appearance, such as having acne or dental braces, or simply not wanting to be seen without makeup. Masks can also be used to hide one's emotions or to feel safer with one's face hidden. Additionally, some people in Japan, especially the youth, may wear masks to feel like they blend in with the crowd, as Japanese culture emphasizes putting the group before individual interests. This trend has become so popular that the media has labeled it a "fashion trend."

Masks can also be used to protect one's privacy, especially for celebrities who are frequently photographed or filmed. In these cases, masks are often paired with deep hats and sunglasses to obscure the person's identity.

Furthermore, some people in Japan may continue wearing masks even after recovering from an illness because they feel reluctant to expose their faces again or because they want to hide behind the mask due to a lack of self-confidence.

It is important to note that while hiding one's face can be a reason for wearing a mask in Japan, there are also other cultural and health-related reasons, such as preventing the spread of illnesses, blocking pollen, and maintaining warmth.

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