The 10 Best Face Shields You Can Buy Online Now

Now that face coverings have become a standard part of everyday living, people are branching out—and playing with the idea of what constitutes a face covering. You might've even seen people wearing those surgical-level plastic face shields around. But even if face shields seem on the right side of safe, you want to make sure you're using them properly, if at all.

"The CDC doesn't recommend a face shield as a substitute for masks or facial coverings," says John Whyte, MD, Chief Medical Officer of WebMD. "Face shields can add more protection, especially as it relates to the eyes, but wearing them alone is not recommended." If you're trying to optimize for the safest breathing possible while out and about, a face shield can add another layer of protection but it shouldn't be your only mode of protection. Keep the cotton mask on.

"An issue with the facial shield is that it can allow respiratory particles to get out, especially if you cough," says Whyte. "There's currently no data that shows they are more effective than masks in reducing COVID spread."

That doesn't mean they can't be helpful at all, though. Whyte points out that they can help people prevent touching their faces, a major element of prevention the CDC recommends. Anecdotally speaking, I've seen friends on social doubling up with a mask and a face shield if they have to fly. As Whyte says, some airlines don't allow you to wear just the face shield alone.

"If you are on a crowded plane, a shield may not be a bad idea for that additional layer of protection—with the mask," Whyte says. "Face shields should not be used for infants or newborns. If it becomes cracked, you need to throw it away."

As with all of the COVID protocols, the research is ongoing—but there's no current evidence to prove that a face shield is as safe as a face mask. So if it prevents you from touching your face, or you feel better knowing there's another layer of protection, go for it. Just remember that your mask is the cake and the shield is icing on top.