FaceGuard Pollution Scarf Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

FaceGuard - Pollution Scarf:
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CYCL FaceGuard Pollution Scarf?
An anti-pollution filter and scarf in one, Face Guard Pollution Scarf provides protection from smog, dust, and allergens whilst keeping your neck warm. A nanofiber membrane is integrated into the scarf which filters particles and pollution.
Designed with comfort, utility and everyday use in mind; it has an adjustable nose strip and elastic closure to provide minimal air leakage for any face shape. 

The CYCL Face Guard Pollution Scarf does not belong to the equipment for the medical or professional use that would be certified by official standards, but it helps shield against airborne particles. The development and product of the filter is carried out in the EU, specifically Czech Republic and Poland.

How do I wear the FaceGuard?

To achieve the best filtration efficiency, it must be worn so that its rectangular filter shields your mouth and nose. To ensure a tight fit adjust both the tightness of the elastic band at the back of your head and the shape of the adjustable metal clip on your nose. The nose clip is padded with a soft foam layer therefore there are no pressure points even after a longer wear. Unlike a face mask, the Face Guard Pollution Scarf can be worn already around the neck and when you need protection you can pull it over your nose quickly.

What are the washing and care instructions for the Pollution Scarf?

Washing is dependent on what you use FaceGuard for. We recommend handwashing to ensure as little damage to the filter as possible. Wash gently with water and soap or gentle washing detergent. Do not use bleach, softeners or other aggressive detergents. Do not use a tumble dryer or iron. Let the scarf hang freely on a line to dry out for 12 to 24 hours.

Follow care instructions to maintain filtration efficiency for as long as possible. If you use the protection against pollution, smog or allergens such as pollen, it is sufficient to wash it after several days of wear. We recommend lifespan of up to 50 washes, naturally there will be some decline in effectiveness as you approach the end of the life of the product. If you are wearing the product for protection against viruses, bacteria or mites, full protection is guaranteed if the product is not washed. After washing, it will still offer protection but there will be some reduction in filtration effectiveness. For protection against virus is necessary to wash it after every single use.

How often should I wash my FaceGuard?

If you use FaceGuard for protection against pollution such as smog or allergens, it is sufficient to wash it after several days of intensive wear. If you are wearing the product for protection against viruses, bacteria or mites, full protection is guaranteed if the product is not washed. After washing, it will still offer protection but there will be some reduced effectiveness. For protection against virus is necessary to wash it after every single use.

How does the scarf sit securely on my face?

When designing the scarf, close attention was paid to nose-cheek and below-chin parts. The construction of the scarf insures that there are no gaps, thanks to the overall shape, elements, length and other design characteristics.

When worn correctly, the air should only pass through the area of the scarf with the nanofiber membrane in the front area. 

The material of the filter underwent testing in an American microbiological institute  Nelson Labs which tested the level of its filtration efficiency for viruses and bacteria with both of the tests showing 99.9% of filtration efficiency against PM 2.5 and 99.5% of PM 0.1. Please refer to our Technical Data for more information. 

Will the outer filter layer ever get "clogged up" my pollutants?

The whole scarf, including the nanofiber filter inside, is washable. If you notice visible build up, wash following our care instructions. 

We recommend that you hand wash with water temperature under 30C and air dry only. Use a gentle soap but do not use fabric conditioner as this could impact the effectiveness of the product.

If you use the Scarf for protection against pollution such as smog, it is sufficient to wash it after several days of intensive wear, or if there is visible build up. We recommend a lifespan of approximately 50 washes. 

If you use the Scarf for protection against viruses, guaranteed protection is before washing. After washing it will still protect but there will be some reduced effectiveness. With use for protection against virus is necessary to wash it after every single use. 

Will the fabric's filtration properties wear down over time, or with washing?

It is expected to see some decline in filtration properties over time or with washing. If you use the protection against pollution, such as smog or allergens, it is sufficient to wash it after several days of wear. We recommend a lifespan of up to 50 washes, naturally there will be some decline in effectiveness as you approach the end of the life of the product. If you are wearing the product for protection against viruses or bacteria, full protection is guaranteed if the product is not washed after which the protection efficiency will begin to decrease.

Do I need to replace the nanofiber filter? If so, how often?You don't have to worry about buying additional filters with the CYCL Pollution Scarf. The technology is washable and we recommend hand washing occasionally. The filter's lifetime really depends on the environment and how often you use it. You can count on great pollution protection for up to 50 washes.

What are BFE, VFE and PFE, and what is the importance of them? 

According to the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), masks need to pass various filtration efficiency tests before they are launched on the market and be clearly marked on the packaging. Most masks in the United States pass the Nelson Laboratory Standard to test the filter rate of masks. 

European, Taiwan and Japanese masks are tested with BFEW and VFEW particulate filter rate results. 

The different particulate filtration rates of the mask are generally represented as percentages. VFE is the highest filtration rate standard. Pay attention to the percentage of relevant standards before purchasing. The higher the number, the more it can block more particles in the air. According to the standards, only the BFE test is not sufficient to block the virus from droplets, and it is better if the VFE is marked as 95% or more. 

The nanofiber membrane in the Face Guard Pollution Scarf has been tested according to ASTM F2100 and EN 14683.

Check out our Technical Sheet for more information about filtration standards.

Can FaceGuard Pollution Scarf protect me from influenza or other highly contagious viruses?

The FaceGuard does not belong to the equipment for the medical or professional use that would be certified by official standards, but it helps shield against airborne particles. Nanofiber filter masks usually belong to a one-time equipment category. Because its filter is covered by special textile layer, it is more durable in terms of wear and care and therefore is able to be washed.

The FaceGuard Pollution Scarf can provide guaranteed virus protection before washing. After washing it will still protect you but there will be some reduced effectiveness. For protection against viruses it is necessary to wash it after every single use. For protection from pollution, the scarf can be washed and you can still enjoy high levels of protection. We recommend up to 50 washes, naturally there will be some decline in effectiveness as you approach the end of the life of the product. Always hand wash without using aggressive substances like softener or bleach and refer to our care instructions found in the FAQs more more guidance.

The FaceGuard Pollution Scarf can be a cheaper and more eco friendly option than single use face masks. In addition, we recommend to stick to the basic principles of hygiene: washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and using antibacterial gels when soap and water is not available. Avoid touching your face and eyes during times of flu or similar infectious disease. Avoiding places where there is a possibility of getting infected.

If you want to wear the FaceGuard continuously, we recommend getting two, while you are wearing one, the other one is being washed or drying out. 

Can I use the FaceGuard as a face mask or face covering?

Following the global pandemic of Covid-19 and subsequent easing on lockdown measures, some governments are recommending using a face mask or face covering when in public spaces such as supermarkets, public transport or shops. FaceGuard can be used in this context, when you want an extra layer of protection. The integrated nanofiber filter offers 99.5% protection from PM0.1 (dependent on frequency and type of use) Please see previous question for more detail on specific advice on using the FaceGuard for protection against viruses.