If you are doing things like going shopping or going to the bank, we recommend changing the N95 filter every few weeks. If you are in a high dust deconstruction zone, chemical fire, or high smoke area, we suggest changing the filter daily.

Last updated: August 21, 2020 17:07

The filters are the two bands which run along the cheek area on either side of the face. The filters come in Black and White. It is very easy to personalize your mask beyond these two colors as well! Please see the section “Tattoo your light warrior mask” within the campaign for more information.

At the end of the campaign, we will send out a survey where you will be able to specify which color filters you would like.

Last updated: August 17, 2020 14:15

This is a frame for the filter within the silicone shield, and the filters are inserted into this filter cavity. It’s kind of like putting a peg in a hole!

Last updated: August 16, 2020 08:22

To receive add-ons with your reward, you can add the appropriate amount to your Kickstarter pledge now ($18 for an additional pack of ten N95 filters with your reward; $8 for optional ear hooks with your reward; $18 for a pack of ten reusable filters with your reward; $39 for a size XS mask). We will verify that you receive everything by sending out a survey at the end of the campaign. In order to fulfill your pledge, we will be using BackerKit. BackerKit has a good history providing a streamlined survey and fulfillment system platform to make sure we get all of your items added and calculated, as well as verify your shipping info, colors and sizes. By using BackerKit, one added feature is that you will still be able to add add-on items after the campaign ends through the post-campaign survey!

Once the campaign ends, you can order more filters and ear hooks from our website: https://seeus-95.com

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:54

The silicone shield will have an anti-fog coating similar to scuba masks and swimming goggles. Fog occurs when there is condensation due to a temperature difference between the material of the shield and the inside temperature. Once both acclimate to the same temperature, the fog disappears. The anti-fog coating will help reduce condensation, but some slight fogging might occur at first if there is a temperature change. You can read more about fogging under the section “Anti-Fog Coating.”

Last updated: August 17, 2020 14:15

The mask works well with glasses! Traditional surgical and cloth masks have gaps in the area around the nose bridge and under the eye, allowing unfiltered air to come through and fog glasses. We believe our mask works better with glasses then traditional surgical or cloth masks because our mask uses an adhesive Skin Therapy Layer to create a seal in the area around the nose bridge and under-eye area. This adhesive feature of our mask with the seal around the nose and eye areas was designed specifically to address fogging issues when wearing glasses. The positioning of the filters by the cheek area also means that exhaled air does not move upwards towards glasses. Thus, unfiltered air does not escape towards the eyes and glasses won’t fog while wearing the mask. We are also incorporating an anti-fog coating in the final mass produced version of the mask. This will help prevent fogging as well. Please take a look at our campaign in the section titled “anti-fog” where we go into more detail about condensation and temperature.

Some of us on the SEEUS95 team wear glasses, and you can find a video of our founder, Alice, wearing the mask with glasses here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE2dC0bqPH0

You can see in this video that glasses still fit well while wearing the mask! In fact, because the side wings of the mask are at the temples, your glasses become the ear hooks in a sense by way of the glasses being on top of the silicone. This will help keep the mask in place.

Please note that we are incorporating an anti-fog coating in the final mass produced version of the mask; the mask in the demo video does not have the anti fog coating on it as it is a prototype so you may notice slight fogging.

Last updated: August 17, 2020 20:07

The mask works with beards, but since the beard interferes with the seal, it will not have the efficacy of an N95, though it will still be better than a cloth mask. Beards will be pressed down by the mask and thus disrupt the N95 rating. However, we still believe SEEUS95 efficacy is better than a surgical mask or cloth mask due to the seal in the area around the nose bridge and under the eye area. This area is where we commonly see gaps in surgical and cloth masks, causing air to be unfiltered at those points. Even the stiff aluminum bar that presses around the nose can still have gaping - this is why your glasses can fog up frequently while wearing a mask!

While human hair has historically been used for filtering water and air, we have not found much data on the efficacy of human hair as a filter for viruses. We recommend cleaning beard hairs frequently in order to ensure there are no lingering particles in the beard hair itself.

Last updated: August 30, 2020 18:47

Before putting on your mask, we recommend cleaning your skin. This ensures that the chitosan layer can fully pamper your skin, and also ensures less oily skin for better adhesion. The mask can be worn with lotion such as sunscreen and makeup. If you wear makeup, we suggest using a finishing powder so your skin is less oily.

The Skin Therapy Layer (STL) is good at adhering to skin that is a little oily. Most people secrete oil in the t-zone area and less in the under-eye and temple area which is where the mask adheres to the face. However, if you have extremely oily skin, it may be a good idea to add the optional ear hooks.

The mask can adhere to skin with sweat; we have tested the mask while working out and it stayed in place for an hour. We do not recommend this mask for extreme sweating conditions and if you sweat more than 2 liters a day.

Last updated: August 16, 2020 08:46

The adhesive layer remains sticky with proper care. Sanitizing the mask by microwaving for 3 minutes revives the stickiness. If there is excess dirt, you can wash the mask with soap and water and then microwave for a final clean. Note that we do not recommend using a rough material like a scrubber for cleaning; a gentle cloth, sponge, or even alcohol wipe works nicely.

Last updated: August 16, 2020 08:46

The mask should be put in the microwave for 3 minutes on HI setting. This is the usual time for sanitization with a microwave. Make sure you take out the filters before putting it in the microwave! The silicone may be a bit hot to the touch once microwaving is complete, so be careful when removing it from the microwave. Let it cool for a few minutes before putting on your face.

Last updated: August 19, 2020 20:26

We are working towards an N95 rating in the USA and are using FDA approved medical grade silicone. So far, early testing on our filters using natural material and fibers has been positive. If we were to just use this material fiber for a mask, it would pass for N95 rating, but we will now need to mass produce the filter in the cartridge form, and test it again in the silicone mask. We will perform testing with MIT labs and then test again with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

You can read more about testing and our filter by looking under the header “Testing SEEUS95” and “Filter with natural fibers” in our campaign page.

Please note that the mask can be used with or without N95 due to the quick release design of the mask. For an air tight seal, the perimeter STL needs to be in contact with the skin; when the perimeter of the mask is in contact with the skin, it will be in N95 function. If you want to release the air tight seal, just pull the mask up under the chin area so it does not have contact with the skin. Without the air tight seal, mask efficacy will be similar to wearing a cloth mask or a surgical mask, although better protection for those NOT wearing the SEEUS95 mask as well as for the wearer due to the shield element of the design. This is because the silicone shield protects both the wearer and the non wearer if the wearer coughs; in an N95, the breath leaks through the material, as seen in our video. SEEUS95 protects and mitigates this from happening due to the air flow created by the material silicone, the form and the ergonomics of the design.

Last updated: August 26, 2020 14:47

You CAN talk with the mask on. The medical grade silicone acts like a second skin and moves and stretches with your facial expressions. Thus, it won’t fall off as you talk! In the video linked below, you can see that the perimeter seal stays in place and the rest of the mask expands. This is one reason for the dome area design of the mask. The mask will stretch to allow the expansion of the jaw line, and still keep the perimeter seal in place.

While the sound won’t be the same as having no mask at all, we do think the sound is slightly better than cloth masks. This is because we designed the mask to have a larger volume in front of the mouth area, which amplifies the sound and allows you to be heard clearly. Of course, we didn’t want the mask volume to be too large because we are designers at heart and want you to look good while wearing your mask! You can find a video demonstrating mask acoustics here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE2dC0bqPH0

Please note that we are incorporating an anti-fog coating in the final mass produced version of the mask; the mask in the demo video does not have the anti fog coating on it as it is a prototype so you may notice slight fogging.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

We have created a demo for you to see and hear a sound bite of what the sound is like when speaking with the SEEUS95 mask on. Copy and paste the link to our YouTube channel, where you will find the sound demo. You will also see how to put on and take off the mask in the same video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rf4z1HYAKTQ

Please note that we are incorporating an anti-fog coating in the final mass produced version of the mask; the mask in the demo video does not have the anti fog coating on it as it is a prototype so you may notice slight fogging.

Last updated: August 17, 2020 14:24

The mask performs well in both indoor and outdoor conditions and in both cold and hot weather due to the nature of the silicone. Silicone actually does extremely well under cold and hot temperatures. In fact, many ice cube trays now are made from silicone and still stay flexible in very cold temperatures. The skin contact with the chitosan is going to remain sticky due to the nature of the material. The silicone face shield could even act like a guard for your face in windy environments!

However, we do not recommend this mask in extreme sweating conditions or if you will be sweating more than 2 liters a day. We have worked out in the mask and found that the mask lasted about 1 hour before it began to slip. If you are worried about sweat interfering with mask adhesion, you may want to consider ear hooks.

Last updated: August 17, 2020 14:15

The masks come in three sizes: extra small, which spans 5 1/4” to 6” across the width of the face; small, which spans 5 3/4” to 7” across the width of the face; and large, which spans 6 1/4” to 7 1/2” across the width of the face. Note that the masks are able to stretch and fit to most face sizes thanks to silicone’s flexible properties. For more information about mask sizes, please see the image in the campaign under the heading “Why silicone?” At the end of the campaign, we will send out a survey where you can specify which mask size you would like.

Silicone is very flexible and thus can adjust to many different ergonomic facial features and sizes. The silicone may be fitted to any size face as the silicone can be easily trimmed to your preference and shape. However, we do not recommend trimming off the entire chitosan adhesive layer area as this chitosan layer is what allows the mask to adhere to your face. We also would not recommend this for children under the age of 6.

Last updated: August 30, 2020 18:26

You can find more information by visiting our website (https://seeus-95.com). You can also follow us on Instagram (@seeus95), and visit our YouTube channel where we will be posting more videos about SEEUS95 as we progress through the campaign: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgoOXCI7MCLr5pDSTLbnhtw

Last updated: August 17, 2020 14:15

Because silicone is a very flexible and stretchy material, you can easily fold the mask up to fit into your bag! To keep the Skin Therapy Layer moist and adhesive, we recommend folding the mask in half so that the Skin Therapy Layer adheres to itself when in transport. When you need to put on the mask, you can simply take the mask out of your bag, unfold it, and adhere it directly to your face. We recommend not using plastic bags to store your mask; instead, we suggest you opt for a parchment bag or a microfiber bag.

Last updated: August 17, 2020 20:23

Because the filters are made with natural fibers, they are biodegradable. The silicone is recyclable.

Last updated: August 17, 2020 14:15

The shield has a warranty of 2 years. For causal usage and if properly washed after every use, the mask should last that long. We still recommend that the STL layer be sanitized with alcohol or soft soap.

In terms of the adhesive seal around the perimeter of the mask, we have been testing the chitosan adhesion material for a few months now, including washing and microwaving the mask and also putting it in the dish washer. So far, the chitosan layer has still kept its sticky quality, and our estimate is that it will last a year. However, we do not recommend using any abrasives or scrubbers on the area of the perimeter. Depending on how you take care of the mask once you start using it, the adhesive layer should last 9-12 months and possibly longer. In addition, microwaving the mask on HI setting for 3 minutes usually revives the adhesive properties.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

It is easy to take the mask on and off during the day. There is also an option for ear loops if you feel you will be taking the mask on and off frequently.

You can find videos demonstrating how to take the mask on and off here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE2dC0bqPH0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rf4z1HYAKTQ

Please note that we are incorporating an anti-fog coating in the final mass produced version of the mask; the mask in the demo video does not have the anti fog coating on it as it is a prototype so you may notice slight fogging.

Last updated: August 21, 2020 17:14

The ten pack of N95 filters should last you about 4-5 months. However, if you are in an excessive smoke or dust ridden environment such as a fire or deconstruction area, we recommend changing the filter everyday.

Last updated: August 21, 2020 16:56

Shipping costs are based off of our shipping estimates using our USPS account. You can adjust your reward amount to fit what you think is reasonable for shipping to your region. To calculate shipping costs to your area, we recommend looking up the shipping cost to your location using USPS.

Shipping costs are also based off of our existing shipping data with our first invention which we have delivered internationally for over 4 years now. If you feel that $23 is too high for international shipping, you can adjust the amount to what you feel is reasonable. In that instance, we will hope that the amount you pledge towards shipping costs matches up with actual shipping costs when the masks are shipped to your region.

This product has no lithium ion batteries, so the customs and delivery chain should not be a problem. However, there may be circumstances beyond our control such as fire or postal strike which might hold up shipping. Please visit the section at the bottom of the campaign titled “risks and challenges” where we address these issues.

Last updated: August 17, 2020 14:32

We are so sorry if you are experiencing trouble getting your pledge through on Kickstarter. We have had a couple of people reach out to us saying that they were having issues making pledges on Kickstarter. We have since reached out to Kickstarter to try and rectify this issue. For now, Kickstarter has told us that:

“The best thing to do would be to tell them to get in touch with our support team (“Contact Us” link at the top of this page) https://help.kickstarter.com/hc/en-us”

Last updated: August 18, 2020 10:24

If you have a cut on your face, we recommend putting a bandaid on it first before putting on the mask. If blood gets on the STL, wipe the STL with alcohol and/or soap and water to wash it off. You can then sanitize it by placing it in the microwave, using a UV lamp, or boiling the silicone mask shield. Just remember to take the filters out first!

Last updated: August 18, 2020 09:21

If you would like to include add-ons such as filters, ear hooks, or XS mask size, you can go ahead and increase your pledge now ($18 for a pack of ten N95 filters, $8 for ear hooks, $18 for a pack of ten reusable filters, and $39 for an XS mask). Towards the end of the campaign (around 9/15), we will send out a survey to make sure that you get the appropriate rewards corresponding to your pledge amount. In this survey, we will verify what you pledged and what you want in your package. In order to fulfill your pledge, we will be using BackerKit. BackerKit has a good history providing a streamlined survey and fulfillment system platform to make sure we get all of your items added and calculated, as well as verify your shipping info, colors and sizes. By using BackerKit, one added feature is that you will still be able to add add-on items after the campaign ends through the post-campaign survey!

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:54

The N95 filter can be sanitized by spritzing with alcohol. However, this will not take care of any debris which is stuck in the fibers. Ideally, we recommend replacing N95 filters. You can purchase additional filters by increasing your pledge now ($18 for a pack of ten N95 filters), by adding additional filters through the post-campaign survey, or by visiting our website once the campaign is over (https://seeus-95.com).

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:54

Chitosan is a polymer and can come from two sources: crustacean chitosan and vegetal chitosan. In order to help mitigate allergen concerns, we will be using a plant-based or vegetal chitosan. In particular, we are using the mushroom chitosan and Niger N-succinyl chitosan-based hydrogels. There are many companies that use vegetal chitosan for cosmetics due to its collagen-like and moisture retention properties. The vegetal chitosan is not ingested and only topical, but if you have extreme allergy issues with mushrooms then we would suggest testing it on a small patch of skin on your wrist before using it on your face. This material has been used in facial beauty masks for quite some time. We will be updating and sharing information related to possible allergens in our mask as soon as we are able!

Last updated: August 19, 2020 20:24

The ear hooks are designed to be clip-on.

Last updated: August 20, 2020 19:34

The extra pack of N95 filters will come in a sealed bag, so you can just store them there until you need them. As long as they are stored in a safe, dry environment and you allow them to dry after use, the filters do not expire. However if the filters are filled with debris and particles, air flow and efficacy will be effected and we recommend replacing them in this case.

Last updated: August 21, 2020 16:56

Keeping the silicone clean will prolong the clarity of the material since most yellowing occurs due to dirt, oils, and general aging.

Last updated: August 21, 2020 16:48

We cannot guarantee that you will never get Covid19, but wearing our mask will greatly reduce the chance of contracting viruses if worn properly with the filters intact. Our mask offers better protection than cloth or surgical masks. Due to the seal on the perimeter, it not only protects the wearer but also protects the people not wearing the mask due to the silicone shield, the design of the filters, and the hydrogel seal on the perimeter. You can see in our video that when a person coughs wearing an N95 mask, the breath still goes through the front of the mask. Our shield design directs the air flow to the sides.

Last updated: August 22, 2020 13:15

The reusable filters come in a pack of ten, making 5 pairs. Our recommendation would be to rotate which filters you wash so that you will always have a clean pair of filters available to switch out for a used pair. Our early research shows that with the fiber material we are looking at right now, the filter could last 1 year of washing and maybe longer. But this information is preliminary and we will want to test the material. We are still discussing with manufacturers and sourcing for fibers that would be appropriate and durable for this purpose. It will also take a bit of time to design an appropriate new filter housing that will be a complement to the filter opening in the mask shield. We will share any updates once we have made a decision on the best options and the best method of construction.

Last updated: August 22, 2020 13:22

We will send a survey towards the end of the campaign to get your shipping details and verify all the items in your package. In order to fulfill your pledge, we will be using BackerKit. BackerKit has a good history providing a streamlined survey and fulfillment system platform to make sure we get all of your items added and calculated, as well as verify your shipping info, colors and sizes. By using BackerKit, one added feature is that you will still be able to add add-on items after the campaign ends through the post-campaign survey!

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:54

The filters are made of bamboo and silk fibers as well as some fibers of PLA which is made from corn. PLA is biodegradable and is much better for the people and environment than PET or polypropylene which is the material for surgical masks and N95 masks.

There are many products on the market now that use PLA, such as food containers, straws, plastic utensils, and clothing fabric. Hopefully, this will slowly replace polycarbonates, polystyrene, and polypropylene!

Last updated: August 26, 2020 14:40

The bio filter will be included with your Light Warrior mask. The washable filter is now available as an add-on option after the SEEUS95 kickstarter community requested the option for washable/reusable filters. We think washable filters are a great addition to have - thank you to the Light Warriors for suggesting it!

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

The Bio-Filter is going to be N95 rating. Our testing is being done with MIT Lincoln Labs, and our test results thus far have been extremely positive!

The washable filter is the filter that can go in the dishwasher and/or laundry, but will not have N95 rating. After conversations with our awesome community in the comments section, there was a general acceptance that the reusable filters would not have the same rating as the N95, and instead will have the same efficacy of cloth or surgical masks.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

We have posted a video of a man jump-roping to show that the mask stays on when doing light impact cardio. Please note that the man in this video is wearing the prototype which does not have the anti fog coating on it yet - rest assured, the mass produced version you will receive will have the anti fog coating! In the instance of profuse sweating, the mask will stay on for about an hour; in this case, we would recommend the ear hooks just in case.

If you plan on using the N95 filter, how often you change the N95 filter really depends on whether the filter gets soaked for some reason, as it is not intended to be washed. If the bio filter stays dry and if you go to the gym 3-4 times a week, we would recommend changing the filter every two weeks. The bio filter should stay dry due to the design of the chamber were it is positioned. Humidity of breathing should also be fine since this will be filtered and the filter will dry naturally. The bamboo fibers will also help absorb moisture and they will dry naturally. When using the mask for errands, inside the office, or going to the bank, we recommend changing every few weeks.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

Most N95 masks and surgical masks are positioned with the surface of the mask very close to the intake at the nostrils and the nose area. This makes the intake of air effortful due to the fact that you have to draw air immediately through the material of the mask right away. The SEEUS95 mask has an air chamber in front of the nose and mouth so when you draw in air, you first are drawing in the air that is already in the air chamber, which is why the form of the mask looks slightly like a dome over the mouth and nose area. We have tested air intake with the prototypes on trials where the mask was worn sealed for 4-8 hours and have had no issue with discomfort regarding the intake and exhale. There are also two filters so the direction of the air flow is coming in and out from two directions; this also helps with the air flow when inhaling and exhaling. When the filter was tested by MIT Lincoln labs, test results showed that pressure drop was minimal. As an analogy: if you try to cool a room through passive air flow, you will find that the room will cool faster if the air is coming from two smaller openings from opposite sides of the room vs one large opening on one side. There is also an exhale valve function which works similar to the scuba diving masks. When you exhale the area of the silicone under your chin flexes and expands to let air out, but when you inhale the area of the silicone flexes back to the seal function.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

The mask is very light at 0.9 oz for the small size so there is really no pressure on the nose. The flexible silicone can adjust to various nose profiles.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

There are two different types of filters. The first is the Bio filter which is intended for N95 rating: you can find the testing data in the UPDATE section of the campaign. The second filter type is the washable filter which will have an efficacy rating similar to having a cloth mask. The filters with the N95 rating will need to be replaced every few weeks if you are wearing the mask for daily errands, shopping, and gatherings which adhere to the 6 feet distancing guideline. If you are in areas such as a deconstruction zone or chemical fire zone, we recommend replacing the N95 filter daily. The washable filters can be sanitized by soap and water, dishwasher or laundry.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34

The SEEUS95 mask can be worn with or without an air tight seal. With the air tight seal function, the air is also filtered in reverse/outward. The exhalation function is an option to allow better air flow and cooling for the wearer. This is why the exhalation function was integrated to the traditional N95 mask. Our intent for this design detail is to provide protection and comfort for both the wearer and the non-wearer. The form and location of the exhalation function directs the air back towards the wearer, compared to the traditional N95 mask, where the air goes through the front of the mask. Individuals can choose whether or not the exhalation function is used, depending on the preference of the wearer.

Both OSHA and the CDC have had some confusing information about the exhalation valve since it was added to the traditional N95 of the 1900’s. You can find research on this topic here: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/1994-05-25#:~:text=The%20exhalation%20valve%20acts%20like,through%20the%20valve%20on%20inhalation. This study states “the concern that the exhalation valve would permit inward leakage of air contaminates is unfounded. The wearing of a valveless fabric type disposable respirator has no advantage over a respirator equipped with an exhalation valve.” However, the CDC has approved N95 masks as medical devices yet on the CDC site it has another disclaimer, where they suggest using an added surgical mask depending on the situation: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/respirator-use-faq.html This site states, “An N95 respirator with an exhalation valve does provide the same level of protection to the wearer as one that does not have a valve. The presence of an exhalation valve reduces exhalation resistance, which makes it easier to breathe or exhale. Some users feel that a respirator with an exhalation valve keeps the face cooler and reduces moisture build up inside the face piece. However, respirators with exhalation valves should not be used in situations where a sterile field must be maintained (e.g., during an invasive procedure in an operating or procedure room) because the exhalation valve may allow unfiltered exhaled air to escape into the sterile field. If you only have a respirator with an exhalation valve available, cover the exhalation valve with a face mask (surgical or procedure mask) that does not interfere with the respirator fit.”

Yet in some cities the administration of local governments are banning exhalation valves (https://www.fastcompany.com/90496717/what-is-a-mask-valve-and-why-are-cities-banning-them)

The SEEUS95 mask is not yet certified as a medical device and has been undergoing testing for filtering particulate showing 95% + efficiency with MIT Lincoln Laboratory.

Last updated: September 03, 2020 12:34