Hello Everyone, In this one we look at how to prepare a scuba or snorkel mask to stop it from fogging. Thanks for leaving a like if you enjoy the video and subscribing. Wanna learn more about using a gopro underwater and filming great footage? Check this one out: th-cam.com/video/egmdjtNGV7I/w-d-xo.html
Great video, thank you, quick question, my mask lets water in slowly under my nose, do I need to shave my facial stubble off or is there a trick you know, cheers
Hello Sebastian. Thanks for Your comment. Concerning the water slowly entering the mask (and according to your profile pic, this can indeed be stemming from wearing a beard or moustache. I usually wear a beard too and when it reaches a certain length, water begins creeping into the mask. Of course the model of mask you use might also have an influence, but generally it depends on the length of the beard. Some use vaseline and smear it on the moustache but I do not generally recommend it, as it can get smeared on the glass too. Best way: Trim the tash. ;) Safe diving.
I've heard that polishing the inside of a glass mask with Novus polish really helps with de-fog. Novus is normally used to remove scratches on acrylic camera ports, so I guess it is like high grade toothpaste? Any experience with Novus?
Hello Tobywan, personally I dont have any experience with Novus but as I found after researching it, Novus polish is often used to clean and restore plastic and acrylic surfaces. It is known for being gentle yet effective at removing scratches and restoring the shine to these surfaces. The product line consists of three types: Novus 1 (for general cleaning), Novus 2 (for fine scratch removal), and Novus 3 (for heavy scratch removal). The idea behind using Novus (or similar substances like toothpaste) to treat the inside of a mask is that a thin layer of the substance fills in microscopic irregularities on the glass surface. These irregularities can cause water vapor to condense, leading to fogging. By smoothing out the surface, the polish makes it harder for the water vapor to condense, which helps to prevent fogging. However, it's important to mention that Novus was designed specifically for plastic and acrylic surfaces, not glass. It may still work to some extent, but its effectiveness might not be as high as when used on its intended surfaces. In addition, it's crucial to note that any substance used inside a mask could potentially irritate the eyes or skin. So it's always wise to test a small amount first, and to ensure it's thoroughly rinsed off after application, especially if using something like Novus, which was definitely not designed to come into contact with the skin and eyes.
Hello Mohamed, to be honest I never owned a mirrored mask nor I had to treat one, so I cannot give You a definitive answer based on my experience. Upon searching the internet, on different forums some people say they use baby shampoo / clear dish-soap only on their mirrored masks. scubaboard.com/community/threads/mirrored-lens-fogging.466774/ As per applying heat to it I found different opinions too but as it seems, it's not necessarily advisable to treat a mirrored mask with heat. This has to due with the coating that is applied to the external part of the glass and which creates the mirror effect. I can therefore not give You a final answer or recommend what to do with your mask to ensure it doesnt get damaged.. As a rule of thumb and to make sure You don´t damage Your mask, I would rather not use fire though and use non abrasive toothpaste and clear soap/Shampoo. If You chose to treat the mask definitely leave the outside alone and be extra careful with the inside, if You do use fire. Hope this helps. 💙💙💙👌👌
I have no idea how prescription mask glass is made, but does anybody know if the toothpaste/burning techniques would adversely affect the glass prescription? Thanks!
Great question! Thanks! 👌 Prescription dive mask lenses are typically made from tempered glass to withstand pressure, and the prescription itself is often incorporated as part of the lens during manufacturing. Using toothpaste to prevent fogging is usually safe because it's a mild abrasive designed for cleaning, not damaging. However, avoid using toothpaste with harsh whitening agents or gritty particles, as they might cause fine scratches over time, which could distort your vision slightly. As for burning the glass (a technique used to remove factory coatings), it’s best to skip this on prescription lenses unless you’re absolutely sure there’s no special coating on them. If in doubt, check with the mask manufacturer or the dive shop where you purchased it. They’ll know the best way to care for your specific prescription mask! 😊💙
Hello there, thanks for stopping by. The color of a silicone mask - black, clear, or any other color - does not affect its function or effectiveness. What matters most is the quality of the material, the fit, and the comfort. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a mask: Fit: The mask should cover your mouth and nose without leaving any gaps. It should not be too tight, causing discomfort, or too loose, which could allow air to leak in or out. Comfort: Comfort is also important, especially if you're going to be wearing the mask for extended periods. Consider the mask's breathability, softness, and whether it can cause skin irritation. Some people may find that black silicone masks feel softer or more comfortable, while others may prefer clear masks. Visibility: A clear mask can be beneficial in situations where visual communication is important, such as when talking to someone with hearing loss. It allows others to see your mouth and facial expressions. Black masks might be chosen for aesthetic reasons or personal preference. Cleaning: Both types should be easy to clean, but clear silicone masks might show stains or discoloration more easily than black ones. Allergenic potential: Ensure that the material used doesn't cause you any allergic reactions. Ultimately, the color is a personal choice and doesn't impact the mask's protective qualities. Choose what you prefer and what feels most comfortable for you. Enjoy and dive safely. 😉👌💙
You're not alone in that preference. Many divers and snorkelers choose black silicone masks for several reasons: Reduced Glare: As you mentioned, clear silicone can sometimes allow sunlight to permeate through the sides, causing glare or reflections on the inside of the lens, which can be distracting or impede vision under certain conditions. Better Focus: Black or opaque skirting can help reduce peripheral distractions and enable better focus on what's directly in front of you. This is especially beneficial for photographers or hunters who want to concentrate on their subject without the distraction of ambient light. Durability: Over time, clear silicone can yellow or discolor from exposure to the sun and elements. While this doesn't affect the mask's function, it can make the mask look aged or dirty. Black silicone masks generally don't show this discoloration as prominently. Aesthetics: Some people simply prefer the look of black silicone masks over clear ones. It's a matter of personal preference. That being said, clear silicone masks have their own advantages too: Open Feeling: Clear silicone can give a more open feeling, as if there's nothing obstructing your view. This can be especially comforting for new divers or those who might feel claustrophobic. Better Peripheral Vision: Some divers appreciate the additional light and visibility that comes from the sides when using clear-skirted masks. Ultimately, whether you choose black or clear silicone comes down to personal preference and the specific needs or circumstances of your diving or snorkeling activities. Dive safely and enjoy your time under the waves. 💙💙💙
Great video, I just have one question: when I rinse the mask after applying the diswhasing soap, is it important to do so in fresh water or does salt water work?
Hello there. Snorkel masks (And Im not talking about those full face masks people snorkel with now) and scuba masks are both designed for underwater activities but have some key differences based on the distinct needs of snorkelling versus scuba diving. Understanding these differences will help clarify whether you can use a scuba mask for snorkeling activities. Design: Snorkel Mask: Typically, snorkel masks cover the nose and eyes and are used in conjunction with a separate snorkel for breathing. They are designed for floating face-down on the surface of the water, allowing the user to breathe through the snorkel while observing the underwater world. Scuba Mask: Scuba masks also cover the nose and eyes, but they are built to withstand higher pressure as divers go deeper underwater. They are used in conjunction with a regulator for breathing from a scuba tank. Scuba masks often have stronger construction and may offer a wider range of features, such as a better seal and stronger materials to withstand the increased pressure at greater depths. Volume: Snorkel Mask: These tend to have a higher volume (more airspace inside the mask), which isn't much of an issue since snorkeling involves staying close to the water's surface. Scuba Mask: These often have lower volume to minimize the amount of air needed from the scuba tank to equalize the pressure inside the mask as the diver descends. Lower volume masks also tend to provide a wider field of vision, which can be beneficial for scuba divers. Usage: Snorkel Mask: Since snorkelers stay at the surface, their masks don't need to accommodate changes in pressure and generally don't provide features for deep water diving. Scuba Mask: These masks are designed to be flexible and functional at varying depths, with features that make them adaptable to changes in pressure. Given these differences, using a scuba mask for snorkeling activities is usually okay. In fact, it might even provide some benefits, such as a potentially better seal, more durable construction, and a wider field of vision. However, they may also be more expensive due to these enhanced features and durability. The key is comfort and fit. No matter the type, the right mask for you is the one that fits your face well, offers a good seal to prevent water from entering, and provides clear vision underwater. Always try on a mask to ensure proper fit and comfort before deciding, regardless of whether it's marketed for snorkelling or scuba diving.
Hello Michelle. Im not sure what You mean by "Free anti-fog-film from the store" ... But see the explanation as to why the mask fogs from min 1:10 . Generally I treat every mask (as long as it is a glass mask) by burning the glass and treating it as described, the moment I get it from the store. 👌💙
@@robdonell9915 Hello Rob, thanks for stopping by. As explained in the video, when masks are manufactured, the glass and the silicon frames are put together, causing silicon residue to deposit on the glass. When wearing the mask, unless removed, this causes condensation and fogging unless removed. Dive safely and enjoy Your new mask! 👌👌💙💙
Hello Sargent. You can use a very soft toothbrush, yes but I would make sure to apply very little pressure and avoid at all cost, using granular toothpaste!!!
My mask is always fogging. Thanks for the tips. One question: should we do this burning and toothpaste process a day before dive or we can do today, keep the mask for a couple months before use it for diving (I mean, this process just need to do one time only and it works forever)
Hey William, thanks for stopping by and asking this good question. Generally I tend to do this a few days before diving (1-2) because especially with new masks, if You put them back in the box and leave them there for a few months, the silicon in the mask will still "transpire" and residue can deposit back onto the mask. ;) In general - even with older masks - I found, it is not bad to clean and prep them this way. Hope this helps and safe diving 💙
You're absolutely right! When using products like dishwashing soap, baby shampoo, or toothpaste to prevent mask fogging, it's crucial to avoid rinsing them in the ocean, especially near coral reefs. These products contain chemicals that can be harmful to marine life, including corals, which are already under threat from climate change and pollution. Instead, rinse your mask thoroughly with fresh water away from the ocean. This small step can help protect coral ecosystems while still keeping your mask fog-free. Thank you for raising awareness about this-every little action counts when it comes to preserving our marine environment! 🌊🐠
Indeed, saliva is a good option! I didn´t kknow about tobacco and as a non smoker I usually never carry cigarettes with me but how does this work, what exactly do You do with the tobacco?
bough a fullface for my wife so I dont have details about it. so dont botter asking. Do I burn the inside like my other small mask??? that's the question.
Dude, why so much talking! Just get to the point! I'm skipping this channel bro but thanks for info, useless to my mask I'm using a resin mask... cheers
Hello Everyone, In this one we look at how to prepare a scuba or snorkel mask to stop it from fogging. Thanks for leaving a like if you enjoy the video and subscribing. Wanna learn more about using a gopro underwater and filming great footage? Check this one out: th-cam.com/video/egmdjtNGV7I/w-d-xo.html
Really helpful for a newbie snorkeller. Thanks.
Thanks Angie. Snorkel safely and enjoy the underwater world! 👌💙
Great video, thank you, quick question, my mask lets water in slowly under my nose, do I need to shave my facial stubble off or is there a trick you know, cheers
Hello Sebastian. Thanks for Your comment. Concerning the water slowly entering the mask (and according to your profile pic, this can indeed be stemming from wearing a beard or moustache. I usually wear a beard too and when it reaches a certain length, water begins creeping into the mask. Of course the model of mask you use might also have an influence, but generally it depends on the length of the beard.
Some use vaseline and smear it on the moustache but I do not generally recommend it, as it can get smeared on the glass too. Best way: Trim the tash. ;)
Safe diving.
Really good video, thank you so much for taking the time to do it
Hello there, many thanks for the positive comment. A pleasure and hope it helped. Safe diving. 💙💙👌
I've heard that polishing the inside of a glass mask with Novus polish really helps with de-fog. Novus is normally used to remove scratches on acrylic camera ports, so I guess it is like high grade toothpaste? Any experience with Novus?
Hello Tobywan, personally I dont have any experience with Novus but as I found after researching it, Novus polish is often used to clean and restore plastic and acrylic surfaces. It is known for being gentle yet effective at removing scratches and restoring the shine to these surfaces. The product line consists of three types: Novus 1 (for general cleaning), Novus 2 (for fine scratch removal), and Novus 3 (for heavy scratch removal).
The idea behind using Novus (or similar substances like toothpaste) to treat the inside of a mask is that a thin layer of the substance fills in microscopic irregularities on the glass surface. These irregularities can cause water vapor to condense, leading to fogging. By smoothing out the surface, the polish makes it harder for the water vapor to condense, which helps to prevent fogging.
However, it's important to mention that Novus was designed specifically for plastic and acrylic surfaces, not glass. It may still work to some extent, but its effectiveness might not be as high as when used on its intended surfaces.
In addition, it's crucial to note that any substance used inside a mask could potentially irritate the eyes or skin. So it's always wise to test a small amount first, and to ensure it's thoroughly rinsed off after application, especially if using something like Novus, which was definitely not designed to come into contact with the skin and eyes.
Thanks for the tips, also snorkelling in Dahab today 🇪🇬
Very nice! Hope you enjoyed the view! 💙
Thanks buddy for the tips, can i apply heating on mirrored masks or not?
Hello Mohamed, to be honest I never owned a mirrored mask nor I had to treat one, so I cannot give You a definitive answer based on my experience.
Upon searching the internet, on different forums some people say they use baby shampoo / clear dish-soap only on their mirrored masks. scubaboard.com/community/threads/mirrored-lens-fogging.466774/
As per applying heat to it I found different opinions too but as it seems, it's not necessarily advisable to treat a mirrored mask with heat. This has to due with the coating that is applied to the external part of the glass and which creates the mirror effect.
I can therefore not give You a final answer or recommend what to do with your mask to ensure it doesnt get damaged.. As a rule of thumb and to make sure You don´t damage Your mask, I would rather not use fire though and use non abrasive toothpaste and clear soap/Shampoo.
If You chose to treat the mask definitely leave the outside alone and be extra careful with the inside, if You do use fire.
Hope this helps. 💙💙💙👌👌
thank you very much, this help me a lot
Thanks for the thorough explanation!! I can vouch for Oxi for cleaning dishes 😂 Where did you film his video ?
No worries. Thanks for stopping by. Oxi was great!!! I filmed this in beautiful Dahab in Egypt. 💙👌
Thanks for this one. Good video.
thanks for watching
I have no idea how prescription mask glass is made, but does anybody know if the toothpaste/burning techniques would adversely affect the glass prescription?
Thanks!
Great question! Thanks! 👌 Prescription dive mask lenses are typically made from tempered glass to withstand pressure, and the prescription itself is often incorporated as part of the lens during manufacturing.
Using toothpaste to prevent fogging is usually safe because it's a mild abrasive designed for cleaning, not damaging. However, avoid using toothpaste with harsh whitening agents or gritty particles, as they might cause fine scratches over time, which could distort your vision slightly. As for burning the glass (a technique used to remove factory coatings), it’s best to skip this on prescription lenses unless you’re absolutely sure there’s no special coating on them.
If in doubt, check with the mask manufacturer or the dive shop where you purchased it. They’ll know the best way to care for your specific prescription mask! 😊💙
Do you recommend a black mask or clear mask? The silicone part.
Hello there, thanks for stopping by.
The color of a silicone mask - black, clear, or any other color - does not affect its function or effectiveness. What matters most is the quality of the material, the fit, and the comfort. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a mask:
Fit: The mask should cover your mouth and nose without leaving any gaps. It should not be too tight, causing discomfort, or too loose, which could allow air to leak in or out.
Comfort: Comfort is also important, especially if you're going to be wearing the mask for extended periods. Consider the mask's breathability, softness, and whether it can cause skin irritation. Some people may find that black silicone masks feel softer or more comfortable, while others may prefer clear masks.
Visibility: A clear mask can be beneficial in situations where visual communication is important, such as when talking to someone with hearing loss. It allows others to see your mouth and facial expressions. Black masks might be chosen for aesthetic reasons or personal preference.
Cleaning: Both types should be easy to clean, but clear silicone masks might show stains or discoloration more easily than black ones.
Allergenic potential: Ensure that the material used doesn't cause you any allergic reactions.
Ultimately, the color is a personal choice and doesn't impact the mask's protective qualities. Choose what you prefer and what feels most comfortable for you.
Enjoy and dive safely. 😉👌💙
@@WetSouls thank you for your response!
I always found that clear sides on the mask creates a lot of glare on the lens. I always go black silicone.
You're not alone in that preference. Many divers and snorkelers choose black silicone masks for several reasons:
Reduced Glare: As you mentioned, clear silicone can sometimes allow sunlight to permeate through the sides, causing glare or reflections on the inside of the lens, which can be distracting or impede vision under certain conditions.
Better Focus: Black or opaque skirting can help reduce peripheral distractions and enable better focus on what's directly in front of you. This is especially beneficial for photographers or hunters who want to concentrate on their subject without the distraction of ambient light.
Durability: Over time, clear silicone can yellow or discolor from exposure to the sun and elements. While this doesn't affect the mask's function, it can make the mask look aged or dirty. Black silicone masks generally don't show this discoloration as prominently.
Aesthetics: Some people simply prefer the look of black silicone masks over clear ones. It's a matter of personal preference.
That being said, clear silicone masks have their own advantages too:
Open Feeling: Clear silicone can give a more open feeling, as if there's nothing obstructing your view. This can be especially comforting for new divers or those who might feel claustrophobic.
Better Peripheral Vision: Some divers appreciate the additional light and visibility that comes from the sides when using clear-skirted masks.
Ultimately, whether you choose black or clear silicone comes down to personal preference and the specific needs or circumstances of your diving or snorkeling activities. Dive safely and enjoy your time under the waves. 💙💙💙
Great video, I just have one question: when I rinse the mask after applying the diswhasing soap, is it important to do so in fresh water or does salt water work?
Hello Leo. Both work. 👌👌💙
one thing, what is the difference between a snorkel mask and a scuba mask? is it okay if I just got a scuba mask for snorkeling activities?
Hello there. Snorkel masks (And Im not talking about those full face masks people snorkel with now) and scuba masks are both designed for underwater activities but have some key differences based on the distinct needs of snorkelling versus scuba diving. Understanding these differences will help clarify whether you can use a scuba mask for snorkeling activities.
Design:
Snorkel Mask: Typically, snorkel masks cover the nose and eyes and are used in conjunction with a separate snorkel for breathing. They are designed for floating face-down on the surface of the water, allowing the user to breathe through the snorkel while observing the underwater world.
Scuba Mask: Scuba masks also cover the nose and eyes, but they are built to withstand higher pressure as divers go deeper underwater. They are used in conjunction with a regulator for breathing from a scuba tank. Scuba masks often have stronger construction and may offer a wider range of features, such as a better seal and stronger materials to withstand the increased pressure at greater depths.
Volume:
Snorkel Mask: These tend to have a higher volume (more airspace inside the mask), which isn't much of an issue since snorkeling involves staying close to the water's surface.
Scuba Mask: These often have lower volume to minimize the amount of air needed from the scuba tank to equalize the pressure inside the mask as the diver descends. Lower volume masks also tend to provide a wider field of vision, which can be beneficial for scuba divers.
Usage:
Snorkel Mask: Since snorkelers stay at the surface, their masks don't need to accommodate changes in pressure and generally don't provide features for deep water diving.
Scuba Mask: These masks are designed to be flexible and functional at varying depths, with features that make them adaptable to changes in pressure.
Given these differences, using a scuba mask for snorkeling activities is usually okay. In fact, it might even provide some benefits, such as a potentially better seal, more durable construction, and a wider field of vision. However, they may also be more expensive due to these enhanced features and durability.
The key is comfort and fit. No matter the type, the right mask for you is the one that fits your face well, offers a good seal to prevent water from entering, and provides clear vision underwater. Always try on a mask to ensure proper fit and comfort before deciding, regardless of whether it's marketed for snorkelling or scuba diving.
thank you for the detailed explanation, sir@@WetSouls
Shout out for wearing that Sea Shepherd shirt! For the ocean!
Of course! Good cause !!! 💙
Hi just want to ask if do I have to burn the glass of my mask if it has anti fog film in it free from the store i purchased?
Hello Michelle. Im not sure what You mean by "Free anti-fog-film from the store" ... But see the explanation as to why the mask fogs from min 1:10 . Generally I treat every mask (as long as it is a glass mask) by burning the glass and treating it as described, the moment I get it from the store. 👌💙
Why is important to pre treat before using the mask for its first time ?
@@robdonell9915 Hello Rob, thanks for stopping by. As explained in the video, when masks are manufactured, the glass and the silicon frames are put together, causing silicon residue to deposit on the glass. When wearing the mask, unless removed, this causes condensation and fogging unless removed. Dive safely and enjoy Your new mask! 👌👌💙💙
If it already has anti fog film in it. Your mask should not fog up and is ready to go diveing with it.
Johnson and Johnson baby shampoo works great
I have my new mask and will now use the toothpaste on it. Can I apply with a toothbrush?
Hello Sargent. You can use a very soft toothbrush, yes but I would make sure to apply very little pressure and avoid at all cost, using granular toothpaste!!!
My mask is always fogging. Thanks for the tips. One question: should we do this burning and toothpaste process a day before dive or we can do today, keep the mask for a couple months before use it for diving (I mean, this process just need to do one time only and it works forever)
Hey William, thanks for stopping by and asking this good question. Generally I tend to do this a few days before diving (1-2) because especially with new masks, if You put them back in the box and leave them there for a few months, the silicon in the mask will still "transpire" and residue can deposit back onto the mask. ;)
In general - even with older masks - I found, it is not bad to clean and prep them this way.
Hope this helps and safe diving 💙
Only mask screens made out of tempered glass should be burned out! Don't try that with plastic. For the newcomers...
As I said b4! Consultancy!!!! Thanks for the heads up, its so obvious. I forgot m8! Hope all is well.
@@WetSouls I'm availible, also commenting for the algorythm, thou.
Thanks and where are you?!
This was filmed in the Maldives 💙
Thanks.
Note not to rinse the dishwashing soap, baby shampoo, or toothpaste in the ocean where there is coral as it harms the coral.
You're absolutely right! When using products like dishwashing soap, baby shampoo, or toothpaste to prevent mask fogging, it's crucial to avoid rinsing them in the ocean, especially near coral reefs. These products contain chemicals that can be harmful to marine life, including corals, which are already under threat from climate change and pollution.
Instead, rinse your mask thoroughly with fresh water away from the ocean. This small step can help protect coral ecosystems while still keeping your mask fog-free. Thank you for raising awareness about this-every little action counts when it comes to preserving our marine environment! 🌊🐠
@0:59
Here's my thumbs up👍
Than You!!!
Saliva works all the time. Tobacco also.
Indeed, saliva is a good option! I didn´t kknow about tobacco and as a non smoker I usually never carry cigarettes with me but how does this work, what exactly do You do with the tobacco?
bough a fullface for my wife so I dont have details about it. so dont botter asking. Do I burn the inside like my other small mask??? that's the question.
Hello there. NO! Don´t do this. Typically full face snorkelling masks (I guess that is what you purchased) are made of plastic. Don´t burn it. ;)
Dude, why so much talking! Just get to the point! I'm skipping this channel bro but thanks for info, useless to my mask I'm using a resin mask... cheers
Hello M8, I´ll pack it into a short next time ;)
Thanks for stopping by. PS: Which model of mask do You use?