In a continued effort to lessen the impact of COVID-19 on local communities, Dermacare Plastic Surgery has opened sales of their handmade fabric face masks to the public. These masks primarily protect the wearer and others by limiting the number of respiratory droplets released into the air through coughs and sneezes.

After closing to the public, the entire Dermacare staff shifted their efforts to making masks. The first batches of masks were donated to first responders and health care workers in need of personal protective equipment.

Each Dermacare mask features a pouch designed to hold a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, a gentle nose piece that prevents slippage on the face, and individually sewed straps to increase the endurance and longevity of the mask. Masks can be cleaned and reused by putting them in the washing machine and air drying afterwards.

To cover the cost of fabric and other supplies required for the project, they will sell the masks for $5 each.

Readers interested in purchasing a mask can do so by calling Dermacare to place their order. Contact-free pickups are being held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

After arriving at the office, staff buzzes clients in and the mask designs are on display on a table. After selecting the masks, clients can leave their payment in a designated area and be on their way. Dermacare is only accepting cash or checks for payment of the masks at this time.

Dermacare is also accepting donations of fabric and other sewing materials as they continue to make masks available for the community.

Fabric face masks have risen in need and popularity during the pandemic, and the Centers for Disease Control recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

Dermacare Plastic Surgery is located at 14551 W. Indian School Road, Suite 240, in Goodyear. To place an order for masks, call (623) 232-3453. To learn more, visit http://www.azdermacare.com.

By Jenna-Lee Neff