A study into the effects of face masks has found people who tend to self-describe as ugly are much more likely to continuously wear face masks, even when they’re not required to wear one.
In contrast to this, conventionally attractive people living in this post-COVID reality believe face masks are a negative aspect of their lives; they’re glad they’re no longer obliged to wear one in all spaces.
Face masks may be more popular among people who describe themselves as ugly
The study was conducted on Americans by Korean researchers who were trying to determine how big of a role one’s perception of self-play is in wanting or not wanting to wear a face mask.
Facemasks have made being ugly so much easier.
— 🧛🏽♀️ Ms. Mileena 🧛🏽♀️ (@MileenaUltra) February 23, 2021
According to the data, Americans who believe they’re attractive also feel wearing a mask prevents them from being seen by others, inadvertently ruining the first impression they give.
However, people who self-perceive as ugly actually welcome face masks, as they believe it makes them look better without too much effort.
This information goes in line with what was found in the previous studies conducted by the same team. It also found that individuals who are below average in the looks department are much more likely to be found attractive if they’re wearing a face mask.
The only difference between the studies was that one examined a person’s objective attractiveness, whereas the other focused on their self-image.
Facemasks are nice. I enjoy being ugly in peace.
— The Green Kasey (@RawbertBeef) March 22, 2021
It’s all in your mind
The findings imply the masks we’ve worn throughout the COVID era may shift from being a protection tool to being a self-presentation strategy instead.
The study involved 244 people who were asked to rate their facial proportions from 1-10, before being presented with a scenario where they’re being offered a job they really want.
They were then asked whether they believe they’d have better chances of scoring the job if they were allowed to wear a face mask and the results were astonishing.
wearing facemasks in public is a blessing for us ugly people. who can relate?😓😤
— clout whore (@rohankushvaha) August 17, 2020
Those who found themselves to be below average were much more likely to accept wearing a mask to a job interview if it would improve their chances; whereas the exact opposite was true for those who ranked themselves as above average.
However, this has little to do with how impactful one’s looks are on their career and a lot more with how one’s self-image can go a long way when it comes to getting some extra confidence.
Our looks are probably the number one concern we have every morning when we wake up and glance in the mirror; it’s fairly common to want to improve something about them.
Other times, though, it’s much easier to just hide some of these features with a face mask rather than trying to change them; it’s why face masks have been growing in popularity, even now that they’re not a requirement anymore.
