Facial hair is cool and trendy, but when it’s time for a dive trip, your mustache or beard can turn into a real hassle. Same old thing: you’ve tried on every mask at the dive center, finally finding the perfect fit and securing it snugly to your face. Happy days! You hop on board for some diving action, jump in, and then, as you descend, your mask starts leaking and slowly flooding. Yep, facial hair can make it tough to get a good seal on your mask...So annoying!
Of course, you don’t want to shave it all off and risk losing your swag. So, let’s figure out how to keep that water out of your mask without sacrificing your stylish stache!
1 . Trim !
For bigger mustaches, trimming can help you get a better seal without sacrificing your style (keep it real). Yet, trimming alone might not do the trick. Shaving the top of your mustache, especially close to your nose, and thinning it out will create space for the rubber skirt of your mask to make direct contact with your skin. This will make a big difference in preventing leaks.
For precise trimming, opt for a safety razor with a single blade edging tool on the back. Multi-blade razors can be too wide to get close under your nose without shaving off too much of your mustache. You don't want to mess up your look!
2. Use Mask Seal
Another trick is to apply a thin layer of Silicone grease chapstick, or Vaseline to the part of the mask’s skirt that touches your mustache. It acts as a sealant, helping to keep water out. Just a heads up: it can feel a bit odd, especially on hot days when it might melt and leave your face feeling greasy. But if you’re diving occasionally, it’s worth a shot!
3. Get a High-Quality Mask
Many bearded divers find that having the right mask can make all the difference. Opt for a high-quality, low-profile mask with soft silicone. These “mustache-friendly” masks are typically shorter and stiffer around the upper lip, which helps reduce the chances of your facial hair breaking the seal, unlike the basic masks available at dive shops. While dive shops provide good quality masks, they often offer a basic range. Investing in a high-quality mask tailored to your needs is a smart move to keep your stache and stay leak-free!
Finding the right solution for your mustache might take a bit of trial and error, but don't stress about it. A small amount of water in your mask isn’t a disaster!
Remember, the water shouldn’t rise above your nose - your mustache sits lower, so it usually won't be a huge issue. If the water keeps rising, the problem might be with the mask seal rather than your mustache!
Stay calm, avoid breathing through your nose, and focus on the stunning marine life around you. A little water in the mask won’t ruin your day diving; you’re still going to have a fishtastic time underwater!
