Why can thicker cloth masks be harder to wear correctly?

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Carnival mask — Mask Women wearing a mask during Carnival celebrations in Venice, Italy.

Thicker cloth masks can be harder to wear correctly because they often possess a high degree of breathing resistance. While thicker fabrics or multiple layers are more effective at trapping small aerosolized particles, this increased resistance makes the mask less comfortable to wear.1

Because comfort is a significant factor in human behavior, an uncomfortable mask is more likely to be pulled down or adjusted improperly by the wearer, which ultimately undermines the mask's potential effectiveness in preventing disease transmission. Proper fit and consistent use are essential for any face mask to function as intended.1