How to prevent your dive mask from fogging

How do you prevent your dive mask from fogging up?

Almost everyone knows it is important to lightly polish both the inside and outside of a new mask with white toothpaste.

Only white toothpaste works, because it contains a polishing agent. Polishing removes the silicone film from the inside of the lens. This only applies to a new mask; if you have had your mask for a while, the toothpaste method has little effect. Holding a flame under the lens is another option, but there is a good chance you burn the silicone skirt at the side. Use a lighter; a tea light gives off a lot of soot. Some divers use saliva, but that is less hygienic and leads to bacteria and algae growth in your mask.

Anti-fog

The easiest option is to use anti-fog just before your dive. Put a drop on the inside of the lens and spread it, fill the mask with the water you are going to dive in and put the mask down next to you. Breathe through your nose as little as possible when you put the mask on. When you exhale through your nose you blow warm, moist air into your mask, which makes it fog up quickly. If you dive with a backup mask, make sure it is ready to use too and dive with it a few times first. That way you know it will work if you ever have to use it.

Published in: DUIKEN Magazine

Text: Eddy van Vliet – Scuba Support