The Effect of Wearing a Mask on Facial Attractiveness

Abstract

Abstract BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic necessitated masking in public spaces. Masks may impact the perceived attractiveness of individuals and hence, interpersonal relations. ObjectivesTo determine if facial coverings affect attractiveness. MethodsAn online survey was conducted using 114 headshot images, 2 each—unmasked and masked—of 57 individuals. Two hundred and seven participants rated them on an ordinal scale from 1 (least attractive) to 10 (most attractive). Parametric and nonparametric tests were performed, as appropriate, for comparison. ResultsFor the first quartile, the average rating increased significantly when wearing a mask (5.89 ± 0.29 and 6.54 ± 0.67; PPPPPPP ConclusionsWhile wearing a facial covering significantly increased attractiveness for images less attractive at baseline, and decreased attractiveness for those that are more attractive at baseline; it did not cause a significant overall change in attractiveness in the study population. Level of Evidence: 5