TOKYO: Casual apparel chain operator Uniqlo Co. said Monday that it will launch a cloth face mask across Japan on Friday.

Smooth functional materials are used for the parts of the AIRism mask that touch the user's face, including the ears, Uniqlo officials said

They added that the new product can be worn throughout the year as it will remain dry even if the user becomes sweaty.

The size of the triple-layer mask ranges from small for children to medium and large, according to the company under the wing of Fast Retailing Co. <9983>.

A high-performance filter is used as the middle layer of the mask to block droplets, pollen and particles with bacteria and viruses, with the outer mesh fabric designed to cut ultraviolet rays.

The mask's filtering function will be basically maintained after 20 washes with a neutral detergent, according to the officials.

Uniqlo will sell a pack of three AIRism masks at 1,089 yen both online and at its outlets across the country. White is the only color available.

It warns users not to wear the product during exercise or in scorching heat.

JIJI Press