These masks, known for their distortion and asymmetry, are one of the oldest kinds of art in southwest Alaska.

The study was recently published in the journal Social Science Research. Masks covering the nose and mouth were intended to protect against coronavirus infection during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We tested 14 masks by assessing their materials, sleeping with them for at least two nights each, and evaluating their fit on a variety of face shapes and head sizes. We found three options—a ...