Prevent ear abrasion injuries for face mask users

The solution

To resolve this issue, Dstl have created a soft, comfortable, squishy ‘ear bean’ that alleviates pressure on the ears to ensure people can work and use face masks without discomfort or injury. Made from foam polymer, the design is simple, lightweight, low-cost, effective, and reusable – reducing the quantity of plastic waste created.

The innovation fits around the ear and contains a lengthways groove to hold the face mask strap away from the skin to prevent pressure sores. More cushioning regions can also be added to further improve the fit and comfort for the wearer. Typically, these regions will be where contact to the skin of the ear, or the head, occurs. Although discrete, the ear beans offer limitless possibilities for personalisation through different colour designs and branding options.

Key benefits

• The design is simple, which allows for low-cost manufacturing at scale.
• The foam material is soft and mouldable, so is customisable in shape and size to fit the user.
• Different patterns and designs can be added to appeal to wearers and add company branding.
• The ear beans are reusable, which minimises plastic waste.
• It is cheap and easy to disinfect the ear beans to keep them hygienic.