The good news is, you can beat the summer heat, even if you are under your face mask because wearing your mask under the sun and you can’t do anything about it because you are in the public and the bad news is that breathing moist air into the mask on a hot summer day is what’s causing the upper lip sweat in the first place!

Since public health guidelines recommend masks whenever we’re in public places and can’t maintain six feet of social distance, the answer to the perspiration problem is not leaving the masks at home. Experts believe we might be wearing them well after the summer fades when the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is expected.

Choose your mask wisely: The multiple layers of fabric for homemade masks, to better contain droplets that come out of your nose and mouth when you cough, sneeze, and talk. Tightly woven cotton fabric is a good choice, as it’s breathable and soft. If you’re working directly in the sun, opt for a light-colored mask, as darker-colored ones will absorb more heat.

Carry a spare (or two): If your mask gets sweaty, swap it out for a clean one. Wetness decreases the protection of the mask and can make it even more uncomfortable, Dr. Morgan says. “We advise people to carry a spare mask at all times.”

Don’t forget to drink water: If your mouth is covered by a mask, you might be less likely to take sips of water throughout the day. But when it’s hot and you’re sweating, you need more water than normal. Stay hydrated by taking frequent sips of water.

Take breaks: If it would feel good to take off your mask for a few minutes, make sure you step away from others first.

Keep the rest of your body cool, too: Target to keep your whole body cool by wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in hot weather.

Don’t forget to wash your masks after each use, since some germs thrive in warm, damp conditions like those created by a sweaty mask.