The protagonist is referred to in the story as Kochan, which is the diminutive of the author's real name: Kimitake. First published on 5 July 1949 by Kawade Shobō, it launched him to national fame though he was only in his early twenties.
Sales jump during cold and flu outbreaks and public health scares. Masks still come in handy when you’re sick | © ThongPooN / ShutterstockĪnd, of course, people do continue to use the masks for health reasons as well. But although it’s possible that some people wear surgical masks to avoid interactions with others from time to time, it’s the exception and not the rule. By wearing a mask, you not only make yourself less approachable, but you no longer have to put effort into the interactions you do have and react accordingly with a smile, frown or laugh, because no one can see it. Masks have a multitude of uses | © Benoist / Shutterstockįor others, they offer anonymity and a break from social interaction. And no matter what the season, they can also be used as a quick cover-up when you don’t feel like showing the world your no-makeup face.
Wearing a disposable mask has the practical use of keeping your face warm in the colder months. Masks with fun patterns or brand logos turned them into a fashion accessory, and not always for show. Avoiding allergens is the top reason for wearing a mask | © oneinchpunch / ShutterstockĪs the mask became a common sight in Japan, people began to use them for more than just cold and allergy season, however. The new masks featured unwoven material, which the company claimed created a barrier to help block out pollen and other allergy triggers, making your hay fever much more bearable. Unlike their predecessors, these masks were cheap, disposable and easy to use. Disposable face masks marketed specifically to allergy sufferers first appeared on the market in 2003. Many people assume the Japanese wear surgical masks because they’re sick, but the number one reason for wearing them is actually due to allergies. People may have started out wearing these face coverings for health reasons, but the masks now have a multitude of uses, the least of which is to prevent the spread of germs. In Japan, surgical masks for the layman have quickly become a multi-million dollar industry.