Mask

A mask can have different shapes and different purposes such as; anonymity, sensory deprivation, enclosure and breath play. There is also a close connection between masks and hoods with both terms sometimes being used interchangeably. Hoods tend to be a specific kind of mask that includes a full head covering as well as some coverage around the face.

Anonymity

Masks can cover and hide the face making a person appear more anonymous or obscuring their identity. Often masks that cover the whole face are used but sometimes masks that only cover the face around the eyes are used. Some full face masks with hoods have holes for eyes, nose and mouth that can be used for different purposes.

For example one purpose for a full face hood mask that has an open hole for the mouth would be to transform the wearer into an object. The function of their mouth remains available while the rest of the head is deemed irrelevant for the type of interaction people are having with their mouth.

Sensory deprivation

Some masks will help to blind or deafen a wearer. These masks are often more sturdy and can be part of a large hood. This can make a mask part of sensory play Sometimes these masks also have mouth pieces that are specifically made to be plugged so that the wearer feels like all senses are being able to be closed off and exposed at the will of the person applying the mask.

In Japanese Bondage a common way to make a mask is by using a "Tenugui" (Japanese hand towel). This is both used for eyes, mouth and nose making it part sensory deprivation, part breath play.

Enclosure

Masks can close the wearer off from the environment around them and provide a sense of feeling enclosed. This is often achieved with modified gas masks and can be part of dronification. This enclosed feeling can also be achieved with a fully covering lycra hood or a latex mask that sits tightly around the skin. The sensation of enclosure can really be pleasant to the wearer.

Breath Play

There are specific masks used for breath play. Altitude training masks are commonly modified to make it harder for a person to breathe while wearing the mask. Note that, like with any breath play, these masks come with a risk that should be properly discussed, mitigated and consented to.