Discolored mask :(

[maged_mmh]

hello,
just enquiring if there is some way to restore a clear silicon mask color if it has been discolored? might be because of sun or neoprene?

 

[Ed Palma]

I used to have a mask with a clear silicone skirt. I noticed that it would get really whitish after pool dives. Even after ocean dives, I would meticulously clean the mask to get it as clear again as possible. I thought I was doing a good job of it, but when placed beside a new mask, there was still a big difference between the old and the new.

Bottom line: There really isn't much anyone can do in the long run. All one can do is hope that yellow silicone becomes the latest fad.

 

[Henryville]

As I understand it, storing a clear silicone mask (or any other clear silicone item) with neoprene items will result in yellowing of the silicone. Store the mask in a mask box or in a separate bag/unit from wetsuits and other neoprene items.

 

[ODC diver]

hello,
just enquiring if there is some way to restore a clear silicon mask color if it has been discolored? might be because of sun or neoprene?

aloha Maged:
From my own experience with a LOT of masks, there is not much to be done once it starts to change colors on you.
You could always go with a full black silicone skirt on the next mask, but some divers do not like the feeling of being "in the box" that a full black skirt gives them. To me, with my baby blues that are so sensitive to light, I tend to like the black skirts as it cuts down on side glare. Sort of like cupping your hands around your eyes to see into a store window. But I digress.

 

[fisheyeview]

Once it starts there is not much that can be done. I have had it happen a lot over the years. It's still better than when the old black rubber masks used to deteriorate, and left a black rubber ring on your face.

I have gone to a solid black skirt for my masks. I have found that this has really helped with my photography by cutting down the glare as mentioned above.

I still have a mask with a clear skirt and side panels for when I am working with students.

 

[diver 85]

hello,
just enquiring if there is some way to restore a clear silicon mask color if it has been discolored? might be because of sun or neoprene?

how old is it???......

 

[rdbeard]

Hey there Maged:
I would agree with ODC Diver. Once the discoloration is there you just live with it or get a new mask.
Black skirts are good, But as ODC suggested, some people are not a fan.
For myself, I do like the black skirts, but I tend to use a non-black mask to increase my sense of periphery for working with students and wayward divers.

 

[String]

Clear silicone is always going to yellow in sunlight or chlorine.

I don't see an issue - diving isn't a fashion parade.

 

[EastEndDiver]

Why does it matter what color the mask "becomes" if it is in good shape and keeps a seal ? All my clear silicone masks are yellow I have had a tusa liberator for probably 15-20 years and it is as good as the day I bought it..........I just had prescription lens made for it even though it has yellowed.

 

[John_B]

I agree with String and EastEnd, the yellowing is the sign of a good fitting mask that is well worn. FWIW, my clear mask has never been stored next to neoprene (always stored in the case) and it still turned yellow.

Personally I have a black skirted mask for high-glare days and a (yellowed) clear mask for the rest of the time. Its good to have both types and they also serve as backups for each other.

John