harajuku05

The surgical mask isn't a fashion statement. From what I've heard, it isn't meant to keep germs out but rather to keep them in. Apparently, when someone is sick they don't necessary stay home, but since it's not a good idea to transmit your germs to others, the surgical mask catches any germs you're breathing out.Don't know if it really works, but it's also partially why you'll never see anyone sneeze in public.The surgical mask has become so commonplace in Japan that you don't really think twice about the accessory, though you might receive odd looks if you tried to wear one here in the States.