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A mask would still be highly effective even with a beard. The purpose in this case isn't to filter out the virus, or even really to protect the wearer except as a reminder not to touch the nose and mouth. The purpose is to arrest droplets from spreading from the wearers mouth to protect others. The Japanese don't wear the masks when they want to avoid getting sick so much as they wear them the first sign they might be sick.
In Japanese culture, the group is valued more than self.
As far as daily use goes, practically any mask would be a benefit for others, but medical professionals have increased contact with pathogens, so they require increasing standards of protection.
Respirators normally have a valve that lets air straight out, which largely defeats the purpose of wearing a mask in the context of disease control.
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