How to Get Best Visibility From a Scuba Diving Mask & Stop Leaks

Scuba mask leaking. Or fogging up. These common problems with a scuba mask can all be prevented.
Even with a scuba diving mask fitted correctly, other problems can prevent a scuba diver from getting the best from their mask.
Preventing Scuba Diving Mask Fogging When Underwater
One of the big problems with a scuba diving mask is the fog that appears on the inside of the mask during a dive. It can be even more frustrating when the fog appears on one side only.
This fogging of the scuba diving mask is caused by the activity of the scuba diver heating the body which in turn warms the small air cavity in the mask. This air cavity is a very humid place, and with the cooler water on the other side, condensation forms on the lens of the mask.
Some scuba diving masks may have an anti-fog coating on the inside of the lens that is intended to overcome this problem. However, over time and use this coating may deteriorate.
There are two main ways to effectively address this problem of a scuba diving mask fogging.
Spit in the Scuba Diving Mask to Prevent Fogging
Just before putting on the scuba diving mask, dunk it in water, then put a small amount of spit in against the faceplate. Rub this around briefly, then rinse out the mask.
This forms a thin layer on the lens that will prevent the condensation forming.
Leave a Small Amount of Water in the Scuba Diving Mask
In this technique, a small amount of water is left in the mask just before putting it on. When the dreaded fog up occurs it is a simple technique to roll the water over the lens to wash away the condensation.
Care needs to be taken that only the correct amount of water is in the mask as too much might result in the water getting into the eyes, or up the nose.
Some experienced scuba divers like to have a small leak in the mask seal on the face to allow water to continually dribble into the mask for just this purpose. When the water gets too much, they simply expel the water from the mask using the basic scuba mask clearing technique.
Preventing a Leaking Scuba Diving Mask
If a scuba diving mask is correctly fitted and still leaks, the main cause will probably be either a faulty seal or hair or another foreign object breaking the integrity of the seal.
For the problem of a faulty seal, it may simply be time to get a new scuba diving mask.
For hair breaking the seal against the skin, there are a few techniques to try.
First off, simply get the hair out of the way when putting on the scuba diving mask. Sounds simple but can be difficult with extra long hair. Put the face in the water, then bring it out quickly and flick the hair over the back of the head. This should clear the face of hair while the scuba diving mask is put on.
Eyebrows and a moustache or beard are another cause of the seal letting in water. Once the scuba diving mask is on, use the fingers to gently tease back the hair from under the seal. For extreme cases, petroleum jelly can be used to form an extra seal between the hair and the mask skirt.