Karen Walker branches out into air pollution face masks

Karen Walker has expanded her fashion empire - to include air pollution face masks.

The masks are a collaboration with Auckland company Healthy Breath.

They are designed for export to Asian countries, which are dealing with high levels of pollution.

The masks are reusable and come in a choice of eight different Karen Walker designs.

Healthy Breath founder Kenneth Leong thinks the 'Meo' face masks will take off, because they're both practical and beautiful.

The mask has a washable filter made from New Zealand wool, which its creators say makes it breathable. One mask pack will sell for $79 and include four filters and four changeable covers.

Leong says surgical facemasks are not as effective because they leak.

The face mask industry in Asia is thought to be worth around $2.8 billion.

Newshub.