What's the best non-medical face covering for preventing the spread of coronavirus? Scientists say it's not a bandana.

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University created an artificial sneeze or cough from a mannequin head wearing varying face coverings.

Researchers then used lasers to detect respiratory droplets.

Results showed droplets from a bandana-covered cough traveled the farthest - 3 feet.

Stitch-quilting fabric masks were the most effective - with droplets traveling only 2.5 inches.

Dr. Sharon Nachman with Stony Brook Medicine says that's the result she expected.

"That exactly mirrors what the CDC guidance is, which says if you're going to use a homemade mask use two layers of material," says Nachman.

Dr. Nachman says the bandana can still be an option if you have nothing else.

However, there are some Long Islanders who feel they shouldn't have to wear a mask at all.

Melissa Rae, of West Islip, founded a group called 'Bare Face is Legal.' Rae says that wearing masks could actually be harmful to your health.

"They lower your oxygen intake, which lowers your immunity," says Rae. "You don't want to lower your immunity on a healthy individual in a time of a virus."

Dr. Nachman says there is no data supporting that wearing a mask will lower a person's immunity. She says refusing to cover your face is a big mistake as COVID-19 cases surge in other parts of the country.