[ Make a quick escape, cover blown. That's an option in his case, although that'd typically also require the other to be taken out immediately. That's not always an available option, of course. Especially for civilians. ]

I see. That would be considered a temporary fix, but I suppose you did say it would be "just for a bit". Letting a mask become a permanent source of protection will only cause others to chip away at it until it cracks in two.