Is the word máscaras the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The word "máscaras" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Pronunciation: In Continental Portuguese, the "s" at the end of the syllable is typically pronounced as a "sh" sound (/maskaraʃ/), and unstressed vowels are often more reduced or "swallowed." In Brazilian Portuguese, the pronunciation of the "s" varies by region (it may be pronounced as "s" or "sh" depending on whether the speaker is from São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro), but the word's fundamental identity remains unchanged.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A gente deve usar máscaras para evitar doenças. (We should use masks to avoid diseases.)
2. Eu adoro passar máscara de argila no rosto. (I love putting clay masks on my face.)
3. As máscaras de Carnaval são muito alegres. (Carnival masks are very cheerful.)
4. Ele usa máscaras para fazer brincadeiras com os amigos. (He uses masks to play jokes on his friends.)
5. Essas máscaras de proteção estão muito caras. (These protective masks are very expensive.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. É importante utilizar máscaras para prevenir doenças. (It is important to use masks to prevent diseases.)
2. Gosto de aplicar uma máscara de argila no rosto. (I like applying a clay mask to my face.)
3. As máscaras de fatos de Carnaval são muito alegres. (The masks for Carnival costumes are very cheerful.)
4. Ele usa máscaras para fazer partidas aos amigos. (He uses masks to play pranks on his friends.)
5. Estas máscaras de proteção estão com um preço elevado. (These protective masks are at a high price.)