If you’ve ever looked into your bathroom mirror and groaned at the CPAP mask marks on your face, wondering how to get rid of them before work, you are not alone. Many CPAP users wake up to find evidence of their masks etched onto their faces.
Whether it’s red marks that perfectly mirror the CPAP mask cushion, or a tender sore spot on the nasal bridge, these markings are familiar woes that plague both new and seasoned CPAP users.
In this article, we provide some tips to help you get the sleep you need without compromising your appearance!
Tip #1: Use the Right CPAP Mask Size
Using a CPAP mask that is sized properly for you is key to preventing CPAP mask marks. When users have a CPAP mask that is too big, they need to really tighten the headgear to reduce mask leaks. Not only is this uncomfortable, it can even alter the shape of your face over time!
So how do you find your best-fitting mask? At RespShop, we make this easy by providing you with printable mask sizing templates for every popular and not so popular CPAP mask.
If you know the name of the CPAP mask you use or are interested in purchasing, visit our CPAP mask sizing guide for a comprehensive index of mask size gauges. Find your mask and click on the link for the sizing gauge to access a printable PDF sizing template.
The size gauge is also available for each mask on our website. Simply scroll down to find the Size Gauge tab on the page. Once you select this, click the correct PDF. This will be a little bit different on each page.
Now you can print. Make sure your scale is set to 100% before printing. From there, cut out the sizing template and follow the instructions to size your face. This will help you find your best fitting cushion size for the specific CPAP mask.
The sizing template is a great way to double check if you’re using the right cushion size. If the cushion you’ve been using is too big or too small, make sure to pick up the correct size one before trying our other tips. If your cushion is the right size for your face, keep reading for more tips.
Tip #2: Properly Adjust Your CPAP Mask Fit
Many CPAP users tend to over-tighten their headgear to combat mask leakage. However, overtightening your mask can actually make the leak worse. This is because CPAP mask cushions provide the best seal when they can inflate properly. The key to a good seal is tightening your mask just enough for a stable, firm fit which gives the cushion room to inflate.
Over-tightening your mask can also make your CPAP therapy less effective. If you’re wearing a full face CPAP mask, an overly tight mask can push your lower jaw back, which results in more breathing obstructions during the night.
On the other hand, if you’re wearing a nasal CPAP mask or a nasal pillow mask, you won’t have to worry about pushing your lower jaw back with an overly tight mask. However, a nasal pillow CPAP mask that is too tight can be quite uncomfortable. The nasal pillows push up into the nose, causing irritation and chafing inside the nostrils, which prevents most people from sleeping.
The “Two Fingers” CPAP Mask Fit Test
The “two fingers test” will help you find the best CPAP mask fit. Take two fingers and place them between your face and straps. You should be able to slide your fingers around underneath the straps.
If you cannot fit your fingers under the straps or if you can fit them under the straps but can’t move them, your mask is too tight. No wonder you’re waking up with red marks on your face! Loosen your headgear until you can fit two fingers between your face and your straps.
If your mask leaks after loosening the headgear and your mask is the right size, ask yourself when was the last time you replaced your mask. Masks should be replaced every 6 months for optimal performance – the headgear stretches out with use and the silicone cushion softens over time.
You can also selectively replace worn out CPAP mask parts instead of buying an entirely new CPAP mask. This can really save you money over the years.
Tip #3: Try a Different Type of CPAP Mask
Some CPAP users with sensitive skin find they end up with red marks on their faces, no matter how they adjust their straps. If this sounds like you, we recommend giving the following minimal contact CPAP masks a try.
ResMed AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask
ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask
Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal Mask
Philips Respironics DreamWear Silicone Nasal Pillow Mask
Or, remove the source of the problem altogether and opt for a headgear-free CPAP mask such as the BLEEP Eclipse. Unlike traditional CPAP masks which rely on a headgear for stability, the BLEEP Eclipse utilizes nasal adhesives called Halos and unique MagSealTM technology to deliver therapy.
Each Halo features a built-in magnetic ring that adheres to the magnets in the Eclipse Connector Frame. This system creates a secure seal around the nose without the need for additional support, eliminating the pressure associated with conventional headgear. Plus, the magnets make the process of donning and removing the Eclipse a breeze.
The BLEEP Eclipse’s innovative design also reduces chafing and skin irritation. The only parts of the mask that touch the face are the Halos which are hypoallergenic, corn and latex-free surgical grade adhesives. They’re also biodegradable and 100% made in the USA.
Since the Eclipse’s only point of contact with the face is via the Halos, it’s a great CPAP mask for facial hair. However, it’s worth noting that if you have a mustache, you may need to trim a bit underneath the nose before applying the Halos.
With the BLEEP Eclipse, you can say goodbye to nose bridge skin breakdown and facial redness resulting from over tightened CPAP headgear and plastic frame parts digging into the skin. The mask’s innovative design prioritizes your comfort, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep without any sore noses, reddened skin or hair damage in the morning.
Active sleepers can toss and turn all they like without worrying about breaking the mask seal, thanks to the MagSealTM technology, and there’s also the added bonus of not having to worry about sizing. The Halos come in one size only and can be trimmed to fit the shape of the nose, so you won’t need to worry about buying the wrong size.
Read about the pros and cons of this revolutionary CPAP mask in our BLEEP Eclipse review.
Tip #4: Use a CPAP Mask Liner or Pad
Mask liners act as a barrier between your CPAP mask and face, reducing and even eliminating skin irritation and pressure points. We like to recommend RemZzzs CPAP Mask Liners which are made with natural cotton fibers for superior comfort. They also come in various sizes and styles to fit every CPAP mask you can think of.
RemZzzs Mask Liners are also good for reducing mask leak and providing some relief for irritated skin. These liners come in a 30-day supply, are disposable, and are made according to your mask type so make sure to select the proper one for your CPAP mask.
If you’re looking for some much needed relief specifically for a sore nose, we suggest giving the ResMed Gecko Nasal Pad a try.
The Gecko Nasal Pad is a latex-free, self-adhesive silicone pad that is designed to provide relief for your sore nasal bridge. It is compatible with all CPAP masks and is reusable. Each Gecko Nasal Pad lasts up to a month and can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
The Takeaway
A good night’s sleep should leave you feeling rested and refreshed, not self-conscious and embarrassed. By employing the tips discussed in this article—using the correct mask size, adjusting mask fit properly, trying a different type of mask if necessary, and using mask liners or pads—you can improve your CPAP therapy experience substantially.
At RespShop, your comfort is our top priority. Our customer service team is always here to provide you with the support you need, from personalized mask recommendations to mask fitting tips.
Get in touch with us today and make your CPAP mask work for you, rather than against you!