Finding the right CPAP mask

Last updated on July 7th, 2023 at 10:38 am

When the results from your sleep study confirm OSA, then you are usually advised to try out CPAP therapy, if suitable. There are a wide range of excellent CPAP masks to choose from, so how do you know which one will be right for you?This informative guide lists every mask type available, and the pros and cons of each mask.

When you first open your sleep study results and they reveal that you are indeed an OSA sufferer, as suspected, then you might feel slightly relieved. Confirming your diagnosis means that you now know the underlying cause for your snoring, drowsiness and sudden gasps for air in the night. What it also means is that you can now obtain a CPAP machine, if that treatment option has been advised and recommended for you. It can be the best feeling ever to know that you can finally get treatment for something that has been having a huge negative impact on your life.

Now you are faced with the option to choose a mask to treat your OSA effectively. Carry on reading if you would like some information about mask styles and the pros and cons for each.

Pros and cons of each CPAP mask style

This informative guide will provide you with the different CPAP mask types available. By reading about each mask, you can have a better understanding of what style might be most suitable for you. One thing to consider is that when it comes to CPAP masks, there is not one CPAP mask that would be great for everyone. Therefore the truth is that it will all come down to a mixture of personal preference, combined with a little trial and error. Please note that the majority of masks are nonreturnable once opened from the original packaging. Therefore when choosing your mask, you should be certain of your decision.

Nasal Cushion CPAP Masks

A nasal cushion mask consists of a cushion that sits around the nose only. They are good for those who breathe nasally at night. They should be avoided by mouth breathers or those with chronic sinus issues.

• Eson nasal cushion CPAP mask by Fisher & Paykel – Simple to use and maintain, with a RollFit seal allowing greater freedom of movement.The cushion is adaptable, to prevent the seal being broken.
• IQ Blue nasal cushion CPAP mask by Sleepnet – An advancement to gel cushion technology. A unique wire gives the mask more support and customisation, to help ensure a perfect seal. Not forgetting to mention, the soft gel cushion provides greater comfort.
• SleepWeaver Elan soft cloth nasal CPAP mask by Circadiance – A cloth mask, that allows greater flexibility. A great choice for those with skin discomfort to gel or silicone masks, or experience air leaks when changing position.
• ComfortGel Blue nasal mask by Philips Respironics – A premium nasal cushion mask, with an adaptable gel for greater comfort and flexibility. Designed to offer the best seal possible.

Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks

Nasal pillows use small cones that sit against the nostrils. They are good for those who may experience discomfort with a nasal cushion mask, find them claustrophobic, side sleepers, or people who like to read or watch TV in bed. Those with nasal issues or higher CPAP pressure settings should avoid them.

• F&P Pilairo Q nasal pillows mask by Fisher & Paykel – Incredibly lightweight with minimal headgear, and featuring a unique inflating seal.
• Airfit P10 nasal pillows mask by Resmed – Quiet, unobtrusive therapy. Around 50% quieter and 50% lighter than previous models.
• ResMed Mirage Swift FX – Minimalist nasal pillow mask, with a lightweight, but stable design. You can comfortably wear glasses and sleep on your side with this mask.

Oral CPAP Masks

Oral masks provide air through the mouth only. They are good for those who cannot tolerate a full face, nasal cushion or nasal pillows mask. They should otherwise be avoided, as breathing through the mouth while sleeping bypasses many of the body’s natural defence systems, and they can potentially cause discomfort.

• Oracle 452 oral mask by Fisher & Paykel – Unique solution for mouth breathers, providing comfort and freedom.

Full Face CPAP Masks

Full face masks consist of a cushion that sits around the mouth and nose. Most use a forehead support for greater stability, while some may include a chin cup to stop the mouth from dropping open. They are good for mouth breathers, those unsure how they breathe, those with sinus or nasal issues, and people who are generally unsure about what kind of mask would be suitable. They may not be preferable for side sleepers, or claustrophobic patients who might prefer a hybrid mask.

• Amara Gel full face mask by Philips Respironics – Advanced gel technology, providing a comfortable seal which adapts to the contours of your face, preventing leakage. It is also the smallest and lightest full face gel design to date.
• Mirage Quattro FX CPAP mask by ResMed – ResMed’s most advanced full-face mask to date. Minimal contact area with the face, and removes pressure from the key problem areas of the forehead and nasal bridge. A softer, more precise seal, without the need for excessively tight headgear.
• SleepWeaver Anew full face cloth CPAP mask by Circadiance – Cloth based full face mask, ensuring no skin irritation by plastic or silicone. It is naturally adaptable to almost any face shape, making it easy to adjust to.
• F&P Simplus full face mask by Fisher & Paykel – A silicone based premium mask, designed for comfort and ease of use. Eliminates contact from the nasal bridge area.

Total Face CPAP Masks

Total face masks sit around the entire perimeter of the face. They are good for those who require a full face mask, but experience severe discomfort or skin irritation with a regular mask. They are reportedly good for claustrophobia sufferers. A total face mask should only be used if both regular full face and hybrid mask types have been unsuccessful.

• Fitlife total face CPAP mask by Philips Respironics – Takes the pressure off of your nose and cheeks, giving you all the benefits of full face masks. Provides an enhanced level of comfort.

Hybrid CPAP Masks

A hybrid mask is still a full face mask, but it uses a combination of an oral mask with nasal pillows. They are good for those who require a full face mask but find them claustrophobic or uncomfortable on the nasal bridge. They should however be avoided if you have a deviated septum, and some may find jets from the pillows uncomfortable at high pressures.

• Hybrid full face mask by InnoMed – The Hybrid’s nasal pillows with oral seal is cleverly designed to prevent discomfort on the bridge of the nose, from traditional full face masks. Suitable for mouth breathers, who do not like having a full face mask over the bridge of their nose.
• Mirage Liberty full face CPAP mask by ResMed – Minimises contact with your face. A compact design gives impressive stability. Non-obtrusive.

Need further assistance when choosing your mask?

Although no mask is perfect for everyone, there is always a mask suitable for everyone. If you require some more information and advice before choosing a mask, you can send your enquires to us via the contact form.