With so many different CPAP products on the market, many sleep apnea sufferers are often left wondering, "Which CPAP mask is right for me?" In this article, we will break down the best masks for various sleep styles, facial features, and more. Finding a CPAP mask that is right for your physical and lifestyle needs can make the difference in successfully treating your sleep apnea, and having a healthy night of sleep. Our sleep apnea clinicians have weighed the factors of each mask on the market in order to give you expert recommendations.
TYPES OF CPAP MASK
There are three primary types of CPAP Mask, being full face masks, nasal cushion masks, and nasal pillow masks. Each style of mask serve different needs for users, and it is important to weigh these factors before choosing which style of mask is best for you.
Full Face Masks cover both the nose and mouth, making them a good option for people who breathe primarily through their mouths or often struggle with nasal congestion. Full face masks also allow for higher pressure settings, which may be necessary for people with severe sleep apnea. This style of mask can also provide a more secure fit, making them less prone to air leakage.
Nasal Cushion Masks only cover the nose, and they are designed to be smaller and less intrusive. This style of mask may be a good option for those who prefer less bulk or have claustrophobia. Often times patients find nasal cushion masks to be more comfortable and easier to fit and adjust properly as opposed to full face masks. Although, nasal masks may not be the best option for those with severe sleep apnea due to the fact that they do not support the highest pressure settings well.
Nasal Pillow Masks are the most minimal style of CPAP mask available. Users who prefer minimal points of contact to their face find nasal pillow masks to be a great solution for them, although sometimes nasal pillow masks do not fit as securely as restless sleepers need. Nasal pillow masks are also very lightweight and compact, making them easy to travel with. Nasal pillow masks are only a good option for those whose therapy allows for low to medium pressure settings.
PLEASE NOTE: It is important to consult your doctor about your pressure settings before deciding which style of CPAP mask may be right for you.
FULL FACE MASK RECOMMENDATIONS:
The ResMed AirFit F30i Full Face Mask is a great option for side sleepers that are full face mask users. According to ResMed, the AirFit F30i is, "a minimal-contact full face mask, which means the cushion rests under your nose rather than over it. This gives it a modern look and prevents discomfort on the top of your nose" - ResMed. The AirFit F30i features a top-of-the-head tube connector swivel designed to allow any patient to move freely in any position with the mask on. You can find more details about the AirFit F30i here.
BEST FOR TV WATCHERS: RESMED AIRTOUCH F20 MEMORY FOAM FULL FACE MASK
The AirTouch F20 Full Face Mask by ResMed features an extremely soft and breathable memory foam cushion, ensuring maximum comfort so that your relaxation time is not compromised! This mask features plush headgear with slim straps and magnetic clips. The mask's lightweight, soft frame rests gently on the cheeks without the need for forehead support. You can learn more about the AirTouch F20 here.
BEST MINIMALIST OPTION: RESMED F30 FULL FACE MASK
The AirFit F30 Full Face Mask by ResMed offers a unique under-the-nose design and includes the QuietAir Elbow - making this mask truly one of the quietest and lightest full face masks on the market. The F30 features plush headgear and soft slim straps with magnetic clips, ensuring that set up, fit, and adjustment is an easy process. Find out more about the AirFit F30 here.
BEST OPTION FOR HER: RESMED AIRFIT F20 FOR HER FULL FACE MASK
The ResMed AirFit F20 For Her Full Face Mask is specifically designed to provide the best possible fit "for her" head shape and facial structure. The lightweight, soft silicone frame rests gently on the cheeks, and a Spring Air cushion gently puffs up during use to relieve nasal bridge pressure. This mask provides a fit so good that it feels like it is made specifically for your face. You can learn more about the AirFit F20 For Her here.
NASAL CUSHION MASK RECOMMENDATIONS:
BEST FOR SIDE SLEEPERS: RESMED AIRFIT N20 NASAL MASK
The AirFit N20 Nasal Mask by ResMed is one of the most popular masks on the market, fitting, "a remarkable 99% of people!" - ResMed AirFit N20 internal international fitting study of new and existing CPAP patients, conducted Nov 2015. The plush headgear of the AirFit N20 delivers extra softness, while maintaining stability, making it a great option for side sleepers. You can find more details for the AirFit N20 here.
BEST FOR THOSE WITH FACIAL HAIR: PHILIPS RESPIRONICS COMFORTGEL BLUE NASAL MASK
The ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask by Philips Respironics is a great option for bearded sleep apnea patients. The unique positioning of the headgear keeps straps out of the way of your facial hair, ensuring that you don't have uncomfortable irritation as a result of your CPAP mask. The gel cushion also provides extra comfort around the nasal area. Learn more about the ComfortGel Blue here.
BEST OPTION FOR HER: RESMED AIRFIT N20 FOR HER NASAL MASK
The AirFit N20 For Her Nasal Mask by ResMed is a great nasal cushion mask option that is optimized to provide the best fit "for her." This mask has a soft and stable frame that also accommodates for various hairstyles that could otherwise get in the way of your sleep apnea therapy. This is an easy-to-use mask with impressively functional features. Find out more about the AirFit N20 here.
NASAL PILLOW MASK RECOMMENDATIONS:
BEST FOR SIDE SLEEPERS: RESMED AIRFIT P30I NASAL PILLOW MASK
The AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask by ResMed features a unique headgear design that keeps straps out of your way when sleeping on your side, preventing irritation and red marks. The P30i also includes a top-of-head tube swivel, allowing you to sleep comfortably in any position. You can learn more about the AirFit P30i here.
BEST MINIMALIST OPTION: RESMED AIRFIT N30 NASAL MASK
The AirFit N30 Nasal Mask by ResMed is undeniably the most low-profile and minimalistic CPAP mask on the market. This mask features light, comfortable straps that are so thin you won't even notice they are there. The nasal pillow sits gently under the nose, ensuring you have an extremely comfortable night of sleep apnea therapy. Find out more about the AirFit N30 here.
BEST FOR THOSE WITH FACIAL HAIR: RESMED SWIFT FX NASAL PILLOW MASK
The Swift FX Nasal Pillow Mask by ResMed is the perfect nasal pillow mask option for CPAP users who need a mask that stays out of the way of their facial hair. The elbow of the Swift FX keeps tubing away from your face, and soft silicone straps ensure that you don't have irritation caused by rubbing against your facial hair. Learn more about the Swift FX here.
BEST FOR TV WATCHERS: RESMED AIRFIT P10 NASAL PILLOW MASK
The AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask by ResMed is so light and low-profile that you can binge your favorite TV shows and forget you are even wearing it. But, the key feature of this mask is that it is about 50% quieter than ResMed's previous nasal pillow masks, ensuring that you don't miss any big moments on screen. You can find more details for the AirFit P10 here.
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