Selecting the right mask style, making you have a proper fit, and using mask pads and liners are just a few things you can try to reduce face marks your CPAP leaves behind while still getting effective treatment.
This article covers strategies you can use to help avoid getting CPAP marks on your face.
Use the Right Type of Mask
The amount of contact between your face and the mask will determine how likely it is to leave marks. Mask type and size both factor into this.
Mask options generally include:
Nasal pillows, which are plastic inserts that fit inside the nostrils Nasal mask, which fits over the nose Full-face mask, which covers the nose and mouth Total-face mask, which covers the entire face
A smaller mask may be better for you if your current one is leaving face marks or lines.
Speak to your healthcare provider about what options are best for you and if it’s worth switching.
Optimize the Fit
Once you have selected the best size, be sure to check that the mask fits snugly without shifting or gaps.
Ensuring your mask fits properly can help reduce face marks and minimizes air leakage, which may improve the overall quality of the CPAP therapy.
Keep in mind that higher pressures often require a tighter mask, which puts you more at risk of developing CPAP marks and lines on your face.
Speak with your sleep specialist or healthcare provider if you aren’t sure if your mask fits properly.
Use CPAP Mask Padding and Liners
Many masks have padding or covers for the straps. These should be used if you notice marks on your face in the morning.
If you need a little extra padding between the mask and your face, you may have a few additional options, including disposable or washable products, and in some cases, pads or liners that are tailored to fit your particular mask.
Examples include:
REMZzz liners, which are a soft fabric barriers that can help reduce allergic reactions to mask materials and minimizes marks Silent Night liners, which are thick fabric liners that work with full-face masks and nasal masks to create a better seal and reduce face marks and irritation PAD A CHEEK, which is a company that manufactures a wide array of liners, strap pads, and anti-leak mask stabilizers Gecko nasal pads or LiquiCel nasal cushions, which work with full-face masks and some nasal masks to reduce skin pressure, improve mask seal, and reduce slipping
Sleep Changes for Avoiding CPAP Marks and Lines
Sleeping on your back may help with CPAP lines or marks, as it reduces the pressure against the mask. To keep your position, you may need to bolster yourself with cushions to prevent rolling.
If you find it difficult to sleep on your back, ask your healthcare provider about a CPAP pillow, which has a special cutout to reduce direct pressure on the mask.
Summary
To help avoid CPAP marks and lines on your face, there are a few things you can do, including selecting the proper mask for your needs, ensuring that it fits properly, and using mask pads and liners.
Making certain sleep adjustments, such as sleeping on your back, or using a CPAP pillow to reduce pressure on the mask may also help.
