Avoiding Red Marks from a CPAP Mask

The CPAP mask is one of the most important parts of the CPAP machine as a whole. It is considered the interface between the sleep apnea patient and the machine which helps that patient breathe properly. Choosing the right mask is vital to improving the CPAP experience, as well as getting the most out of sleep apnea therapy. What happens if the mask is comfortable for a while, but you wake up with red marks on your face? This is a common occurrence that has a couple of main causes and is easy to remedy.

Adjusting your Mask

If the skin is red because of pressure from the mask, the solution is to loosen the headgear straps, but just enough to increase comfort without sacrificing therapy. This can be a challenge for certain mask types that may have several connections, but as long as you understand your headgear, you can increase your relief. For example, a full-face mask may have points of adjustment above your ears, as well as next to or under your chin, and even across your forehead. Pay close attention to where the marks on your face are located to make the necessary adjustments. Keep in mind that if your headgear is made of flexible materials such as fabric or stretchy foam, it has the tendency to become misshapen over time, and need replacement. Be sure to see your manufacturer’s suggestions for mask and mask parts replacement to keep your mask in the best possible shape for your therapy. As an easy guide, CPAPSupplies.com has provided a general guide for replacement of CPAP parts.

Fabric Masks

Another cause of red marks from a CPAP mask can be a skin allergy to the materials from which the mask is fashioned. Many CPAP masks are made of silicone, and not every skin type is comfortable with this. If this is the case, there are two great options for you. The first option is to consider a fabric mask such as the SleepWeaver mask from Circadiance. This mask is designed around a fabric cushion that inflates naturally with the air from the CPAP to create a gentle and secure seal. The headgear is flexible as well, so there are no connections to the mask that could cause the red marks being avoided. The best part is his mask is silicone free for those who are allergic.

CPAP Mask Liners

Should you like the mask you currently have, but you would like it more if you didn’t have those red marks from the materials of which it is made, consider CPAP mask liners. Remzzz is a company that has had much success in the creation of mask liners for all kinds of masks. They have a wide variety of liners for every mask fit including full face masks, nasal masks and nasal pillow mask liners. Mask liners allow the CPAP therapy to work for any mask that may cause red marks on the skin by morning.

CPAPSupplies.com is the one stop shop for all things CPAP therapy. Check us out online, or call us at 866-298-6482. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help!