CPAP Mask Types Compared
The mask is the part of CPAP therapy people notice most, and a poor fit is one of the most common reasons people stop. The main styles differ in how much of the face they cover and whether they suit mouth breathers. Most suppliers let you try another style if the first one does not work.
| Mask type | What it covers | Often suits | Possible drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nasal pillows | Soft inserts that seal at the nostrils | People who want minimal contact, wear glasses, read in bed or have facial hair | Can irritate the nostrils at higher pressures; mouth breathing causes leaks unless a chinstrap is used |
| Nasal mask (nasal cushion) | A cushion over the nose | Nose breathers, many pressure levels, people who move during sleep | Mouth leaks; pressure on the bridge of the nose with some designs |
| Under-the-nose nasal cushion | A cushion that sits under the nose, not over the bridge | People with marks or sores on the nose bridge | Mouth leaks; fit can be sensitive to nose shape |
| Full face mask | Nose and mouth | Mouth breathers, nasal congestion, higher pressures | Larger, more surface to leak, can feel confining |
| Hybrid (oral with nasal pillows or under-nose) | Mouth plus a seal at or under the nose | Mouth breathers who find full face masks confining | Fit can be tricky; still larger than nasal styles |
| Total face mask | The whole front of the face | People who cannot get a seal with other masks | Bulky; usually a specialist option |
Notes
- Mask choice should be made with your sleep clinician or equipment supplier, who can size and fit it.
- Heated humidification can help with dryness and congestion with any mask type.
- Over-tightening the headgear usually makes leaks worse, not better.
Frequently asked questions
Which mask is best?
The one you can wear all night with a good seal. Nasal styles are often preferred when you breathe through your nose; full face styles help when you breathe through your mouth or your nose is often blocked.
Can I use a nasal mask if I breathe through my mouth?
Sometimes, with a chinstrap, but many mouth breathers do better with a full face or hybrid mask. Persistent dry mouth is a clue to discuss with your supplier.
Does mask style affect the pressure I need?
It can. Some studies have found that oronasal (full face) masks may need higher pressures than nasal masks for the same person. A clinician should review data after any mask change if problems appear.
Sources
More reference tables
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