The Sleep Apnea Mask Reviewed
If you’re reading this, you either know someone who was diagnosed with sleep apnea or you may be the one suffering from the condition yourself.To give you a brief overview, sleep apnea occurs whenever your sleep is disrupted–something that occurs when your upper airway gets blocked. It has the potential to be fatal, unless you suddenly wake up.But while there is no permanent way to remedy this sleeping disorder, there is a long-term solution to ensure that the momentary stop in breathing will not lead to even more complications.
Enter the CPAP machine, a device developed to assist sleep apnea patients by providing constant airflow throughout the night.
So now that you’ve found the perfect CPAP machine, it means that all is well and good, right? While you’re more than halfway through having a better night’s rest, there is still one factor that you have to consider–the best CPAP mask to wear. The mask you’ll be using can determine your overall experience with using a CPAP machine.
Remember, this is something that you’ll be using on a nightly basis. Because your facial anatomy and how you sleep (and snore) is different from other CPAP users, it is important to dedicate some time in exploring the type of mask that fits into your lifestyle and preferences. This is why various types had been developed to cater to each individual’s preferences.
Considerations When Buying a New CPAP Mask
When looking to buy the top new cpap mask, you can check out cpap mask reviews, FDA approvals, amazon feedback on the most comfortable CPAP mask, but the reality is when choosing CPAP machine masks, remember that the best sleep apnea masks types are suited to the specific user needs, and there is no shortage of types to choose from:
- CPAP masks for women
- CPAP masks for stomach sleepers
- CPAP masks for beards
- CPAP masks for side sleeper
- CPAP masks for mouth breathers
- Cordless CPAP masks
- Oral CPAP masks
- Gel Pillow CPAP masks
- CPAP masks for her
- Mouth only CPAP mask
- Mini cpap mask
- Strapless cpap mask
However, to help you better understand your CPAP headgear options (and keeping life simple) we have categorised the CPAP mask types into three main groups…
Types of CPAP Masks (CPAP Headgear):
– Full Face CPAP Mask
– CPAP Nasal Masks/ CPAP Nose Mask
– CPAP Nose Pillow / Nasal Pillows / Plugs
And now for the main event… Your CPAP mask options reviewed…
Our CPAP Mask Reviews
In this buying guide, we give you seven of the best C-PAP masks that are worth investing in.
Table of Contents
[1] ResMed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask with Headgear
[2] ResMed Swift FX Pillow
[3] ResMed AirTouch
F20 Cushion
[4] ResMed Mirage FX Mask
[5] Wisp Nasal Mask Replacement Cushion
[6] Simplus RollFit Full Face Seal/Cushion Replacement
[7] Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask
[8] Final Thoughts
ResMed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask with Headgear
A quick Google search on the best CPAP masks will show that ResMed is a name that is quite known in the industry. Their AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask further proves this.
First of all, the AirFit P10’s QuietAir woven-mesh vent technology makes it one of the quietest among other C PAP masks. This means that you won’t have to get used to any kind of noise emitted by your mask to lull you to sleep.
One great thing about nasal pillows is that they are lighter and more compact as compared to the best full face masks and CPAP nasal masks. ResMed takes pride on their product being 50% lighter as compared to other nose pillows. This makes it ideal for travel, especially as you will already be bringing along a bulky machine.
When ordering a face mask to complement your CPAP machine, manufacturers don’t often include the whole package. What makes the Airfit P10 great is that it already comes with the headgear to support and stabilize the nasal pillows in place. Its innovative split-strap design keeps facial contact at a minimum, promoting utmost comfort once you slip it on.
The package already includes three pillow sizes ranging from small to large so that you won’t have to guess which one will fit well into your nostrils.
Also read: PureSleep Mouthpiece Review
Pros
- Quiet and lightweight mask due to its woven vent technology
- Comes with the whole package (mask, headgear and three nasal pillow replacements of various sizes)
Cons
- Headgear strap not adjustable
ResMed Swift FX Pillow
Another ResMed product on this list is the Swift FX Pillow, a nasal mask that promises that you’ll forget you even have one on.
This is because this nasal CPAP mask takes pride on having a minimalist appearance. This means it won’t even be noticeable during those moments when you’d like to read a novel or watch the TV with the kids before going to bed.
With such flexibility, it has a super soft fit and settles in snugly into the contours of your nose.
The dual-wall pillow is also an added feature. It ensures stability without giving you the feeling that you have to restrain yourself from moving too much.
Side sleepers will also not have to worry about their mask slipping off. Featuring a flexible chamber in its base, this is perfect for those moments when you toss and turn around to find the perfect sleeping position.
Moreover, this added feature means that it can serve as a reliable seal even when the CPAP is set to emit high therapy pressures should your doctor recommend you turn up the setting.
Also read: SoClean 2 CPAP Cleaner Review – Keep Your CPAP Machine Germ-Free
Pros
- Has a flexible chamber in the base that will allow side sleepers to rest comfortably
- Minimal appearance and doesn’t get in the way when reading or watching TV
Cons
- Only fits with ResMed Swift FX Nasal Pillow System
AirTouch F20 Cushion
Wearing a CPAP face mask for eight straight hours doesn’t sound like the most comfortable feeling in the world. For those who are concerned about the mask leaving a red mark around their nose and mouth area, ResMed’s AirTouch F20 is the solution to your worries.
This full face mask has an UltraSoft memory foam cushion, making it one of the softest face masks in the market. ResMed even allows you to choose between two types of cushions — the AirTouch 20 memory foam and AirFit 20 InfinitySeal cushion.
With its memory foam and modular design, this full face mask is designed to conform to the unique features of each person’s face. This means that you won’t have to worry if it will be comfortable enough.
Even though it is light and breathable, you won’t have to worry about it slipping off even at high pressures. It is designed to provide a secure seal no matter the setting you choose in your CPAP machine.
Moreover, its QuietAir technology ensures that the diffuser vent emits as little noise as possible, gently dispersing exhaled air.
As compared to other CPAP full face masks, the AirTouch F20 is easier to clean and maintain. Neither soap nor water is needed as a quick wipe-down with wet wipes is enough to keep the mask’s memory foam clean.
Pros
- Has a memory foam for utmost comfort
- Users have the option to choose from two types of cushions
Cons
- Only seals well when you tighten up the headgear straps
ResMed Mirage FX Mask
Comfort and quality performance merge in ResMed’s Mirage FX CPAP nasal mask. Simple yet powerful, the Mirage FX is created with your convenience in mind.
The dual-wall Spring Air cushion means that this nasal mask will remain firm on your face without sacrificing comfort.
Moreover, it features a flexible forehead support that can help reduce contact with your skin, making it feel like you don’t even have anything on while you get a good night’s rest.
It has a slender and lightweight frame that even with the forehead support, you won’t have any problems with the mask obscuring your vision.
Lastly, you won’t have to worry about whether it will fit or not. The Mirage FX has different versions that can cater to all types of facial structures.
If you worry that it might not fit as snugly as you would like to, ResMed also offers a wide version that has more frame and cushion width. For a more comfortable seal around the nose area, the wide variation even has a shallower cushion and shorter frame length designed to fit flatter nasal bridges.
Pros
- Has a forehead support to minimize the head mask contact
- Also has a wide version
Cons
- Gets a yellow tint as it ages
Wisp Nasal Mask Replacement Cushion
Another brand on the list is Philips Respironics — a manufacturer that has been in the business of creating machines for quite some time now. With their expertise extending to the CPAP and BiPAP industry, it’s no wonder that they also aim to deliver quality products.
This is why their Wisp Nasal Mask made it into our list. It comes in various sizes, offering petite, small, medium, and large sizes. With such a wide range to choose from, you won’t have to worry about not finding the right fit for you.
Despite offering a variety of sizes, the Wisp Nasal Mask is still lightweight. What’s great about nasal masks is that they are the perfect mix between a full face mask’s stability and a nasal pillow’s compactness. Philips’ nasal mask doesn’t fail in this department as it sits just below your nose bridge to ensure that there is minimal contact.
Also read: 7 CPAP Masks For A Comfortable Sleep
Pros
- Comes in various sizes
- Sits below the nose bridge to make users feel that they don’t even have anything on
- One of the smallest CPAP masks
Cons
- Has a minimal invasive design reminiscent of a nasal pillow (may be a deal breaker for those who would rather not have anything inside their nostrils)
Simplus RollFit Full Face Seal/Cushion Replacement
If there’s one thing to describe Fisher & Paykell’s Simplus RollFit Full Face Mask, “innovative” is the word that first comes to mind.
As its name suggests, it has an auto-adjusting technology that rolls back and forth on the nose as you sleep.
This helps reduce the pressure on the areas that are harder to fit in, such as the bridge of the nose. This way, you will be able to experience a comfortable seal while using your mask.
It is available in small, medium, and large sizes so that you will be able to choose which one will work best for your face.
The Simplus RollFit also features the Advanced Air Diffuser technology, ensuring that you will have a good night’s rest without disruptive noise coming from your mask and machine.
Pros
- Auto-adjusting technology
- Comfortable fit
- Multiple sizes
Cons
- Might irritate sensitive skin
Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask
A full face mask doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. This is proven by Philips Respironics’ DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask.
With its under-the-nose design, rest assured that your line of vision will not be blocked by any pesky plastic.
The frame itself allows cushions to be interchangeable, This means that if you prefer a nasal mask tonight rather than opting for a full head face mask, this CPAP mask allows you to do so.
For those moments when you need to move quickly after waking up, the magnetic clips allows a fast removal of the the headgear. This shows how easy it is to use this face mask.
Pros
- Interchangeable cushions so you can switch easily between full face, nasal, or CPAP pillow mask
- Designed to sit under your nose so as not to obstruct your view
Cons
- Since you get the option to choose from all three types of face masks, cleaning may be a bit of a hassle (especially when you regularly use all three)
Final Thoughts
With all these mask options, you won’t have to worry about not having the perfect mask to go along with the CPAP you recently invested in.
Before even considering these products, think first what type of mask you prefer. Would you rather opt for the stable full face mask, the comfortable nasal mask, or the minimal design of a nasal pillow?
How about your doctor’s requirements? Sometimes, you won’t simply choose a face mask based on your preferences. There will be instances wherein a doctor may recommend one that best suits your situation.
Lastly, the way you sleep can also be a big factor. For those who have the tendency to not stay put during their sleep, a nasal pillow may not be ideal. As for side sleepers, a full face mask may hinder the way you sleep. A nasal mask is the perfect combination between two mask types; however, it’s not the best CPAP mask for mouth breathers.
It is crucial to determine all these first before jumping right into browsing through brands and determining each product’s feature.
Ready to find your perfect match? Do your research first. Who knows? Maybe one of our featured products may be the right mask for you.