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Choosing a CPAP or BPAP Mask: Nasal, Full-Face and Nasal Pillow Masks
How to choose the right mask for sleep apnoea therapy: pros of nasal, full-face (oronasal) and nasal pillow masks, sizing and common problems.
The mask matters as much as the device for CPAP or BPAP success. A poorly chosen or poorly fitted mask causes leaks, skin irritation, dry eyes and, eventually, giving up treatment. The right mask suits the face shape, breathing habits and sleeping position.
| Mask type | Feature | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Nasal mask | Covers the nose only | Most nose-breathers, moderate–high pressures |
| Nasal pillows | Small cushions in the nostrils | Claustrophobia, glasses wearers, beards, stomach sleepers |
| Full-face (oronasal) | Covers nose and mouth | Mouth-breathers, nasal congestion, high pressures |
| Hybrid | Covers the mouth, pillows at the nose | Mouth-breathers wanting a smaller mask |
If a mouth-breather uses a nasal mask, air escapes through the mouth; consider a chin strap or full-face mask.
Sizing
Most masks come in small, medium and large; use the manufacturer's sizing guide. Too large leaks; too small presses on the nose bridge and cheeks. Try the mask lying down with the machine running, as a fit that looks fine sitting may leak when lying.
Fitting
- Place the mask, then attach the headgear.
- Turn on the machine and adjust lying down.
- Tighten straps evenly, just enough to prevent leaks.
- For leaks, lift the mask slightly and reseat it; the cushion shapes with airflow.
- Adjust the forehead support if available.
The most common mistake is over-tightening, which distorts the cushion, increases leaks and causes sores.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leak towards the eyes | Mask too large or loose at the top | Check size, adjust forehead support |
| Red nose bridge | Straps too tight or mask too small | Loosen, change mask, protective pad |
| Dry mouth | Mouth breathing, low humidity | Humidifier, chin strap or full-face mask |
| Noisy leak | Poor seating, worn cushion | Reseat, replace cushion |
| Strap marks | Tight straps | Loosen, try another type |
| Blocked nose | Dry air, allergy | Heated humidifier, see a doctor |
Cushions lose elasticity over months; replace cushions, headgear and tubing as recommended.
BPAP often uses higher pressures and may be for respiratory failure, so leak control is even more important; full-face masks are common, selected with the doctor and technical team.
We offer home mask trials, sizing and fitting training for CPAP and BPAP users across Yalova, with spare cushions, headgear and tubing, and support in Bursa, Istanbul and Kocaeli–Gebze.
