8 simple ways to protect your hair when using CPAP

Have you ever woken up with a bad case of ‘bedhead’? If you’re a CPAP user, you might worry about a certain type of bedhead – CPAP hair.

While it’s not widely discussed as a common inconvenience of CPAP, you might be familiar with the experience of waking up with hair dents.  

A question you might now have is: How do I protect my hair from a CPAP mask?

Fear not, we've got your back (and your hair) with some tips to help protect your hair while using your CPAP mask. 

1. Try a head wrap or bonnet  

You might feel like your headgear and your hair don’t always get along – you could say there’s a bit of tension. Sometimes the best way to fix the relationship is to take some space. This is where head caps, wraps or bonnets can offer support.  

Some CPAP users prefer to wear a hair cap underneath their headgear to help prevent any hair dents or damage due to friction.  

2. Add some padding  

Another option is to add padding between your hair and your headgear with some soft strap covers to help reduce rubbing. This can be a good alternative for those looking for an extra layer of protection without wrapping their whole head. You can find these soft wraps online or try using a bit of fabric or towel you have at home.

3. Keep your hair loose

Tight ponytails, buns, or braids may put unnecessary stress on your hair follicles, making them more prone to breakage.¹ If you have long hair and prefer to tie it up while wearing your CPAP mask, make sure you keep it loose.

4. Find the right fit  

Getting the right mask fit is key to CPAP therapy. Experiment with different strap tension levels to find the sweet spot between mask stability and hair comfort. You might need to do some trial and error, but your hair will thank you for it.

Make sure you follow our user guide as it contains instructions on how to properly fit your mask and headgear. You can visit our website/YouTube channel for mask-fitting videos too. Our friendly sleep coaches* can also assist you with finding the right fit.  

5. Replace your mask as recommended

If your mask shows any kind of wear and tear you need to replace it. In general, it might be time to replace your mask if you need to tighten the straps very frequently. Over time your headgear can lose its elasticity which may lead you to over-tighten your mask. Read your mask user guide for detailed information.

6. Keep it clean  

Cleanliness isn't just next to godliness; it's next to hair healthiness. Regularly clean your CPAP mask and headgear to avoid oil and dirt buildup on headgear.  

Check out your user guide for detailed instructions on how to best clean your mask (and how often to wash it). You can also visit our YouTube channel to view step-by-step videos on how to clean and maintain your mask.  

7. Choose your mask carefully

When choosing your mask and headgear, consider different factors that may impact your hair, such as the softness of the material, headgear placement and your typical sleeping position. If you know you toss and turn while sleeping, you might want to try a design with a smaller profile and slimmer straps, such as the AirFit^TM N30 nasal cradle CPAP mask or AirFit^TM P10 nasal pillows CPAP mask. These minimalist masks are designed with a slim easy-to-fit strap to help keep the mask in place.

8. Be kind to your hair  

One thing to be mindful of is how you put on and take off your headgear. Make sure you always follow your mask user guide for instructions on how to correctly put your mask on and take it off to avoid any unnecessary pulling on your hair.

Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that while treating your sleep apnea, you can keep your hair looking fabulous. It's all about finding that sweet spot between CPAP comfort and hair care. Sleep well, breathe easy, and wake up with gorgeous hair! 

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. You should speak to your doctor about your symptoms and whether a CPAP device is suitable for you. 

*ResMed Sleep Coaches are sales and customer service representatives who have received training in sleep health. They can give general information about sleep health, sleep disorders and products that may help improve your sleep. However, they are not a qualified healthcare professional and cannot provide medical advice. ResMed recommends you continue to consult your GP or respiratory physician.