How should a full face CPAP mask fit? A comprehensive guide

If you are new to using a CPAP machine with a full face mask, you may wonder how tight it should be, if it will leak, and if it is the correct size. You might also be concerned about comfort, especially if you have facial hair or sleep in specific positions. You may even worry about feeling claustrophobic.

This is why finding the right fit for a full-face CPAP mask is crucial for sleep apnea therapy. A well-fitting mask helps ensure consistent airflow, reduces discomfort and prevents air leaks that could disrupt your sleep.

This guide explains what makes a good CPAP full-face mask fit, the factors that affect it, how to fix common problems and tips to make sure your mask fits correctly.

Jump to:

• What makes a good CPAP full face mask fit?
• Factors affecting good mask fit 
• Fixing common CPAP full face mask issues 
• How to test for good mask fit for full face masks
• The AirFit^TM F40 - our 2024 top pick full face mask

What makes a good CPAP full face mask fit? 

A good CPAP full-face mask fit is essential for both comfort and therapy adherance. Here are the main factors that contribute to an ideal fit:

• Comfortable cushion: A good cushion should be soft and contour to your face, staying in place without causing pressure points, irritation, or discomfort.
  
  
• Proper size: Your mask should be the right size for your face, covering your nose and mouth without being too tight or loose. The right size ensures the mask fits snugly against your face, preventing air leaks that could disrupt your therapy.
  
  
• Secure seal: Your mask must create a tight seal against your skin to prevent air from escaping, ensuring steady air pressure. Download our myAir sleep apnea therapy support app to get leak alerts and tips when your mask isn’t fitting properly.
  
  
• Adjustable straps: Adjustable straps on the headgear should be easy to adjust to customise the fit without being too tight. This can prevent discomfort or red marks on your skin.

MASK TIP: Not sure what size mask you need? Refer to our mask fitting templates to help you identify the correct cushion/mask size for you.

Factors affecting good mask fit 

Many things can affect how well your full-face CPAP mask fits, these include:

• Compatibility with facial features: How your face is shaped, like the width of your nose and shape of your cheeks, can impact how well a mask fits and seals against your face. Your mask should accommodate facial features like the bridge of your nose, facial hair, or glasses without causing discomfort or compromising the seal.
  
  
• Sleeping style: If you move a lot during sleep, a less suitable mask may shift, leading to leaks. The position you sleep in (back/side/stomach) can also affect the mask’s stability and seal. A mask that fits well in one position may leak in another.
  
  
• Headgear adjustment: Straps that are too loose can cause leaks, while straps that are too tight can lead to discomfort and skin irritation.
  
  
• Pressure settings: Higher pressure settings on your CPAP machine may mean you need a more secure fitting mask to prevent shifting and leaking.

MASK TIP: If you move a lot while sleeping, consider a mask from our Minimalist or Freedom ranges. These designs offer more flexibility, allowing you to move freely during the night.

Fixing common CPAP full face mask issues 

Even with a well-fitting mask, you may encounter some common issues. Here’s how to address them:

• Air leaks: If you experience air leaks, first check that the mask is the correct size and that the headgear is properly adjusted. Adjust the straps evenly, ensuring the mask sits snugly without being overly tight. If you continue to have leaks, you might need to try a different mask size or type. See our blog: How to stop your CPAP mask from leaking for more advice.
  
  
• Skin irritation or red marks: To prevent skin irritation, make sure the mask isn’t too tight. Regularly clean your mask and replace the cushion as needed to maintain hygiene and comfort. See CPAP Maintenance Guide for tips on keeping your mask clean.
  
  
• Mask slipping during sleep: If your mask tends to slip, especially when you change positions, try adjusting the straps for a more secure fit. If the problem persists, you may need a mask that better suits your sleeping style.
  
  
• Pressure on the nose bridge: If your mask feels too tight on your nose, try adjusting the straps or using a more flexible mask.

MASK TIP: Having issues with your mask? See here for more troubleshooting tips: How to troubleshoot the 5 common CPAP mask problems

How to test for good mask fit for full face masks

Follow these steps to help ensure your full-face CPAP mask fits well for optimal therapy and comfort.

1. Initial fitting

Place the mask over your nose and mouth, ensuring the cushion rests comfortably against your face. Adjust the headgear straps so the mask feels secure but not too tight. The mask should make even contact with your face, with no gaps or pressure points.

2. Connect to your CPAP machine

Turn on the CPAP machine and set it to your prescribed pressure setting. If your machine has a ramp feature, you can turn it off briefly to check the fit at full pressure. Use your fingers to feel around the edges of the mask for any air leaks. Adjust the straps or reposition the mask as needed to eliminate leaks.

3. Test in different positions

Test the fit in your typical sleep position(s) – whether on your back, side, or stomach. Make sure the mask remains secure and doesn’t leak when you change positions. Slowly move your head from side to side and mimic sleeping movements to check if the mask stays on properly without any leaks.

4. Perform a mask fit test (machine feature)

ResMed AirSense^TM CPAP machines have a Mask Fit feature that checks the seal. Activate this feature and follow the machine’s instructions to assess the fit.

5. Adjust as necessary

If there are leaks or discomfort, adjust the headgear straps or mask position. Ensure that adjustments are balanced, tightening, or loosening both sides equally. The mask should be snug but not overly tight.

MASK TIP: Refer to your mask user guide for detailed instructions on how to fit your individual mask. You can also download our myAir app for a guided setup.

The AirFit F40^TM - our 2024 top pick full face mask

Choosing a CPAP mask is a personal choice. You should think about different factors to find the mask that best suits your needs. But we’d be remiss not to give a shout-out to our latest full face mask launched in 2024.

For a good fit, you can’t look past our AirFit^TM F40 Full Face Mask for its adaptability.

It is the first full face mask with an AdaptiSeal™ cushion made of soft, total silicone. The flexible cushion is designed to mould to your face, keeping its seal no matter how you sleep.

If you need a full face mask and move in bed, this mask may feel like a real game changer because of its flexibility, ultra-compact size and dynamic seal.

Another standout feature of the AirFit F40 is that it was designed to contour and adapt to all facial shapes and profiles. It was created using a new method that incorporates 3D scan data from real users. The AirFit F40 mask is so adaptive, it boasts a 98% fit range.¹

A well-fitting full-face CPAP mask is key to successful sleep apnea therapy. By understanding what makes a good fit, recognising the factors that influence it, addressing common issues, and thoroughly testing your mask, you can ensure a comfortable and restful night’s sleep.

Ready to purchase? Shop ResMed’s Full Face Masks. Or sign up for a mask subscription, starting from just $3.50 per week.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL.

References:

¹Two ResMed external clinical studies of experienced PAP patients. The first study included users with ≥ 6 months’ therapy who used ResMed’s AirFit F40 and AirFit F20 full face masks in randomized order for up to seven consecutive nights each at home. Study conducted in Australia, June 6 - 27, 2023, n=28 (AirFit F40) and 29 (AirFit F20). Facial measurements of 29 participants were taken. The second study included current users with ≥ 12 months’ PAP therapy who met 90-day CMS compliance for PAP therapy in the three months prior to the study. Participants used ResMed's AirFit F40 and Fisher & Paykel's Evora Full in a randomized order with their own for up to seven consecutive nights each at home. Study conducted in the U.S., October 4 - November 20, 2023, n=57. Facial measurements of 57 participants were taken.