Blemishes, sores, redness, rashes, and other unsightly and painful skin problems are common side effects of wearing a CPAP mask. Luckily, there are a number of ways to alleviate these skin irritations so that you can focus on getting a full night of sleep and stop worrying about the red marks on your cheeks. While leading manufacturers of CPAP masks make comfort a priority, not all masks are right for everyone, and regular maintenance and replacement are critical.

Here are the top 5 ways you can eliminate CPAP mask marks and irritation.

1. Use Comfort Products With Your Mask

One of the best ways to alleviate mask irritation is to use a barrier between the mask and your skin. If you experience chafing or breakout from your mask, mask liners are the answer to your problem. Maks liners are made of soft cloth and are compatible with most masks.

Minimize pressure marks: Don’t worry about those annoying red marks anymore
Absorb moisture and facial oils: Absorbs moisture and helps your mask last longer
For all types of masks: Mask liners are specific to brand and type of mask

Minimize pressure marks: Don’t worry about those annoying red marks anymore
Absorb moisture and facial oils: Absorbs moisture and helps your mask last longer
For all types of masks: Mask liners are specific to brand and type of mask

Soft wraps and nasal pads are other great options to eliminate mask irritation.

2. Clean Your Mask Regularly

Cleaning is important because it will ensure that your mask is free from bacteria and any other germs that could potentially cause irritation or infection.

The most effective and easiest way to clean your mask is with the Lumin CPAP Cleaner.

Simple and Quick: Lumin kills 99% of bacteria in a one-touch 5 minute cycle
UV Technology: specialized UV-C light source targets harmful bacteria, viruses, mold, and fungus
Complete compatibility: No adapter needed

Simple and Quick: Lumin kills 99% of bacteria in a one-touch 5 minute cycle
UV Technology: specialized UV-C light source is targeted to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, mold, and fungus
Complete compatibility: Lumin fits all major mask types and humidifier chambers

Save $70 when you buy the Lumin today!

3. Replace Your Old Mask

If your mask fits perfectly and you just have no idea what is causing the redness and pain on your face, there is a good chance that you need to replace your mask. Just like you need to get a new toothbrush every couple of months, getting a new CPAP mask is critical to reducing any skin irritations you might be having. Here are some signs you need a new mask:

Excessive leaking that wasn’t present when you first got the mask
Discoloration (yellowing) in your mask cushion
Cracking, dryness, or stiffness on the mask or mask cushions

Excessive leaking that wasn’t present when you first got the mask
Discoloration (yellowing) in your mask cushion
Cracking, dryness, or stiffness on the mask or mask cushions

Insurance usually covers a new mask and replacement parts every three to six months. Check what you can get covered today:

4. Upgrade to an Auto-Titrating CPAP

Mask marks are most commonly caused by over-tightening your headgear to prevent leaks. Mask leaks might be due to your CPAP pressure setting being too high. Upgrading to an auto-titrating CPAP can fix this problem.

Adjusts pressure automatically: Automatically titrates, or adjusts, pressure on a breath-by-breath basis.
Easy to use: Auto-adjusts to your breathing patterns, so you don’t need set pressure yourself.
Increases comfort and effectiveness: No more incorrect pressure means no more discomfort and interruptions to your sleep.

5. Try a Different CPAP Mask

If none of our tips above help to alleviate mask marks, you might simply be using the wrong mask. It often takes time for CPAP users to find the perfect mask. There are so many styles out there that it can be overwhelming.

A more minimal mask can be a game changer. Our most minimal mask, the Brevida, is also one of our most popular. With its nasal cradle cushion, it provides a secure seal without leaving any marks. Even better, the Brevida currently on sale for under $100!

If you prefer talking to someone about your specific needs, we are available to help you find the perfect mask over the phone. Call (866) 564-2252 during our business hours for a free consultation with a CPAP expert!

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