Which CPAP Masks are Best for Beards?
A common question we hear is, “Can I keep my beard while doing CPAP therapy?” After all, if you’ve spent the time to grow out your beard, you’d probably prefer to not have to shave it. In this article, we’ll examine the best CPAP masks for beards so you don’t have to give yours up.
The number one complaint about CPAP therapy from men with beards is air leakage, since some masks are unable to conform as well to facial contours. This happens when air that should be passing from your mask to your nose or mouth leaks out from the side of your mask instead. Not only is this loud and annoying, but it also compromises your treatment.
The Best Masks for Men With Facial Hair
Fortunately, there are many mask options available for men with beards. We have several mask types to choose from including nasal pillow masks, nasal masks, and full face masks. If you have a beard and tend to breathe through your mouth, it’s recommended that you use a full face mask or nasal/nasal pillow mask with a chinstrap. No matter what your situation is, we have options for you! In the next sections, we’ll take a look at some of the best masks available.
Nasal Pillow Masks
Nasal pillows are the best option for people with facial hair since they don’t rest on the upper lip or the chin. The air flows directly through the nasal cushions into your nostrils so it doesn’t come into contact with your facial hair. This gives you the option to grow the bushiest beard possible and a nice mustache to match!
Best Nasal Pillow Mask: ResMed AirFit P10
Our most popular nasal pillow mask is the ResMed AirFit P10. This mask has stood the test of time and remains a CPAP user favorite because it is minimalistic and easy to use. Here are some of the other top features of the AirFit P10 mask:
- Features QuietAir woven mesh vents which diffuse exhaled air and provide a quieter CPAP experience
- Comes with flexible nasal pillows which keep a strong seal even as you change sleeping positions during the night
- One of the most lightweight masks on the market, weighing in at only 1.6 oz when assembled
To learn more about this mask, you can check out our full AirFit P10 mask review here.
Nasal Masks
Not everyone likes the feeling of nasal pillow masks, and that’s okay! If this sounds like you, you might try going with a nasal mask instead. Look for a model that doesn’t rest as heavily on your upper lip so your mustache won’t interfere with your CPAP therapy.
Best Nasal Mask: ResMed AirFit N20
This year, our most popular nasal mask has been the ResMed AirFit N20. This mask has remained a staple for countless CPAP users for good reason. Some of the AirFit N20’s top features include:
- New and improved nasal cushion to provide a better fit and a more reliable seal
- Plush headgear provides added comfort while avoiding red marks
- Quick release elbow and magnetic clips allow you to quickly attach and detach the mask
Keep in mind that both nasal masks and nasal pillow masks work best for nose breathers. If you are a mouth breather, you’ll want to consider wearing a chinstrap with your CPAP mask.
Full Face Masks
If you’re a mouth breather, a full face mask is a great option! You’ll want to look for one that reaches under the chin so that your facial hair stays clear of the mask’s seal. As long as your beard fits mostly inside the mask, you should be able to get adequate CPAP therapy.
Best Full Face Mask: ResMed AirTouch F20
The AirTouch F20 has gained a lot of popularity since it’s debut and for good reason! It has become a favorite among CPAP users due to its comfortable fit and strong seal. Some of the AirTouch F20’s highlights are:
- Memory foam cushion forms to the contours of your face, ensuring an adequate and reliable seal
- QuietAir Technology diffuses exhaled air, making this mask one of ResMed’s quietest full face masks
- This mask features a quick release elbow that allows you to quickly attach and detach the mask as needed
If you’d like to learn more about the AirTouch F20, check out our full mask review article on our blog.
Some Things to Keep in Mind
Besides mask style, there are a few other things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Once you find a mask you like, it may be tempting to go for a looser fit. Logically, this makes sense because the mask will fit around your beard more comfortably. However, this will create a weaker seal and can actually lead to more leakage!
In fact, most experts recommend starting with a smaller size and gradually moving your way up until you find a mask that fits snugly without sacrificing comfort.
If you’re having trouble, there are comfort products out there that can help you get a better mask seal. Mask liners or even gelling your beard at night can help prevent leakage and ensure that you get a good night’s sleep.
What If I’m Still Not Sure Which Mask is Right for Me?
If you’re still not sure which mask is right for you, take Easy Breathe’s Mask Finder quiz here! This will take into account your unique needs and recommend the best mask type and model based on your responses.
If you would rather speak to one of our representatives, you can give us a call at (866) 564-2252 or chat in online with one of our experts at easybreathe.com! Our team is the best in the business at getting CPAP users the right supplies!
