Written by Nancy Kirk
Reviewed by Daniel Edejer, Respiratory Therapist
July 22, 2024
Finding the right CPAP mask is crucial for your comfort, effectiveness, and compliance for sleep apnea treatment, with the option to choose between nasal, hybrid, and full face mask styles. The full face CPAP mask offers the most coverage and is usually more secure. Some find them more challenging to get used to because there’s more contact area on the face, but they are often the best option for patients who breathe through their mouth or experience congestion. Let’s break down everything you need to know about full face masks, including the pros and cons, and our top tips for adjusting.
What Is a Full Face CPAP Mask?
A full face CPAP mask covers both the nose and mouth, providing a secure fit that ensures continuous airflow. It is designed to create a seal around the edges of your face, secured with headgear that wraps around your head. When considering a full face CPAP mask, it's important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it's the best option for your CPAP therapy needs.
Pros of a Full Face Mask for CPAP Therapy
- Effective for mouth breathers: If you breathe through your mouth during sleep, a full face mask helps you receive the necessary airflow, whereas a nasal mask wouldn’t be very effective.
- Ideal for nasal congestion: If you experience frequent nasal congestion due to allergies or colds, a full face mask allows you to continue your CPAP therapy without disruption.
- Reduced air leaks: The full face mask helps create a secure seal to minimize air leaks.
- Higher pressure tolerance: If your prescription requires a stronger airflow, the full face masks can typically handle higher pressure settings.
- Consistent therapy: A full face mask ensures continuous positive airway pressure throughout the night, whether you start breathing through your mouth or have a cold.
Cons of a Full Face Mask for CPAP Therapy
- Larger design: The larger contact area with the face can feel less comfortable for some users, especially if the mask is not fitted properly. This can also cause skin irritation. This is why it’s so important to ensure your mask fits correctly!
- Claustrophobia: Some users may feel claustrophobic or confined with a mask covering both their nose and mouth.
- Seal issues: Some may find it challenging to get a proper seal, leading to air leaks and reduced effectiveness of the therapy. Particularly, those with beards may be more susceptible to leaks. Read these 6 Tips For Using CPAP Masks With Beards, Mustaches, and More. If you have facial hair, we recommend the AirTouch F20.
- Difficulty with stomach sleeping: Full face masks may be harder to get used to if you sleep on your stomach, as the mask can shift or become uncomfortable.
- Cleaning routine: Due to their size and design, full face masks can be more time-consuming to clean than smaller masks.
Is a Full Face CPAP Mask Right for You?
A full face mask may be the right choice if you breathe through your mouth, have frequent nasal congestion, or need higher pressure settings for your CPAP therapy. It may also be a good option if other mask styles have not worked for you.
However, you may encounter challenges with the full face style if you have facial hair, sleep on your stomach, or easily feel claustrophobic. That said, treatment is crucial if you have sleep apnea. Most people adjust to their masks with patience and persistence and feel much healthier long-term when sticking with CPAP therapy consistently.
Tips for Getting Used to Your Full Face Mask
Be aware that getting used to your full face mask may take time. If your initial days aren’t as comfortable as you’d hoped, here are seven tips on easing the transition into nightly use of your full face mask:
- Proper fit: Make sure your mask fits correctly, A good seal is crucial for comfort and effectiveness.
- Gradual adaptation: Start by wearing your mask while awake for short periods. This can help you become accustomed to the feeling before wearing it all night.
- Maintenance: Regularly clean your mask and replace parts as needed. A clean mask provides a better seal and is more comfortable.
- Use a humidifier: If you experience dryness, using a CPAP humidifier can add moisture to the air, making breathing more comfortable.
- Adjust the straps: Ensure the headgear straps are snug but not too tight. Over-tightening can cause discomfort and irritation.
- Talk to the Lofta Team: If you experience persistent discomfort or issues, we are here to help. Have questions? Call us at 1 (800) 698-8000 or email us at sleep@lofta.com. You can also chat with us live at lofta.com.
- Have patience: The truth is, your mask may not feel perfectly comfortable right away, but don’t give up! It often takes time to get used to sleeping with your full face mask.
Shop Top-Rated Full Face CPAP Masks
Choosing the right CPAP mask is the key to successful therapy, and for many, a full face mask offers the perfect solution. We offer a comprehensive selection of CPAP mask styles. Check out some of our best-sellers below.
ResMed AirFit F20 Complete System
Price: $155.00
The AirFit F20 by ResMed features a full cushion design that covers your nose and mouth, allowing you to breathe freely through either. This mask provides a secure and comfortable seal to minimize mask leaks and ensure optimal therapy. It features plush headgear and a soft, flexible frame for maximum comfort. The design makes it easy to take it on and off. The complete kit includes the mask frame, cushion, headgear, and magnetic clips—everything you need for effective therapy. The F20 can also be used with the AirMini Portable CPAP device when you use the F20 AirMini Setup Pack.
“Excellent fit. Much better then mask I was using before. Extremely comfortable.” — Trinity J.
ResMed AirTouch F20 Complete System
Price: $159.00
Upgrade your Airfit to the AirTouch, which features a memory foam cushion designed to contour to the shape of your face. Keep in mind, you’ll need to replace your cushion every month, which is more frequent than the Airfit cushion, which should be replaced every 4-6 months. The other difference is the air diffuser, which offers a slightly quieter experience.
“The fit is perfect and is extremely comfortable. The ordering process was easy, and I am definitely using Lofta to fulfill any CPAP needs.” — Kenneth N.
“Had trouble finding a good mask to fit my big old head and beard. This can't be beat. The fit is super comfortable, it seals perfectly and makes it easy to fall asleep AND STAY asleep.” — Pax W.
ResMed AirFit™ and AirTouch™ F20 For Her
The “For Her” mask has the same great features as the standard AirFit™ and AirTouch™. It comes in a stylish violet color and is available in sizes small and medium.
Fisher & Paykel Vitera
Vitera's design prioritizes stability, adaptability, and breathability. This mask uses unique VentiCool technology, which incorporates breathable fabric that enhances airflow and facilitates moisture transfer. Its crafted to maintain a secure seal while accommodating various face shapes and reducing leaks around the eyes. In a clinical study, 88% of users were able to sleep in their preferred sleep position throughout the night.
“After trying a bunch of other masks, this was my one and only. It fits me perfectly and leaks only if I'm in some odd position. Otherwise, it sticks like glue without being overly bulky or uncomfortable.” — Bret. C.
Fisher & Paykel Forma
Price: $149.00
The Forma Full Face Mask ensures a top-notch seal and exceptional comfort by offering a wide range of movement thanks to the contouring of its FlexiFoam Cushion. Because it comes in size XL, this mask may be ideal for those with bigger face shapes. The T-Piece enhances stability when combined with the base. The Forma's easy-to-use design and conforming seal make is a great choice for anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable mask.
About Our Mask Return Policy
At Lofta, we prioritize your comfort with CPAP therapy. We offer a 60-night return policy for complete mask systems. (This excludes separately bought cushions, frames, and headgear.) If your first mask isn't a good fit, simply return your mask online. Note that specific mask styles can only be exchanged once, and shipping costs are non-refundable.
Our Team is Dedicated to Helping You Find The Right Fit!
Lofta is a one-stop shop for all your sleep apnea needs, from getting tested at home to finding the right mask. We’re here to help make your sleep apnea journey as smooth as possible. Shop our sleep apnea products online, or reach out with any questions.
Phone: 1-800-698-8000
