An Explanation Of The Different Types Of Cpap Masks

By Author: Cris Vasta
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The advancing technology in masks that are used with CPAP machines has given sleep apnea patients many new choices in what type of equipment to purchase. For those who are unsure about the different makes and styles of masks, below is a summary of each style.

Nasal CPAP masks

A nasal CPAP mask is one in which only the nose is covered by the mask. Nasal masks are the most popular and are used by people who breathe through their nose without any issues. An example of a nasal mask is the Respironics ComfortGel. This mask provides a comfortable seal by employing an inner gel filled cushion covered by a soft and pliable outer shell. . The ComfortGel has a positional forehead piece which allows for a more exacting fit. The redesigned headgear and exhalation port add to the new comfort features.

Another nasal CPAP mask is the Mirage Activa LT by ResMed. This mask is very light and has a quick fit sealing method and allows for patient movement and pressure changes in the air flow throughout the night. The Active Cell technology is responsible for maintaining ...
... a good seal and is much less dependent on tension from the headgear. The Active LT has a thin frameand a cushion compact, so the wearer’s field of vision is open for reading and watching television.

Full face CPAP masks

A full face mask is worn primarily by people whom keep their mouth open during sleep. By allowing the jaw to open during sleep, cpap therapy becomes nearly ineffective as the pressurized air going into the nose and directly out of the mouth. To help stop this from occurring, a full face mask allows the CPAP user to breath in through both the nose and mouth. A popular full-face mask is the Fisher and Paykel Forma. The Forma is unique due to the under chin support which helps stabilize the jaw to create an effective seal. The cushion is also unique as it includes a soft and lightweight foam that easily contours to nearly anyones facial features.


The Amara Full Face CPAP mask by Respironics is another full face mask which meets full face mask user’s needs. The innovative, lightweight design is easy to fit as it comes in five different sizes with small, medium and large using the same frame. alleviating the trouble of matching frame and cushion sizes. The Amara is smaller than traditional full-face masks, has quick release talon clips and has just four parts for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Nasal pillow CPAP masks

Nasal pillow masks have become the preferred choice amongst many new CPAP users. The primary reasons behind the surge in nasal pillow masks are clear field of vision, lightweight, minimal facial contact and fewer number of parts. Aclear winner among the nasal pillow masks is the ResMed Swift FX. The Swift FX has become one of the most popular masks ever and continues to lure people looking for a better CPAP mask solution. With a comfortable headgear, effective nasal pillows and extremely lightweight, the Swift FX is clear example of CPAP mask innovation in design. The recently release Fisher and Paykel Pilairo has brought additional innovation to nasal pillow users. The design integrates a nasal pillow, the AirPillow, which inflates when the CPAP machine is turned on. With the pillows weighting in at a mere 1.83 ouces, its lightweight design allows for incredible comfort. Overall, the Pilairo can give the ResMed Swift FX a run for its money.

Cris Vasta is a representative of The CPAP Shop, a New Jersey-based retailer of CPAP mask and other equipment used in the treatment of sleep apnea. Interested in finding out more about CPAP machines? Visit our website today for more information.