Which CPAP mask do I need?

CPAP masks come in a range of different shapes and sizes to accommodate the way you breathe during sleep. Nasal masks and full-face masks are the main types of mask.

Let’s break down the steps to find the right mask for you:

Nasal and full-face masks use a cushion or pillow that will either be silicone or gel. The silicone cushions are usually translucent, which is the standard cushion type. The gel cushions are generally blue (they can also be translucent or a different colour) and are usually considered to be more comfortable as they are softer and more adaptable.

The gel cushion masks can be a bit more expensive than their silicone equivalent, so it is up to you as to whether this is a valuable upgrade.

If you’re looking for a mask that is not made from silicone or gel due to an allergy or personal preference, consider a SleepWeaver skin-friendly mask.

SleepWeaver masks use neither silicone nor gel; they use fabric. They are designed to be more breathable, keeping your skin moisture free. This cushion makes it considerably more comfortable than regular masks, so it is certainly worth contemplating.

Your sleeping position can affect the fit and seal of your mask. You may find you have mask air leaks and wake up with a dry mouth. This is because your sleeping position can knock your mask’s seal, affecting your CPAP therapy. Fortunately, there are masks suitable for different sleep positions.

Many CPAP users have beards, making choosing the best mask difficult. Common side effects can occur when wearing a mask whilst having a beard. You could experience a loose-fitting mask, air leaks and uncomfortable breathing.

The most simple solution would be to use a nasal pillows mask, as this avoids contact with the skin. Nasal pillows are great for accommodating facial hair because they do not sit at the top of the lip or cover the mouth. Nasal cushion masks also have a low volume giving the user’s beard space to sit. If you find nasal masks more comfortable but breathe through your mask, consider adding a chin strap to your therapy.

Less bulky full-face masks can be used when you have a beard, although trimming your beard could add comfort. Some masks use a minimal contact design, and the cushion sits on the upper lip.

Your mask needs to fit comfortably to get the most out of your CPAP therapy and avoid leaks and discomfort. Many of our masks come in different sizes; you must scroll down to the ‘downloads’ tab and print the ‘sizing guide’.

Please be aware that each mask has a different sizing guide.

We also offer fit-pack options; these masks come with multiple cushion sizes included. So you don’t need to worry about printing the sizing guide.

Mask fit insurance

You can add ‘mask-fit insurance’ when purchasing a mask from Intus.

This gives you 28 days to get used to your mask from the dispatch date; you can notify us that you are unhappy with it for any reason.

You can return it and refund it (we must receive it within 7 days of being notified).

CPAP machines use a standardised 22mm connection, allowing you to use any mask with any CPAP or BiPAP machine.

If you use the ResMed AirMini travel machine, it is only compatible with certain masks. However, you can add the AirMini universal hose adapter to use any mask with the device.