Your first CPAP mask would have been one that was personally prescribed to you by your doctor. It sure takes a lot of getting used to but after a while, you get accustomed to it and become more and more appreciative of the comfort it brings. Now, you realize that it’s that time again, time to shop for your new mask. As you browse through, you find that there are a lot of different kinds of masks that you could choose from and this confuses you on which to pick.

Basically, there are three main kinds of CPAP masks. The first one is the Nasal Mask, second is the Nasal Pillow Masks and the third is the Full Face Masks.

The Nasal Mask is a triangular mask which covers only the nose area. It is kept in place using straps and strap guards. The Nasal Pillow Masks, on the other hand, are considered as more of “non-masks”. These masks have small pillow like structures that are attached on each side of the nose and supplying air pressure on the nostrils instead of the traditional up front system. These masks are most preferred by people who find it more comfortable sleeping on their sides. This is because the structure of the mask itself was designed in a way that the structures are placed above and round the head. The third type is the Full Face Mask which covers not only the nose but also the mouth. Among the three masks, the Full Face Mask is best preferred due to its capacity to alleviating any form of air pressure loss that may be lost through the mouth as the user sleeps.

All these masks serve the same purpose, others more preferred by some people but such uses are purely based on personal comfort and preference. The key is to find the best fitting mask for you and one that you feel most comfortable with to maximize your CPAP experience.