How to Reduce Irritation from CPAP Masks

It’s not easy to stay in compliance with CPAP therapy when your mask is irritating your skin.

Although many studies have shown that CPAP therapy is an incredibly effective treatment option for sleep apnea, it has one big problem: compliance. Many people have trouble staying in compliance with their CPAP therapy, and there is a long list of reasons for this. However, one of the biggest reasons is discomfort, and when your mask is irritating your skin, it can be nearly impossible to feel comfortable while getting CPAP therapy. Here are a few things you can do to reduce the irritation from CPAP masks and enjoy a more comfortable experience with your sleep apnea therapy:

#1. Make sure that your mask is the appropriate size.

Finding the right CPAP therapy mask is a lot like the story of Goldilocks and the three bears. The first bowl of porridge she tried was too hot and the second was too cold, but the third was just right. If your sleep apnea mask is too loose, it can cause air to leak out; plus, when the mask shifts around, it can lead to sores where it rubs up against your skin. If the mask is too tight, it can leave indentation marks on your face. Try using the straps on the mask to adjust the fit. If you’re still having trouble, ask your doctor to help you find the right mask.

#2. Put a barrier between the mask and your skin.

Although silicone allergies are rare, some people do find that the material can be aggravating when it touches the skin. Putting a barrier of some sort between the mask and your skin can help to relieve this aggravation. Luckily, there are mask liners available that make the perfect barrier and can help you find relief.

#3. Clean your mask on a regular basis.

Is your once-comfortable mask starting to irritate your skin? This could be due to a buildup of bacteria and germs on your mask. Cleaning your mask, as well as all of your CPAP equipment, is essential for preventing irritation and keeping you healthy and safe. However, it’s important to be careful about what kinds of products you use to clean your mask. If you use soap or a detergent that contains bleach, vinegar or alcohol, it could dry out your mask. At CPAP Liquidators, we take the guesswork out of cleaning your sleep apnea equipment, and we offer a variety of products to make the process quick and easy.

#4. Always wash your face before using your mask.

Anything you can do to stop your mask from shifting around while you sleep will help to reduce irritation. Washing your face before you put your mask on can reduce oils in your skin that can cause the mask to slide around. If you need to moisturize, use a lotion or moisturizer that isn’t too oily, like RoEzIt.

Don’t let mask irritation keep you from getting the treatment you need.

At CPAP Liquidators, we are proud to be your premier source for used CPAP and BIPAP machines, but we also offer accessories that can make your treatment a lot more comfortable. Shop with us today.