Sleep more comfortably.
Full-face, nasal and nasal pillow masks all deliver CPAP therapy—but they feel and fit very differently. The right choice depends on how you breathe, sleep and move during the night.
Guide updated on . Always follow your clinician’s advice and the fitting instructions supplied with your mask.
What is the difference between CPAP mask types?
The main difference is how much of the face each mask covers and where it delivers pressurised air. A full-face mask covers the nose and mouth, a nasal mask covers the nose, and nasal pillows sit at the entrance of the nostrils.
The best mask is the one that works with your prescribed therapy, maintains a comfortable seal and can be worn consistently through the night. Your breathing style and fit matter more than choosing the smallest or most expensive option.
Full-face
Covers the nose and mouth. Often considered when a person breathes through their mouth or experiences frequent nasal blockage.
Nasal
Seals around the nose. It offers a balance between a stable seal and a less enclosed feeling for people who breathe through the nose.
Nasal pillow
Uses small cushions at the nostrils. It has minimal facial contact and leaves more of the face open.
Important distinction: A CPAP machine normally delivers pressurised room air—it is not an oxygen machine. Supplemental oxygen should only be connected when specifically prescribed and professionally set up.
Full-face vs nasal vs nasal pillow CPAP masks
Use this table as a starting point. Individual comfort can differ, and a professional fitting is especially useful when you are new to CPAP or continue to experience leaks.
| Consideration | Full-face mask | Nasal mask | Nasal pillow mask |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Nose and mouth | Nose | Entrance of the nostrils |
| Often considered for | Mouth breathing or regular nasal congestion | Nose breathing and balanced facial coverage | Minimal contact, glasses or an open field of view |
| Facial contact | Most | Moderate | Least |
| Possible challenge | Larger seal area can be more sensitive to movement | Mouth opening can cause an air leak | Nostril irritation or instability if incorrectly sized |
| Side-sleeping | Possible with a suitable fit and pillow position | Often comfortable with a secure frame | Minimal profile may suit many side sleepers |
| Glasses or reading | Depends on the mask’s forehead design | Depends on the frame and bridge profile | Usually offers the clearest field of view |
What is a full-face CPAP mask?
Full-face CPAP mask
Seals around both the nose and mouthA full-face mask delivers therapy through the nose and mouth. It can be a practical option for people who naturally breathe through their mouth, struggle to keep their mouth closed during sleep or frequently experience nasal congestion.
- Accommodates both nose and mouth breathing.
- Can reduce therapy loss caused by air escaping through an open mouth.
- May feel more secure to users who prefer broader facial contact.
- Different sizes help match the cushion to the user’s facial shape.
What should you consider?
Because it has a larger sealing surface, a full-face mask may be more affected by facial movement, beard growth or contact with a pillow. It can also feel more enclosed than a nasal or nasal pillow design. Correct sizing is essential—tightening the straps excessively can distort the cushion, create pressure marks and sometimes worsen leaks.
View the Sunset Deluxe Full Face CPAP Mask →What is a nasal CPAP mask?
Nasal CPAP mask
Fits over the nose without covering the mouthA nasal mask forms a seal around the nose and directs pressurised air through the nasal passages. Many users find that it offers a useful middle ground: less facial coverage than a full-face mask, with a broader cushion than nasal pillows.
- Suitable for many users who breathe comfortably through the nose.
- Provides a stable seal with moderate facial contact.
- Available in different cushion and headgear shapes.
- May suit active sleepers when the frame and swivel allow movement.
What should you consider?
If your mouth falls open during sleep, pressurised air may escape and cause dryness, noise or reduced therapy performance. Do not assume a chin strap is the right solution without guidance; persistent mouth leak or congestion should be discussed with your sleep-care provider.
View the Sunset Deluxe Nasal CPAP Mask →What is a nasal pillow CPAP mask?
Nasal pillow CPAP mask
Small cushions sit at the nostril openingsNasal pillow masks use two soft cushions to deliver therapy directly at the nostrils. Their lightweight, low-profile design leaves the bridge of the nose and much of the face unobstructed.
- Minimal mask contact and a more open feeling.
- Clear field of view for reading or wearing glasses before sleep.
- Less cushion contact with facial hair than many larger masks.
- Compact profile that may work well for many side sleepers.
What should you consider?
The pillows must be the correct size: too small can allow leaks, while too large or too tight may cause soreness. Some users also find direct airflow uncomfortable at first. Comfort at higher prescribed pressures varies, so fitting and clinician guidance remain important.
View the Deluxe Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask →How do you choose the right CPAP mask?
Begin with the way you breathe and sleep—not simply the appearance of the mask. A good fit should remain comfortable while you lie in your normal sleeping position and while the machine is running at your prescribed settings.
Do you breathe through your mouth?
A full-face design is often considered for regular mouth breathing. If mouth opening is occasional, ask your provider to assess the cause and review your mask fit.
Do you experience nasal congestion?
Recurring blockage can make nose-only masks difficult to use. Discuss persistent congestion with a healthcare professional rather than simply increasing pressure or abandoning therapy.
Do you sleep on your side?
Look for a low-profile cushion, flexible connection and stable headgear. Test the seal while lying on your side because a bedside fitting alone may not reveal pillow-related leaks.
Do you feel enclosed?
A nasal pillow mask exposes more of the face and may feel less restrictive. Gradual daytime practice can also help new users become familiar with the sensation of wearing a mask.
Do you wear glasses or have facial hair?
Minimal-contact designs can leave more room for glasses and may avoid parts of a beard or moustache, but the seal must still be checked with the machine running.
What pressure has been prescribed?
Mask comfort can change at different pressures. Choose a compatible mask and test it under therapy conditions without altering the prescribed pressure yourself.
Your face shape, cushion size and headgear adjustment can matter just as much as the mask category. If possible, use the manufacturer’s sizing guide and obtain professional fitting support.
How should a CPAP mask fit?
A CPAP mask should feel secure but not painfully tight. The cushion is designed to inflate or settle into a seal when airflow begins, so a strap setting that feels tight while the machine is off may not produce the best seal during therapy.
Fit in position
- Start with clean, dry skin
- Fit the mask while lying down
- Use your normal sleeping position
- Keep straps even on both sides
Test with airflow
- Switch on the machine
- Check around the cushion
- Move your head gently
- Reposition before tightening
Review the result
- Look for pressure marks
- Note dry eyes or dry mouth
- Check therapy leak data
- Ask for help if leaks persist
Signs that your CPAP mask may not fit correctly
- Air repeatedly blows towards your eyes.
- The cushion whistles, flutters or loses its seal when you move.
- You wake with a very dry mouth while using a nose-only mask.
- Straps leave lasting red marks, pain or broken skin.
- You must overtighten the headgear to control leaks.
- The machine repeatedly reports leak levels outside the expected range.
A small intentional vent flow is normal and allows exhaled air to leave the mask. Do not cover the mask’s vent holes. If you cannot distinguish normal venting from a seal leak, consult the mask manual or your equipment provider.
Cleaning and caring for your CPAP mask
Facial oils and product residue can reduce cushion grip and contribute to leaks. Regular cleaning also supports hygiene and makes it easier to inspect the mask for damage.
Daily attention
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the cushion or nasal pillows. Allow washed components to air-dry completely away from direct sunlight before reassembly.
Regular inspection
Check the headgear, frame, clips, elbow, vents and cushion for stretching, cracks, cloudiness or loss of shape. Replace parts in line with the manufacturer’s guidance and actual condition.
Avoid bleach, harsh household chemicals, strongly scented products or unauthorised cleaning equipment unless the mask manufacturer explicitly approves them. These may damage materials or leave irritating residue.
Compare CPAP mask styles
Explore three comfort-focused Sunset Healthcare mask styles. Confirm sizing and compatibility before ordering, especially when changing from one mask category to another.
Deluxe Full Face
Covers the nose and mouth and is available in multiple sizes.
View full-face mask
Deluxe Nasal
A nose-only design with included headgear and a replaceable cushion.
View nasal mask
Deluxe Nasal Pillow
A minimal-contact style that leaves the bridge of the nose open.
View nasal pillow maskCPAP mask questions answered
Which CPAP mask is best for mouth breathers?
A full-face mask is commonly considered because it delivers therapy through both the nose and mouth. Mouth breathing can also result from congestion or another issue, so persistent symptoms should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Which CPAP mask is best for side sleepers?
Many side sleepers prefer a nasal pillow or low-profile nasal mask, but any style can work when correctly sized and positioned. Test the seal while lying on your side and keep the cushion clear of excessive pillow pressure.
Can I use a nasal mask if I sometimes breathe through my mouth?
Possibly, but mouth opening may allow therapy air to escape and can cause dryness or reduced treatment performance. Ask your clinician or equipment provider to review the leak and recommend an appropriate solution.
Are nasal pillow masks uncomfortable at higher pressure?
Comfort varies from person to person. Some users tolerate nasal pillows well across a range of prescribed pressures, while others prefer a nasal or full-face cushion. Do not alter your pressure to compensate for mask discomfort.
Why does my CPAP mask leak when I move?
Movement-related leaks can result from incorrect sizing, uneven straps, worn components, hose tension or the mask pressing into the pillow. Refit it while lying in your normal sleeping position with the machine switched on.
Should I tighten my CPAP mask to stop every leak?
Not necessarily. Overtightening can distort the cushion and cause pain or additional leaks. First lift and reseat the cushion, then make small, even strap adjustments according to the fitting guide.
How often should a CPAP mask be replaced?
Replacement timing depends on the specific mask, its components, frequency of use and manufacturer guidance. Replace cushions, pillows or headgear when wear, damage or loss of seal indicates that they are no longer performing correctly.
Can any CPAP mask work with any CPAP machine?
Many masks use standard CPAP tubing connections, but compatibility is not universal. Check the mask, hose, connector and machine requirements before purchase, particularly with specialised or travel systems.
Is air coming from the front of my mask normal?
A steady flow from the designed vent is normal and helps clear exhaled air. Irregular air escaping from the cushion edge is more likely to be a seal leak. Never cover the mask’s vent holes.
Need help choosing the right mask?
OxyMed supplies full-face, nasal and nasal pillow CPAP masks with nationwide delivery across South Africa. Our team can help you compare mask styles, sizes and compatibility with your current CPAP setup.
