How to Choose a Full Face CPAP Mask
Finding the right CPAP mask can make a significant difference to comfort, mask seal and how easy it is to continue with CPAP therapy.
A full face CPAP mask covers both the nose and mouth, allowing therapy air to be delivered through either. This makes full face masks particularly useful for people who breathe through their mouth while sleeping or regularly experience nasal congestion.
AwakeNZ stocks full face CPAP masks from leading manufacturers including ResMed and Fisher & Paykel, with a range of traditional and compact designs available throughout New Zealand.
Who Might Prefer a Full Face CPAP Mask?
A full face CPAP mask may be worth considering if you:
- Regularly breathe through your mouth while sleeping
- Experience nasal congestion that makes nasal breathing difficult
- Find that air escapes through your mouth when using a nasal mask
- Prefer the secure feel of a mask covering both your nose and mouth
- Have previously struggled to maintain a comfortable seal with another mask style
Mask choice is highly individual. The best CPAP mask is one that provides a comfortable, reliable seal while allowing you to sleep naturally.
Traditional vs Compact Full Face CPAP Masks
There are now two main styles of full face CPAP mask.
Traditional Full Face Masks
Traditional designs generally cover both the mouth and the bridge of the nose.
These masks provide a familiar, secure full-face fit and remain a popular choice for many CPAP users.
Examples include masks such as the ResMed AirFit F20, ResMed AirTouch F20 and Fisher & Paykel Vitera.
Compact Full Face Masks
Compact or under-the-nose full face masks seal around the mouth while sitting underneath the nose rather than over the bridge.
This creates a smaller facial footprint and can provide a more open field of vision.
Examples include the ResMed AirFit F40, AirFit F30i, AirTouch F30i and Fisher & Paykel Evora Full Face.
If you prefer a smaller mask, explore our ultra-compact full face CPAP masks.
ResMed or Fisher & Paykel Full Face Mask?
Both ResMed and Fisher & Paykel manufacture high-quality full face CPAP masks, and AwakeNZ offers options from both brands.
Rather than choosing a mask based on brand alone, consider:
- Cushion shape and material
- Where the mask seals around your face
- Traditional versus under-the-nose design
- Headgear fit
- Hose connection position
- Your normal sleeping position
- How easily you can put the mask on and remove it
The best choice depends on your face shape, sleeping preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
Full Face CPAP Masks for Mouth Breathing
If you regularly breathe through your mouth while sleeping, a full face mask can be a practical alternative to a nasal or nasal-pillow mask.
Because the mask covers both the nose and mouth, CPAP therapy can continue to be delivered even when your mouth opens during sleep.
If you're unsure which mask style is right for you, compare our full range of CPAP masks, including full face, nasal and nasal-pillow options.
Getting a Good CPAP Mask Seal
A good mask seal is important for comfortable and effective CPAP therapy.
If your mask leaks, don't automatically assume you need to tighten the straps. Excessive tightening can sometimes make a mask less comfortable and may not solve the underlying problem.
Check that:
- You are using the correct cushion size
- The cushion is positioned correctly
- Your headgear is adjusted evenly
- The cushion and your skin are clean
- The mask isn't worn or due for replacement
Trying a different mask design can also help if you continue to experience leaks or discomfort.
Full Face CPAP Masks With NZ Support
AwakeNZ supplies full face CPAP masks throughout New Zealand, including popular options from ResMed and Fisher & Paykel.
Whether you're replacing your current mask or trying a different style, our NZ-based team can help you understand the available options and find a mask that suits your CPAP setup.
Browse the full face CPAP masks above or explore our complete CPAP mask range to compare other mask styles.
