The sleep apnea full face mask is as it sounds. It is a mask that fits over the complete face. As a result, they are much larger than any of the other styles of CPAP masks available in the marketplace.
They are also the most difficult to get accustomed to for some users while others prefer the greater stability and comfort a full mask offers.
It does come down to personal taste on this subject. To help you a little more with this particular style of CPAP mask, I have tried a number of them and present a review below on what I consider to be the best full face mask for CPAP options.
Don’t let the name fool you as AMARA is one of many CPAP solutions manufactured and sold under the Philips Respironics name. What makes this one stand out to me is the fact that it is a full face mask but has the least amount of contact with the face of most designs I’ve seen.
The design is unique in that it provides a wide field of vision which could be the deciding factor if you are concerned about how much of your vision may be restricted with a full face mask. Another plus of the AMARA View Full Face Mask is that you can wear glasses under it. That makes it one of the best full face CPAP mask choices on this list.
Lightweight is a good word to see/hear when full face masks are the topic of discussion. The ResMed AirFit F10 Full Face Mask is described in this manner.
As it is lightweight, it is also comfortable and the headgear plus frame provides stability so that if you happen to be a restless sleeper or a mouth breather, you should rest with ease wearing this.
It has a sleek and stylish design offering a wide field of vision and not only is this CPAP mask easy to use, but it is also equally simple to put together and take apart when needed for cleaning.
I must admit that I like the name ComfortGel because it gives you a pretty strong hint at what to expect from this unit. The Philips Respironics ComfortGel Blue Full Face Mask uses a patented Blue Gel Technology that quickly conforms to the shape of your face offering a quick and secure fit that results in the best possible seal.
It is lightweight and has something called StabilitySelector which is a fancy term for an adjuster to make the fit that much better for your face. Quick-release tabs disconnect mask and hose instantly making this one of the best full face mask for CPAP designs I’ve seen.
If you are a side sleeper, you’ll appreciate this full face CPAP mask. The mask is simple to use, handle and clean plus, it provides all the comfort you would expect from a higher-end product.
Simple + Plus = SimPlus. The headgear is ergonomically designed, which I would consider being a slightly better idea than some of the other designs I’ve seen.
The design on this one gives you increased visibility and the seal rolls back and forth on the bridge of your nose to adjust to the best possible position. The SimPlus Full Face Mask is a great choice for a CPAP mask.
Things to Consider When Choosing A Full Face CPAP Mask
If you are a mouth breather, a full face CPAP mask is probably your best option. That is because this type of mask is designed to fit both your mouth and nose. Side straps that makeup part of the headgear are used to hold this larger size mask firmly in place. There are also many advantages to the full mask design and include the following:
Individuals who are dealing with allergic congestion, cold or flu symptoms or any kind of nasal obstruction find full face CPAP masks provide the best sleep apnea treatment.
Full face CPAP masks can operate at higher air pressure settings which can provide greater comfort in therapy for users requiring it.
If you sleep on your back, the full mask design and headgear sit comfortably and securely so that you can sleep on your back, side or if you are a restless sleeper, still receive CPAP therapy.
Some nasal pillows or nasal masks present a sense of claustrophobia to some users. A full face mask eliminates this as it envelopes the entire face.
Best Brands
The best full face CPAP masks listed above are made by a handful of different companies. I have provides a little background on each below.
AMARA, ComfortGel (Philips Respironics)
Respironics is a medical supply company that focuses mostly on products related to improving respiratory function. Founded in 1976 in Murrayville, Pennsylvania, Respironics is one of many subsidiaries of the Philips Company. They introduced their first CPAP machine in 1985 and continues to work on developing and manufacturing machines to assist with COPD and other respiratory issues.
AirFit (ResMed)
ResMed is a medical equipment company based in San Diego, California. It was founded in 1989 and provides cloud-connectable medical devices for the treatment of sleep apnea (including CPAP machines/masks), COPD and additional respiratory conditions. The company operates in over 120 countries worldwide and has over 7,500 employees.
SimPlus (Fisher & Paykel)
Founded in 1934, Fisher & Paykel is a major appliance manufacturer owned by the Haier Company. It is based in East Tamaki, New Zealand.
FAQs
1. Do I need a full face CPAP mask?
There are three main reasons why your medical professional may suggest you use a full face CPAP mask. They are:
- You typically breathe through your mouth
- I require high-pressure CPAP therapy
- You have medical issues that make breathing through your nose difficult
2. What is the best full face CPAP mask?
I have listed what I consider to be the best full face CPAP mask above. However, and I like to point this out, your personal taste and experience may direct you to a different type of mask. That’s okay. My choices are based on my experience and research. I strongly suggest that you do some homework as you shop for CPAP masks to learn more about the many different options available to you.
Best Full Face CPAP Mask Wrap Up
Full face CPAP masks are an option for those who find the smaller nasal masks either difficult to use or uncomfortable for some reason. A full-face mask will provide much more coverage than a nasal mask and is the best choice for individuals who are mouth breathers, sleep on their back or side or happen to be restless sleepers. Full face CPAP masks are also effective if you require higher air pressure therapy. Hopefully, I have been able to help you sort through the options as you seek to find the best full face mask for CPAP.