A full face sleep apnea mask covers your nose and mouth. That makes it a common choice if you breathe through your mouth at night, get stuffy noses, or wake up with a dry mouth on a nasal mask.
The right mask matters more than most people expect. A mask that leaks or digs into your face is one of the main reasons people stop using CPAP. And a CPAP machine that stays in the closet can’t treat anything.
This guide covers the best full face sleep apnea masks for different sleeping positions, face shapes, and comfort needs. We built it around real problems like leaks, pressure marks, beards, and tossing and turning, so you can find your match without reading every review.
Short on time? Jump to the quick comparison table just below the safety note.
Important safety note: magnets and medical implantsSome CPAP masks use small magnets in the headgear clips. Manufacturers warn that magnets can interfere with pacemakers, implantable defibrillators (ICDs), neurostimulators, and some other metallic implants. The warning often applies to anyone in the home who sleeps close to the mask, too.
If you have an implant, talk to your doctor before choosing any magnetic mask. Always read the current safety information for your exact model. We flag magnetic designs in the reviews below.
Quick Picks: Best Full Face Sleep Apnea Masks at a Glance
If you want a starting point, begin with the ResMed AirFit F40. It’s the most broadly useful option on this list. Then use the table to see whether another mask fits your situation better.
| CPAP mask | Best for | Cushion style | Hose position | Key feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ResMed AirFit F40 | Best overall | Under the nose | Front of frame | Compact, flexible design |
| ResMed AirFit F20 | Traditional full face fit | Over the nose | Front of frame | Familiar fit with forehead support |
| ResMed AirTouch F20 | Sensitive skin and facial hair | Over the nose, memory foam | Front of frame | Soft foam cushion |
| ResMed AirFit F30i | Side and active sleepers | Under the nose | Top of head | Hose stays out of the way |
| Philips DreamWear Full Face | Minimal facial contact | Under the nose | Top of head | Open, hollow frame |
| Fisher & Paykel Evora Full | Flexible, easy fit | Under the nose | Front of frame | Cushion adapts to movement |
| Fisher & Paykel Vitera | Stability for movers | Over the nose | Front of frame | Secure, stable seal |
Hose positions and cushion styles can change between mask versions. Confirm the details on the manufacturer’s page before you buy.
Table of Contents
- How Did We Choose These Masks?
- Can You Buy a CPAP Mask Without a Prescription?
- 7 Best Full Face Sleep Apnea Masks Reviewed
- How to Choose the Best Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask
- Who Should Use a Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask?
- Should You Use a Nasal Mask With a Chin Strap Instead?
- Which Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask Is Best for Your Needs?
- Full Face vs. Nasal vs. Nasal Pillow: What’s the Difference?
- What Are the Most Common Full Face CPAP Mask Problems?
- How Do You Get the Best Fit From a Full Face Mask?
- How Do You Clean a Full Face CPAP Mask?
- Are Full Face CPAP Masks Better for Sleep Apnea?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask Should You Choose?
How Did We Choose These Masks?
We want to be upfront about this. These picks are based on design features, manufacturer specifications, replacement-part availability, and patterns in user feedback. They are not the result of clinical trials or lab testing.
We focused on masks from ResMed, Philips, and Fisher & Paykel. Those brands are among the most widely used in the U.S. and U.K., which also means parts, sizing help, and user reviews are easy to find.
We asked three questions about every mask:
- Does it solve a specific problem?
- Is it easy to size and seal?
- Are replacement parts easy to find?
Comfort is personal. Treat our rankings as a shortlist, not a medical recommendation.
Can You Buy a CPAP Mask Without a Prescription?
It depends on where you live. In many places, including the U.S., a complete CPAP mask system is regulated as a medical device and may require a prescription. Replacement cushions, headgear, and other parts are often easier to buy online without one.
If you already have a CPAP machine and prescription, you can usually switch to a different mask on your own. Many people still check with their doctor or equipment provider first, especially when changing mask type or pressure settings.
If you’re new to CPAP, ask your provider about mask fitting. Many suppliers offer trial or exchange options, which can lower the risk of buying the wrong size.
7 Best Full Face Sleep Apnea Masks Reviewed
Each review follows the same path. We cover the problem the mask solves, who it suits, what sets it apart, and where it falls short. Use the “who should skip it” notes to rule masks out fast.
1. ResMed AirFit F40: Best Overall Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask
The problem it solves: Traditional full face masks can feel bulky and sit high on the nose bridge, which leads to red marks and a closed-in feeling.
Best for: First-time full face users and anyone who wants a compact, low-profile mask. For many sleepers, it’s a sensible first mask to try.
What makes it different: The F40 has an under-the-nose cushion. That means the cushion sits below the bridge of your nose instead of on top of it. In practice, that leaves more of your face and your line of sight uncovered. The frame is small and flexible, and it’s designed to move with you rather than hold rigid.
Pros
- Under-the-nose cushion avoids pressure on the nose bridge
- Compact design feels less confining for many people
- Works for several sleeping positions
- Easy to find replacement parts
Cons
- Under-the-nose cushions can leak if your sizing is off
- May not suit people with very narrow or very wide mouths
- Not the most budget-friendly choice
Is it worth the price? If you’ve struggled with bulkier masks, the comfort upgrade is usually worth a few extra dollars. You’ll use this mask for roughly 2,500 hours a year, so a small price gap spreads out quickly.
Who should skip it: If you like a firm forehead brace for stability, look at the AirFit F20. If you have sensitive skin and want a softer cushion, see the AirTouch F20.
2. ResMed AirFit F20: Best Traditional Full Face CPAP Mask
The problem it solves: Some people want a mask that feels familiar and secure, with a seal that doesn’t depend on a minimal frame.
Best for: Back sleepers, mouth breathers, and people who’ve used a classic full face mask before.
What makes it different: The F20 has an over-the-nose silicone cushion that adapts to your face when you lie down. A forehead support spreads out pressure so the seal doesn’t rely only on the straps. It’s one of the most widely used full face masks, which means plenty of sizing advice and user feedback is available online.
Pros
- Familiar, proven design
- Forehead support helps keep the mask steady
- Works well for mouth breathing
- Replacement parts are easy to find
Cons
- Sits on the nose bridge, which can leave marks for some people
- Bulkier than the F40 or F30i
- The frame can get in the way if you like to read or watch TV in bed with glasses on
Is it worth the price? For most sleepers, yes. It sits at a mid-range price and has a long track record.
Who should skip it: If you get pressure points on your nose or dislike the feeling of a large frame, try an under-the-nose style instead.
3. ResMed AirTouch F20: Best for Sensitive Skin and Facial Hair
The problem it solves: Silicone cushions can irritate sensitive skin, and facial hair can break the seal.
Best for: People who get redness or oily-skin reactions from silicone, and some bearded sleepers.
What makes it different: The cushion is made of soft memory foam instead of silicone. The foam shapes itself around your face and can feel gentler against the skin. For many people with stubble or a short beard, it may seal better than silicone. Results vary depending on your beard length and style.
Pros
- Soft foam feels gentle on irritated skin
- May handle light facial hair better than silicone
- Familiar F20-style frame and forehead support
Cons
- Foam cushions wear out faster and need replacing more often, typically about once a month, according to ResMed’s guidance
- Replacement costs add up over a year
- Can’t be cleaned as thoroughly as silicone
- May use magnetic clips (see the safety note near the top and check your model)
Is it worth the price? If skin irritation is the main reason you’ve stopped wearing a mask, the comfort can justify the added upkeep. Just budget for the replacement cushions.
Who should skip it: If you have a pacemaker or other implant, check with your doctor first. If you want low ongoing costs, a silicone mask is a better value.
4. ResMed AirFit F30i: Best for Active and Side Sleepers
The problem it solves: A hose at the front of your face can tug on the mask every time you roll over.
Best for: Side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and people who toss and turn.
What makes it different: The tube connects at the top of your head. That keeps it out of your way, so you can turn over without pulling the mask sideways. It also has an under-the-nose cushion and a quick-release elbow, so you can disconnect the hose without taking the mask off during a bathroom trip.
Pros
- Top-of-head hose reduces tugging when you move
- Better freedom for side and combination sleepers
- Under-the-nose cushion avoids nose bridge pressure
- Quick-release elbow helps at night
Cons
- Head-top tubing takes some getting used to
- May feel awkward if you sleep flat on your back for long stretches
- Uses magnetic clips (see the safety note near the top)
Is it worth the price? If hose drag keeps waking you up, yes. Fixing that one problem can improve how long you wear your mask each night.
Who should skip it: Anyone with an implant that’s sensitive to magnets, and people who prefer a front hose connection.
5. Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face: Best Minimal-Contact Full Face Mask
The problem it solves: Many people dislike the feeling of a bulky mask covering their face.
Best for: People who feel claustrophobic in traditional masks, or who like to read or watch TV before bed.
What makes it different: DreamWear uses a hollow frame design with the hose at the top of your head. There’s no bulky piece in front of your eyes, so your field of vision stays open. It also uses an under-the-nose cushion, which keeps contact with your face to a minimum.
Pros
- Open view, so reading in bed is easier
- Hose connection stays out of the way
- Less facial contact than many full face masks
- A good alternative if you want something similar to the F30i from a different brand
Cons
- The hollow frame can take time to adjust
- Some people find it harder to get a tight seal at higher pressures
- Availability of Philips Respironics products can vary, so check stock
Is it worth the price? If “I feel trapped” is your main complaint, it’s worth considering. You’re paying for a different feel more than extra features.
Who should skip it: If you need a very firm seal or use high pressure, a mask with a forehead support may be easier to keep stable.
6. Fisher & Paykel Evora Full: Best Full Face Mask for a Flexible Fit
The problem it solves: A rigid cushion can lose its seal when your head moves.
Best for: People who want an easy-to-fit, compact mask with a cushion that adapts as they shift.
What makes it different: The Evora Full has a compact frame and an under-the-nose cushion built to flex with your movement. The headgear is designed to be simple to put on and take off, which helps if you get frustrated with strap adjustments in the evening.
Pros
- Low-profile design
- Cushion adjusts to movement
- Headgear is relatively simple to put on
- Good alternative to the AirFit F40
Cons
- Smaller brand footprint than ResMed means fewer user guides online
- Under-the-nose cushions need careful sizing
- Some users find the fit sensitive to strap tension
Is it worth the price? If you’ve tried an F40 and couldn’t get a good seal, this is a reasonable second option to compare.
Who should skip it: If you want a top-of-head hose, choose the F30i or DreamWear.
7. Fisher & Paykel Vitera: Best Full Face Mask for Stability
The problem it solves: Some masks shift during the night and break the seal.
Best for: People who move during sleep, or who need a steady seal at higher pressures.
What makes it different: The Vitera uses an over-the-nose cushion with a rolling seal design, plus vented headgear designed to keep things breathable. It’s built around holding its position rather than minimizing its footprint.
Pros
- Stable fit for active sleepers
- Over-the-nose design suits people who want a firm seal
- Breathable headgear
Cons
- Bulkier than under-the-nose masks
- Sits on the nose bridge, which may leave marks
- Not the best choice if you want an open field of view
Is it worth the price? If your biggest issue is a mask that won’t stay put, a more stable fit is often worth it.
Who should skip it: If you get nose-bridge soreness or want a minimalist feel, look at the F40 or DreamWear.
How to Choose the Best Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask
The right choice comes down to five things. Think about which two matter most to you, and use them to narrow the list.
Which Cushion Style Is Right for You?
Most full face masks use silicone or memory foam.
Silicone is durable and easy to clean. Memory foam is softer and can help with skin irritation, but it wears out sooner and costs more over time.
Cushion position matters too. An over-the-nose cushion sits on the bridge of your nose and offers a firm, familiar seal. An under-the-nose cushion sits below it, which means less pressure on the bridge and a more open view. In practice, many people with nose-bridge soreness prefer the under-the-nose style.
How Do You Get the Right Size and Seal?
Most leaks come from sizing, not from a bad mask. Use the manufacturer’s sizing guide and measure your face before ordering. Many brands offer printable templates.
Resist the urge to overtighten the straps. Too much tension can distort the cushion and cause leaks, along with red marks.
Where Should the Hose Go?
A front hose is the traditional layout. It’s simple, but it can tug when you turn over.
A top-of-head hose keeps the tubing out of the way. Many side and stomach sleepers prefer it.
Also check for a quick-release elbow or swivel. It lets you unhook the hose for bathroom trips without taking the mask off. Many masks in this guide offer some version of it, but how it works differs by model. If you get up often, look for one you can operate half-asleep.
And confirm that the hose connection matches your machine. Most use a standard 22mm connection, but check your tubing type, especially with heated hoses.
Which Sleeping Position Do You Use?
Side sleepers usually do better with a top-of-head hose and a low-profile frame. Back sleepers have the most freedom and can use almost any design. Stomach sleepers often prefer a slim mask with minimal bulk. If you change positions all night, favor flexible cushions and stable headgear.
How Easy Is It to Clean and Replace?
A mask you can’t keep clean won’t stay comfortable. Look at how many parts you’ll wash each day and how simple they are to take apart.
Also check the price of replacement cushions and headgear before you buy. Over a year, those costs can matter more than the mask’s upfront price.
Who Should Use a Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask?
A full face mask isn’t automatically the right choice for every CPAP user. In most cases, it helps if one of these sounds like you.
- You breathe through your mouth at night. A full face mask keeps air flowing even when your mouth falls open.
- You have chronic nasal congestion. If breathing through your nose is hard, covering both nose and mouth can make therapy more comfortable.
- You get mouth leaks with a nasal mask. If air escapes through your mouth and you wake up dry, a full face mask can close that gap.
- You use a higher pressure setting. Higher pressure can push air out of the mouth more easily. A full face mask may help, though results vary.
- You switch between nose and mouth breathing. A full face mask handles both without a chin strap.
If you only breathe through your nose and rarely open your mouth, a nasal mask or nasal pillow mask may be lighter and less confining. Mask choice should reflect your therapy needs, comfort, and fit. Your sleep specialist can help.
Should You Use a Nasal Mask With a Chin Strap Instead?
Some people pair a nasal mask with a chin strap to keep their mouth closed. That can work, but it adds another piece to adjust. It also doesn’t help much if your nose is blocked.
A full face mask is often simpler. It handles mouth breathing without extra straps, and it works even when your nose is stuffy. If a chin strap hasn’t solved your mouth leaks, a full face mask is worth considering.
Which Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask Is Best for Your Needs?
Here’s a quick guide. These are starting points, not guarantees. How a mask performs depends on your face, your pressure, and your sleeping position.
- Mouth breathers: ResMed AirFit F20. A traditional seal designed for open-mouth breathing. See review #2.
- Side sleepers: ResMed AirFit F30i. The top-of-head hose reduces tugging. See review #4.
- Stomach sleepers: ResMed AirFit F40 or DreamWear Full Face. Slim designs take up less room under your face. See reviews #1 and #5.
- Back sleepers: ResMed AirFit F20. Plenty of stability and a familiar fit. See review #2.
- Higher pressure: Fisher & Paykel Vitera or ResMed AirFit F20. Both focus on a firm seal. Confirm the pressure range with the manufacturer. See reviews #7 and #2.
- Beards: ResMed AirTouch F20. The foam cushion may seal more easily around light facial hair. See review #3.
- Sensitive skin: ResMed AirTouch F20. Soft foam can be gentler than silicone. See review #3.
- Lightweight feel: DreamWear Full Face or AirFit F40. See reviews #5 and #1.
- Active sleepers: ResMed AirFit F30i or Fisher & Paykel Vitera. See reviews #4 and #7.
We can’t promise any mask will work for a specific pressure or face shape. Treat these picks as a shortlist to test.
Looking for a different mask style? You may also like our guides to best full face CPAP mask for side sleepers, best nasal CPAP masks, most comfortable CPAP masks, and CPAP masks for mouth breathers.
Full Face vs. Nasal vs. Nasal Pillow: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Full face mask | Nasal mask | Nasal pillow mask |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Nose and mouth | Nose | Nostrils |
| Mouth breathing | Accommodates it | Usually requires mouth closure | Usually requires mouth closure |
| Facial contact | More | Moderate | Minimal |
| Feeling of confinement | Can be higher | Moderate | Often lower |
| Nasal congestion | Handles mouth breathing | May be difficult | May be difficult |
Full face masks suit mouth breathers and people with stuffy noses. The trade-off is more face contact.
Nasal masks are a good middle ground if you breathe through your nose. They’re lighter, but they rely on your mouth staying closed.
Nasal pillow masks are the most minimal. They work well if you feel claustrophobic. They can be less comfortable at higher pressures, though, and they don’t help much with mouth leaks.
What Are the Most Common Full Face CPAP Mask Problems?
Most issues have simple fixes. Start with sizing and strap tension, since they cause more problems than the mask itself.
Why Does My Mask Leak Around My Nose?
The cushion may be the wrong size, or the straps may be too tight. Loosen the straps slightly and check the cushion for wear. Lie in your usual sleeping position and test again.
Why Does My Mask Leak Around My Mouth and Chin?
This often happens when your jaw drops while you sleep. Try a different cushion size, adjust the lower straps, or try a different style. Persistent mouth leaks are worth discussing with your equipment provider.
Why Does My Mask Leave Marks on My Face?
A little redness that fades quickly is normal. Deep marks usually mean the straps are too tight. Loosen them and consider a softer cushion, such as an under-the-nose or foam design.
Why Is My Mouth Still Dry With a Full Face Mask?
Air leaks, or low humidity, can both cause dry mouth. Check your seal first. Then try raising your humidifier setting or using a heated hose.
Why Does My Mask Make Water Collect Inside (Rainout)?
Full face masks hold more air than other mask types. When warm, humid air cools inside the mask or hose, it can turn to water droplets. This is called rainout.
To reduce it, use a heated hose, lower your humidifier setting slightly, and keep the machine at or below the level of your bed. A hose cover can also help in cold bedrooms.
Why Does Air Blow Into My Eyes?
Usually, the top of the cushion isn’t sealing at the nose bridge. Check your size, reposition the mask, and make sure the cushion isn’t worn.
What If I Feel Claustrophobic?
Try wearing the mask for short periods while awake, such as while watching TV, before using it at night. This helps your brain get used to it. If it still feels too confining, a minimal-contact design like the DreamWear Full Face may help.
Why Does My Mask Shift During the Night?
Loose headgear, worn cushions, or a mask that doesn’t suit your sleeping position can all cause it. Re-adjust the straps, replace worn parts, or try a mask designed for movement, such as the F30i or Vitera.
Why Do I Get Pressure Points on My Nose Bridge?
Over-the-nose cushions can press on the bridge. Loosen the straps first. If that doesn’t help, an under-the-nose mask is often the better fix.
If problems continue, talk to your sleep specialist or equipment provider. Many CPAP machines record leak data, and your provider can help you read it.
How Do You Get the Best Fit From a Full Face Mask?
A few minutes of setup can save weeks of frustration.
- Measure your face. Use the manufacturer’s sizing guide, not your clothing size.
- Adjust the headgear lightly. Snug is enough. Overtightening usually causes leaks.
- Test the seal lying down. Your face shifts when you lie down, so check the fit in your sleeping position.
- Check for leaks at your prescribed pressure. Turn your machine on and listen for hissing around the edges.
- Replace worn parts. A stretched cushion or loose headgear can ruin a good fit.
If you’re still not sure, take five minutes tonight to run through all five steps. It’s a small effort compared with weeks of poor sleep.
How Do You Clean a Full Face CPAP Mask?
Clean equipment seals better and lasts longer.
- Daily: Wipe the cushion with a mild, unscented soap or CPAP wipes. Let it air dry out of direct sunlight.
- Weekly: Wash the headgear and frame with warm water and mild soap.
- Avoid: Bleach, alcohol, scented soaps, and harsh cleaners. They can damage silicone and foam and irritate your skin.
- Replace: Many manufacturers suggest replacing cushions about once a month (foam) to every few months (silicone), and headgear every six months or so. Follow your mask’s instructions.
Are Full Face CPAP Masks Better for Sleep Apnea?
Not necessarily. A full face mask isn’t automatically a better treatment than a nasal mask. It’s a better fit for certain people.
It helps if you breathe through your mouth or have nasal congestion. For people who breathe through their nose, a nasal mask can work just as well.
Fit matters more than style. A well-fitted nasal mask will usually beat a poorly fitted full face mask. And your therapy data, including leak rates, tells you more than any review. Ask your healthcare provider to go over it with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask?
For most people, the ResMed AirFit F40 is a strong starting point. It’s compact, comfortable, and easy to find parts for. The best mask for you depends on your sleeping position and face shape.
Are Full Face CPAP Masks Better Than Nasal Masks?
Not always. Full face masks are better for mouth breathers and people with congestion. Nasal masks may feel lighter if you breathe through your nose.
What Is the Most Comfortable Full Face CPAP Mask?
Comfort varies. Many people find under-the-nose masks like the AirFit F40 or DreamWear Full Face comfortable because they avoid nose-bridge pressure.
Can You Breathe Through Your Mouth With a Full Face CPAP Mask?
Yes. That’s the main reason many people choose one.
Are Full Face CPAP Masks Good for Side Sleepers?
They can be. A low-profile mask with a top-of-head hose, such as the AirFit F30i, is often more comfortable on your side.
Can You Use a Full Face CPAP Mask With a Beard?
Sometimes. Short beards and stubble often work, especially with a foam cushion. Long or thick beards can make sealing harder. Results vary.
Do Full Face CPAP Masks Cause More Air Leaks?
Not by design, but they cover a larger area, so there’s more edge to seal. Correct sizing helps a lot.
How Often Should You Replace a Full Face CPAP Mask?
Replace cushions roughly monthly to every few months, depending on material. Replace the whole mask when it stops sealing or shows wear. Follow your manufacturer’s guidance.
Can You Wear a Full Face CPAP Mask With Glasses?
Yes, with limits. You’ll usually need to remove them before sleep. Under-the-nose and hollow-frame masks leave more room for glasses while you read or watch TV.
Why Does My Full Face CPAP Mask Leak Around My Eyes?
The cushion isn’t sealing at the nose bridge, so air escapes upward. Check the size, reposition the mask, and replace the cushion if it’s worn.
Can a Full Face CPAP Mask Help With Dry Mouth?
Sometimes. It can help if mouth breathing was the cause. Leaks and low humidity can still dry your mouth out, so check those too.
Is a Full Face CPAP Mask Suitable for High Pressure?
Often, yes. Many people at higher pressures use them. Ask your provider which mask suits your settings.
Final Verdict: Which Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask Should You Choose?
The Best Full Face Sleep Apnea Mask for You
The best full face sleep apnea mask is the one you can wear all night, every night. Everything else is secondary.
If you want a safe first choice, start with the ResMed AirFit F40. It balances comfort, size, and availability better than most.
Best Overall
ResMed AirFit F40
Best for Side Sleepers
ResMed AirFit F30i
Best for Sensitive Skin
ResMed AirTouch F20
Best for Stability
Fisher & Paykel Vitera
From there, match the mask to your biggest problem:
- If hose tugging wakes you, try the AirFit F30i.
- If you feel closed in, try the DreamWear Full Face.
- If skin irritation is the issue, look at the AirTouch F20, and check the magnet note first.
- If you want a classic, firm seal, the AirFit F20 or Fisher & Paykel Vitera are strong options.
- If you want a flexible, easy fit, consider the Evora Full.
Ready to Improve Your CPAP Comfort?
Before you buy, compare sizing guides, replacement costs, and current prices. If one of these masks matches your sleeping style, it’s worth checking the latest price today, since a better night’s sleep starts with the right fit.
And if you’ve been tempted to put up with a mask that doesn’t work, remember the cost: every night of leaks and broken sleep is a night your therapy isn’t doing its job.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor or sleep specialist before changing your CPAP equipment or settings.
