Rash/Acne from CPAP mask

Anyone ever get a rash or acne from a CPAP full face mask?  I keep the thing clean, wash my nasel and chin area regularily, but I've had this d@M* rash for about a month.  I even purchase a different type of mask that has less skin contact but it will not go away. I've tried a bunch of OTC skin cleansers and washes, nothing seems to work. Any ideas?

Yes, I found just plain ol Dial bar soap works the best for me.   I wash the area around my nose and mouth every morning after I get up.  Also, make sure the mask is clean and dry when you put it on.  My worst thing is that area on the forehead where the little rubber pads sit.  It is just the opposite, it dries out terribly, and I have to use a moisturizer ( a manly non scented one.. LOL).. or it looks like I have dandruff forhead! Sigh... now I've got combination skin.... I just don't feel pretty... Dale

Funny, Dial is the first thing I turned to when the problem started.  I just got off the phone with the med supply people and they're sending me a model that touches nothing but nostril. Maybe that will help. Guy

Guy, I never had a rash, but the bridge of my nose close to the area between my brows, always stayed broke out. I never could get anyone to explain that one to me. Best of luck to you! Tommy

Guy, Than model worked really well for me and you won't get rashes with it.  I have sensitive skin and a full mask didn't work out for me. Good luck.

I ues the full mask works great until i shave then the dang thing leaks for couple of days until my beard grows out a little bit







Bob

I suggest that you see a dermatologist.  It's possible the rash may be due to moisture rather than dryness.  If that's the case, you may be getting a fungal infection.  I use lotrimin for them on other parts of my body, but I'd be leery of trying it around the face without first consulting a specialist.  I hope you won't need the mask following surgery, but that doesn' help you now.

Kaiser sells a facial wash that works wonders on acne. Its about 6.00 and you don't need to be a memebr to buy it. Just go the pharmacy and pick it up. Its the only that works for the kids acne.  Have you tried going away from the full face mask and using the nasal pillows

Well, it could be acne, which is a bacterial infection.  It could be a fungal infection from excessive moisture, as another poster pointed out.  It could also be an allergic reaction to the compounds in the mask, either latex or silicone.  If it is this type of ailment, called a contact dermatitis, it might be treatable with antihistamines like benadryl cream and with hydrocortisone cream.  But, you might have to switch to a different mask. There are several websites which sell cpap supplies -- you might check them and see if there are any hypoallergenic masks.

I had the same problem with the full face mask so I now use the nasal pillow which sounds like the one you ordered.  The only problem is that I have a tendancy to open my mouth so I have to wear a chin strap along with the mask.  You may want to order a chin strap if you have the same problem. OT:  I was just curious which procedure you chose.  I was trying to decide between the Lap-Band and RNY also, but my insurance company made the choice for me. Steve