Question:
Any suggestions on ways to stop my CPAP mask from irritating my skin?

As part of my Surgeons routine screening I had a Sleep Study done and now I have a CPAP. The mask is literally chewing holes in the skin on the bridge of my nose. Any suggestions.....?    — Jeana L. (posted on June 14, 2003)

June 14, 2003
Hi, been there done that!! It was so bad that i would bleed. then it got better after time. I had even looked into getting a different "mask". The only problem with that is that my insurance would only cover one. I would have had to pay out of pocket for a different one. Good luck!!
   — luckyflowers

June 14, 2003
I have 2 different friends with CPAP machines. They both had the same problem. One got a gel pad from a medical supply company which goes where the top of the mask goes. It adheres to the mask. She no longer has problems, the other puts a dap of petroleum jelly at the top of the mask and he no longer has the problem either.
   — M B.

June 14, 2003
I had the same problem but because my skin is very oily it also caused large pimples on my nose and cheek area. Buy some white, 100% cotton knit fabric (like t-shirts)and cut it into rectangles about the size of your face. Cut a slit where the bottom of your nose is. You can get a bunch out of 1 yard of fabric and throw them in with your laundry, that way you have a clean one every day. It works great and keeps your mask clean too!! Hope this helps. Marie
   — mariew

June 14, 2003
I had the same problem and now have a scar on my nose, Use Mole Skin, sold in shoe sections of drug stores...stick it to the bridge of your nose an POOF, it helps alot.... Most of the problem is probabaly your mask, see if you can try on others, Oh and make sure it isn't too tight....loosen it up and then tighten it just beyond where it stops leaking.....If you have probs ask whoever you bought the mask from, they might be able to help. However it is yours once it is opened and used.....GOOD LUCK!!
   — Saxbyd

June 14, 2003
There are many kinds of masks..I didnt want the one that covers the nose, so mine is like a nasal cannula..just to prongs in the nose. Go to your equipment provider and tell them you want to choose a new one.
   — Donna W.