Best mask for fewer face dents?

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cupcake
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Joined: Fri Mar 14, 2008 12:14 am
Location: Perth, Australia

Best mask for fewer face dents?

Post by cupcake » Fri Apr 30, 2010 4:23 am

I've been using the Flexifit 407 for just over 2 years now, but was wondering if there is a mask out there for side sleepers which doesn't create as many dents on the face. I get marks from the straps as well as from the mask itself. I've made covers for the straps, which helps, but I still find I don't use my machine if I'm going out socially during the day (the dents are there for most of the day). I've tried a Mirage Activa, but find that the hard plastic frame sticks out to the side too much to enable me to sleep on my side. Is the width of the Activa LT any smaller? I've ordered a double edge papillow to see if this helps, but this will probably take a while to get here as I'm in Australia. Any suggestions would be wonderful.

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KatieW
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Re: Best mask for fewer face dents?

Post by KatieW » Fri Apr 30, 2010 8:35 am

Just a few thoughts--

- can you loosen the straps a little, without getting leaks? Do the straps have enough elasticity?

- What fabric did you use to make the strap covers--I found a thicker fabric was better. I tried silk because I thought it would feel nice, but it's too thin to be effective. Flannel works for me.

- I think the PapPillow will help. You can sleep right on either edge, and your mask is off the pillow, so it doesn't get dislodged. I use the Activa Lt, and it works well with the PapPillow. I also use a Nasal Pillow mask--the Headrest.

- If you don't breathe through your mouth, either might be an option. If you do breathe through your mouth, then people like the Quattro, Ultra Mirage full face masks. Or, combination Nasal Pillow that covers the mouth--Hybrid or Liberty. I buy most of my masks from cpapauction.com.

- there has been a recent post on the Pillow Pal and a pattern given. You could try that.

- are you well hydrated?

Hope that helps.

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LinkC
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Re: Best mask for fewer face dents?

Post by LinkC » Fri Apr 30, 2010 10:09 am

I hope you don't mean you've been using the SAME mask for 2 yrs. Masks wear out and lose their "sealability" after a few months.

If that's the case, get a new mask and you can loosen the straps a bit.

I get marks, but by the time I've finished shaving, they are gone. (I'm not suggesting you shave , but a morning "splash and pat" may be all it takes.

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araminta
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Re: Best mask for fewer face dents?

Post by araminta » Fri Apr 30, 2010 1:29 pm

After using the 407 for almost a year, I recently switched to the Swift LT.

I was quite happy with the 407, except for sometimes having to deal with marks on my face in the morning.

But the Swift LT is so small and hardly noticable, I'm much happier. Except for 1 problem: I'm having trouble with 1 very sore nare. I'm trying to be patient. But it's a challenge, even with using the heavy-duty cream each nite.

I recommend giving it a try.