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Buddhist Sage wrote:So what gel can I use? My straps are fine and they're not overtightned. I always wake up with irritation. Aquaphor prevents this....

Nipple cream lanasoh made from pure lanolin. Look in the baby aisle of your drug store for cream for breast feeding - safe enough to eat.

Buddhist Sage wrote:So what gel can I use? My straps are fine and they're not overtightned. I always wake up with irritation. Aquaphor prevents this....

I use a silicone mask sealer that divers use - probably pick it up at your local dive shop, or order online from dive right in scuba dot com. I make no money from this promotion, but I find the sealer works wonders.

After 20 some years of working in Sleep Disorders field, I can tell you - forget all those creams, gels, etc. They dont work and can actually cause some reaction with the materials that mask made from and cause some skin issues.
If you have leaks, mouthbreathing, etc - make sure you have a CORRECT mask for your face/nose. There are many masks out there and a good DME company will find one that fits you well. Problems is - some companies try to sell you what brings them more money, not what fits you best. Keep that in mind.
As far as sleeping on your stomach - most people actually need LOWER pressure as apnea as not as severe in this position. I'd make sure that your titration was done properly and your pressure is correct. More is NOT always better. Higher pressure than needed can actually cause MORE apnea. Or maybe you need a BiPap. Or maybe you have Centrals and need a Vpap - so many scenarios - hard to say what will work better. Some people do better with fullface masks, some with nasal.

As far as sleeping on your stomach - most people actually need LOWER pressure as apnea as not as severe in this position.

True.