Full face mask leak in bearded individual

[goodn]

Any suggestions on how to minimize or stop completely leaks in a bearded individual using a full face mask with air fit 20 res med devices. I had no leaks at all until I grew the beard. Am I condemned to a hairless face? Will silicone gel work along the edges of the mask as it does for a facemask while I scuba dive? Any other clues or thoughts would be appreciated

[AFM1]

Well I shaved my twenty beard off a couple of months ago, as I started on cpap tails to see which machine will be best for me, and none of the full face masks work with a beard, I didn't shave off my moustache, I got onto to Remed N30i nasal pillows, and a chin strap a it is working great touch wood

[70sSanO]

FFM’s have changed quite a bit over the years and the F20 is the best one I’ve ever had. The newer masks really work better floating on the face rather than the straps compressing the cushion.

Previously I had a Quattro FX and I had a beard for a couple years. Even though that mask was supposedly designed to float, the cushion seemed more like the older ones. I ended up using elastic straps to really cinch it down and get it to seal. Depending on how much you really want to use a FFM, you can look into a Quattro with a forehead support. I’m not sure I could even go back to one of those.

Personally if you can tolerate some sort pillows and a chin strap, you might be better off.

Also, my experience may not be representative because I really like FFM’s and have always gotten them to seal... YMMV.

John

[Gideon]

See my avatar?  That's me with my backup mask, an Amara View.  
I've never had a problem with a FFM, other than never liking them.  My daily mask is the P10.  
The goal is acceptable leaks, not excessive leaks.  Try a mask liner.  And the goal is a light touch on the face.  


Many years ago the masks were air-inflated cushions and seals were accomplished by forcing the cushions to conform to your face (or was it the other wat around?)
Today's masks are designed to float on your face, much like a hovercraft, with the air pressure providing the sealing force, the straps are to merely hold the mask in place.

Try Mask liners, pad a cheek,  They are basically a teeshirt material in the shape on the mask and help with leaks for many.

Try holding the mask, under pressure, on your face with your hand, and NO straps, as lightly as possible.  Once it's situated then strap to mak the mask feel the same as your hand.

[70sSanO]

Try holding the mask, under pressure, on your face with your hand, and NO straps, as lightly as possible.  Once it's situated then strap to mak the mask feel the same as your hand.

The expert has spoken.

This one part is something I have done for a long time.  It is too hard to find the “sweet spot” by just tugging on straps.  Positioning the mask with your hand, even pushing with your index finger, will go a long way.  I’ll also scrunch my nose and cheeks to see how well it’s sealed.

But, some people just can’t use a FFM.

Joh

[SarcasticDave94]

There's a hidden gem of a suggestion. (Post by bonjour not mine) Zero leaks aren't necessarily required. You should have large leaks below the machine intentional leak rate; that's a measurable goal.

The lower you get the leak rate, in a consistent controlled fashion with the least sleep disturbance possible, that's your leak control target.

[Janyn]

I have a full beard and I wear the F-20 with no issues. The small leaks I get are usually near my nose and not on my chin. I found the issue was the mask was not properly located low on my chin and the straps need to be tightened properly or it will leak a bit depending on how I lay my head. I agree a small leak is not an issue. I dont think you need to shave your beard. Also I know amazon sells bigger pillows, dont know how effective they are?