Nasal pillow dermatitis

[zeak]

I’ve had an air fit P10 for 7 yrs with no problem. Just developed bad irritation on the exterior of my nose and upper lip from the nasal pillows. Tried lanolin and changed up the pillows and didnt get any relief.  Dermatologist insisted I take a few days off form the cpap which has been awful. I’m concerned that once things heal and I try it again I’ll get the same irritation. I know this is a common problem. If I need an alternative what would be the best low profile  system that I could still use with my resmed machine? Thanks.

[nightgagger]

That's a tough one as the next "low profile" I would use would be the N30i, or the F&P Brevida...but these would also make contact to the nostril entry area.
Have you tried the N20 nasal pillow? That sits on the bridge, but goes around the nose.

[readingteacher]

I use the RemZzzs liners for nasal pillows. I started using them because I was getting sores under my nostrils. I like the liners a lot! No more sores, not even red marks. 

They are made of a thin knit fabric like T-shirt fabric. The liners do not have adhesive or velcro tabs. They are held in place simply by the pressure between the mask and your face. I found them a little fiddly at first, but I have learned to hold the liner in place, push it against my nose with one hand, and pull my headgear on with the other hand. It's easy for me now, just had to get the technique down!

The website and directions say to use a new liner each night. I actually use a liner for 3 nights (unless I have a cold or bad allergies). Some users online said they wash and reuse the liners. I tried that, but the liners for nasal pillows curl up when they get wet, and they don't uncurl, not even if ironed. So that didn't work for me. 

I am quite satisfied and recommend them. They may provide enough of a protective layer between your skin and the pillow to prevent the dermatitis.

[zeak]

Thanks for the tip! Would the N20 cushion fit on my existing P10 system or would I need a new mask and tubing as well?

[OpalRose]

zeak, the N20 nasal cushion would not fit on the P10.

The recommendation of using a liner for the nasal pillow mask is a good one.