Starting CPAP therapy doesn’t mean you have to lose your beard.
It’s true that facial hair can make it harder to get a good seal with your mask. But with the right design, you can absolutely keep sleep apnea in check—even if clean-shaven isn’t your style.
Our team knows that finding a CPAP mask that works with facial hair can take some trial and error. That’s why we have hand-tested today’s top masks for ourselves.
Now, we’re sharing our picks for the best CPAP masks for beards, including options for every breathing style and sleep position.
Table of contents
Best CPAP Masks for Beards
Best All-Around: AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow Mask
Best Full Face Mask: AirFit F40 Full Face CPAP Mask
Best Full Face for Thick Mustaches: AirFit F20 Full Face Mask
Best for Full Face for Thick Beards: AirTouch F20 Full Face
Best Full Face for Active Sleepers: AirFit X30i Hybrid Full Face Mask
Best Nasal Pillow for Active Sleepers: AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask
Best CPAP Mask for Beards
ResMed AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow Mask
✓ Pros
Seals inside nostrils instead of against your facial hair
Just 3 parts for easy maintenance & cleaning
50% lighter than most CPAP masks
One of our quietest masks for lightsleepers
Minimal pressure points & fewer red marks
Great for claustrophobia or first-time CPAP users
Includes 3 nasal pillow sizes to find your best fit
✗ Cons
Elastic headstrap may not fit extra large heads
Not ideal for pressures above 15 cmH₂O
Assembly can be tricky with arthritis or dexterity issues
Less adjustable than other nasal pillow masks
Our review of the AirFit P10
The ResMed AirFit P10 is a lightweight nasal pillow mask designed to keep things simple. It’s popular with pretty much everyone, including long-time CPAP users and beginners.
Guys with beards love this mask because it doesn’t get in the way of facial hair.
It’s small, soft, and quiet, and creates a reliable seal by resting just inside the nostrils—so it doesn’t have to seal against your beard or mustache. That makes it a great choice for all beard lengths, including full or thick facial hair.
The split-strap headgear is lightweight and stable, while the flexible nasal pillows adjust to movement so the seal stays put. It also comes with three nasal pillow sizes, so you can find the right fit.
Bottom line: If you’re a nose breather and want a no-fuss mask that skips the beard struggle entirely, the P10 is a strong all-around pick.
CPAP Guide Liz
Got questions? Our CPAP Guide team are trained to help you find the right mask. Give us a call at 1-800-356-5221
Best Full Face Mask for Beards
ResMed AirFit™ F40 Full Face Mask
✓ Pros
Adaptive silicone cushion flexes over beards
Soft, padded frame minimizes red marks
Magnetic clips save your fit between therapy sessions
Quietest full face mask available
Supports back, side, & occassional active sleeping
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Wide field of view for glasses & screens
✗ Cons
Magnets not safe for medical implants
Higher price than some full face masks
Not suggested for belly sleeping
Nasal seal may leak with a very thick mustache
Our review of the AirFit F40
The ResMed AirFit F40 is a game-changer for guys with beards looking for a low-profile full face mask. It’s built for comfort and flexibility, with soft materials and a fully padded frame.
Instead of sealing across the bridge of the nose or jawline, the F40 uses a low-profile, under-the-nose cradle. This design reduces the amount of cushion coverage, which minimizes the number of problem areas at risk of leaks.
Thanks to ResMed’s AdaptiSeal™ cushion, the mask adjusts to different face shapes and beard lengths without over-tightening.
It also includes magnetic headgear clips that save your fit and a flexible short tube that gives active sleepers extra room to move freely.
The F40 is especially helpful if you need a full face mask for mouth breathing but want to avoid the bulk and claustrophobia that you see with traditional designs.
Bottom Line: With a lightweight frame, compact coverage, and a flexible seal, the F40 earns its spot as our best minimalist full face mask for facial hair.
CPAP Guide Liz
Got questions? Our CPAP Guide team are trained to help you find the right mask. Give us a call at 1-800-356-5221
Best Full Face Mask for a Thick 'Stache
ResMed AirFit™ F20 Full Face Mask
✓ Pros
Flexible silicone seal fits 97% of face shapes
Over-nose cushion stays sealed at high pressures
Good for nighttime bathroom trips
4-point adjustable fit with magnetic clips to save your fit
Padded straps reduce red marks and irritation
As quiet as the AirFit P10
Interchangable with AirTouch memory foam cushion
✗ Cons
Over-the-nose design creates more pressure points
Bulkier than other masks on this list
Magnetic clips not safe for some medical implants
Not ideal for stomach or active sleepers
May not work for some side sleepers
Our review of the AirFit F20
The ResMed AirFit F20 is one of the most popular full face CPAP masks on the market—and for good reason. It’s a reliable choice for guys who need full face therapy with a reliable fit and strong seal.
This mask is ideal for people with thick facial hair or mustaches that interfere with under-the-nose designs. The over-the-nose mask provides more structure than under-nose designs, while the flexible InfinitySeal design adapts to 97% of face shapes.
You can pair the AirFit F20 with the AirTouch memory foam cushion, giving you extra flexibility if you have sensitive skin or struggle with leaks around facial hair. The padded headgear, open sightline, and easy-release magnetic clips make it practical for nightly use.
Bottom Line: If you're looking for a dependable, traditional-style full face mask that holds a secure seal, even with a beard, the AirFit F20 offers comfort and performance without compromise.
CPAP Guide Liz
Got questions? Our CPAP Guide team are trained to help you find the right mask. Give us a call at 1-800-356-5221
Best Full Face Mask for Very Thick Beards
ResMed AirTouch™ F20 Full Face Mask
✓ Pros
Memory foam seals well over thick facial hair
Gentle on skin, ideal for sensitivity or irritation
Interchangable with AirFit F20 silicone cushion
Stays sealed at high pressures
Plush headgear reduces red marks and discomfort
As quiet as the AirFit P10
4-point adjustable fit with magnetic clips to save your fit
✗ Cons
Memory foam cushion needs monthly replacement
Cushion can’t be washed with soap and water
More dense than the silicone F20 cushion
Not suggested for stomach or active sleepers
Our review of the AirTouch F20
If you want a mask that’s beard-friendly for skin-sensitive, Resmed's AirTouch F20 is the best option out there. Its UltraSoft memory foam cushion creates a secure seal over facial hair without needing a tight fit—something many silicone cushions can’t offer.
The AirTouch F20 fits 97% of users, and the plush, padded headgear keeps it comfortable even for side sleepers. Plus, magnetic clips and a quick-release elbow make it easy to put on, take off, or step away at night.
The one tradeoff is maintenance: memory foam can’t be cleaned with soap and water like silicone, so it needs to be replaced about once a month. But for bearded CPAP users struggling with leaks or irritation, the added comfort and seal are often well worth it.
Bottom line: If you have a really thick beard or sensitive skin, this memory foam cushion offers a comfortable, secure seal.
CPAP Guide Liz
Got questions? Our CPAP Guide team are trained to help you find the right mask. Give us a call at 1-800-356-5221
Best Active Sleeper Full Face Mask for Beards
ResMed AirFit™ X30i Hybrid Full Face Mask
✓ Pros
Hybrid cushion seals to nose & mouth without the bulk
Top-of-head hose stays out of the way for active sleepers
Nasal pillows create more secure seal
Includes all 3 nasal pillow sizes
Wide line of sight for screens and glasses
Supports every sleeping position
Magnetic headgear saves your fit
✗ Cons
One of the most expensive masks on the market
Magnetic clips not safe for implants
Nasal pillows may cause sinus irritation
Hollow frames may create more noise than a standard mask
Hose connection can be hard to reach for those with arthritis/dexterity issues
Our review of the AirFit X30i
The AirFit X30i from ResMed offers a fresh approach to full face masks, combining the security of nasal pillows with the complete coverage of an oral cushion.
This mask is designed for mouth breathers and works well for those with beards or mustaches who often struggle to get a proper seal with other styles. It stands out for its under-the-nose seal, which bypasses the typical problems facial hair creates.
The nasal pillows sit inside the nostrils, so your mustache won't get in the way of a good seal, while the oral cushion surrounds the mouth for with a flexible cushion that adapts as you move.
With a top-of-the-head hose connection, hollow-frame airflow, and magnetic headgear clips, the X30i offers freedom for active sleepers and those who dislike bulky hoses at the front of their face.
This mask is lightweight, secure, and refreshingly modern, though it comes at a premium price.
Bottom Line: The AirFit X30i is the go-to mask if you’ve struggled with leaks around your mustache and want a mask that gives you full face coverage while still being able to move freely in bed.
CPAP Guide Liz
Got questions? Our CPAP Guide team are trained to help you find the right mask. Give us a call at 1-800-356-5221
Best Active Sleeper Nasal Pillow Mask for Beards
ResMed AirFit™ P30i Nasal Pillow Mask
✓ Pros
Seals inside nostrils instead of against your facial hair
Top-of-head hose eliminates bulk & allows for movement
Good for back, side, stomach, & active sleepers
Comes with 3 pillow sizes
Open-face design feels less claustrophobic
Easily slips on and off with adjustable strap
Safe for pacemakers and implants
✗ Cons
Nasal pillows may cause sinus irritation
Hollow frames may create more noise than a standard mask
Less adjustable than 4-point headgear
Hose connection can be hard to reach for those with arthritis/dexterity issues
Our review of the AirFit P30i
The AirFit P30i is a great option if you want nasal pillow security and comfort with a full range of motion. Unlike nasal cradle masks that seal under the nose, this mask seals inside the nostrils, bypassing your facial hair completely.
Thanks to its top-of-head tubing and hollow frame design, the P30i lets you turn over freely without breaking your seal. The frame even reroutes air automatically if you sleep on one side, helping reduce leaks during movement.
This mask has fewer pressure points, doesn’t block your field of view, and works especially well if you’re a light sleeper or tend to feel claustrophobic with bulkier options. While this mask is quiet, some people say that the hollow frame design is louder than the P10, but the extra freedom of movement makes it worth it.
Bottom Line: If you’re an active sleeper with facial hair and want a nasal pillow mask that stays put, this is one of the most beard-friendly designs available.
CPAP Guide Liz
Got questions? Our CPAP Guide team are trained to help you find the right mask. Give us a call at 1-800-356-5221
Your perfect mask, guaranteed.
You deserve to spend more time living and less time struggling. That's why we offer a 30-Day Mask Fit Guarantee. Try your new mask risk-free. Don't like it? Return it within 30 days for a refund, and our trained CPAP Guides will help you find something better.
How we select our top mask picks for beards
We know that no two faces (or beards!) are the same. That’s why we take a hands-on approach to evaluating every CPAP mask we feature. Our product experts test new masks for real-world comfort, seal strength, and beard compatibility. We also consider other factors, like returns, customer reviews, and social media feedback. Our final picks reflect our dedication to product research and honesty, ensuring we only recommend masks that hold up in the real world.
Check out our other CPAP mask buying guides
Features to look for in a CPAP mask for beards
Beards and mustaches can interfere with a mask's seal, so the best CPAP masks for facial hair typically offer minimal contact or use materials that conform better to hair. Here's what to look for:
Memory foam or adaptive silicone cushions
Nasal pillow masks completely avoid facial hair
Adjustable headgear for a secure but comfortable fit
Magnetic clips or quick-release designs for easy removal
Top-of-head hose connections for less disruption while moving
Choosing the best types of CPAP masks for beards
Nasal Pillow Masks: These seal inside the nostrils and avoid most facial hair, making them ideal for mustaches or short beards.
Under-the-Nose Full Face Masks: Minimalist full face masks are a lot less bulky, making it easier to get a good seal even if you're a side or stomach sleeper.
Traditional Full Face Masks: If you're a mouth breather with really thick facial hair, it may be better to go with an over-the-nose mask that avoids sealing against the entire length of your mustache area.
Top-of-Head Hose Connections: This style places the bulkiest part of your mask on the top of your head, keeping your hose out of the way and making it less likely for your mask to shift out of place.
How to find a beard-friendly CPAP mask for you
Start with your breathing style
The type of CPAP mask you need will first depend on how you breathe. The best masks for mouth breathing are full face. If you're able to breathe through your nose, it's better to go with a nasal pillow mask because they create strong seals while avoiding your facial hair.
Consider your sleeping position
The second most important question is how you sleep. While back sleepers can choose any design, side sleepers will want the most compact mask they can find. Active and stomach sleepers should consider a mask with a top-of-head hose connection.
The thickness of your facial hair matters
The more a mask has to seal against the thickest parts of your facial hair, the harder it is to prevent mask leaks. Nasal pillow masks are your best bet, but if you need mouth coverage, you'll need to consider the thickness of your beard. Many bearded men can get away with the AirFit F40, but if you have a thicker mustache, you may want to choose the AirFit F20.
Mask cushions need to adapt to your beard
Adaptive silicone cushions do a great job of contouring to the shape of your facial hair, plus their flexibility allows for more movement. However, if you have really thick facial hair and need something with a little more density, a memory foam cushion may create a better seal.
Adjustable headgear can help you get the perfect fit
The right CPAP mask should never need to be tightened to the point that it becomes uncomfortable. That said, adjustable headgear makes a difference when you have thick facial hair putting distance between your mask cushion and face. Look for options with multiple adjustment points and magnetic clips for easy fitting.
Tips for using CPAP with a beard
Keep facial hair neat
You don’t have to shave it off, but keeping your beard or mustache neat and even combed can help your mask seal better and reduce air leaks.
Clean your mask regularly
Make sure to wash your CPAP equipment regularly to prevent dirt, oils, and germs from affecting your mask seal and causing skin irritation. Wipe down your mask cushion daily and wash all mask parts each week with mild soap.
Replace your mask parts
Over time, your CPAP cushion and headgear become worn after daily wear and tear, which can lead to air leaks and other issues. It's important to check your mask's replacement schedule and stick to it as much as possible.
Use mask liners
Mask liners create a better barrier between your skin and your cushion, helping to improve the seal and reduce irritation from your beard.
Wash your face before bed
Oils from your skin or beard can interfere with your mask seal. Wash your face before bed to help your cushion grip better.
Try a chinstrap
If you're using a nasal or nasal pillow mask but tend to sleep with your mouth open, a CPAP chinstrap can help you keep your mouth closed during the night to prevent mouth leaks.
Watch for early signs of leaking
If your CPAP machine is reporting an increase in leak rate or you're hearing air leak from your CPAP mask, it could be affecting your therapy results. Try readjusting your headgear or switching out your mask cushion for a new size.
Final thoughts
The best CPAP masks for beards offer a secure, leak-resistant seal without compromising comfort or forcing you to shave. Whether you're dealing with thick facial hair, a trimmed mustache, or a chest-length beard, we're sure that we have the right mask for you.
If you breathe through your nose and want a mask that's light enough to blend into the background, we suggest starting with the AirFit P10. And if you need a full face mask for mouth breathing, you can't go wrong with the AirFit F40 or AirFit F20.
Still exploring? Browse our complete collection of CPAP masks to find the best CPAP mask for beards and other facial hair.
Need help? Contact us!
- Call: 1-800-356-5221
- Email: support@cpap.com
- Chat: Connectwith a CPAP Guide through our website or app
