Nasal CPAP Masks
A nasal CPAP mask covers only the nose, without touching the mouth. It's the ideal compromise for patients who breathe through the nose at night: less bulky than a full face, more stable than a pillow, and suited to medium therapeutic pressures (up to ~14 cmH₂O).
At VivaRespire, find the references: ResMed AirFit N20, AirFit N30i (top-of-head tube), Philips DreamWear nasal, F&P Eson 2, Solo, Evora nasal, Pico.
Our catalog Nasal CPAP Masks
Nasal CPAP masks are the most used in the world, rightly so. They offer an excellent compromise between full face sealing and pillow lightness, for patients who breathe through the nose during sleep.
The cushion covers the nose by covering both nostrils and the nasal bridge, without touching the mouth. This leaves more freedom of movement and reduces the feeling of confinement compared to a Full Face.
When to choose a nasal mask?
- You naturally breathe through the nose at night (no dry mouth on waking).
- Your CPAP pressure is moderate (between 4 and 14 cmH₂O).
- You want more stability than a pillow while avoiding the bulk of a full face.
- You move moderately at night: the nasal mask holds well without slipping.
- You're starting therapy and want a safe compromise (nasal is statistically the most prescribed).
Models available at VivaRespire
ResMed range
- AirFit N20: the ResMed nasal reference, InfinitySeal cushion, stable and leak-free. Available as AirTouch N20 with memory foam cushion for sensitive skin.
- AirFit N30i: tube on top of head, free field of view, ideal for side sleeping. Available as AirTouch N30i with foam cushion.
- AirFit N30: cushion under the nose, ultra-low profile, perfect for slim morphologies.
- Mirage FX: the proven classic, simple and reliable, For Her version available.
Fisher & Paykel range
- Solo: RollFit technology that auto-fits on the nasal bridge, perfect for beginners.
- Eson 2: the proven F&P reference, leak-free and durable.
- Evora nasal: compact, under-nose, minimalist ergonomics.
Philips Respironics range
- DreamWear nasal: tube on top of head (like AirFit N30i), unique design.
- DreamWisp: hybrid with under-nose cushion and top tube.
- Pico: classic entry-level nasal, simple and affordable.
Advantages of nasal masks
- Lightness and comfort intermediate between pillow and full face.
- Reliable sealing at usual pressures.
- Mouth freedom: can speak or drink during therapy without removing the mask.
- Most prescribed choice in the world: ideal compromise for most patients.
Drawbacks to know
- Not suited for mouth breathing: if you open your mouth at night, air leaks, full face mask is required.
- Sensitive to nasal congestion (cold, allergies): difficulty breathing.
- Pressure marks on the nasal bridge possible if too tight or wrong size.
Frequently asked questions about nasal masks
The ResMed AirFit N20 is the absolute reference: leak-free, durable, easy to fit. If you move a lot or sleep on your side, the AirFit N30i with its top-of-head tube is unbeatable. For beginners, the F&P Solo with RollFit auto-fits.
The nasal covers the entire nose: more stable, better tolerated at higher pressures (up to 14 cmH₂O), good for those who move. The pillow sits at the nostril entrance: ultra-light, discreet, ideal if you tend to feel cramped. At low pressure (<10 cmH₂O), pillow is enough; at higher pressure, nasal is safer.
First sign: you wake up with dry mouth. Two options: (1) try a chin strap that keeps the mouth closed during therapy; (2) switch to a full face mask covering nose and mouth. The 2nd option is more reliable but also bulkier. Many patients try the chin strap first before switching to full face.
The AirFit N20 has a wraparound cushion covering the nasal bridge and tip: maximum sealing, ideal at higher pressures. The AirFit N30i has a cushion under the nose with top-of-head tube: minimalist profile, perfect for side or stomach sleeping. Choose based on your sleep position and pressure.
If well-fitted, no. Marks usually come from over-tight headgear or wrong cushion size. Solutions: (1) loosen the headgear (just enough tension for sealing, no more); (2) try a size up; (3) use a silicone or fabric nose protector (sold separately) to spread pressure. The AirTouch N20 with memory foam cushion is also a good option.
At VivaRespire, complete nasal masks range from €110 to €180. AirFit N20 and Eson 2 are around €140-160, Pico around €110 (entry level). Replacement cushions alone cost €25-45.
Nasal becomes complicated when your nose is blocked: pressure against a closed nostril makes everything leak. Temporary solutions: (1) decongestant nasal spray at night, (2) temporarily switch to a full face mask if you have one, (3) skip 1-2 nights if the cold is intense (no more). A heated humidifier also helps clear airways during the night.
Yes. All nasal masks use a standard 22 mm connector and work with any CPAP: ResMed, Philips, Löwenstein, Sefam, etc. Only exception: the ResMed AirMini requires specific "for AirMini" masks (the AirFit N20 and P10 exist in AirMini version).