Your mask type

Total face mask

A total face mask seals around the outer edge of your whole face, covering the eyes, nose and mouth. The Philips Respironics FitLife is the best known example. It is used mostly when other masks cannot seal or cause sores.

How it works

Instead of a cushion that seals on the nose and cheeks, a total face mask has a large clear shell with a soft flap that seals around the perimeter of the face, roughly along the forehead, sides of the face and under the chin. Air fills the whole space in front of the face.

Because the seal sits away from the nose and mouth, it avoids pressure on the bridge of the nose and the cheeks. Philips describes the FitLife as limiting contact with the cheeks and nose while giving an open field of view. It comes in Small, Large and Extra Large.

Usually suits

  • People who get sores or skin breakdown from nasal and full face cushions
  • People with facial shapes that other masks cannot seal
  • People who need a full mouth and nose interface and could not get any full face mask to seal
  • Some people using noninvasive ventilation, as directed by their care team

Often a poor fit for

  • People who feel claustrophobic, since it covers the eyes
  • People who want to read, watch TV or wear glasses with the mask on
  • People with dry eyes, because air surrounds the eyes
  • Stomach and side sleepers who press the large shell into the pillow

Pressure and this mask type

Total face masks are used with CPAP, BiPAP and some ventilators. Because air surrounds the mouth, the oronasal pressure research applies. Mask choice and any related setting review belong with your prescribing clinician or respiratory therapist.

Common problems and fixes

Dry or irritated eyes

Check that the seal is even and not leaking toward the eyes, and talk to your provider. Ongoing eye irritation needs a clinician.

Leak along the chin

Readjust the headgear evenly and recheck the size. A jaw that drops open can change the seal line.

Feeling closed in

Practice wearing it while awake with the machine running, using ramp if your machine has it. If anxiety continues, ask about other options.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a full face and a total face CPAP mask?

A full face mask seals on the nose and around the mouth. A total face mask seals around the edge of the whole face, including the eyes, so nothing presses on the nose or cheeks.

Why would someone use a total face mask?

Usually because nasal and full face cushions cause sores, or no other mask will seal on their face. It is often a provider or hospital recommendation rather than a first choice.

What sizes does the Philips FitLife come in?

Philips lists the FitLife in Small, Large and Extra Large, with adjustable headgear.

Sources

Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error