Your mask type
Under the nose full face mask (hybrid, minimal contact)
An under the nose full face mask covers your mouth and seals under your nose instead of over the bridge. Manufacturers call these minimal contact or oral nasal masks; examples include the ResMed AirFit F30, F30i and X30i and the Philips DreamWear Full Face.
How it works
The cushion has two parts working as one seal: an oral section around the mouth, and a nasal section that cups the underside of the nose (or, on some hybrids, nasal pillows that sit at the nostrils). Nothing rests on the bridge of the nose, so there is a clear line of sight and no pressure point there.
Some models connect the tube at the top of the head (the ResMed models ending in "i" and the DreamWear) so the hose stays out of the way while you move. Others connect at the front. Sizing is based on the width of your nose and the width of your mouth, so a sizing gauge is especially useful.
Usually suits
- Mouth breathers who want less mask on the face than a traditional full face mask
- People with sores or red marks on the bridge of the nose
- People who wear glasses, read or watch TV in bed
- People who feel claustrophobic in a traditional full face mask
- Active sleepers, with top of head tube models
Often a poor fit for
- People with a very short distance between the nose and upper lip, or a very wide or narrow nose, which can make the nasal part hard to seal
- Some people on high pressures, where the smaller cushion can be harder to keep sealed (ask your provider)
- People with nostrils that get irritated by direct airflow, for pillow style hybrids
Pressure and this mask type
These masks are used across the normal CPAP and BiPAP range. Like other oronasal masks, they deliver pressure through the mouth, so the research linking oronasal masks to somewhat higher prescribed pressures applies to them as well. If leak or AHI rises after you switch to one, report your data to your provider or clinician rather than changing settings yourself.
Under the nose full face mask (hybrid, minimal contact) models
Common problems and fixes
Leak at the top of the cushion under the nose
The nasal part is the wrong size or sitting too high or low. Recheck the size with the sizing gauge, and make sure the cushion cups the underside of the nose evenly.
Mask slides down your face
Tighten the lower straps slightly and check the top of head connection or frame is centered. Do not overtighten the upper straps to compensate.
Irritation under the nose or on the upper lip
Loosen the straps and replace a cushion that has lost its shape. A different size or a fabric or foam cushion option may help. Broken skin needs a clinician.
Air swallowing or bloating
Check the fit and humidity first. Aerophagia that keeps happening is a reason to talk to your clinician.
Frequently asked questions
What is a hybrid CPAP mask?
It is a full face style mask that covers the mouth and seals under or at the nose instead of over the bridge. It suits mouth breathers who want a smaller mask with a clear view.
Is an under the nose full face mask good for glasses?
Usually yes, because nothing sits on the bridge of the nose. That is one of the main reasons people choose them over traditional full face masks.
How do I size an under the nose full face mask?
Most brands provide a printable or paper sizing gauge that measures the width of your nose and sometimes your mouth. Print it at 100 percent scale and check it against the ruler on the page before measuring.
Does it work with a beard?
It can work better than a traditional full face mask with a mustache, but hair around the mouth and chin can still break the seal. Fit testing with your provider is the honest answer.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error