Mask problems
Nasal Pillows Hurt My Nostrils: Causes and Fixes
Sore, red or tender nostrils with a nasal pillows mask usually mean the pillows are the wrong size, the headgear is pulling them up too hard, or the inside of your nose is dry. Trying a different pillow size, loosening the headgear and improving humidification fix most cases. If soreness persists, a nasal cradle or nasal mask is an alternative.
Signs
- Tender or raw feeling inside the nostril edges
- Redness around the nostrils in the morning
- Dryness or crusting inside the nose
- Feeling of pressure pushing up into the nose
Common causes
- Wrong pillow size
- Pillows that are too large stretch the nostril; too small and they push in to seal.
- Headgear too tight
- Pulling the pillows up into your nose to stop leaks puts pressure on the skin. The Sleep Foundation notes that pressure inside the nostrils can cause sores with pillows masks.
- Dry air
- Air flowing directly into the nostrils can dry the lining, especially in cold or dry rooms.
- Allergies or uneven nostrils
- ResMed notes that swelling from allergies, especially with a deviated septum, can push a pillow out of place and cause leak and discomfort.
Fixes to try, easiest first
Loosen the headgear
Pillows should rest at the nostril opening, not be pulled up into your nose. Loosen until they just seal with the air on.
Turn up humidity
If your nose feels dry, raise the humidity one step in your comfort settings, or try tube temperature if you have heated tubing.
Try another pillow size
Many pillows masks come with several sizes. Try the size that seals without stretching the nostril.
Use a nasal moisturizer
A water based nasal gel made for CPAP users can soothe dry nostril edges. Avoid petroleum products near the mask.
Use pillow liners or wraps
Some fabric liners are made for pillows masks to reduce rubbing at the nostril edge.
Ask about a nasal cradle or nasal mask with your clinician
If soreness continues, ask your equipment provider about a cradle style or nasal mask that seals under or around the nose.
Contact your doctor if you have nosebleeds that keep happening or will not stop, an open sore inside the nostril, or signs of infection such as swelling, pus or fever. Ongoing nasal problems can also be a reason to review your humidification and mask type with your provider.
Supplies that can help
A water-based or saline gel applied inside or around the nostrils to soothe dryness and soreness from CPAP airflow.
Salt water spray that moistens and clears the nose, a simple aid for the congestion and dryness some people get on CPAP.
Soft fabric liners that sit between your skin and the mask cushion to reduce skin irritation, red marks and the noisy leaks some people get from …
Retailer links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Mask types this applies to
Frequently asked questions
Are nasal pillows supposed to go inside your nose?
They sit at the opening of your nostrils and seal there. They should not be pushed far up into your nose. If they are, the headgear is too tight or the size is wrong.
What can I put on sore nostrils from CPAP?
A water based nasal moisturizer made for CPAP users is a common choice. Avoid petroleum jelly near the mask, since it can damage silicone. Better humidification also helps.
Why do my nostrils hurt more during allergy season?
Swollen nasal passages change how the pillows sit and can make them leak and rub. ResMed suggests asking about a nasal or full face mask during allergy seasons if this happens.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error