Nasal CPAP gel masks have been available for quite some time. Certainly, Phillips Respironics with their Profile Lite and Comfort Gel are the two most popular gel masks on the on the market today. ResMed has generally utilized their non-gel, dual walled cushion technology on their mask line and provided nasal CPAP mask users an excellent alternative. However, technology marches forward and both Phillips Respironics and ResMed have added new nasal CPAP gel masks to their line which have dramatically improved all the aspects CPAP mask users crave; comfort, weight, quietness, convenience, usability and durability.
Phillips Respironics new TrueBlue nasal CPAP mask has been very well received after getting high praise from focus groups and sleep technicians. The mask incorporates some of the best technologies available and adds intuitive design functionality. The first noticeably different aspect of the TrueBlue is the soft silicone spring which connects the mask frame to the cushion. By utilizing the new spring technology, the TrueBlue allows for more movement during sleep by creating a more consistent seal and less leakage. A good seal helps to eliminate sleep disturbances and waking while using a CPAP. The TrueBlue cushion is also unique for Philips Respironics. The inner blue gel cushion is enclosed with a “form-fitting outer silicone membrane” which helps to create a very effective seal. Moreover, the inner gel cushion is quite thin and light which provides for a more comfortable user experience.
The forehead arm and pad are also a slight departure from Philips Respironics’ normal design. Three soft forehead pads disperse pressure and reduce specific forehead pressure points which occur with other masks. The contoured arm is effective in keeping the mask in place while further reducing any significant forehead pressure. Angled exhalation micro ports help to redirect air away from bed partners.
Finally, the headgear has been redesigned to include inlaid adjustable straps which “converge into a single back panel with a crown strap for added stability”. The new Talon clips which attach the headgear to the mask frame provide for both an effective way to lock the mask in place as well as an easy release to remove the mask quickly.
Overall, the TrueBlue mask is innovative and effective in meeting the needs of nasal CPAP mask users. Through testing and feedback, users have given it high marks on comfort, quality, usability and design.
ResMed’s entrance into the nasal CPAP gel mask market is the Mirage SoftGel. ResMed, a company well known for making high quality CPAP masks, has taken some of their effective mask designs applications and incorporated them into the SoftGel. The most noticeable design feature on the SoftGel is the unique double gel cushion. The outer gel cushion is very soft and pliable which provides a comfortable feel while the inner blue gel supplies a stable and supportive interface. The primary difference between the SoftGel and other gel masks is that the outer shell is also gel filled which does provide additional support for users who move a great deal while sleeping.
The other defining feature of the ResMed SoftGel is the MicroFit dial. Although this technology has been used on other ResMed masks, it has shown to be quite effective in creating an optimal fit and increasing comfort levels and seals. The 360° elbow allows for users to move while sleeping without being forced to untangle themselves from the CPAP tube.
Conveniently, ResMed built the SoftGel frame to allow a nasal CPAP mask user to switch from the gel cushion to a similar silicone cushion. In particular, the SoftGel mask frame can be utilized with the SoftGel cushion or the Mirage Activa LT cushion. The Activa LT cushion is a dual-wall, non-gel cushion that applies ResMed’s patented ActiveCell technology for a great fit on a range of facial features. The SoftGel’s diffused airport directly on the mask swivel diffuses air quietly and away for bed partners. ResMed has also incorporated their popular set and forget headgear clips and quick release swivel which are convenient for connecting and disconnecting the CPAP mask.
As typical with ResMed’s mask line, quality is a constant. The mask is well made, functional and provides the user with a high level of comfort. Although the forehead pad falls a bit short when compared to the True Blue, the SoftGel is effective alternative to their non-gel cushion masks.
Finding the perfect mask requires patience, persistence and a willingness to try new things. Each of these masks are worthy of consideration especially when considering gel style masks. However, once the perfect fitting mask is found, comfort, compliance and an all around better quality of life will follow. At The CPAP Shop, we strive to bring you products we trust. If you have additional questions, we are happy to discuss them with you.
TrueBlue Nasal Mask Reviews:
- Rating 4/5 Stars.
Annie C. (KY) – June 28th 2011
Super soft forehead pads! I have not had any marks or irritation issues since using this mask. Great idea to use a spring, I am able to sleep on my back or on my side without problems.
trueblue gel
- Rating 5/5 Stars.
Glenn L. (AZ) – June 28th 2011
With other masks I have to ‘click’ the forehead piece into a new position if I move around too much at night. With this mask the forehead piece is on a hinge that moves with you. It works in sync with the spring cushion. I’m an active sleeper and this mask keeps a good seal.
SoftGel Nasal Mask Reviews
- Rating 4/5 Stars.
Pete S. (NJ) – May 26th 2010
Love this mask. I have tried so many different masks that leaked or put deep marks on the side of my face. This SoftGel mask creates a great seal without being tight on my face.
SoftGel
- Rating 5/5 Stars.
Brent Z. (PA) – June 24th 2010
I was having trouble finding a mask that wouldn’t leak while I slept on my side. This mask finally solved that problem. Nice and quiet too! Thank you to thecpapshop for your help