Nadu CPAP Skin Care — Mask Soothe Barrier Cream

Why Nadu

Most of what CPAP users reach for when their skin gets sore was designed for something else entirely — nappy rash, chapped lips, cracked heels. Nadu started from the opposite direction: build for the mask first. Mask Soothe uses zinc oxide at 75 mg/g, a recognised skin protectant, at a deliberately moderate strength — enough to shield the contact points along the cushion line, light enough that it doesn't smother skin already sitting under a warm, humidified mask for seven or eight hours. It's paired with calendula officinalis flower extract to calm sensitised skin, and it's unscented, which matters when the product sits directly under your nose all night.

What it doesn't contain is petrolatum or paraffin. Petroleum-based products seal moisture in, which is the opposite of what you want under a mask, and they leave an oily film on silicone that is difficult to wash off.

The brand was founded in Brisbane by Alexandra French after years of struggling with her own sinus and breathing problems, and it manufactures locally — R&D, design and production all in Australia. Nadu's medical advisory board includes Emeritus Professor William B. Coman AM, an ENT surgeon with more than five decades in head and neck surgery, and Dr Andrew Swift, President of ENT UK and a specialist in nose and sinus disorders. That is unusually serious clinical backing for a skincare product in this category.

Choosing Your Mask Soothe Size

Mask Soothe comes in two sizes. The formulation is identical in both — zinc oxide 75 mg/g with calendula, unscented:

• 25g tub — the everyday size, and the one to buy if you already know mask irritation is an ongoing issue for you.
• 5g mini — small enough for a CPAP travel bag, and the sensible starting point if you want to see how your skin responds before committing to the larger tub.

A little goes a long way in either size. Apply a small amount to the affected areas before fitting your mask, and carry on cleaning the mask as your manufacturer instructs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Mask Soothe with any CPAP mask?

Yes — it is suitable for use with most mask types, whether you wear a full face, nasal or nasal pillow mask. Keep to your usual mask cleaning routine as set out by the mask manufacturer.

Why not just use Vaseline, paw paw ointment or Sudocrem?

Vaseline and paw paw ointment are occlusive — they seal moisture in, which is the last thing you want under a mask that is already warm and humid for seven or eight hours a night. They also leave an oily film on silicone cushions that is difficult to wash off and can make a reliable seal harder to achieve. Sudocrem is closer in principle, since it is also zinc-based, but it is a thick paste built for nappy rash rather than for wearing on your face under a sealed mask. Mask Soothe uses zinc oxide at a lighter 7.5% in a cream base, with no petrolatum or paraffin.

Is Mask Soothe safe for children or during pregnancy?

Nadu states that Mask Soothe is safe for use by children, and during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As with any new product, stop use and speak to your GP if you notice a reaction.

Will a barrier cream fix my mask irritation on its own?

Sometimes, but not always. Persistent soreness is often a fit problem wearing a skin-problem disguise. If it has come on suddenly, check whether your mask cushion is past its replacement date — a hardened, worn cushion needs more strap tension to seal, and that tension is what marks your face. Many users also pair a barrier cream with CPAP mask liners to cut direct silicone contact.

Still not comfortable? Our guide to selecting the right CPAP mask walks through the fit and style questions worth revisiting, and you can browse the full CPAP mask accessories range for other comfort options.