A woman on TikTok says she’s found a simple way to protect her skin while wearing a CPAP mask—and the idea is striking a chord with other users who wake up with breakouts or deep lines across their cheeks.
The hack is straightforward: cut a satin scrunchie in half and slide it over the straps of the mask providing “continuous positive airway pressure” where they rest against your face, creating a softer barrier overnight.
Satin scrunchies, like the ones widely available online, have long been popular for reducing friction on hair and skin and viewers say the same principle seems to apply here.
Preventing Irritation
In the video, posted by TikTok creator sukuna_sloth, the creator explains that the satin fabric helps prevent irritation caused by the tight straps required to keep a CPAP mask sealed during sleep.
CPAP machines are commonly prescribed to treat obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that causes repeated breathing interruptions during the night and is linked to serious health risks when left untreated.
Skin irritation is a frequent complaint among CPAP users.
According to the Sleep Apnea Association, “CPAP dermatitis is a type of skin irritation or rash caused by using a CPAP machine,” and it typically appears, “in areas where the mask or headgear comes into contact with the skin—most often on the nose, cheeks, chin or around the mouth.”
The organization also notes that friction, pressure and moisture buildup can all contribute to irritation.
Among 900 comments, the idea struck many TikTok viewers as incredibly smart, fixing an issue they have long dealt with.
One individual wrote, “GO GET THAT BAG. This idea is genius and I would absolutely buy something like this for my husband. The market is out there.”
‘Patent this’
Another added, “Diva, you need to patent this [right now].”
Others focused on the everyday appeal, with one person saying, “Well, I’ve got to try this. I hate having lines on my face when I wake up.”
Beyond DIY fixes like satin scrunchies, there are also products designed specifically to reduce irritation from CPAP gear.
CPAP mask covers and liners are designed to act as a soft layer between the mask and skin.
CPAP wipes are another popular option, helping users keep masks clean and reduce the buildup of oils and bacteria that can contribute to breakouts.
Some CPAP users also turn to moisturizers formulated for use with masks, applying them before bed to combat dryness.
General skin protectants, including petroleum-based ointments such as Aquaphor, are sometimes used sparingly on pressure points to reduce friction.
Another product gaining attention is hypochlorous acid facial spray, an antimicrobial mist often used to help calm irritated skin and reduce acne-causing bacteria.
Why Comfort Matters
Medical experts stress that comfort matters because consistent CPAP use is essential.
“A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine helps treat sleep apnea,” the Cleveland Clinic explains, noting that the device works by delivering pressurized air to keep airways open during sleep.
The clinic adds that untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke, making adherence to therapy critical.
For users struggling with discomfort, small adjustments—from satin scrunchies to specialty liners—may make it easier to stick with treatment while keeping skin calmer overnight.
Newsweek has reached out to sukuna_sloth for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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