I have my second sleep study Sunday evening, 1/15/06 and was contacted by the clinic today. The techician explained in essence what would be going on and asked that I shave my beard. I questioned her as to why, and really got the answer "because". Not one that I readily accept. I keep it fairly short, quarter to three eights of an inch, and frankly have grown quite attached to it over the past fifteen years. Is it really necessary to be clean shaven to wear the mask? Will do it if necessary, but really hate to go to the max.

I have a beard and was not asked to shave for my sleep study.  The tech did mention that it would be a pain for me to get the glue from the electrode leads out of my beard, but he never suggested that not shaving would hurt the study.

Hi joes

        I have a beard as you, short and well trimmed, and my sleep lab didn't require me to shave. They even put the electrodes on the beard,(to see if I was grinding my teeth) said it would be no problem. You just have to wash out the paste in the morning.
        
        I think the sleep tech where you are going is probably concerned about the electrodes and about the mask fit, and having leaks where the mask may set on your beard. I have a FP 431 ff mask, and it is not a problem. If I have any air escaping, I just reposition the mask(move it a bit) to get a good seal. I sleep on my side mostly, so the pillow even helps to keep a tight fit.
    
         Telling you just "because" really isn't a good answer. I would go to your sleep study(with your beard) and say what you said here, mention that shaving is not an option, and can we work together to achieve a good outcome for you. At the same time, ask them why again??

          It may take a bit more effort to fit a mask to you, but remember you have to live with it, not the tech

          Good luck, and let everyone know how you make out.

Paul

Thanks gents. You have confirmed my opinion. Do appreciate it more that I can say.

Also if its for your mask fit do what is called a "diver trim."  Where scuba divers like myself have to trim about 1/8-1/4 inch below the nose to expose skin for sealing.  Its barely noticable.

jeffreyd wrote:

Also if its for your mask fit do what is called a "diver trim."  Where scuba divers like myself have to trim about 1/8-1/4 inch below the nose to expose skin for sealing.  Its barely noticable.

I didn't know it was called that!

I figured out myself that my nose mask would fit better with my mustache if I did just that. You are right about it not being noticeable. Then I changed to a nasal pillow so it doesn't much matter. But thanks for telling me about the name and for saving me the money to file a patent on the "Great John Mask Fitting System"  - $19.95 plus $4.95 shipping and handling for the $.25 razor, the special cream (ordinary lotion) and the secret instructions. Oh well! There goes my millions.

John