Major Problem !!

Neville Dipell · May 11, 2010

What's the best way to stop your mask from leaking if you have a mustache ???
I've heard of all sorts of solutions but none seem to work. Maybe I have to shave it off.
Regards - ND

Wayne at DiveSeekers · May 11, 2010

Option 1: Silicone grease on mustache
Option 2: Trim it up if it is excessively full
Option 3: Trim 1 little stroke below nose across top of mustache. I do this with my goatee.
Option 4: Maybe your mask is not the proper size for you and that is why it is leaking. I know plenty of divers with mustaches or goatees that dive

Define leaking: Water around nose (O.K., somewhat normal).
Mask filling up (to eyes) which would be leaking

Akimbo · May 11, 2010

Liberal coat of mustache wax is what I have seen work best.

StevenN · May 11, 2010

I have facial hair and have never had a problem with mask leakage. Maybe it's because I keep it shorter? I don't know but I've seen a lot of divers with it that don't have a problem.
My first guess would be mask fit but since you have over 200 dives I'm guessing you know how to fit a mask.
Good luck, you came to the right place to ask, I'm sure someone here will have a solution.

Lee Taylor · May 11, 2010

Maybe try a full face mask

Wayward Son · May 11, 2010

I shave a bit under my nose

neonistic · May 11, 2010

There is a product that is made for this. Never used it. Looks like a tube of chapstick. Maybe it is. I have heard Vasoline. I would honestly find a mask that fits better. I know a lot of people with mustaches that use nothing and have no problem.

Mask-Sealer-and-Mustache-Wax

Fatterboy · May 11, 2010

I use nothing, when water comes in I exhale thru my nose and clear my mask. I seem to have to clear my mask every breath or every other breath. The trick for me seems to be not inhale thru my nose as there is always water in my mask.

jh_MacLeod · May 12, 2010

Neville Dipell:
What's the best way to stop your mask from leaking if you have a mustache ???
I've heard of all sorts of solutions but none seem to work. Maybe I have to shave it off.
Regards - ND

There are many ways to deal with this problem and you've gotten some common sense suggestions already. However, I just wanted you to know that it is possible to have a bushy mustache and still get a good seal without using any kind of grease. Do whatever you have to do for now, but I would suggest you keep trying different masks until you find one that "really" fits your face perfectly.

In my experience, with facial hair a very small amout of seepage can be expected when snorkeling or near the surface. But once you descend a couple of meters, if you have a high-quality mask that fits correctly, the water pressure should be sufficient to provide a complete seal, in spite of a full beard and mustache.

FWIW

Thalassamania · May 12, 2010

I suspect that you just have to choose a different mask. I've worn a full beard most of my life and it's never been an issue.

Major Problem !!

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