Leaky Scuba Mask

Question
Hi,
I'm finding that my scuba mask is slightly leaky. I've heard that with use a mask will gradually mould to your face, but after 25+ dive its still a bit leaky. Are there any "tricks of the trade" to help with sealing. I've tried cleaning the flange of the mask with tooth paste to see if that helps, but sadly it didn't. At the moment I'm diving accepting that I will do so with a small about of water in my mask and clearing my mask occasionally. I'd rather not buy another mask if possible as I have had prescription lenses fitted to this mask.

Answer
Hi Clive,

I'm sorry to hear that you've got a leaky mask but, fear not!!  I may be able to help!!  First, let's talk about a proper mask fit.  Either the mask fits or it doesn't.  The mask skirt will not eventually conform to your face.  To determine if a mask fits, get the strap out of the way and place the mask on your face.  Then inhale GENTLY through your nose.  If the mask fits, it will suck up to your face and form a seal.  If it doesn't, it WILL NOT fit!!  Now, if the mask fits, try it again but this time put a mouthpiece in your mouth.  You can use your snorkel for this.  The mouthpiece will distort your lip and we want to make sure the mask still seals over this distortion.  THAT's the way it should have been done originally.  Now let's deal with the mask you already have.

If you have a mustache or facial hair, this will provide leak points so, if you can, remove the hair.

There is a silicone based mask seal available from Trident that your dive shop may be able to get for you.  It feels like Chapstick and comes in a tube like Chapstick.  Using this on possible leak points like a mustache will help it seal.  You DO NOT want to use Vaseline or Chapstick since it is petroleum based and will damage the silicone mask skirt.  The mask seal will easily wash off with soap and water.

Another thing to check for are skin folds under the mask skirt.  These frequently occur on your cheek next to your nose.  If there is a crease, smooth it out using your hands to flatten the skin.  Do this while looking in a mirror so you can see the folds and check your progress.

Another possibility is to reposition the mask strap.  If the mask strap is too high or low on the back of your head, it will pull the mask up or down and this can distort the skirt and make it leak.  Also make sure the mask strap isn't too tight.  Pulling the strap too tight will cause it to leak worse and will also be very uncomfortable.  Also make sure if you're wearing a hood or dive cap, that the mask skirt is only on your facial skin and not partially over the hood.

Clive, all this assumes that you don't have any cracks or leaks in the mask itself.  Examine it carefully and, if possible, have someone look at it while you're underwater in a pool.  If the mask does not have a purge valve, you may be able to check the mask integrity by filling it with water over a sink and looking for leaks.  It's a little hard to do but I've found pesky leaks using this method.

Since you've got prescription lenses in the mask, replacing it is certainly not our first choice.  Try the suggestions I've given you and, hopefully, it will solve your problem.

Best wishes for a dry mask...and thanks for writing!!

Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com