Mask squeeze symptoms: red eyes, facial injuries, and how to prevent them during scuba sessions

What are the symptoms of a mask squeeze?

• A. Nausea, dizziness, and confusion
• B. Red velvet eyes, facial cuts and bruises, pain, bleeding
• C. Muscle twitching and convulsions
• D. Loss of coordination and ringing in ears

Answer: (B)

Mask squeeze occurs when there is a pressure difference between the air inside a diving mask and the water pressure outside the mask as a diver descends. As a diver goes deeper underwater, the water pressure increases, but if the mask is not equalized, the higher external pressure can cause the mask to compress against the face. The symptoms of mask squeeze primarily involve physical trauma to the face, specifically around the eyes and nose. This can manifest as red or bloodshot eyes, facial cuts, bruises, pain, and even bleeding as the capillaries around the eyes can rupture due to the pressure difference. These symptoms are signs that the mask has not been properly equalized, leading to significant discomfort and potential injury. Understanding mask squeeze is crucial for divers to ensure they recognize the signs early and take necessary actions to equalize the pressure, preventing more severe complications.

Mask Squeeze Symptoms: Red Velvet Eyes and What They Really Mean

Ever had that sinking feeling as you start a descent and notice something off with your mask? Mask squeeze is one of those pressure-chasing moments that can turn a smooth underwater time into a painful surprise if you’re not prepared. Let me walk you through what it is, what you should look for, and how to prevent it from stealing your focus.

What is mask squeeze, in plain language?

Here’s the thing: as you go deeper, water pressure outside your mask climbs higher. Your mask is inflated with air on the inside, but if you don’t keep equal pressure between the two sides, the outside pressure can press the mask tight against your face. When that happens, the mask seals more firmly and starts squeezing the soft tissues around your eyes and nose. It’s not the mask itself that’s failing—it’s the balance between air inside the mask and the water pressing on the outside.

Spotting the signs: red velvet eyes and more

The symptoms of mask squeeze are typically most visible on the face, especially around the eyes and nose. The clear, telltale signs are:

• Red velvet eyes (red, bloodshot eyes)

• Facial cuts and bruises

• Pain around the mask area

• Bleeding from tiny ruptures in facial capillaries

Yes, that list is the one you want to memorize: red velvet eyes, facial cuts and bruises, pain, bleeding. Those aren’t cosmetic quirks; they’re warnings that the pressure difference has become significant, and your mask isn’t equalizing properly.

Why this happens (a quick science-ish aside)

As you descend, the surrounding water gets pressurized. If the air inside your mask can’t escape to equalize, the pressure pushes the mask inward, compressing the tissues around the eyes and nose. The delicate capillaries in that region can rupture, which is why you see redness and sometimes small bleeds. If you’ve ever noticed that familiar sting or a sudden soreness in the midface during a descent, that’s your body telling you the mask needs relief.

Recognizing the warnings early

The best time to catch mask squeeze signals is early—before the pain grows louder or the eyes get more irritated. If you feel unusual pressure in your face, a sharp ache around the eye area, or you notice redness after even a short time underwater, treat it as a sign to adjust. You don’t want this progressing into a more uncomfortable or dangerous situation.

What to do if you notice symptoms

If you catch signs of mask squeeze while descending (or at any depth, really), here’s a practical way to respond:

• Stop descending and pause. Communicate with your teammate and stay calm.

• Attempt to equalize the mask. Use a gentle nose pinch or the technique your training teaches you. If you can’t get a comfortable equalization quickly, don’t force it.

• If the pain persists or the redness and tenderness worsen, begin a controlled ascent to reduce external pressure. Don’t rush; a slow, steady rise is safer.

• If you must, briefly remove the mask to relieve pressure and re-seat it more effectively, then re-check the fit before continuing.

If bleeding or severe pain continues after adjustments, end your underwater time and seek medical advice on the surface. Mask squeeze isn’t usually a long-term problem, but it’s not something to ignore, especially if symptoms are persistent or intensifying.

Prevention: keeping the balance on your side

The best way to keep mask squeeze from becoming a factor is to build a few simple habits into your descent routine. Think of these as small, reliable tools you can pull out when you need them:

• Get a proper mask fit. A mask with a good, even seal around the skirt reduces the chances of pressure concentrating on one area. If the fabric feels tight or you notice air leaks, you might need a different mask or a reshaped one.

• Check the strap tension. A strap that’s too tight can squeeze the face and worsen pressure effects; too loose and you’ll fight mask leaks. Aim for a comfortable, secure fit that still allows you to adjust without forcing the mask.

• Equalize early and often. Use the nose pinch technique to push air under the mask as you descend. Don’t wait until you feel pain to start equalizing.

• Descend more slowly at first. A gradual descent helps your body adapt to increasing pressure and gives you more time to notice early signs.

• Inspect the mask before every session. Look for cracks, a stiff skirt, or a skirt that won’t seal evenly. A damaged mask can behave unpredictably under pressure.

• Mind your facial hair and cosmetics. A rough seal around the mask can trap air differently and raise the risk of squeeze. A clean, dry skin-friendly interface helps.

• Keep the mask dry and clear. Water in the mask can mask subtle cues from pressure changes and mask tightness, making it harder to recognize the moment when a squeeze starts.

A few practical tips that often surprise people

• If you carry a lot of air in your tank, you might feel more comfortable pressing on, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore equalization. Pressure is pressure, and the mask won’t know your breathing strategy.

• It’s totally okay to pause mid-descent and check your mask. A quick visual check plus a gentle equalization attempt buys you time and prevents a bigger problem later.

• If you’re with a buddy, keep communication simple: thumbs up means, “I’m okay; I’ll adjust,” while a signal for help or a need to ascend should be clear and understood by both of you.

Common myths and practical realities

Myth busting is part of getting comfortable underwater. Some people think mask squeeze is a rare freak occurrence—wrong. It’s a built-in hazard if the mask doesn’t equalize properly, especially as you go deeper. Another myth: you should “tough it out” for the sake of the planned time underwater. In reality, listening to your body and adjusting early protects you and your buddy from unnecessary risk.

A quick mental checklist for your next underwater session

• Do I feel pressure in my face or notice redness around the eyes?

• Is the mask sealing evenly, with no air leaks?

• Am I able to equalize comfortably at my current depth?

• How does my breathing feel—steady and calm, or rushed and tense?

If you answer “no” to any of these, pause, re-check, and adjust. It’s fine to take a short break to ensure you’re safe, even if it means shortening the current underwater time. The goal isn’t to impress a schedule; it’s to stay safe and enjoy the experience.

Putting it all together

Mask squeeze is a very real, very manageable challenge. The symptoms—red velvet eyes, facial cuts and bruises, pain, bleeding—are your body’s way of telling you to balance the air inside your mask with the water pressure outside. With a thoughtful approach to fit, equalization, and descent rate, you can keep those warning signs at bay and focus on the wonder of the underwater world.

If you’re ever unsure, remember: slow is smarter, equalize early, and if pain or redness around the eyes shows up, take a moment to reassess. Your mask is your window to the underwater world—treat it with care, and it will repay you with clarity and comfort.

Final takeaways

• Symptoms to watch for: red velvet eyes, facial cuts and bruises, pain, bleeding.

• Equalize early and often; don’t push through discomfort.

• Prioritize mask fit and a gentle descent pace.

• When in doubt, stop, recheck, and reassess with your buddy.

The ocean is generous with its beauty, but it’s also honest about the pressure tricks it plays. With mindful practices, you keep the balance, stay safe, and keep your focus on the majesty around you. And honestly, that makes all the difference when you’re out there, eyes wide open, moving through a world that’s almost otherworldly in its quiet, blue grandeur.