This paper studies chaos synchronization via unidirectional coupling. The self-synchronization of Lorenz systems, modified coupled dynamos systems and hyperchaotic Chen systems is studied by three methods: the Lyapunov function method, the global synchronization method and the numerical calculation of the largest Lyapunov exponent method. In regard to application to communication, we show that via transmitting single signal the synchronization of the drive system and the response system can be achieved. An example of applying self-synchronization of hyperchaotic Chen systems to chaotic masking secure communication is presented in this paper. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the method.