Achieve the best rest possible with a personal sleep mask. A sleeping masks are a popular sleeping aid and serves to block out surrounding light and creates a dark atmosphere for deeper slumber. According to the National Institute of Health, sleeping in a dark environment encourages the production of the hormone melatonin. This hormone helps regulate sleep and fosters rapid eye movement (REM sleep). With the right sleep eye mask, you can take advantage of your body’s natural ability to settle down regardless of the surrounding environment.
In addition to fostering better sleep, an eye mask is a necessary tool in frequent situations. Use an eye mask to block out fluorescent or unpleasant light during airplane travel. If you live in or visit an urban area, use a sleep mask to block out city lights and achieve a good night’s sleep. For individuals with different sleep patterns from their partners or roommates, a sleep mask can help with rest regardless of whether a reading light remains on. Putting on an eye mask can help soothe eye fatigue from using computers, block out light for relief during migraine headaches, and create a peaceful setting for taking naps during the daytime. Eye masks can help you stay “in the zone” and avoid distractions during prayer or meditation. An eye mask can also double as a blindfold for games such as the piñata. Overall, sleep masks are practical accessories to have on hand throughout the day and for helping with insomnia symptoms at night.
Tips for Choosing the Best Sleep Masks
Choosing the best sleep mask depends on your personal flexibility and needs. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you may wish to find a sleep mask made of hypoallergenic material such as silk. Sleep masks with adjustable straps can help accommodate different head sizes or hairstyles. If you need to block out external visual stimuli such as street lights or LED airplane lights, a contoured or three-dimensional sleep mask can shield both your front and peripheral vision. Other needs may include eye masks that do interfere with ear plugs or eye makeup. A look at some of the best sleep masks can help you make an informed decision on which sleep mask is right for long-term use.
Here’s our list of what we think are the best sleep masks
Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask
The Alaska Bear natural sleep mask doubles as an eye mask and eye pillow. Founded in Ketchikan, Alaska, this eyewear company derives inspiration from the hibernating habits of the state’s famous grizzly and black bears. As a result, the Alaska Bear company strives to achieve total “blackout” when designing sleep masks. This flagship natural silk sleep masks uses natural mulberry silk that feels smooth against the eyelids. According to regular users, the texture of this mulberry silk helps eyes relax into sleep. In addition, the material is naturally hypoallergenic, allowing the mask to help soothe symptoms of “dry eye” without irritating surrounding skin. The mask also features a single, self-attaching strap for simple adjustment over ears or various hairstyles.
Bedtime Bliss BTB01 Contoured Sleep Mask
For those concerned about any added pressure on your eyes, the Bedtime Bliss BTB01 model offers a viable solution. This eye mask features a contoured shape and uses plush light-blocking material to block out light surrounding eyes without putting pressure on the lids. Based in Christchurch, New Zealand, the Bedtime Bliss company first gained inspiration from the blindfolds that shift workers used to sleep between work sessions. The company reinvented the mask to include a natural, contoured shape that fits the human face without the need for tying a traditional blindfold. In addition, each sleep mask uses internationally-certified Oeko-Tex textile designed to withstand frequent use.
Jersey Slumber 100% Silk Sleep Mask
Individuals who sleep in multiple positions may benefit from the Jersey Slumber sleep mask. This sleep mask features a tented, non-compression design to allow you to turn your head or shift positions while keeping the mask in place. Originally a sportswear company, the Jersey Slumber brand gets inspiration from camping trips and other travel adventures that require a good night’s sleep. Whether lounging in a hotel room or sleeping outdoors in a hammock, the flat design of these Jersey Slumber sleep mask can offer pitch-black darkness when needed. Each sleep mask also features an elastic strap for straightforward adjustment.
CoolingTech 3D Sleeping Mask
If you have a fear of claustrophobia but still want the benefits of a sleep mask, the CoolingTech option may be right for you. The CoolingTech sleep mask features a three-dimensional design that enables blinking and eyebrow movement. Each mask is also made of a soft foam material that reduces light entry without leaving you feeling constricted. For example, a person can comfortably wear the mask without needing to remove eye makeup. As the name implies, the CoolingTech mask also encourages airflow to help with dry eyes and maintain natural oxygen flow as you sleep.
AUVON iSleep Eye Mask for Sleeping
Those who wish to benefit from high-tech, engineered-based materials may be interested in the AUVON iSleep mask. This mask uses commercial-grade memory foam to match the deep natural contour of both eyes. Because the memory foam adjusts to your face shape, the mask can help reduce facial pressure during use. This feature comes in handy for migraine headache relief or use during quick naps between shifts. The wide contour enables you to keep full eye makeup (including eyelashes), and it also reduces the risk of print marks after you wake up from deep sleep.
Sleep Restoration Natural Silk Mask – Sleep Mask
Sleep Restoration masks allow you to benefit from a company that works exclusively in the mattress and sleepwear business. The Sleep Restoration mask uses four-way stretch material and memory foam to completely cover your eyes. Distinctively, the Sleep Restoration features a “one size fits all” design with an elastic band, allowing anyone in your family to use the mask without difficulty. The gel memory foam provides a solid base for the bridge of your nose and bottom of your eyes, and the silk cover reduces the risk of skin irritation as you sleep.
Fitglam Natural Silk Sleep Mask
Fitglam sleep masks bring a fashionable approach for protecting eyes during rest or sleep. Each sleep mask features a plump design made from two-sided mulberry silk and thick silk stuffing. According to the Fitglam company, this premium silk contains up to 18 amino acids that soothe skin and prevent long-term wear and tear. The Fitglam mask also has a trademark print on the front, making it a unique stand-alone present or stocking stuffer. In addition, each mask has a buckle strap for easy closure on individuals of any age. The Fitglam original design idea came from those seeking relief from swollen eyes due to sinus pressure and allergies. As a result, this sleep mask is a versatile product that can prove useful in helping with a number of related ailments.
Kfine 3D Sleep Mask
For those experiencing nasal issues, the Kfine 3D sleep mask may help during rest without further restricting your nose. This eye mask features an ergonomic structure, meaning that each design element on the mask lines up with natural human facial structure. As a result, the Kfine mask has a three-dimensional arrangement that does not put additional tension on the nasal bridge or canthus. Unlike other masks, the Kfine sleep mask has a sleek polyester surface that works seamlessly against pillowcases as you turn during sleep. Ideal sleep mask for side sleepers. The mask also features internal memory foam to help ensure that same quality with each use. With adjustable VELCRO straps, the mask can fit on individuals of different ages without snagging hair.
MAGIC BEAR Luxury Silk Sleep Mask
If you are interested in an oversized eye mask for deep sleep, you may wish to consider the MAGIC BEAR luxury silk sleep mask. This mask features an extra-large design that covers the peripheral view, making it suitable for daytime naps and travel next to airplane windows. The mask’s universal size also makes it appropriate for individuals of all age groups. For those with sensitive skin, this sleep mask is made of hypoallergenic mulberry silk and has been certified as LATEX-free. Additionally, this sleep mask has an elastic back strap that allows you to modify the mask for a tailored, snug fit.
Lewis N. Clark Comfort Eye Mask
Those who travel or use sleep masks frequently may benefit from the rugged design of the Lewis N. Clark sleep mask. This mask is made of durable stitched nylon that helps prevent rips during packing or content use. Inspired by the adventurous spirit of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the Lewis N. Clark specializes in masks tough enough to wear outdoors. This comfort eye mask’s fibrous design makes it suitable for camping, airplanes, and train travel. The opaque nylon design also prevents light from passing through, allowing most people to sleep interrupted when needed. In addition, the mask also a buckle strap that folds neatly when not in use.