Many of us have a hard time getting to sleep when traveling on planes, trains, buses, cruise ships, or even in our bed. With distracting outside lights, it can be hard to fall asleep and all you think about is getting to sleep and that keeps you awake even longer.
A huge helper for this situation is sleep or eye masks to block out the disturbing lights totally. The masks evaluated here will provide you with a great fit, soft fabrics, and molded eye shapes to have space for eyes to rest without touching your eyelashes.
Maybe you are not getting a good night’s sleep because of lights entering the window—yes, even with curtains and blinds. This can be very disturbing to many people because your brain does not perceive darkness. Maybe a night light in the hall is keeping you from falling asleep. Therefore, when the moon is shining into your window, it interferes with your body’s natural circadian rhythms. Sleep masks will block out the light from your alarm clock radio, letting the photoreceptor cells, known as rods and cones in the retina in your eyes that it’s time to sleep. You might want to use a white sound or noise machine in conjunction with a sleep mask to lull yourself to sleep.
Your brain converts serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that influences mood and keeps you awake into melatonin, a hormone that maintains your circadian rhythm, to help you sleep. Melatonin lets you fall into a deeper sleep with REM (Rapid Eye Movements) in the dream stage.
You will sleep better and wake feeling more rested if you have a sleep mask to help you sleep deeper quicker. If your neck hurts from your daily tasks, a pillow for neck pain can ease you to sleep comfortably. You might want aromatherapy using a diffuser with 100% pure essential oils that are made for making you sleepy.
Different types of sleep masks are evaluated here for a specific reason you want to invest in one.
1. What Sleep Masks Are
Sleep masks (or eye masks) are inexpensive and help get us to sleep and stay asleep by having total darkness necessary for melatonin secretion. They are made from a variety of fabrics, designs, and colors with an elastic strap to hold it in place around your head.
[su_note radius=”0″]In a hurry? [rev_internal_same_tab text_link=”Read our Reviews for Top 10 Best Sleep Masks” link=”http://www.painawaydevices.com/best-sleep-masks/#top_rated”]
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2. Why Sleep Masks Make You Sleepier
Total darkness lets your brain naturally release a hormone, melatonin that puts you to sleep. With a sleep mask, you will have total darkness. Sleep masks are good for sleeping with no side effects. You can get rid of sleeping aids that are addictive with many side effects.
3. Benefits of a Sleep Mask
By having total darkness, you will naturally fall asleep for a complete night’s rest and sleep masks are good for blissful sleeping.
4. Sleep Mask Usage
- Travel when sleeping in a strange bed with lights permeating the room.
- In a noisy brightly lit hospital room.
- Shift workers sleeping in the daytime will get a great sleep.
- Meditators will find a sleep mask helpful.
- People with puffy eyes.
- Sleep Apnea using a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) medical device.
- Lucid Dreamers.
5. Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming—does everyone know what that is? Some people like to be aware that they are dreaming—known as lucid dreaming. It is said that you can have some measure of control over this type of dream. Personally, I hate it because I get no deep sleep because I’m watching myself dream all night.
Sleep masks can assist you with lucid dreaming. They are able to give you better sleep. Circadian rhythms are mental, physical, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle. It is also known as the “body clock” and tells us when to get up, eat, sleep, and regulates many biological activities. Even digestion and intestine movement work by the body’s clock.
6. Dream Recall
Dream devotees think that when you wake up, the optic nerve is stimulated. The eyes functioning will let you lose your memories of the dreams you just had. When you wake after wearing a sleep mask on, it will often allow you to remember the dreams you just experienced. It is important for dream memory recall that you have lucid dreaming.
7. Daytime Meditation
For daytime meditation, sleep masks are available and very valuable for deep meditation. You can also experience wake induced lucid dreams during daylight hours as well. When you eliminate visual stimuli, you can focus inwardly easier. This will accelerate your doorway into the meditative state. The more receptive times of day to do meditating dreaming is from 5 to 7 in the morning. With your sleep mask on, you can easily fall gently back to sleep disregarding daytime interruptions and disturbances.
8. Side Sleepers, All Sleepers
You will want a sleep mask that does not gouge your face or eyes and is flexible. Side sleepers might need a more contoured design for comfort and does not become displaced when sleeping in different positions. However, sleep masks are used by all sleepers—stomach, side, and back.
9. Key features for the best sleep mask
- Total light blocking
- Fits well
- Has space for eyelids to move
- Leaves no marks on your face
- Noise reduction with ear plugs or by design
- Lightweight
- Breathable material without sweating
- Soft and comfortable
- Velcro® fasteners that do not grab hair
- Anti-bacterial, anti-fading, anti-mites
- Durable and versatile
- Washable
[h2line id=”top_rated” h2-text=”Top 10 Best Sleep Masks“]
[boxsph3 h3-text=”1. Bedtime Bliss® Contoured Sleep Mask and Moldex® Ear Plugs“]
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Bedtime Bliss® is a top selling sleep mask that comes with earplugs and a carrying pouch. There are many colors available to choose from. It is contoured to fit your face without slipping off. You will not feel any pressure on your eyes when sleeping or napping because it is lightweight. It is wonderful for meditation and taking with you traveling. Shift workers will be able to sleep when it is light outside with this mask that blocks out all light. Use it snoozing on the sofa or recliner and out in the yard in your hammock. This mask is good for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
The material is soft made of 100% polyester interlock with 100% polyurethane foam for the inner part. It will not smear women’s makeup. The fabric stretches tightly around the foam and has indentations for your eyes. The Velcro® elastic band is soft and comfortable that goes around your head; it will not catch on your hair either. Even kids can use this mask when it is hard for them to sleep with light. Eliminate noise with the comfortable Moldex® earplugs.
The mask can be hand washed in detergent and air dried or washed in the washer on gentle with cold water. Allow to air dry and do not use the dryer.
A free eBook comes with your mask so that you will understand how to use it the best way.
The dimensions are 9.4-inches wide x 2.8-inches tall x 0.2-inches thick and weighs about 0.8 ounces and is made in Sri Lanka.
If you are not satisfied, return the unused mask with tags attached and sales receipts in original packaging within 30 days of purchase.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”2. ALASKA BEAR® Natural Silk Sleep Eye Mask“]
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ALASKA BEAR® is made of natural hypoallergenic 19 mm mulberry silk on both sides and comes in two sizes of regular with one strap and extra-large with two straps in black. It is cool and breathes so that your face will never feel sweaty. It does not use Velcro® and will not be caught in your hair. The plastic strap adjuster will stay at the back of your head. It is not located at your temples area that can be annoying for side sleepers. The strap can be adjusted from 15.8-inches to 27.6-inches and all people can use it including kids.
This mask can be used with the CPAP for those with sleep apnea. It is perfect for travel and home use when napping, sleeping, or simply needing to rest your eyes. You will be able to have light removed with this mask and it is perfect for insomnia sufferers and those with migraine headaches who need it to be dark at times. This mask is good for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
Earplugs come with the mask but there is no carrying pouch. A makeup bag at the dollar store would be perfect to use. The mask can be hand washed or dry cleaned. Wash in cold water with detergent and no wringing. Allow it to air dry. There is no fading of color on your pillows. The dimensions are 8.8-inches wide x 4.3-tall x 0.2-inches thick and it weighs 0.3 ounces.
If you are not satisfied, return the unused mask with tags attached and sales receipts in original packaging within 30 days of purchase.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”3. Nidra™ Patented Sleep Mask with Contoured Shape“]
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Nidra™ is a top selling sleep mask to block out light whenever you cannot sleep because of light. Use it anywhere and take with you traveling when trying to sleep in strange hotel beds. It is lightweight for a restful night’s sleep. It comes in black and is 7.5-inches wide x 3.5-inches tall and weighs 0.6 ounces. The fabric is polyester interlock with a thin insert of foam. It is breathable, will not make you hot in summer, and does not bleed onto your pillows. There is no plastic or metal in the sleep mask. It is made in Sri Lanka. The mask does not come with earplugs or a carrying pouch.
The mask will fit the contours of your face and eyes for extreme comfort while sleeping. The molded interior cups curve away from your eyes so your lashes will not rub and your makeup will not come off. You will be able to blink, as you need to. The mask fastens with Velcro® in the back. Side, back, and stomach sleepers will love the feel of this mask. The mask can be hand washed with detergent in cool water and air-dried. It will not do well in a washer.
Nidra™ guarantees its sleep mask. If for any reason you are not satisfied, return it within 30 days for a no-questions asked, full refund.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”4. Restoration® Contoured Sleep Mask and Moldex® Ear Plugs“]
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Restoration® is a premium top selling mask with earplugs and is a comfortable eye mask for sleeping, traveling, and simply resting. When you have a difficult time getting a full night’s sleep, this is the solution. It is great for daytime sleepers who have tons of light streaming in to deal with. The mask is contoured to fit your face. You can open your eyes and blink with it on and it will not touch your eyelids or lashes. The mask attaches with a Velcro® strap that goes around your head. This mask is good for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
Your makeup will not smear and you will feel no pressure on your eyes whatsoever. You will receive a free pair of earplugs for silence with the darkness of the mask. It is designed in the USA and made in Sri Lanka.
The dimensions are 9-inches wide x 3-inches tall x 1-inch thick weighing only 0.6 ounces. It does not come with a carrying case, but the box it comes in is a good place to store it.
You will receive the Restoration® 90-day money back guarantee so that if you are not satisfied, return it for a full refund.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”5. PettyCare 3D Sleep Mask 2-Pack“]
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The PettyCare eye mask comes with 2 pair in the 2-pack package. You will also receive earplugs and a silky travel pouch to slip into your purse, satchel, or luggage. It is great for kids when they have a hard time sleeping in light. It is made with high-density memory foam weighing only 0.4 ounces and 0.23-inches thick. The fabric is silk and polyester. The mask is soft and has large cavities for your eyes. The nasal bridge is raised to eliminate squishing your nose when sleeping. The canthus (outer eye corners) is thicker to not cause discomfort. The Velcro® is easy to attach and will not grab at your hair. The adjustable elastic strap has a 3.5-inch range that can extend to at least 7.8-inches to fit to your head.
The PettyCare eye masks comply with Oeko-Tex Standards and the international high standards of anti-fade, anti-bacterial and anti-mite. They use precision CNC (Computer Numerical Control) lathes for smooth edges and firm joints. This mask is good for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
The mask is washable by hand with a mild detergent in cool water. Allow it to air dry and do not iron. The manufacturer suggests washing the mask before using.
Try the PettyCare Sleep Mask for 60 Days, and if during that time you do not love it, they will give you a full refund with no questions asked.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”6. 3D Sleeping Mask Eye Cover“]
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Everest Essentials will have you feeling refreshed and rested when awake from a great sleep. Your REM sleep will not be interrupted for good dreaming. You will receive earplugs and a carrying pouch. One size fits everyone and the adjustable strap lets you fit it to your face perfectly. The 3D design permits a contoured shape for your face that is comfortable for when you turn and roll about while sleeping. You can breathe easily and the microfiber maternal is breathable as well. The mask is great for meditation and Yoga, migraine sufferers, and will let side, back, and stomach sleepers have a relaxing night’s sleep or daytime nap. Kids find it useful when they cannot get to sleep due to light disturbances.
The Velcro® strap attaches in the back of your head. The eye mask is lightweight and perfect for travel and strange beds in hotel or motel rooms. The mask is soft and will not smear makeup. Hand wash in detergent in cool water. Do not soak or wring. Lay on a towel to air dry. Do not use a dryer or iron.
Everest Essentials is the sole manufacturer and distributor of its products. They provide 100% satisfaction or you money will be returned within 30 days.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”7. Relax Artist™ 3D Memory Foam Milk Silk Yarn Sleep Eye Mask“]
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Relax Artist™ is lightweight and breathes so that you will never be sweaty when sleeping in a dark environment. Milk silk does come from milk making a rich velvet-like fabric that feels great on your face skin. It will never smudge your makeup and is contoured to fit your face comfortably. Your eyelashes will not touch the fabric. It is great for kids having a hard time getting to sleep. This mask is good for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
Two sets of earplugs are provided with the mask. The 3D design is soft for dark shading for a good night’s sleep. The memory foam slowly recovers to release any pressure and aligns perfectly with the shape of your eyes. The strap is easy to adjust to fit you ideally. The Velcro® hook and loop fabric is 4-inches so should fit all head sizes.
For sleeping at night with bright lights, daytime sleep, or when traveling this is the sure way to have much needed sleep. The dimensions are 9.9-inches wide x 4.2-inches tall x 0.9-inches thick and it weighs only 2.4-ounces.
Relax Art™ provides a 100% money back guarantee if you have problems with your mask. Your money will be refunded or you will receive a replacement mask.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”8. Bucky® Eye Mask“]
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The Bucky® eye mask is latex-free foam that is contoured to fit your face comfortably. The straps adjust to fit most head sizes and you will love the many patterns and colors available that are whimsical and fun!
The well-known Bucky® 40 Blinks Sleep Mask is hypoallergenic and over the top in comfort for sleep when at home or when traveling. This mask is good for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
The mask is 9.5-inches wide x 3.5-inches tall and the eyecups are 0.5-inches deep. It weighs only 0.7-ounces. It is lightweight and provides cups to clear your eyelashes while blocking out the light. Good Housekeeping recommends the Bucky® mask. Use for a nap in planes, cars, and napping on the sofa. It is a great light blocker for adults and kids. It is made in Sri Lanka.
The Velcro® attaches at the back and is adjustable to fit your head for a restful sleep. Hand washing is recommended in detergent and cold water and air-drying. You will not sweat and the colors will not leak or fade onto your pillows.
Gift-wrapping is available for a loved one or friend. Contact Bucky® within 30 days for a return if you are not satisfied. Shipping charges may apply.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”9. Sleep Master® Sleep Mask“]
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Sleep Master® gives you a lightweight, breathable, synthetic satin outer shell with a cool soft cotton interior. It is adjustable with the back Velcro® straps that are wide enough not to slip and will not grab at your hair. It will fit your head, is flexible, and durable. The Sleep Master® is hypoallergenic and made in the USA. There is no carrying pouch but a zipped makeup pouch would work to hold it.
With this sleep mask, the sides will cover your ears to mask noise as well as light. When you enjoy a nap listening to the TV, put on your sleep mask to block out all of the ambient light. It is an asset traveling when sleeping in hotel rooms with lights from the parking lot shining in. It is not only wonderful for adults, kids enjoy sleeping in the dark too. When your partner wants to read or watch TV, put on your sleep mask and go to sleep. One size fits everyone for a very natural sleeping experience. With the ear covering at the sides, you will not need earplugs for a quiet moment. However, earplugs are included if you need more noise reduction. They are Howard Leight Max USA UF Foam Ear Plugs. The sleep mask is good for college students needing some rest when the roommate is present studying with lights on.
The mask is hand washable in mild detergent and cool water. Do not wring or squeeze and allow to air dry on a towel. It is recommended not to use the clothes washer and dryer.
People with sleep apnea using a CPAP will find that this mask comfortably fits with the device. The dimensions are 26.5-inches wide x 4.5-tall x 0.4 inches thick and weighs only 4-ounces. It does not hold in heat or make you perspire. It is great for dry eyes keeping your eyes tightly closed while sleeping. It is great for stomach, side, and back sleepers.
Gift-wrapping is available for family and friends. If you are dissatisfied, return the sleep mask within 30 days from purchase with receipts for a refund minus shipping and handling charges.
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[boxsph3 h3-text=”10. MemorySoft 3D Sleep Mask and Ear Plugs“]
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MemorySoft stamps out insomnia and you will sleep like a log. No sleeping pills needed—just the sleep masks and earplugs if you want noise reduction. The 3D shape contours to your face and lets you open your eyes, but never interfering with your lashes. The memory foam layer is lightweight and the elastic Velcro® strap is adjustable to fit you perfectly never grabbing your hair.
The sleep mask is wonderful for adults and kids. Take it when traveling, going to college, use it when napping or sleeping all night long. Wonderful for day sleepers, meditation, naps, and your partner who wants to read all night and you want to sleep. This mask is premium and is striking to look at. It comes with a free pair of earplugs and a travel pouch. You can sleep on your stomach, side, or back with this mask. The dimensions are 9-inches wide x 3.8-inches tall x 0.1 inches thick and it weighs 0.3-ounces.
You will have a 30-day 100% money back Guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your sleep mask for any reason, return it for a full refund. No questions asked!
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FAQs
[su_spoiler title=”Does wearing a sleep mask promote normal melatonin levels when trying to sleep in a bright room?”]Anytime it’s dark, melatonin will increase for you to go to sleep.[/su_spoiler]
[su_spoiler title=”I’m addicted to wearing a sleeping mask at night. How do I stop?”]Just stop using it and put up some blackout curtains.[/su_spoiler]
[su_spoiler title=”What alarm clock options are available to those who wear a sleeping mask and earplugs to bed?”]Set your cell phone to vibrate and put under your pillow. Set the alarm or clock radio louder and you will wake up.[/su_spoiler]
Final Thoughts
Dry eyes are a medical condition and these sleep masks do not fix it. See your ophthalmologist (eye doctor) for drops and age-related or other medical conditions.
When you cannot control the light source, such as daylight sun, a sleep mask will be effective to give you much needed and wanted sleep. Eye masks are relaxing and will give you relief from tired eyes after a day’s work. Travel in comfort, sleep well at home, and use for meditation.