Getting a good night’s rest is one of the most important things you can do to improve your health. Research shows that a lack of sleep can lead to high blood pressure, obesity, and reduce immune function. If you have difficulty falling asleep, there is a simple solution.
Removing light sources that affect your natural sleep patterns can improve the quality of your sleep. Wearing a sleep mask has worked wonders for me in helping me get a good night’s rest. If you suffer from sleepless nights, try using one of these 5 best sleep masks to optimize your sleep.
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5 Best Sleep Masks
If you struggle to fall asleep, one of these masks can improve your sleep hygiene.
1. Tempur-Pedic Sleep Mask
Tempur-Pedic Sleep Mask
Tempur-Pedic sleep mask is made of cool memory foam and is 100% blackout. It has an elastic strap with velcro closure.
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2. Manta Sleep Mask
Manta Sleep Mask
Manta’s mask guarantees 100% blackout of all light. It is made of 3D design and has an adjustable band. Manta Sleep Mask does not put pressure on the eyelid or lashes.
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3. Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask
Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask
Alaska Bear’s mask is made of 100% mulberry silk. It has an adjustable elastic strap. This mask is 100% blackout, is lightweight and does not put pressure on eyelids.
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4. Ostrichpillow Sleep Mask
Ostrichpillow Sleep Mask
Ostrichpillow’s mask is made of a modular 3D design with a breathable fabrication and provides 100% blackout. It has an ergonomic design and does not put pressure on eyelids.
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5. Slip Contour Sleep Mask
Slip Contour Slip Mask
Slip Contour’s mask is designed with molded eye socket cups to accommodate eyelash extensions. It’s made of mulberry silk and has an elastic band.
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Benefits of Using a Sleep Mask
Wearing an eye mask to block out light in addition to other practices such as melatonin sprays can improve the quality of your sleep. Here are just a few benefits of wearing a sleep mask:
- Enhanced Sleep Quality: It creates a dark environment, which is essential for regulating your circadian rhythm.
- Optimal Sleep Onset: By blocking out light, your brain knows that it’s time to wind down. This encourages your body to produce melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.
- Shift Worker and Traveler’s Ally: Whether you’re a night owl or your schedule involves irregular sleep patterns due to shift work or frequent travel, it provides a consistent dark space for you to rest, regardless of the time of day.
- Mitigates Disruptions: External light sources, such as streetlights or early morning sun, can disrupt your sleep cycle. Masts serves as a reliable shield against such disturbances.
- Relaxation and Stress Reduction: The soothing darkness created by wearing an eye mask promotes relaxation by reducing visual stimuli.
How Light Affects Circadian Rhythm
To understand how to get better sleep, it’s important to learn how light affects your circadian rhythm. You are wired to follow a natural 24-hour sleep-wake cycle known as the circadian rhythm. This cycle is largely influenced by light exposure, particularly natural sunlight. Your circadian rhythm controls the release of hormones like melatonin, which regulates sleep.
When the sun sets, your body begins to produce melatonin, signaling that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. However, modern lifestyles often expose us to artificial light sources, such as screens and indoor lighting, well into the evening. This prolonged light exposure confuses your circadian rhythm, delaying the release of melatonin and making it harder to fall asleep.
Blocking light disrupts the effects of artificial light. It allows your body to naturally produce melatonin,
Time to Get a Good Night’s Rest
Adding an eye mask to your nighttime ritual can help you naturally fall asleep more easily. You invest a lot in your sleep, from expensive matrasses to bamboo pajamas and sleep lamps. Why not try one of these 5 best sleep masks and hack your environment to get a good night’s rest?
FAQ’s
Are sleep masks suitable for side sleepers?
All the masks on this list is suitable for all sleep positions.
Can I wash these sleep masks?
Most sleep masks are washable. Read the care instructions before purchasing.
Do sleep masks work for all face shapes?
Some masks have an adjustable strap. Its best to read the dimensions before purchasing.
Can sleep masks help with insomnia?
Sleep masks can create a dark sleep environment that may help regulate your circadian rhythm, potentially aiding in managing insomnia.
