Sleep masks help people relax and go to sleep by physically covering the eyes and blocking light. However, all sleep masks are not created equal. Some are designed as simple cloth masks and others have features like aromatherapy built in. To find the right sleep mask, decide on a budget and prioritize sleep masks features from "must have" to "that would be nice."
Benefits
The primary benefit of sleep masks is to block light, tricking the body's circadian rhythms to allow users to relax and go to sleep during daylight hours. A traveler suffering from jet lag benefits from a sleep mask when wanting to go to bed while the sun is still up. Sleep masks are also recommended for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Some people may also be comforted by the feel of a sleep mask, especially those that are soft to the touch.
Effects on Sleep Quality
Sleep masks can reduce the time it takes to go to sleep as well as increase the duration of REM sleep when paired with earplugs, according to the National Institute of Sleep. By shutting out light and noise from a busy room, researchers discovered that sleepers with an eye mask and earplugs had less awakenings and higher levels of melatonin in their blood than sleepers without sleep gear.
How to Use
Secure the sleep mask around your head, making sure that the band is snug but not so tight as to cut off blood circulation on the scalp. If your head tingles after removing a mask, it was on too tightly. You should be able to breathe clearly, even if the mask covers part of the nose. Set an alarm for waking up, otherwise the sleep mask may enable a longer nap than needed. Pairing a sleep mask with earplugs creates an effective bubble of peace and quiet, but make sure to have a vibrating alarm close by or be prepared to sleep in.
Range in Quality
Sleep masks range enormously in quality and price. A basic sleep mask may cost less than $10, but it may not be comfortable for some users who have larger or smaller heads than average. More expensive sleep masks are made of soft synthetic fiber, such as fleece, and may have a unique design that keeps the fabric away from the eyes. This "shell-like" design allows users to open their eyes comfortably under the mask. The most expensive sleep masks are made from premium fabrics, such as silk, satin and vintage fabrics. Others have features such as aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy and Sleep Masks
A recent trend in sleep gear is the combination of sleep masks with aromatherapy. The scents of lavender, chamomile and peppermint have been noted for their relaxing effect for thousands of years, according to the National Cancer Institute. While aromatherapy may not cure diseases, it certainly can help calm the mind to get to sleep. Some sleep masks come with a replaceable herb pouch. This creates a total sleep-positive environment when paired with earplugs--and a few hours to spare.
