Sleep masks block any incoming light. When your brain registers real darkness, it causes the production of melatonin.
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. Basically, it is the chemical of sleep.
Sleep masks can also be used to block airflow over the eyes during the night particularly when ceiling fans and heat or air conditioning are a concern.
It is important to choose a comfortable sleep mask – you can get to sleep faster and stay asleep longer.
To help create the right environment for sleep you can also use earplugs to block out noise. Now with both light and noise blocked you have a better chance of falling asleep.
Who Are Sleep Masks For?
If you want to have a peaceful sleep night and it is just too bright then you will find using a sleep mask will be beneficial.
People who find sleep masks invaluable include:
- shift workers who must sleep in the light of day.
- travellers who may carry a sleep pack especially for those long haul international flights
- students who are doing those huge last-minute crams
- parents with newborn babies. You know you need to catch up while bubby is sleeping at any time of the day.
Types of Sleep Mask
There are a lot of different types of sleep mask. To make a decision you need to focus on the main reason you will be using the mask.
A real benefit if you are a habitual sleep mask wearer is that if you are travelling or in strange or different surroundings they can provide a level of home comfort.
If you are stressed or anxious you can even find aromatherapy sleep masks. These have a built-in pocket at the front to fit an aromatherapy sachet. The sachet can have a mix of lavender and other herbs that help to calm and reduce stress.
Do You Want Eye Cavities?
This is a sleep mask that has space around the eye area so your eyelids and eye lashes do not touch the mask. The fabric of the sleep mask will touch your cheek and forehead but not the eye area.
So, some people will love them because they can open their eyes and not be able to see anything – I hear you say ‘you are supposed to be sleeping’. Some people just like to open their eyes now and again – believe me.
Also because there is more airflow around your eyes and less touch area the mask tends to be cooler.
Children’s Sleep Masks
You can also find small models of sleep masks for the little ones as well. Everyone can get better sleep when you are travelling…
A variation?
This is not a sleep mask but you just might relax enough to fall asleep anyway. Aromatherapy eye pillows are usually filled with flax seeds and have a mix of lavender and other herbs. They can be used if you need to ease the symptoms of stress or headache. Just place the pillow over your eyes and relax.
You will feel a pleasant soft pressure against your eyes and smell the natural aromatherapy scents.
See what can happen to your looks from sleep deprivation….get your sleep masks now….