An eye mask.
Eye masks, also known as sleep masks, are primarily used as sleep aids that darken the environment or relieve therapeutic tension. Users put them on for maximum comfort before falling asleep. Some masks are designed to put light pressure on sleepers’ eyes, while others prevent eye contact altogether. Therapeutic masks may contain aromatic herbs such as chamomile or lavender, or special gel packs that are heated or cooled before use.
Eye masks create the effect of total darkness, tricking the brain into converting serotonin to melatonin.
Designed to help you sleep, eye masks create the effect of total darkness, which tricks the brain into converting serotonin (a hormone associated with wakefulness) into melatonin (a hormone that causes sleep). Natural darkness is a known trigger for this phenomenon, so the masks duplicate the circumstance of sunset. Creating total darkness can be a very effective sleep aid for those with unusual sleep cycles, reclining in hammocks outdoors, or traveling by plane.
Headache sufferers can use herbal masks or cold compresses to encourage relaxation of the muscles around the head and neck.
Another common use of eye masks is stress reduction. Headache sufferers often use herbal masks or cold compresses to encourage relaxation of the muscles around the head and neck. People prone to sinus headaches and congestion may also find that hot ones provide effective relief. Herbs like chamomile, lavender, and peppermint have also been shown to create a feeling of well-being.
Some eye masks put a slight pressure on the wearer’s eyes.
Not all eye masks are the same. Consumers should try on various sizes and styles in the store before making a decision. Some can change position if the person prefers to sleep on their side or stomach. The mask area should fit snugly but comfortably around the wearer’s eyes and nose without pinching or binding. The retention strap should fit snugly around your head, without digging into your skin or leaving too much slack.
Eye masks can be used as a sleep aid to block out light during sleep.
Retail stores may offer some eye masks in their health and beauty sections, but stores that specialize in bedding and body products often have a wider selection. Decide if you need a sleep aid, a stress reliever, or maybe a combination. Some aromatherapy masks also work well as room-darkening sleeping pills. They should be tested as some level of outside light may still pass through. Custom eye masks are also available by mail and some models may feature cool designs or fun logos.