Deep research and expert guides on maintaining your visual health.
sleep mask
A sleep mask is a soft cover that fits over your eyes to block out light while you rest. It typically has an elastic strap and a contoured or flat shape so it sits comfortably on your face without pressing directly on the eyeballs. By creating darkness, a mask encourages your body to produce melatonin, the hormone that signals it is time to sleep. That makes it useful for people who sleep during the day, travel, or share a room where lighting is out of their control.
Masks come in materials like silk, cotton, and memory foam, and some are molded or lightly weighted to improve comfort and reduce pressure. Choosing a breathable fabric and a good fit is important because a mask that pinches or slides off will disturb sleep instead of helping. Many people pair a mask with earplugs or white noise for an even quieter, darker sleep environment. Keep your mask clean and replace it when it loses shape or starts to irritate your skin to maintain comfort and hygiene.