Sleeping with Sleep Mask: Enhancing Your Night’s Rest Safely
Sleeping problems? You may toss and twirl at night, but you still cannot fall asleep. It may be worth looking at what is affecting your ability to sleep.
light source in the bedroom is a common problem that people face. This includes natural light that comes through the cracks of the window blinds or curtains, and artificial light that is produced by televisions or electronic devices.
Wearing a sleep mask is a solution that has been proven to work.
Sleep Mask Benefits
A good night’s rest has been shown to have many physical and mental advantages. Sleep masks are associated with many of these benefits.
- Improved sleep quality
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved mood
- Improved focus and concentration
1) Blocking unwanted light sources
How much light can still pass through our eyes when we are asleep? According to Dr According Dr A sleep mask is the best solution for those of us who need to sleep in daylight or an environment that allows light through.
A sleep mask can also help you to fall deeper into REM sleep quicker and with less disturbance. By keeping your surroundings dark and calm, a quality sleep mask that is properly fitted can help you fall asleep faster.
A sleep mask is especially useful for those with nocturnal Lagophthalmos, a condition in which the eyelid does not close completely. It not only blocks out the light but also keeps the eyelids moist.
2) Induces Deep Pressure Stimulation
The gentle pressure of a sleep mask is similar to a hug. The deep pressure stimulation that sleep masks provide is similar to weighted sheets and increases a feeling of calmness. Sleep masks may increase serotonin (a mood-boosting hormone) as well as melatonin. It may help you sleep better.
3) It may help reduce wrinkles and fine lines
Sleep masks are especially effective at reducing friction between the skin of the face and the pillowcase. This reduces wrinkles and creases around the eyes. Side sleepers, stomach sleepers and combination sleeping will experience more wrinkles as their head rubs against the pillowcase.
4) Prevents the skin from drying
The eye mask acts as a barrier and helps to prevent the delicate and thin skin around the eyes from drying out. This also prevents dirt, dust and other allergens from entering the eyes. You can apply a moisturiser around the eye area before wearing the mask. This will lock in moisture.
5) Hot or Cold Relief
You can choose to warm or cool gel sleep masks according to your preferences. A cold mask is refreshing, whereas a heated one is relaxing. Cold therapy is known to relieve migraines, headaches and puffy eyelids. A heated mask can relieve eye irritation, dryness and congestion.
Are sleep masks safe? Can they be worn every day?
The answer to this question is yes!
In the medical community, sleep masks have been deemed a safe tool that improves sleep. They can be worn every day. There are some caveats. While the health and well-being of our readers are our primary concern, we cannot replace the advice of your physician.
1) Get the right-sized mask
The size and fit of a mask are important factors to consider. After using a mask, some users report waking up with blurred sight. The condition is usually caused by wearing a tight sleep mask for an extended period. Professor Charles McMonnies of the UNSW School of Optometry and Vision Science warns in an article published in the Optometry and Vision Science that prolonged pressure can lead to eye conditions related to pressure.
A properly fitted sleep mask will help to alleviate eye pressure concerns and other eye conditions. If you have any concerns about eye conditions or current ones, you should consult your doctor before using sleep aids.
2) Risks of skin irritation or eye infection
Sleep masks are designed to absorb a lot of moisture, sweat and dirt during the night. It is also important to regularly clean the mask if you apply any cream or moisturiser. To prevent mould or bacteria from growing, it is recommended that you clean your mask every two weeks. Cleaning instructions should be followed according to the manufacturer.
Can you sleep every night with an eye mask?
Sleep masks can be worn daily. Make sure to choose the right size mask and clean it every two weeks.
How to Choose the Right Sleep Mask
If your sleep mask does not fit properly, you will likely have a difficult time getting a good night’s sleep. Ideally, a sleep mask should block out all light from your field. Select a mask that fits loosely and comfortably while still providing light protection.
You can select from a variety of different sleep masks, but it is important to choose the one that’s best for YOU.
If you are having trouble with light leaking around your eyes then you should look into a contoured sleep mask. This will block out more light. If you’re more sensitive to pressure on your eyes, a silk or satin mask will cause less discomfort. Some people like adjustable eye masks because they can be adjusted to fit better.
Do not forget to check how the mask fits on your face. You’ll need to find another mask that fits your face better. Good quality sleep masks have adjustable straps so that you can find one that fits your head perfectly. Try them before you buy.
Wrapping up
Sleep masks can be a great solution for those who have trouble sleeping. Explore the different options available (adjustable or weighted, gel or foam) to find what works best for you.
Sleep is essential for your mental and physical health. Wearing a sleep mask can improve your mood and cognitive functions while allowing you to get a restful night’s sleep. How can you tell which mask is best for you and your needs? We’ve created a handy buyer’s guide to help you make an educated choice. Our top picks are based on your tolerance to light and the material that is most comfortable for you (cotton, polyester or silk).
We will help you find the perfect sleep mask to make your night more relaxing!
