How to Choose an Eye Mask

CHOOSING THE PERFECT EYE MASK Choices, choices, choices . . . No two people are the same, and as such, we offer you the largest collection of sleep and eye masks to be found anywhere. We have masks that are used for sleeping, travel, relaxation and therapeutic relief.


SLEEP MASKS

	Sleep Mask

The major consideration for most people is that their sleeping mask can block most, if not all, light to the eyes. Receptors in the eyes signal the brain regarding the presence or absence of light in the environment. The onset of darkness triggers the production of melatonin in the brain, which is the precursor to sleep. Sleep masks therefore help to artificially produce the right chemical state in the brain to allow sleep to occur.


The majority of our sleep masks do in fact block 100% of the light when correctly fitted to the face.

Light Blocking

The next major consideration is comfort. A Sleep Mask should be comfortable to wear for long periods. It is important that the sleep mask fabric that touches the face be soft and not cause irritation. Many people are allergic to certain fabrics, particularly synthetics or find them uncomfortable to wear, especially around sensitive facial areas. All our masks use 100% natural cotton liners to ensure maximum comfort in wearing.


Mask Profile

Slim Medium Thick

Consderation should be given to the bulkiness of the mask. Some people love the sense of security and comfort that is engendered by having something warm and heavy around their heads, while for others this can be irritating. A lower profile and more streamlined mask will often be more comfortable for side and stomach sleepers and may not feel as hot to wear.


The bulkier masks however are very often more effective in blocking light. More fabric in the mask allows for a more versatile and better design.


Sleep Positions

Side Sleeper

Do you sleep primarily on your back, side or stomach? The answer will determine how important your decision regarding the profile of the mask is going to be. When selecting a sleep mask consideration should be given to whether the mask is designed to allow fabric to touch the eyes or not. Some people are actually soothed by gentle pressure to the eyelids, whilst for others, this is an irritation.

Interior Chamber

Many of our Sleep Masks come with an interior chamber or hollow space to allow the eyes to blink and be fully opened while wearing the mask. This design feature is primarily for comfort, but is considered an advantage for meditation, visualization, and for women, the practicality of not smearing eye make-up during travel.


Breathable

Breathable

A Sleep Mask should be breathable. Fabrics and materials that do not breathe cause moisture to accumulate on the inside of the mask which subsequently makes the mask material damp. A damp mask is uncomfortable to use and causes the longevity of the fabrics to be diminished over time. Repeated use without washing can result in the mask becoming a breading ground for bacteria, molds and spores which can be detrimental to good health.


Washable

Washable

Despite whether a mask is breathable or not, it should be washed from time to time. Our Sleep Masks are designed to be washable and hold their shape.


OTHER CONSIDERATIONS


Adjustment Every person has a different size and shape of head. Any Sleep Mask that you purchase must have enough adjustment in the strap to allow the mask to fit snuggly to the face but not be too tight. The primary methods for properly securing a mask are buckles or velcro fasteners. Very often masks that use buckles, also use thinner elastics which are often less discernable to the wearer.

Velcro	Buckle

Velcro Buckle


The disadvantage of buckles are that they are uncomfortable to lie on. Velcro fasteners, on the other hand, generally have much thicker straps but no real place that causes a discomfort as the sleeper alters sleeping position. Velcro straps generally also have much greater range of adjustment and give the mask much greater longevity


Carry Pouch

Carry Pouch

A carry pouch is a convenient way to store your mask after use. It's especially handy during travel. A carry pouch acts as dust protector and a hygienic way to store the mask. Carry pouches are also great places to stow earplugs.


Ear Plugs

Ear Plugs

All Dream Essentials manufactured Sleep Masks come with complimentary earplugs. To determine which Sleep Masks come with a set of genuine Macs soft-foam earplugs, look for the earplug symbol shown below:


Color Selection


When selecting a Sleep Mask, how does wearing it make you feel? Aesthetics are important. Consideration should be given to colors, fabrics and design. Do you want hot pink to match your shoes or something a little more subdued so as not to draw attention. Do you like the feel of plush fabrics or perhaps a denim might go nicely with your jeans and casual lifestyle?


THERAPY MASKS

Therapy Mask

Herbs have been used throughout the ages to treat various conditions due to their medicinal and calming qualities. Additionally, the application of heat and cold to troubled areas of the body, provides relief and often assists with the healing process. Some good evidence also exists that magnetic fields can be successfully used to influence the body's natural healing process.


Herbal and Aromatherapy Eye Masks


The herbs that are primarily used with our eye masks are Lavender and Chamomile. Lavender is known to reduce tension and stress and allow a person to become fully relaxed. Chamomile is believed to promote deep, peaceful and comforting sleep. Various other scents may be combined with these, such as Orange or Rose to enhance the effectiveness or provide a different healing effect for the wearer. Often the herbs become more potent with the application of heat. Several of our masks can, therefore, be heated prior to use


Hot and Cold Therapy Gel and bead filled eye masks are used to treat many minor discomforts by the application of either hot or cold, depending upon the condition. The application of heat around the eyes and nasal areas offers relief from headaches, head colds, nasal congestion or allergy discomfort. The masks may also be chilled to provide comfort from the symptoms of tension headaches, tired puffy eyes, eye strain or sinus pressure.



Try one of our Sleep Masks


We have put together a selection of fine sleeping products catering to your distinct needs and preferences.


A Pleasure to Own


Our masks are items that you will treasure. They are life-savers to night-shift workers, airline travelers or others that need to induce restful sleep during the day or night hours.


Uses:

• Headache Relief
• Sleep
• Meditation
• Biofeedback
• Eye Surgery
• Airplane Travel
• Massage Therapy