I love ambient light as much as the next girl, but it can be a real bother when trying to get shut-eye. (The recent time change really messed with my circadian rhythm!) Whether it’s the sun in the mornings or your partner’s phone screen in the evenings, these sleep eye masks can help block ambient light so you can fall asleep and stay asleep reliably. In my hunt for the best sleep masks, I tested a few of the most popular options on the internet, including my favorite, the Blissy Silk Eye Mask ($28). Added bonus: These look a whole lot cuter in your bedroom than blackout curtains. And no matter what option you go with, a mask can help you get good, deep sleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
Be sure to check out our other related buying guides, including the Best Sheets, the Best Travel Pillows, and the Best Mattresses.
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I tested these sleep masks by sleeping in them! I took naps in them and slept in them overnight. I specifically checked for light leaks while sitting in direct sunlight. Our guide on how to buy a sleep mask might be useful if you don’t know what you’re shopping for.
Photograph: Louryn Strampe
The Best Silk Sleep Mask
Blissy Sleep Mask
When I picture a sleep mask in my head, this is what I think about. The Blissy Silk Eye Mask is available in a huge array of colors, including options that coordinate with other Blissy products. You can buy the mask individually or opt for the Dream Set, which includes a sleep mask, hair ties, and a pillowcase. Either way, the mask comes with a matching drawstring storage bag. The mulberry silk is supremely soft and smooth, and the scrunched elastic band isn’t too tight or compressive. This mask is really lightweight and a bit slippery. I prefer using it with my hair up, and I sometimes have to wiggle around to get it over my eyes when I’m sleeping on my side.
Depending on where you position the mask, sometimes a little light can leak through, but it’s never been difficult to readjust, and it hasn't been enough light to wake me up. It puts the slightest amount of pressure on my eyes and nose, but I find the effect soothing. If you want a cute mask that’s easy to travel with, this is a good option. I like how small it is—it’d be super easy to slip this into a personal item while flying or to keep in your weekender bag for impromptu naps.
Photograph: Louryn Strampe
An Upgrade Pick
Dore & Rose Aura Sleep Mask
The Dore & Rose Aura Sleep Mask is stunning and feels very luxurious and high-quality. It feels like something fit for a monarch, in part due to the mask’s claims that it‘s good for your skin, preventing things like fine lines. (For what it’s worth, I didn’t notice any particular benefits compared to other sleep masks, but getting better sleep does provide a benefit when it comes to under-eye circles.)
In any case, this silk sleep mask is Oeko-Tex certified and made with mulberry silk, which is soft and breathable. It feels cool to the touch and doesn’t make me feel hot even after wearing it for seven hours. It also wasn’t bulky. It completely blocked out all light, and it didn’t slip off my hair even though the mask itself is quite slippery. I didn’t notice any eye pressure or discomfort. I like that it came in a little gift box, although I do wish it came with a carrying case. I also like the wide array of jewellike color options—it really adds to the whole “Princess and the Pea” vibe.