Updated on February 21, 2024

5 min read

8 Best Weighted Eye Masks to Help You Get a Better Night's Sleep

Amy Isler
Dr. Melody Huang, O.D.
Written by Amy Isler
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Melody Huang, O.D.

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What are Weighted Eye Masks? 

Weighted eye masks, similar to weighted blankets, weigh from a couple of ounces to one pound. They are made using materials like microbeads or sand. 

Weighted eye masks distribute weight across the face to promote better sleep and relaxation. They also increase darkness, which can induce calmness. 

Weighted eye masks come in various shapes, styles, and sizes. They are made using soft fabrics, including silk, satin, fleece, and cotton, and some incorporate aromatherapy. 

8 Best Weighted Eye Masks of 2024

Based on our research and testing, here are some of the best weighted eye masks available today:

1. Best Overall Weighted Eye Mask: Gravity Blanket Weighted Sleep Mask

The Gravity Blanket Weighted Sleep Mask uses the same polyester and microfleece material as its weighted blanket counterpart. It weighs one pound and evenly distributes weight across your face without putting pressure on your eyes. Its snug fit helps keep it secure throughout the night, leading to deeper sleep.

Pros

  • Soft material
  • Velcro closure
  • Blocks out light

Cons

  • Not TSA compatible for flying
  • Some people report it being too heavy

2. Best Strapless Weighted Eye Mask: Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask 

Nodpod’s Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask is perfect for people who find straps uncomfortable. It comes in various colors and is filled with beads to apply light pressure to your head and face. 

It can also be put in the freezer for a cooling experience. 

Pros

  • Strapless
  • Machine washable
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Tends to fall off while sleeping
  • It does not completely block out light

3. Best Weighted Eye Mask for Relaxation: ASUTRA Silk Eye Pillow for Sleep

The ASUTRA Silk Eye Pillow is geared toward relaxation. It is made of silk and filled with lavender and flax seed, creating the perfect fit around your nose. It was listed on Oprah’s Favorite Things 2022 list. 

Pros:

  • All natural ingredients
  • Made with 100% silk
  • Can add more lavender and flax seed when needed

Cons:

  • It may be an irritant to people sensitive to smell

4. Best Weighted Eye Mask for Migraines: IMAK Compression Pain Relief Mask and Eye Pillow

An orthopedic surgeon designed the IMAK Compression Pain Relief Mask and Eye Pillow to help relieve migraine and headache pain. 

It is filled with massaging ergoBeads, providing pressure around the face and eyes. 

Pros:

  • Designed for pain relief
  • Light-blocking
  • Reduces eye puffiness

Cons:

  • Not adjustable
  • People complained that it didn’t get cold enough in the freezer

5. Best Weighted Eye Mask for a Budget: Sysrion Weighted Eye Mask 

The Sysrion Weighted Eye Mask is a good option for people not looking to spend a lot of money but wanting to enjoy the comforts of a high-quality eye mask.  

It can also be used as a cold compress to relieve eye puffiness, dry eyes, and headaches.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Easy cleaning
  • Adjustable strap

Cons:

  • It doesn’t work well for side sleepers

6. Best Smart Weighted Eye Mask: Eye Massager with Heat

The Eye Massager with Heat is a Smart option for an eye mask. It incorporates massage technology, heat, and the ability to play music. It’s not a traditional weighted eye mask but provides a unique calming experience to promote sleep and relaxation.

Pros: 

  • Utilizes heat
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Three massage modes

Cons:

  • It may be uncomfortable to sleep with
  • Speakers may be too loud

7. Best Blackout Weighted Eye Mask: Ocushield Eye Mask for Improved Sleep

The Ocushield Eye Mask is designed to block out light and produce a dark atmosphere for sleep. It can be used as both a hot and cold compress. 

Pros:

  • Lightweight with adjustable strap
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Washable

Cons:

  • People complain that it is too heavy

8. Best Weighted Eye Mask for Travel: Mavogel Weighted Eye Mask

The Mavogel Weighted Eye Mask has a removable insert that makes it ideal for traveling. You can remove the weighted insert if you’re trying to rest on an airplane or other transportation. 

Pros:

  • Removable insert
  • Affordable
  • 100% silk

Cons:

  • People complain that the beads don’t get cold enough

What are the Benefits of Weighted Eye Masks?

There is limited data on the effectiveness of weighted blankets in improving sleep and reducing anxiety. However, many people have reported feeling relaxed wearing a weighted eye mask. 

The benefits include:

  • Help with insomnia
  • More relaxation
  • Increased darkness, which balances the circadian rhythm
  • Deep pressure to calm anxiety 
  • A sense of safety after a stressful day
  • Decreased risk of headaches and migraines 

Tips for Choosing a Weighted Eye Mask 

Choosing a weighted eye mask that works for you will depend on your goals. Whether it's helping with insomnia or looking to reduce stress, there are a variety of beneficial weighted eye masks.

When choosing a weighted eye mask, consider the following:

  • Blackout capability. This is if you’re looking for complete darkness.
  • Fabric. Soft, breathable fabrics make eye masks more comfortable.
  • Shape and fit. Adjustability helps keep the mask in place.
  • Aromatherapy. Pleasant smells help you relax.
  • Freezing capability. Putting masks in the freezer creates cold compresses.
  • Weight. The appropriate weight can provide relaxing pressure.

Summary

Weighted eye masks are typically made with soft, breathable fabric. They are filled with a weighted substance, such as microbeads and sand, to promote sleep, darkness, and a calm environment.  

The benefits of weighted eye masks include reduced anxiety, feelings of safety, and help with insomnia. Weighted eye masks come in various shapes, colors, and fits. Things to consider when choosing a weighted eye mask include blackout capability, fabric, and the ability to adjust the fit. 

6 sources cited

Updated on February 21, 2024

1.
Reviewed. “Are weighted eye masks safe to sleep with?” 2022.
3.
Penn Medicine. “4 ways weighted blankets can actually help you,” 2022.
5.
Medical News Today. “Acupressure points for migraine relief: What to know,” 2021.
6.
The Sleep Doctor. “How to choose the best eye mask for your sleep needs,” 2022.

About Our Contributors

Amy Isler
Author

Amy, a registered nurse with an M.S. in Nursing from California State University, Sacramento, and a B.A. in Journalism from California State University, Chico, is a freelance health writer for Vision Center. Her unique combination of nursing knowledge and journalism skills enables her to educate readers about eye health effectively. Amy's goal is to merge her nursing experience with her writing talent to raise awareness about common eye conditions and ways to prevent vision loss.

Dr. Melody Huang, O.D.
Medical Reviewer

Dr. Melody Huang is an optometrist and freelance health writer with a passion for educating people about eye health. With her unique blend of clinical expertise and writing skills, Dr. Huang seeks to guide individuals towards healthier and happier lives. Her interests extend to Eastern medicine and integrative healthcare approaches. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new skincare products, experimenting with food recipes, and spending time with her adopted cats.