Catch the z's you deserve
Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly is a style icon for many reasons - the chic updo, the chunky pearls, the sleeveless LBD. But one of the most searched for items of the fictional character's wardrobe is, in fact, her sleep mask.
Yep. People all over the world are searching for the best sleep masks to ensure that when they rest their heads they are free from any disturbance.
According to YouGov’s official research which took place in February 2022, one in eight Britons (12%) say that every night they have problems falling asleep.
Here at Marie Claire, we are all about getting our full eight hours a night, so we've rounded up the best sleep masks on the market right now, plus everything you need to know about the handy accessory. Did you know that some even come with extra features such as a soothing lavender scent or added weight to help you drift off?
Before adding to basket, don't forget to check out our guides to the best silk pillowcases, best weighted blankets and best pillow sprays to take your shut-eye to the next level.
How do sleep masks work?
A sleep mask is designed to block out light. We all know that too much artificial light can lead to sleeping problems, so if find your phone going off throughout the night or live near a busy area with car lights and streetlights coming through the window, one of these handy masks will definitely help.
What sleep mask is best?
When choosing a sleep mask, there are a few things to consider. First, you want to make sure to get a mask that will fit your face, otherwise it won't do a very good job of blocking out any light. You also don't want anything too tight, as this could cause headaches throughout the night. The material is another thing to consider. You want something that will feel soft on the skin, such as cotton or cashmere. Silk is another great option as it reduces friction around the eye area. Lastly, it's worth considering if you want a mask with additional features, depending on how difficult you find it to drift off.
The best sleep masks to buy now:
Best overall sleep mask: This silk sleep mask is loved by celebrities and beauty editors alike, and it's not hard to see why. When I first tried it out, I was a little sceptical because the design is so different to others I have tried, however I quickly realised that this was done for a reason. The innovative shape blocks out 100% of light, while the heavenly padded lining cushions your eyes and muffles any sound. It also comes with a fully adjustable head strap, and is made from pure mulberry silk, so it's super comfortable. It's safe to say that I slept like a baby while wearing this.
Best weighted sleep mask: We all know the benefits that a weighted blanket can bring, but did you know that you can get weighted sleep masks, too? These masks are designed to help you feel restful and relaxed when winding down or drifting off to sleep. The weighty filling provides gentle, deep-touch pressure which induces a feeling of calmness.
Best scented sleep mask: Not only is this sleep mask lovely to look at, but it is filled with lavender to help you drift away into a dreamy night's sleep. It has a 100% cotton velvet front, an elasticated strap and even a cotton drawstring carry bag, perfect for travelling.
Best anti-ageing sleep mask: Within 48 hours of launching in July 2021, the Dr. Harris Anti-Wrinkle Sleep Mask amassed a waiting list of over 5,000 people. After the success of the original, this best seller is now available in Mink. The clinically proven mask targets frown lines around the eye area with raised silicone dots, that act as stimulating receptors on the face using 2R technology to calm brain activity, causing muscles to relax and promoting emotional relaxation. After trying it myself, I can confirm that it's pretty incredible.
Best silk sleep mask: If you've read our guide to the best silk pillowcases, then you know we are big fans of Slip, and the brand's silk eye masks are no exception. Crafted from 100% pure mulberry silk inside and out, this mask offers breathable temperature control and protects the delicate skin around your eyes from any damage. I've had this mask for months, and it's a staple in my bedtime routine.
Best cashmere sleep mask: If you are looking for a cashmere mask, this is the one for you. The cashmere and nylon blended knit will make for your most comfortable sleep yet, and it comes with straps to tie around the head making it easily adjustable.
Best colourful sleep mask: Ok, how stunning is this sleep mask? Let's face it, sleep masks don't always look the best, but Olivia Von Halle is here to save the day. The British label has designed a mask in their signature floral print, and have used a silk-blend soft enough to soothe you into a deep sleep.
Best affordable sleep mask: If you don't want to spend a fortune, you can't go wrong with The White Company. This mask is made from pure silk and comes in a timeless ivory shade that will have you looking forward to going to bed every night.
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