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10 Best Eye Masks for Sleeping UK 2022 | Unisex Selection for All Face Shapes

10 Best Eye Masks for Sleeping UK 2022 | Unisex Selection for All Face Shapes

Eye masks, or sleep masks, are one of those simple inventions that once you own, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. They are primarily designed to block out the unwanted light that disrupts your slumber, but nowadays you’ll find masks that offer relief from headaches and puffy eyes, contoured masks for a personalised fit, and even those to fit whether you sleep on your side or back.

Whether you’re travelling, a night shift worker, preparing for a flight, or just need a complete blackout before you drift off, there’s an effective and affordable eye mask for you out there. Our guide is here to help you find your perfect, luxurious sleep aide from the vast selection available, plus we’ll be sharing our reviews of recommendations from Amazon to ensure you get the peaceful nights sleep you deserve.

Last updated: 08-08-2022

Table of Contents

How to Choose an Eye Mask for Sleeping in the UK

Key Points to Consider

For Front or Side Sleepers Choose a Lightweight Traditional Mask
Masks Made From Natural Materials are Best for Those With Sensitive Skin
Look for Adjustable Straps for a Secure Fit

1. Decide on a Style, Based on How and Where You Sleep

If You Tend to Sleep on Your Front or Side, Opt for a Traditional Mask That's Lightweight and Flexible

The most lightweight and flexible masks are those designed in the traditional style, that fit close to your eyes. These are great for those who want a mask they can slip in their bag when going on planes or when away from home without being too cumbersome, and are also usually good value.

They will also suit those who sleep on their side or front or who find themselves tossing and turning at night, as their minimal weight means they will not slide down the face due to gravity or movement. Bear in mind their simplicity may mean they are not always 100% efficient at light blocking, but be sure to check the description as this is often desirable when flying, travelling, or for hospital visits.

Day Nappers, Makeup Wearers and Back Sleepers Should Go for a Mask With Eye Cavities

Another common design you will come across features moulded cavities that stop the mask from touching your eyes. Some people find the lack of pressure and contact less irritating, and as they allow for opening of the eyes they will better give the illusion of a dark room. Those catching a power nap whilst wearing makeup will also appreciate this variety as it will prevent smudging.

Those sleeping in brighter conditions, such as shift workers who slumber in daylight, will find that masks with cavities are better at light blockage. They are prone to slipping due to their slightly heavier weight, but if you sleep reclined or on your back, these masks will be a solid choice.

Consider a Therapeutic Mask to Help With Relaxation, Puffy Eyes, Congestion and Headaches

If you’d like your mask to do more than just help you sleep, you could opt for one that can be heated or chilled to help soothe dry and puffy eyes, allergies, sinus pain, headaches and even hangovers. Most of these therapeutic masks will be able to be switched between hot or cold as needed, and you can even find scented fabrics for the ultimate spa-like relaxation.

If you go for a therapeutic design, choose one without eye holes if you’d like a mask that can be used for both sleeping and healing purposes. Although not completely light blocking, you could seek out those with either removable inserts or those based on traditional sleeping mask designs.

2. Pick a Material That’s Breathable, Durable and Won't Irritate Your Skin

Select Hypoallergenic Silk or Breathable Cotton if You Have Sensitive Skin

Because they are both natural materials, silk and cotton are very breathable and will feel as light as a feather on your delicate eye area. They are perfect for those in sunny or humid climates, as they do not cause sweating which can lead to chafing or breakouts on the face. They’re also a luxurious and attractive choice for the style conscious wearer.

If you have sensitive skin or are allergy-prone, silk and cotton will also be your best material choices as they will not irritate the skin. The advantage of cotton over silk is that it is less prone to staining, and can be machine washed many more times than silk without wearing down, so consider these points if you like to wash masks frequently. Silk masks are not suitable for vegans.

Seek Out Synthetic Materials Like Polyester or Memory Foam for a Comfortable Yet Durable Mask

As with clothing, polyester and synthetic eye masks don’t allow as much airflow to the skin, so are less suited to those who sweat or have a tendency to get hot at night. However, synthetics are very lightweight yet also very durable, and won’t wrinkle or crease as much.

Polyurethane foam or memory foam masks are another synthetic alternative that are soft and very comfortable, and don’t make as much contact with the eyes as silk or cotton which may affect sleeping or napping. Be sure to check if they are breathable, as some foam masks may be more than others.

3. Ensure the Best Fit and Minimal Movement While Sleeping by Checking if the Mask Has Contours or Adjustable Straps

For a Customised Fit That Won't Slip, Choose a Contoured or Wraparound Design

If you have tried masks before and found that they are prone to slipping or just don’t fit properly, choose a design that describes itself as contoured, which means it is flexible and deliberately designed to conform to a variety of face and nose shapes.

Whilst they may also feature eye cavities, they will usually have a larger central crevice to fit many nose shapes. You can also seek out more of a “wraparound” contoured feature that will ensure a super snug and supportive fit for the face as well as the eyes. And of course, the closer the fit is, the less likely any pesky light will sneak in.

Try Adjustable Velcro or Stretchy Elastic Straps for a More Secure Fit

Masks with adjustable straps are an excellent choice for most wearers, as some people prefer a very secure fit, and others like not to be able to feel the strap at all when trying to get to sleep. Plus we all come in different shapes and sizes! Adjustability will also mean that several family members from kids to adults can share the mask.

Velcro adjustments are common, but are known for catching on the hair, so look for a “hidden” fastening to eliminate this. They are also a good choice if you are worried that a sliding buckle may dig in or similarly snag on thick or long hair. Elastic is another common strap material that will also stretch to different head shapes, but be mindful that it may loosen with use over time.

Compare the Best Eye Masks for Sleeping

For those after a quick look, here is our Top 5:

Gritin - Ultra Soft Silk Eye Mask for £5.99
Bedtime Bliss - Contoured Eye Mask for £6.99
Alaska Bear - 2-Strap with Nose Baffle Silk Eye Mask £9.99
Amazon - 3D Contoured Eye Mask With Adjustable Strap £6.79
OLESILK - Mulberry Silk 2 Pack of Sleeping Eye Masks for £9.99

For a more in-depth look at the comprehensive top 10 selection, make sure to read on to learn more about the different types of eye masks for sleeping available and understand how our ranking was determined.

This article's chosen EC site price listings are reflective of its publishing date.

Image	1 Gritin	2 Bedtime Bliss	3 Alaska Bear	4 Amazon	5 OLESILK	6 Voluex	7 Newgo	8 Morris & Co.	9 INNELO	10 Magic Gel
Name	Ultra Soft Silk Eye Mask	Contoured Eye Mask	2-Strap with Nose Baffle Silk Eye Mask	3D Contoured Eye Mask With Adjustable Strap	Mulberry Silk 2 Pack of Sleeping Eye Masks	3D Contoured Eye Mask	Gel Bead Eye Mask	Velvet Lavender Scented Eye Mask	Soft Comfortable Light Blocking Eye Mask	Luxury Heated Eye Mask
Features	A Brilliant Design for Your Best Night’s Sleep Yet	Our Favourite Blackout Contoured Mask for Every Family Member	An Affordable Traditional Silk Mask with Extra Features	Pressure-Free Wraparound Mask for Troubled Sleepers	2 Pack Soft Mulberry Silk Eye Masks with Adjustable Straps	Memory Foam Comfort and Full Light Blockage for All Sleeping Positions	A Great Gel Filled Therapeutic Multipurpose Mask for Morning and Night	A Stylish Option to Relax Your Body and Mind	Lightweight Enough for Travel and Napping	Therapeutic Hot and Cold Relief for Many Symptoms
Price	£5.99	£6.99	£9.99	£6.79	£9.99	£14.99	£9.99	£18.00	£16.99	£9.99
Mask Shape	Traditional	Moulded eye cavity	Traditional	Moulded eye cavity	Traditional	Traditional	Traditional	Traditional	Moulded eye cavity	Traditional
Therapeutic Features	No	No	No	No	No	No	Cold therapy	Lavender scented	No	Hot/cold therapy
Material	Silk, cotton	Cotton, bamboo	Silk	Memory foam	Silk	Memory foam	Synthetic mask, gel beads	Velvet	Silk, memory foam	Synthetic nylon mask, clay gel insert
Contoured Fit	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	No
Strap/Adjustments	Elastic strap, buckle	Elastic strap, Velcro	Double elastic straps, buckle	Elastic strap, hidden Velcro	Adjustable elastic strap	Adjustable velcro, no clasps	Elastic strap,	Elastic strap	Elastic strap	Elastic strap
Link	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon	View Amazon

10 Best Eye Masks for Sleeping in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.

amazon.co.uk

GritinUltra Soft Silk Eye Mask

£5.99

View product on Amazon

A Brilliant Design for Your Best Night’s Sleep Yet

This mask really has it all: skin-friendly pure mulberry silk and cotton for breathable comfort, the simplicity of a traditional design with 100% light blockage, and a tangle-free flexible strap for security in any sleeping position.

Even though the large size covers the face for total blackout, it won’t cause any sweating and you’ll barely feel it touching the skin. This amazing product would be ideal for both travel and home, especially with the included earplugs.

Mask Shape	Traditional
Therapeutic Features	No
Material	Silk, cotton
Contoured Fit	No
Strap/Adjustments	Elastic strap, buckle

amazon.co.uk

Bedtime Bliss Contoured Eye Mask

£6.99

View product on Amazon

Our Favourite Blackout Contoured Mask for Every Family Member

With shoppers describing this mask as “life-changing”, this contoured mask has everything you need for a night of peaceful REM sleep. Both the pressure-free eye cavities and the wide elastic strap are very comfortable, and the size is suitable for adults and children alike.

You won’t notice a shred of light with this great mask, and it’s lovely cotton and bamboo material suits those travelling as well as at home. Free earplugs and a carry case are included too.

Mask Shape	Moulded eye cavity
Therapeutic Features	No
Material	Cotton, bamboo
Contoured Fit	Yes
Strap/Adjustments	Elastic strap, Velcro

amazon.co.uk

Alaska Bear 2-Strap with Nose Baffle Silk Eye Mask

£9.99

View product on Amazon

An Affordable Traditional Silk Mask with Extra Features

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how little light this mask lets in despite its traditional design. A fabulous and affordable choice for those wanting the hypoallergenic and soft qualities of silk, with the added benefit of a nose baffle to block light and sit comfortably on the face.

Its wraparound design with double elastic straps ensures no slipping. If you prefer a more colourful mask there are many appealing designs to choose from, although they are only available in a single strap design.

Mask Shape	Traditional
Therapeutic Features	No
Material	Silk
Contoured Fit	Yes
Strap/Adjustments	Double elastic straps, buckle

amazon.co.uk

Amazon3D Contoured Eye Mask With Adjustable Strap

£6.79

View product on Amazon

Pressure-Free Wraparound Mask for Troubled Sleepers

Whether you are light sleeper awoken by the slightest glow or just need total darkness before you can sleep, you can trust that this effective contoured mask won’t let a peep in, not even through the cleverly designed nose cavity.

The eye cavities allow freedom of movement without the pressure found in some masks. It is fairly light considering the size but may be a little sweaty in a hotter climate. The memory foam contours to your unique face shape and the “magic sticker” closure won’t catch or irritate.

Mask Shape	Moulded eye cavity
Therapeutic Features	No
Material	Memory foam
Contoured Fit	Yes
Strap/Adjustments	Elastic strap, hidden Velcro

amazon.co.uk

OLESILKMulberry Silk 2 Pack of Sleeping Eye Masks

2 Pack

£9.99

View product on Amazon

2 Pack Soft Mulberry Silk Eye Masks with Adjustable Straps

Wonderfully suited to both home and travel, you’ll barely notice it on your face or in your suitcase. These beautifully lightweight eye masks are crafted from Mulberry silk, yet they are still very affordable for a pack of 2. With colour variations available, why not share one with your partner, ensuring you will never mix them up.

It would also be suited to relaxation or meditation due to the lightweight feel, and it is almost completely light blocking. The straps are fully adjustable so will fit most head sizes. Given that silk is a natural fibre it can help regulate the moisture around the eye and improve skin condition.

Mask Shape	Traditional
Therapeutic Features	No
Material	Silk
Contoured Fit	No
Strap/Adjustments	Adjustable elastic strap

amazon.co.uk

Voluex3D Contoured Eye Mask

£14.99

View product on Amazon

Memory Foam Comfort and Full Light Blockage for All Sleeping Positions

Don’t be put off by the design of this slightly futuristic-looking mask! The memory foam is super soft, comfy, and breathable, and the wide no-snag strap keeps it firmly in place no matter how you sleep. This mask will conform to your face shape and claims 100% light blockage.

It also appears not to smudge make-up, even though it does not have eye cavities. There are also earplugs and a carry case included in the purchase for a great nights sleep wherever you lay your head. Be aware, this mask is hand wash only.

Mask Shape	Traditional
Therapeutic Features	No
Material	Memory foam
Contoured Fit	Yes
Strap/Adjustments	Adjustable velcro, no clasps

amazon.co.uk

NewgoGel Bead Eye Mask

£9.99

View product on Amazon

A Great Gel Filled Therapeutic Multipurpose Mask for Morning and Night

Newgo have created a cute multi-functional mask that is fantastic at soothing tired or puffy eyes when chilled, great for relieving sinus pain or migraine issues or simply use as a soothing sleep mask.

Unlike some other gel masks, the inner is lined with soft plush fabric, making it also great for normal use or travel. The elastic isn't adjustable but doesn’t slip, and as there is no Velcro it shouldn't catch on the hair or pillow if used in bed or for long periods of sleep.

Mask Shape	Traditional
Therapeutic Features	Cold therapy
Material	Synthetic mask, gel beads
Contoured Fit	No
Strap/Adjustments	Elastic strap,

amazon.co.uk

Morris & Co. Velvet Lavender Scented Eye Mask

£18.00

View product on Amazon

Mask Shape	Traditional
Therapeutic Features	Lavender scented
Material	Velvet
Contoured Fit	No
Strap/Adjustments	Elastic strap

amazon.co.uk

INNELOSoft Comfortable Light Blocking Eye Mask

£16.99

View product on Amazon

Lightweight Enough for Travel and Napping

The INNELO stylish sleep mask makes the ideal gift, packaged in a luxurious box with no minor detail spared. With soft silk and contoured memory foam eye sections this mask is comfortable and eliminates almost all light. It is also incredibly lightweight, making it perfect for long haul travel.

This is one of the higher priced eye masks on our list but we think it offers great value for money. With hand stitched detailing and eco friendly materials used it will definitely stand the test of time. The silk lining is cool to the touch, meaning you won't be overheating with this on.

Mask Shape	Moulded eye cavity
Therapeutic Features	No
Material	Silk, memory foam
Contoured Fit	Yes
Strap/Adjustments	Elastic strap

amazon.co.uk

Magic GelLuxury Heated Eye Mask

£9.99

View product on Amazon

Therapeutic Hot and Cold Relief for Many Symptoms

This highly effective heatable mask has been primarily designed to treat dry eye conditions, but it also offers wonderful relief to strained eyes from too much screen time, headaches, hayfever and dark circles. It can also be popped in the freezer for cold therapy.

The gel packs (which includes a spare) can be removed so the mask can be used as-is, but it does not offer much light blockage and is very basic so would better suit those wanting a simple and light travel or nap mask for occasional use.