Sleep masks: from mocked accessory to secret sleep hero

Let's admit it: for a long time the sleep mask was considered an accessory for Hollywood divas and business-class frequent flyers. Whoever wore one was mildly mocked. Yet the mask wearers were right all along.

Our brain is mercilessly sensitive to light. Even small amounts, the street lamp through the blinds, the TV's standby light, the briefly flashing phone, signal to the body: it's not night yet. Production of the sleep hormone melatonin is throttled, and deep sleep becomes shallower.

A sleep mask solves the problem remarkably simply: darkness at the push of a button, anywhere. In summer, when it gets light at five. In the hotel with the too-thin curtains. Next to the partner who's still reading in bed.

What to look for? The material, silk not only feels luxurious, it's gentle on skin and lashes. The fit, the mask should rest softly without pressing, letting no light in at the nose. And care: like bed linen, the mask wants regular washing.

Small effort, big effect: whoever sleeps a week with a mask rarely wants to go back. The mocked accessory has become a secret sleep hero, entirely deservedly so.