10 Best Eye Masks for Dry Eyes 2024 – Reviews & Buying Guide
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The most common eye issue that we face in our everyday lives is dry eyes. To help with this, ophthalmologists suggest using the best eye masks for dry eyes. Staring at a screen all day, whether it is our computers, phones, or tabs, tends to cause dryness of the eyes leading to itchiness and discomfort. It is often accompanied by headaches and blurred vision.
The best eye masks for dry eyes help to relax the muscles around our eyes and unclog the tear ducts. They also soothe discomfort and inflammation caused as a result of eye conditions like blepharitis. They also treat itchiness and reduce redness caused by harmful ingredients in your eye makeup products or beauty treatments. These gentle masks help deal with migraines and cluster headaches too. In this article, we have listed a few of these masks that you could give a try. Go on and take a look.
[table “5486” not found /]How Do Eye Masks Help Treat Dry Eyes?
A dry eye mask works as a warm compress, balancing hydration around the eyes and unclogging the tear ducts in the region. It helps soothe eye irritation and inflammation caused by makeup products, refreshing the eyes in the process. Some eye masks can be refrigerated and substituted as a cold compress to help with migraines and headaches.
Scroll through our list of the best eye masks for dry eyes that will provide you instant relief.
10 Best Eye Masks For Dry Eyes
Best Warm Compress:Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress
A warm compress can help clear oil glands, hydrate the eyes, unclog tear ducts, and relax the mind. The innovative eye compress from Bruder does all that and more. This gentle moist heat compress features unique MediBeads that come with a honeycomb molecular structure. When heated in the microwave, these beads absorb moisture from the air and offer soothing relief from itchy, sticky, and dry eyes. This eye-hydrating compress improves meibomian oil gland production and is a natural way to bring relief to chalazion, styes, and blepharitis. It also helps reduce tear evaporation while stabilizing the tear film to keep the eyes feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Here’s an eye expert review of this heated mask based on the tester’s experience.
Pros
- Washable
- Reusable
- Easy to use
- Self-hydrating
- Non-allergenic
- Anti-bacterial
- Latex-free
- Made with non-toxic materials
Cons
- Cannot retain heat
Best Reusable Mask:Optix 55 Eye Compress Mask
This naturally hydrating Eye Compress Mask from Optix 55 is crafted with hydro heat technology. It absorbs moisture from the air and releases pure moist heat unto the eyes for lasting relief. This easy-to-use mask is filled with soft gel beads, is microwave-safe, and heats up in just 20 seconds to refresh and soothe the eyes. Several reviewers upon testing have praised the product for the same. Its soft fabric cover is odor-free and does not support bacterial growth. The Velcro closure, the soft exterior material, and the elastic band promote a comfortable fit.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Storage pouch included
- Washable
- Reusable
- Odor-free
- Self-hydrating
- Adjustable strap
- Microwave-safe
Cons
- Doesn’t retain heat for long
Best Lightweight Eye Compress:Kimkoo Professional Eye Compress
The ophthalmologist-recommended Moist Heat Eye Compress from Kimkoo improves eye health and relieves eye fatigue. It contains flaxseed that retains heat and transfers it as well. This flaxseed filling absorbs and stores moisture from the atmosphere and releases it upon being heated in the form of a relaxing warm water vapor compress. This compress provides dry eye relief and treats more serious conditions like blepharitis. This lightweight eye relaxation mask comes with an adjustable elastic strap for a comfortable fit.
Pros
- Self-hydrating
- Reusable
- Adjustable elastic strap
- Ophthalmologist-recommended
Cons
- Medicinal odor
Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress Best Warm Compress | Optix 55 Eye Compress Mask Best Reusable Mask | Kimkoo Professional Eye Compress Best Lightweight Eye Compress | |
---|---|---|---|
Material | Styes | - | - |
Color | Original Version | - | Purple |
Dimensions | 3.54 x 1.97 x 0.39 inches | - | - |
Weight | 3.53 Ounces | - | - |
Number of Items | - | 1 | - |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 17,112 | 112 | 3,717 |
Price | $17.3 | $9.99 | $18.99 |
Best Hot And Cold Therapy:Heyedrate Heated Eye Mask
The custom-fit design of the Heyedrate Heated Eye Mask is enhanced by the soft elastic strap that ensures it rests comfortably on the eyes and does not slip off. The eye pockets are filled with beads that release warm moist air onto the eyelids, unclogging tear ducts and blocked oil glands. This soothing warm compress offers relief from dryness, irritation, crusty eyelids, stickiness, and inflammation. To use this heated mask as a cold compress, place the mask in the freezer for two hours. The pliable gel pearls fit the shape of the eyes even when they are frozen. When cold, this mask offers some relief from headaches, sinuses, allergies, and induces restful sleep quality. This easy-to-use mask can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Also, there are several positive feedback recorded from online reviewers who have tested them, highlighting their extended heat retention, providing a calming experience.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Freezer-safe
- Reusable
- Velcro strap
- Suitable for hot and cold therapy
Cons
- Uneven heating
Best Cotton Mask:Optase Moist Heat Eye Mask
The HydroBead technology used in the Optase Moist Heat Eye Mask provides moist heat to the eyelids, offering lasting relief to tired eyes. Additionally, this eye mask unclogs tear glands and promotes tear production to keep the eyes moist. It also helps soften the crusty deposits on the eyelids and lashes to ensure they are easy to wipe away. This silica bead mask is designed to reach and retain optimal hot or cold temperatures and humidity to offer relief from headaches, sinuses, puffy eyes, and migraines, helping you achieve a youthful appearance. It is recommended as the first step to obtaining relief from symptoms related to blepharitis, dry eyes, meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), styes, and chalazion. Also online reviews highlight the lasting warmth and soothing experience with this product after having tested it.
Pros
- Washable
- Reusable
- Works as hot or cold compress
- Consistent temperature
- Self-hydrating
- Adjustable strap
- Protective pouch
Cons
- Feels heavy on the eyes
"My eyes look refreshed and healthy, thanks to this eye mask. The hydrobeads soothe my eyes and hydrate my dry eyelids. The soft cotton cover feels smooth on my eyes. I like that I can wash it easily. I can also adjust the strap around my head to achieve the right fit."
Best Scented Mask:Aroma Season Electric Heated Eye Mask
The USB-powered Aroma Season Electric Heated Eye Mask offers relief from numerous eye conditions like dry eyes, blepharitis, styes, and chalazion. Its carbon fiber heater delivers optimal comfort to give you optimal relief. The mask contains natural ingredients like lavender that exudes a relaxing fragrance to relieve stress and rejuvenate the mind. It can be powered by PC, power bank, or a USB adapter.
This eye mask has three classes of heat temperate ranging from 98.6o F to 125.6o F and three classes of timing ranging from 20 to 60 minutes. It comes with a lovely carry bag. Check out an honest review of this product based on the reviewer’s experience here.
Pros
- Washable
- Multiple temperature settings
- USB port
- Protective pouch
- Reusable
- Scented
- Lightweight
- Auto shut-off feature
- 1-year quality warranty
Cons
- Inconsistent heating
Best Flexible:Thrive Spa Bead Gel Eye Mask
Use the Thrive Spa Bead Gel Eye Mask as hot and cold eye therapy. The temperature-safe and soft fabric provides soothing relief to the eyes. The shape of the mask and its flexibility makes it a perfect fit for the eyes and provides relief from puffy eyes, sinuses, migraines, eye fatigue, and also dark circles. This eye gel mask doubles up as a heat therapy bag for toothache. This eye spa mask is best for use in post-surgery care and conditions. The product comes with a durable polyester drawstring bag for storage. With innovative gel bead technology, it quickly heats up in 30 seconds in the microwave. Leave it in the freezer for 20-30 minutes before use to cool the eyes. The gel beads maintain the temperature optimally for 30 minutes.
Pros
- Easy eye care
- Adjustable velcro strap
- Larger and wider size
- Hot and cold therapy
- Temperature maintained for 30 minutes
- Comes with a storage pouch
Cons
- Can be a bit flimsy
"I can use this eye mask for a cold and warm compress. The gel beads relieve my eye fatigue and soothe my swollen eyes. With the daily use of this mask, I have also noticed an improvement in my dark circles. The velcro strap secures the mask in place. It comes with a drawstring bag for easy storage."
Best Soothing:Soothing Master Advanced Hydroheat Mask
The versatile Soothing Master Advanced Hydroheat Mask is fabricated from luxurious fabric that is pliable and leak-proof. It is packed with soothing properties of the self-hydrating beads that extract moisture from the air and release as warm vapor once heated in the microwave. This moist heat from the compress penetrates deep into the eyes to relieve issues like dryness, meibomian gland dysfunction, and blepharitis. You can use it as a cooling effect eye mask to address blocked sinus, migraine, headaches, and dark circles as well. It is fitted with an adjustable elastic strap for a comfortable fit.
Pros
- Hot and cold therapy
- Reusable
- Self-hydrating
- Easy to clean
- Leak-proof
- Odor-free
- Protective storage pouch
- Adjustable strap
Cons
- None
"What I like the most about this eye mask is its super soft fabric. The material is odor-free and very simple to clean. It has a symmetrical structure that follows the contours of my eyes. The soothing beads inside moisturize my eyes and treat itchiness."
Best Hydrating:TICLO'S Heat Mask
The hygienic glass thermal bead filling in the TICLO’s Heat Mask offers a weighted warm compress on the eyes. This moist heat mask releases warm vapor onto the eyes for hydration. The bead pouch is removable from the outer cover to allow easy washing. It is fitted with an adjustable Velcro strap that offers a secure fit and keeps it from slipping off. This weighted mask comes with a pack of 30 aloe vera and vitamin E-infused eyelid wipes. Watch this video to understand the features of this eye mask in details and also understand how effective it is.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Washable cover
- Hydrating
- Consistent heat
- Mold-free
- Odor-free
- Free eye wipes included
- Risk-free trial
Cons
- Heavy on the eyes
Best USB-Powered Eye Mask:Dr. Prepare Heated Eye Mask
The USB-powered Dr. Prepare Heated Eye Mask offers a therapeutic treatment for numerous eye conditions like dry eyes, blepharitis, dark circles, MGD, and puffy eyes
The USB-powered Dr. Prepare Heated Eye Mask offers a therapeutic eye treatment for numerous conditions like dry eyes, blepharitis, dark circles, MGD, and puffy eyes. It is heated by a carbon fiber element and is designed to deliver four heat intensities ranging from 95° F to 122° F. The four-timer settings ranging from 10 to 30 minutes with an auto shut-off function offer flexibility in duration of use. The velvet reverse and the elasticated band provide a comfortable fit. A unique flat nose cutout allows the mask to perfectly fit on various face and nose shapes. This easy-to-clean cotton mask can be routinely washed to keep it hygienic and mold-free.
Pros
- Adjustable head strap
- Flat nose cutout for universal fit
- High-quality, washable material
- Multiple temperature settings
- USB port
- Reusable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Inconsistent heating
These are the best eye masks meant for dry eye treatment. Given that there are so many options, how can you pick the right one for you? The following buying guide can help.
How To Choose The Best Eye Mask To Soothe Dry Eyes?
1. Material: Depending on your skin sensitivity, you can choose eye masks made from silk, cotton, plastic, or any high-quality material. While cotton is the most comfortable and breathable material, silk masks are ideal for sensitive skin and can prevent eye irritation.
2. Filling: Most eye masks are filled with beads or natural flaxseeds that absorb moisture from the air and convert it into warm vapor. Ideally, pick a mask with ingredients that will offer the best hydration while retaining heat for an extended period.
3. Dual-Purpose Features: Look for a mask that works both as a hot and cold compress. These offer headache relief as well as help soothe dry eye conditions and reduce migraines and under-eye puffiness.
4. Washable: It is best to opt for a washable mask to ensure good hygiene for the safety of your eyes. Masks that are easy to clean do not promote bacterial build-up or mold and remain odor-free as well. In-depth reviews and user experiences can highlight the practicality and convenience of washable masks.
5. Fit: Elastic Velcro straps offer a secure fit and ensure the mask does not slip off during use. A head strap is especially important if you plan to use the mask overnight. Also, ensure your eye mask fits well on your face and has a cut-out that accommodates your nose shape.
6. Other features: From reusable electric models to self-heating masks, there are different types of eye masks. Some masks offer high-tech features like USB ports, heating elements, and even impart UV light blockage. You may opt for those based on your requirement. Also, relying on expert evaluations from clinical device advisors or device safety experts can guide you regarding the safety and practicality of these enhanced functionalities.
Infographic: Safety Tips To Follow While Using Eye Masks For Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome can cause discomfort and pain if not managed properly. If you are experiencing it, and your doctor has advised you to use an eye mask to manage the symptoms, we can help. Check out the infographic below for some tips on how to use it right.
The Bottom Line
Staring at a screen for hours has become a part of our daily lifestyle. It causes dry eyes, and that is when the best eye masks come in handy. They keep the area around the eyes hydrated and irritation-free, so that you can carry on your work on laptops and mobiles without any worries. The eye masks mentioned in our list are mostly reusable, flexible, and come with adjustable straps. They are lightweight and freezer-safe and, therefore, easy to maintain. The Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress unclogs tear ducts and helps reduce tear evaporation, while the Optix 55 Eye Compress Mask offers lasting relief to the eyes. If you are looking for a reusable eye mask, then the Optase Moist Heat Eye Mask is the perfect choice. These self-hydrating masks are recommended by ophthalmologists to avoid dry eye conditions. However, stay away from eye masks that have a medicinal odor or may feel heavy on the eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do eye masks help with dry eyes?
Yes, eye masks do help with dry eyes. These masks are heat-activated to release a warm vapor that helps open the blocked glands on the eyelid to promote the production of oil and lubrication of the eye.
Do dry eye masks really work?
Yes, dry eye masks work. Heated eye masks are an efficient method of self-care that can be used by people who suffer from dry eyes to supplement treatment from eye drops and eye ointments.
Do silk eye masks help dry eyes?
The smooth texture of silk masks helps in eye protection. Since silk has special moisturizing properties, these masks also help hydrate the eyelids and may ease dry eye conditions. They are also breathable and make you feel comfortable during the treatment.
Which is better for dry eyes: a hot eye mask or a cold eye mask?
A warm compress is best for treating meibomian gland dysfunction as the heat stimulates the oil glands and increases blood circulation in the eyes. A cold compress helps relieve the burning and pain that may accompany dry eyes, along with reducing the digital eye strain (caused due to overexposure to screens).
How often should you use a dry eye mask?
You can use a dry eye mask daily for 10-15 minutes.
Why do we get dry eyes?
Dry eyes may be caused due to aging, glaring at a screen all day, vitamins A and B2 deficiency, or certain medical conditions, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or scleroderma.
How long does a dry eye mask last?
Dry eye masks usually last not more than a year.
Is it OK to sleep with an eye mask?
No. Sleeping overnight with an eye mask may dry out your eyes even more and damage your lashes in the long run.
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