Eye Masks Can Protect Your Lashes While You Sleep—As Long as You’re Wearing the Right Type

Eye masks are great for helping you get a good night’s sleep. But, they also serve a double purpose—you can use eye masks to protect lashes, too. That is, as long as you’re wearing the right kind, explains Clementina Richardson, celebrity lash expert and owner of Envious Lashes. “If a sleep mask is too tight, it can harm your lashes, just like a tight bun or ponytail could also cause damage to your hair,” she says.

Richardson says eye masks can be especially helpful if you wear lash extensions. “You’re more likely to avoid damaging your lashes and getting better lash retention in between refills,” says Richardson, who notes that when applied correctly by a professional, any lash-related service should stay intact while wearing an eye sleep mask.

If you’re hoping to use eye masks to protect lashes, Richardson says to look for ones that have a stretchy elastic band so you can get the perfect fit. “Silk sleep masks are the best option,” she adds. “Thankfully, there are many affordable ones nowadays.” Similar to silk pillowcases for hair, because the material is so smooth, it won’t create any friction as the mask moves around on your lashes as you sleep, helping to protect them.

3 best silk eye masks to protect lashes

LilySilk Ideal Silk Sleep Eye Mask — $30.00

Made from 100-percent charmeuse silk, this mask comes in 14 different colors and prints so you can find one that suits your personality.

Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask — $48.00

Not only will this eye mask help protect your lashes, but it’ll block out both light and noise, since it wraps around your ears. It’s made with a 100-percent silk lining, and is available in six different colors.

Slip Lovely Lashes Contour Sleep Mask — $55.00

Designed specifically for those who wear lash extensions, this silk mask features little cups to give your lashes some breathing room. These are also great if you have super long or fragile lashes, or just don’t like the feeling of material right against your eyelids.

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