Smart Sleep Mask (Better Routine): 4 Best Technologies to Enhance Wellness
- Smart Tech
- Updated On - January 17, 2024
Smart sleep mask wearable techs are here to help you have a good night’s sleep.
You may ask: How can technology be incorporated into our traditional sleep masks? How do they work? And who are they for? Recent years have seen a boom in the smart sleep mask market, with many more innovative products coming out.
We explored these technologies and wrote this article to go into more detail. Before we get into smart sleep masks, let’s figure out who it might help. They can be a great addition to your sleep routine like Oura or Evie ring.
- Are you looking to improve your sleep routine?
- Do you travel a lot or don’t sleep in the same place every night?
- You might be trying to relax when you want to sleep.
- Light and noise are problematic at night to sleep.
These are some common issues that these smart tools are trying to solve or (better said) improve sleep quality. But remember, these devices aren’t for treating, curing, or diagnosing medical conditions. They’re just wellness tools.
Our Brief on Smart Sleep Mask
Innovating sleep aids like smart sleep masks merge technology with traditional sleep masks to help you sleep better. They’re noise-canceling, light-blocking, and have soothing music so you can fall asleep faster.
Sleep masks block light and noise, which disrupts your sleep, improving sleep quality and duration. They offer features like temperature control, massage, and aromatherapy so you can relax and fall asleep faster.
Smart sleep masks improve sleep quality and duration by blocking out light and noise.
They offer features such as temperature control, massage, and aromatherapy to help users relax and fall asleep faster.
Smart sleep masks offer a range of benefits for users, including improving sleep quality, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting relaxation.
What are the Smart Sleep Masks out there?
High-tech sleep masks use features like microphones, light sensors, and neurofeedback for a personalized sleep experience.
One of the key features is light control. They use sensors to detect the level of light in the room and adjust the mask’s light output. This helps regulate the user’s circadian rhythm and promotes better sleep.
They also use technology to check brainwaves and give feedback for better relaxation and faster sleep. Some masks even have light therapy, using different colors to enhance relaxation and improve sleep.
Here are some of the new options in the market.
1. Aura Circle ($329): Best Overall
Our first pick in the new tech era of smart sleep masks is Aura Circle. It is a high-tech solution for improving quality of sleep. Using a combination of total blackout, pressure-free comfort, light therapy, and integrated audio features.
It can be personalize sleep experience and can be an alternative to reliance on like melatonin.
The mask connects to a companion app. Through the app, you can choose from a variety of sleep programs, adjust the volume and intensity of the sound. Plus, track your sleep patterns and progress over time.
This personalized approach ensures that you can tailor your sleep routine to meet your specific needs and achieve optimal results.
One of the standout features of the Aura Circle Sleep Mask is its eye cavities. These specially designed contours prevent any pressure on the eyes, making it an ideal choice for side sleepers. The eye cavities allow your eyes to move freely without any discomfort, ensuring that you wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Key Features
- Total Blackout: Block out all light, creating an ideal dark environment for sleep
- Integrated Audio: built-in speakers that deliver soothing soundscapes, ASMR, and nature sounds. Accessed through the Aura Dreamscape app
- Pressure-Free Design: Lightweight and made with breathable materials. This is important for comfort without putting pressure on the eyes or face, which is particularly beneficial for side sleepers
- Light Therapy: There is a Glow feature which provides light therapy including a sunrise wake-up light to simulate a natural waking process
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Users can pair the mask with their devices via Bluetooth to access personalized audio content
- Hug Cushion: The magnetic hug cushion is included for added comfort and to ensure a snug fit that prevents light leaks
- User Interface: The mask has a tap button, battery and Bluetooth LEDs, a Zen button for meditation, USB-C for charging, and volume control
- Travel-Friendly: Compact and easy to carry, the mask is designed to provide a consistent sleep experience on the go
2. Lumos Sleep Mask ($298): Best for Regulating Sleep
Lumos Smart Sleep Mask is a cutting-edge sleep aid designed to help users optimize their sleep patterns and useful for issues like jet lag.
Developed using technology from Stanford University, the mask uses patented low-intensity light therapy to adjust the user’s circadian rhythm. This technology uses short light pulses to shift the user’s circadian clock.
It is ergonomically designed for comfort and ease of use. Features adjustable strap and a lightweight, breathable cover that can be machine washed. Just need to remove the electronics part.
The mask works with a rechargeable battery. You can use to for up to four nights of continuous use.
The app collects sleep and travel information from the user, which it uses to generate a personalized light program.
Key Features
- App: Sunrise alarm and personalized sleep programs
- Comfort: Made from soft and breathable materials. The mask is adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your face shape and size.
- Technology: low-intensity light tech
3. SmartGoggles by Therabody ($199): Best for Eye Care
Therabody’s SmartGoggles are a high-tech wearable device designed primarily for relaxation, sleep improvement, and eye health.
They use vibration, massage, and heat to provide therapeutic benefits to the eyes. This is aiming to reduce stress and anxiety.
There some benefits for:
- restful sleep
- soothe headaches
- relieve eye strain
- lower heart rate
- increase circulation
- and ease facial tension
They embody a holistic approach to self-care and well-being. Nowadays screen time and digital engagement are to the most and the need for effective eye care has never been more pronounced.
Therabody’s SmartGoggles address this need by offering a multifaceted solution that caters to the demands of modern-day living.
Key Features
- SmartSense Technology: biometric sensor customizes the experience by using your heart rate data
- Modes: Three modes are available: SmartRelax, Focus, and Sleep, which can be controlled via app
- Multisensory Sound Therapy: Bluetooth-enabled with TheraMind, providing a range of audio tracks in the Therabody App
- Battery Life: Up to 150 minutes of use depending on the mode selected
- Material and Design: The device is foldable for portability, with a one-size-fits-all design and a soft protective case included
- Weight: 14.8 oz (420 g)
4. Bia Smart Sleep Mask ($380): Best for Deep Sleep
The Bia Smart Sleep Mask, developed by Bia Neuroscience. This is a cutting-edge sleep aid that incorporates neurofeedback technology to measure, improve, and control sleep.
This innovative sleep mask is equipped with various sensors, a microphone, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to accurately measure brain activity through the use of infrared light.
The mask uses neurofeedback technology to monitor your brainwaves and provide real-time feedback. It gently guides your brain into a state of relaxation.
It also have speakers that create a soothing surround sound experience, aiming to calm the vagus nerve and improve sleep quality.
The mask is designed to help users adjust to new time zones, assist with meditation, and maximize deep sleep.
Bia Neuroscience claims that the mask has been shown to improve deep sleep by 100%.
The mask is designed to assist with adjusting the natural sleep rhythm to the user’s schedule, potentially increasing sleep-related hormones by 50%. The mask is intended to provide immediate benefits, such as faster sleep induction and improved sleep quality, through its neurofeedback and neural music features.
Key Features
- Neurofeedback Technology: Measures brain activity through the use of infrared light
- Sensors and IMU: Equipped with various sensors and an inertial measurement unit to accurately measure sleep metrics
- Specialized Speakers: Creates a soothing surround sound experience to improve sleep quality
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Aims to calm the vagus nerve, influencing breathing rate, mood, and blood pressure
- Adjustment to Time Zones: Designed to help users adjust to new time zones and maximize deep sleep
- Assistance with Meditation: The mask can assist with meditation and relaxation
Comfortable Design: Maximum comfort, with soft and breathable materials that ensure a snug fit without causing any discomfort.
Considerations and Benefits of Smart Sleep Mask
Benefit: Better Sleep Quality
Smart sleep masks are designed to block out light and noise, which can help improve sleep quality.
According to a study, exposure to light at night can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to poor sleep quality and other health problems.
Smart sleep masks are equipped with features such as light-blocking shades and noise-cancelling technology that can help create a more conducive sleep environment.
In addition, some smart sleep masks come with built-in sensors that track sleep patterns and provide insights into sleep quality. This information can help users identify factors that may be affecting their sleep and make adjustments accordingly.
Benefit: Convenience for Travelers
For travelers, smart sleep masks offer a convenient way to get quality sleep while on the go. Whether on a long flight or staying in a hotel room with bright lights, a smart sleep mask can help block out distractions and create a more comfortable sleep environment.
Some smart sleep masks are also designed with portability in mind, making them easy to pack and carry. They may come with a travel case or be made of lightweight materials that can be folded up and stored in a small space.
Benefit: Relief for Shift Workers
Shift workers often struggle with sleep disruptions due to their irregular schedules. Smart sleep masks can help alleviate some of these issues by blocking out light and noise during daytime sleeping hours.
According to a study, shift workers who used sleep masks reported better sleep quality and increased alertness compared to those who did not use sleep masks.
Smart sleep masks can also be helpful for individuals experiencing jet lag, as they can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and promote better sleep.
Design and Comfort Features
Smart sleep masks are designed to enhance the quality of sleep by creating a comfortable and relaxing environment.
Material and Build: When it comes to material and build, smart sleep masks are made of different materials such as memory foam, mulberry silk, and breathable fabric.
Memory foam sleep masks are known for their ability to contour to the face, providing a comfortable fit.
Mulberry silk sleep masks are hypoallergenic, soft, and gentle on the skin.
Breathable fabric sleep masks are lightweight and allow air to circulate, preventing overheating during sleep.
Fit and Adjustability: The fit and adjustability of smart sleep masks are important factors. A good sleep mask should fit snugly but not too tightly, and should not put pressure on the eyes.
Adjustable straps are essential for ensuring that the mask stays in place throughout the night. Some smart sleep masks come with a Velcro strap that can be easily adjusted to fit different head sizes.
Types of Smart Sleep Masks
There are three main types of smart sleep masks: light-blocking masks, sound-masking masks, and heated and massaging masks.
Light-Blocking Masks: Light-blocking masks are designed to block out all light, creating a pitch-black environment for the user.
They are ideal for people who are sensitive to light and have trouble sleeping in a bright room. These masks are made of soft and comfortable materials that fit snugly over the eyes. They also have a built-in sensor that detects when the user is asleep and automatically turns off the lights.
Sound-Masking Masks: Sound-masking masks are designed to block out external noise and create a soothing environment for the user.
They use a combination of white noise, soothing sounds, and music to help the user fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. They have a built-in speaker that plays the sounds and music.
Heated and Massaging Masks: Heated and massaging masks are designed to provide warmth and relaxation to the user. They use a combination of heating pads and massagers to create a soothing environment for the user. They also have a built-in controller that allows the user to adjust the temperature and intensity of the massager.
Healthy Lifestyle
Many people struggle with sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep deprivation, and snoring, which can negatively impact their health and well-being.
Fortunately, smart sleeping masks can help manage some sleeping issues and improve one’s overall health.
Managing Sleep Disorders
Smart sleeping masks offer various features that can help manage sleep disorders.
For instance, some masks use light therapy, which mimics natural sunlight to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm.
This feature can be particularly helpful for people with insomnia, as it can help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Other masks use sound therapy, which can help mask external noise and promote relaxation.
Some masks even offer both light and sound therapy, providing a comprehensive solution for managing sleep disorders.
Stress and Relaxation
Stress is a common cause of sleep disorders, and it can be challenging to manage without the right tools.
Smart sleeping masks can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Some masks offer guided meditations, which can help quiet the mind and promote relaxation.
Other masks use aromatherapy, which involves the use of scents to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
FAQs
How do smart sleep masks integrate with sleep tracking technology?
Many smart sleep masks on the market today integrate with sleep tracking technology, allowing users to monitor their sleep patterns and gain insight into their sleep quality.
Some smart sleep masks use built-in sensors to track sleep metrics such as heart rate, breathing rate, and movement, while others sync with third-party sleep tracking apps to provide a more comprehensive view of one’s sleep patterns.
Can smart sleep masks improve sleep quality for individuals with insomnia?
While smart sleep masks are not a cure for insomnia, they can help improve sleep quality for individuals who struggle with sleep disturbances.
Many smart sleep masks use light therapy to regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, which can be disrupted in individuals with insomnia.
Additionally, smart sleep masks may offer relaxation and stress-reducing benefits that can help individuals with insomnia fall asleep more easily.
What features differentiate various smart sleep mask brands on the market?
Smart sleep masks on the market today vary in terms of features, design, and price point.
Some of the key features to look for when choosing a smart sleep mask include light therapy options, sound therapy options, battery life, and comfort level.
Additionally, some smart sleep masks come with additional features such as app integration, personalized sleep coaching, and customizable settings.
How do light-based alarms in smart sleep masks influence natural wake-up processes?
Many smart sleep masks include light-based alarms that simulate a natural sunrise, gradually increasing in brightness to wake users up gently and naturally.
This type of alarm can help regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and promote a more natural waking process.
Also, light-based alarms may be less jarring than traditional alarm clocks, which can help users wake up feeling more refreshed and energized.
Omi
Hello🙂 Tech enthusiasts and Eco-warriors! I'm a dedicated content producer on a mission to explore the intersection of smart technologies and a sustainable, Eco-friendly world. With a background in technology, I bring a unique perspective to the evolving landscape of innovative solutions that make our lives smarter and our planet greener.
