Some eye pillows are fragrant, some are wearable—equipped with a strap—, and some can be microwaved or frozen. No matter how you use an eye pillow, it should be comfortable enough to achieve your desired level of relaxation. When choosing an eye pillow, you should focus on the filling, the fabric, and the temperature therapy. Style may come into play if you plan on wearing it in public, but the utility of the eye pillow is most important. Here are the best eye pillows on the market, according to our research. Microwave the pillow to use it as a heating pad, or place it in the freezer to use as a cold compress. The pillow is designed to block out ambient light when in use, making it a great pick for yoga, sleep, and general relaxation. Price at time of publication: $22 The pillow comes inside a plush velvet cover, which is zipper-lined so that you can adjust the filling to fit your pressure preferences. You can freeze the pillow overnight to use it as a cold compress, or leave it as is—either way, it can make a great addition to your bedtime or self-care routine. Price at time of publication: $19 Designed for an experience that triggers all of your senses, the eye pillow can be used as a regular yoga accessory. Price at time of publication: $15 The pillow is double-sided—coated in velvet and cooling satin. It also has a lavender and flaxseed filling that offers gentle pressure on your eyes. Thanks to the flaxseed, it can be safely heated in the microwave or frozen in the freezer. With fleece on one side and cotton on the other, the mask eliminates any itchiness you may experience with a typical sleep mask. It can also be frozen, which may help hot sleepers achieve a good night’s rest. Price at time of publication: $25 The memory foam is designed to contour your face, giving you a custom fit that prevents light from sneaking in. Plus, the mask is fully adjustable—equipped with a buckle strap that helps it stay in place, whether you’re sleeping, traveling, or meditating in an upright position. Price at time of publication: $30 The gel insert offers a cooling and soothing sensation, and if paired with the lavender buds and flaxseeds, will give you a scent-filled experience in addition to temperature therapy. Price at time of publication: $22 The microbead filling offers a gentle, weighted pressure on your eyes, and the hollow ends will prevent the mask from getting in the way if you turn your head at night. Additionally, the jersey-knit exterior is machine-washable for easy care. Price at time of publication: $34 Thanks to the ergonomic style, it conforms to your face, blocking out light and providing even compression. Plus, the elastic head strap keeps it secure, whether you’re traveling, moving around, or sitting up. Price at time of publication: $14.50 Included in the filling is buckwheat, which provides gentle pressure and texture. The soft linen and cotton cover is also made to keep the mask comfortable and cool. Price at time of publication: $48 Microwave- and freezer-friendly, the mask is perfect for those seeking temperature therapy. It also comes with packaging and care instructions, making it a good, hassle-free gift. Price at time of publication: $19
Fabric
Many eye pillows come inside removable covers, and the covers can be made with soft cotton, smooth satin, or plush velvet. Opt for a textile that feels good to you, or choose an eye mask that comes lined with two different options.
Temperature Therapy
Eye masks may be microwave-friendly, freezer-friendly, both, or neither. If you plan to use yours as a heating pad or cold compress, double-check that it’s capable of being used that way. Warm eye masks are helpful for those seeking relaxation or relief from congestion and headaches. Hot sleepers are likely to benefit from cold ones.
Why Trust Verywell Mind
As a seasoned health and wellness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. They are also helpful for blocking out light during sleep and meditation. There aren’t any risks for using an eye pillow, as long as it doesn’t obscure your vision while moving around. If you choose to use it for temperature therapy, make sure you have it at a safe temperature and use it for an appropriate amount of time.