Often dismissed as a luxury or travel gimmick, research now shows that sleep masks can have a measurable impact on your rest, hormone balance, and even your brain performance the next day. In fact, when it comes to deep, restorative sleep, eliminating light may be just as important as calming your mind.
So why does a little piece of fabric make such a big difference? And what led us to develop the HAKD Deep Sleep Mask as part of the ultimate sleep system?
Why Light is the Enemy of Deep Sleep
Your body runs on a circadian rhythm – a 24-hour internal clock tied to natural light and darkness. When your brain detects darkness, it releases melatonin, the hormone responsible for making you feel sleepy. But even small amounts of light (like a phone screen or side lamp) can disrupt that signal, leading to shallower sleep, more wake-ups, and impaired recovery.
In fact, a study published in PNAS (1) found that light exposure during sleep impairs insulin sensitivity and increases heart rate. These are two markers of reduced sleep quality and cardiovascular stress. Additional research has shown that blocking light with an eye mask not only improves sleep quality but also preserves melatonin levels and reduces nighttime cortisol spikes, further supporting deep rest (2).
In other words, blocking light isn’t optional for better sleep, it’s essential.
How Sleep Masks Work (And What Makes a Good One)
Sleep masks create total darkness by covering your eyes and blocking ambient light. This simple cue tells your brain: it’s time to switch off. And when worn consistently, masks help reinforce a stable circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake feeling genuinely restored.
Studies also show that sleep masks:
- Enhance melatonin release and sleep onset latency (4)
- Improve slow-wave sleep (deep sleep) and REM (5)
- Boost memory consolidation and alertness the next day (6)
But not all sleep masks are created equal. Comfort, fit, material, and light-blocking ability all play a role, and that’s where the HAKD Deep Sleep Mask comes in.
Introducing the HAKD Deep Sleep Mask: Science Meets Sleepwear
Designed to be more than just blackout, it’s engineered for performance sleep.
The HAKD Deep Sleep Mask is coming very soon – stay tuned on our Instagram @hakd.health for the launch!
22 Momme Mulberry Silk
Ultra-soft, breathable, hypoallergenic silk that glides over your skin and protects against irritation, creases, and puffiness.
100% Blackout Design
No more light leaks. The wraparound design contours to your face and stays secure in any sleep position.
Featherlight Comfort & Adjustable Fit
A slim, cushioned strap creates a barely-there feel with zero pressure – just darkness and deep rest.
Supports Better Skin & Hair While You Sleep
Silk helps regulate temperature, reduce friction, and preserve hydration. This supports clearer skin and healthier hair overnight.
Made for Travel & Busy Lives
Lightweight, portable, and reliable. Perfect for hotel rooms, flights, or bright bedrooms.
Your Total Sleep System: Pair with Night Blend for Maximum Impact
While sleep masks help optimise your external environment, Night Blend works on your internal biology. Combining 15 active clinically dosed ingredients, Night Blend helps to calm the nervous system, regulate melatonin, and support full sleep cycles.
Together, the HAKD Sleep System (Night Blend + Deep Sleep Mask) delivers a complete, multi-pronged approach:
Night Blend → Activates recovery chemistry
Deep Sleep Mask → Eliminates environmental disruption
Combined Effect → Faster sleep onset, deeper sleep, better mornings
Why Sleep Masks Are a Must-Have for High Performers
Whether you’re a parent, athlete, shift worker, or entrepreneur, modern life throws chaos at your sleep. Bright screens, irregular schedules, and stress can wreck your routine and hijack your recovery.
Adding a high-quality sleep mask to your nightly routine is a low-lift, high-impact intervention.
Consistent use has been shown to:
- Improve alertness and reaction time (4)
- Increase slow-wave and REM sleep (5)
- Reduce risk of cardiometabolic issues (1)
- Anchor your circadian rhythm (4)
Sleep is a System. HAKD Helps You Build It.
Quick fixes don’t work. Sleep is a system, and better sleep demands both biological and environmental support.
HAKD’s Deep Sleep Mask doesn’t just make your nights darker. It makes your sleep smarter. Add it to your wind-down ritual – create a proper nighttime routine.
Stir your Night Blend, slip on your mask, and reclaim your rest.
Don’t miss our exclusive pre-order deal.
Follow us on Instagram @hakd.health to be the first to know when the Deep Sleep Mask drops.
References:
- (1) Mason, I. C., et al. (2022). Light exposure during sleep impairs cardiometabolic function. PNAS, 119(12).
- (2) Hu, R. F., Jiang, X. Y., Hegadoren, K. M., et al. (2015). Effects of earplugs and eye masks on nocturnal sleep, melatonin and cortisol levels in a simulated intensive care unit environment: A randomized controlled trial. Critical Care, 19, 115.
- (3) Huang, D., et al. (2023). Nursing interventions on sleep quality among critically ill patients: A network meta-analysis. Medicine, 102(52), e36298.
- (4) Blask, D. E. (2009). Melatonin, sleep disturbance and cancer risk. Sleep Med Rev.
- (5) Greco, V., et al. (2023). Wearing an eye mask during sleep improves episodic learning and alertness. Sleep, 46(3), zsac305.
- (6) Cajochen, C., et al. (2000). Evening exposure to a light-emitting device affects circadian physiology and sleep. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.
- (7) Burns, J., & AmeriSleep (2023). Benefits of Sleep Masks & How to Wear a Sleep Mask. Amerisleep Blog.
