Eye masks are excellent for improving the sleep experience. They help consumers relax and fall asleep faster and easier. But they come in several varieties, so sellers must factor in several considerations before picking the right ones to invest in.
This article will dive into the basics of eye masks and explore everything businesses must consider before purchasing them in 2024.
Table of Contents
What are eye masks, and why do consumers love them?
Overview of the global eye mask market
4 eye masks to leverage for more sales
Things to consider when choosing eye masks to sell in 2024
Final words
What are eye masks, and why do consumers love them?
Eye masks are simple products with one primary focus: blocking light from entering the eyes. They’re often made from soft fabrics like cotton or silk, with elastic straps over the head to keep them in place.
Although the most common use for eye masks is for sleep, they can come in handy for other uses. For instance, eye masks are ideal for reducing puffiness and dark circles, soothing eye pain/irritation, and relieving headaches and migraines—consumers love using them to promote relaxation.
Overview of the global eye mask market
The global eye mask market is currently estimated at USD 15.12 million, and it is expected to grow to US $20.49 million in 2028 at a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.42%.
Other statistics relevant to the eye mask market include;
- Offline distribution leads the demand with a market share of more than 75%
- North America is a leading force behind the growth of the eye mask market, with a top share of 60%, followed by Europe and East Asia.
4 eye masks to leverage for more sales
1. Contoured mask
These eye masks are the go-to option for consumers looking for extra support around the eyes. Their unique shape offers comfort and blocks lights from all angles while creating a perfect fit around the consumer’s eyes.
2. Beaded gel mask
These masks feature special beads that absorb moisture and heat when consumers put them in boiling water. As a result, beaded gel masks create a soothing experience for consumers with tired, puffy, or baggy eyes.
3. Cloth mask
Cloth masks are the lightest and easiest-to-wear products available. Manufacturers make them from fabrics that consumers can wash and reuse several times without having issues. Plus, they’re also gentle, making them great for sensitive skin with allergies or skin conditions.
4. Weighted mask
Manufacturers design weighted masks to apply gentle pressure to key areas of the face, including the forehead, cheekbones, temples, and jawlines. Interestingly, the pressure works with the body’s natural relaxation response to ensure longer and deeper sleep sessions.
Things to consider when choosing eye masks to sell in 2024
Material
Selecting the right sleeping mask material is crucial for consumer comfort and product functionality. Cotton, a widely favored and breathable fabric, is popular for its high comfort. However, it may be harsh on sensitive skin and eyebrows.
On the other hand, satin is a popular alternative for its gentle touch on the skin. But here’s the catch: satin eye masks may generate more heat than necessary.
Here are some other materials businesses can search for if the most common two (cotton and satin) don’t fit their target consumer’s interests:
- Silk: Similar to satin, silk eye masks are smooth and gentle on the skin. They’re widespread for their luxurious feel. And as a bonus, silk eye masks are the go-to for consumers with sensitive skin.
- Bamboo fabric: Derived from the pulp of bamboo plants, these eye masks are naturally hypoallergenic and breathable. They are also moisture-wicking, making them the go-to material for consumers who sweat during sleep.
- Memory foam: Some sleeping masks may feature memory foam for a customized fit. Memory foams will easily contour to the wearer’s face shape, providing a snug and comfortable seal.
- Polyester: Consumers searching for something lightweight and durable will see these eye masks as the perfect choice. They’re also the go-to option for folks who prioritize durability and easy maintenance.
Size and fit
Size is another factor that determines how comfortable consumers will be wearing eye masks. If they’re too small, wearers will endure unnecessary pressure on their eyes, leading to potential issues like blurry vision or headaches.
On the other hand, an oversized eye mask might fit loosely around the face, compromising its ability to block out light effectively. One of the best ways to ensure consumers get the optimal fit is by offering eye masks with adjustable straps.
Such features allow wearers to customize their mask’s length, ensuring they enjoy the sweet spot for the best sleeping experience. But it goes beyond that. Adjustable straps also help enhance light-blocking capabilities and accommodate different head sizes and shapes.
Weight
While manufacturers design most eye masks to be lightweight for enhanced comfort, alternative options are worth exploring for those seeking a unique sleep experience.
So, if target consumers appreciate the effects of a weighted blanket, then weighted eye masks could be the perfect addition to their sleep routine. However, some consumers only want something slightly heavier than regular cloth masks.
In such cases, retailers can stock up on slightly heavier materials like memory foams or double-textured eye masks.
Light-blocking ability
Some consumers need total darkness to sleep comfortably, so the eye mask design and material play big roles in determining light-blocking abilities. Stocking up on darker-colored fabrics is a great move, as they are more effective at blocking light than lighter hues.
Regarding design, eye masks should be able to cover the eyes entirely, leaving no room for light to penetrate. For this reason, masks with contours over the nose are must-haves, as they help enhance light-blocking capabilities.
As mentioned earlier, adjustable straps are another feature to prioritize for impressive light blocking. Padding is another feature that creates a dark, conducive environment for such consumers.
Note: Light-blocking ability is not an important factor to consider if target consumers don’t need pitch-black environments to sleep. Businesses can just offer regular eye masks for such users.
Final words
The ideal eye mask gives consumers the best sleep and offers other interesting benefits. So, choosing the right one will keep them happy and encourage more sales in the long run.
Luckily, this article provides everything businesses must know before entering the eye mask market in 2024. When sales start, leverage it to make the best offers and generate more profits.
