How To Use A Gel Bead Eye Mask

Figuring out the perfect skincare routine can feel impossible without some help. Are you looking to try a gel bead eye mask for the first time, or do you swear by them? We are also very curious about this topic, have done plenty of research, and have the answers for you. Let's discuss.

When it comes to using a gel bead eye mask, there are a few ways to get the job done. For a cooling bead mask, Make sure to leave it in the freezer for about 30 minutes before putting it on your eye area. Once you have it cooled down, you can sit back and relax until it is no longer cold to the touch. For a heat mask, throw it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm it up. Once your mask is warm, not hot, you can put it on your eyes and unwind.

We will share tips and tricks on using a gel bead eye mask to your best advantage as we get into this post. We also have tagged some helpful related products to steer you in the right direction. With that said, let's dive right into this topic!

What Is A Gel Bead Eye Mask?

Typically, a gel bead eye mask is a cloth or gel mask filled with non-toxic gel beads. The gel beads remain flexible, even when chilled, and work to reach deep into your eyes tissue. These masks have surged in popularity in recent years because of their fast and effective results. You can use gel bed masks to reduce puffiness, clear sinuses, reduce dark under eyes, and even help with migraines.

How Long Before I See Results?

After you are done with your gel bead eye mask, you should see instant results. These particular masks tend to show a reduction in swelling and give your eyes a well-rested look in under 20 minutes. Cool gel bead masks tend to decrease puffiness and dark circles after just one or two uses. If you struggle with sinus clogging or migraines, using a warm gel bead mask 20 minutes a day can help alleviate these problems.

NEWGO Cooling Gel Bead Eye Mask

Here is a cooling gel bead eye mask from NEWGO to help with swelling and dark circles. This mask also promises to alleviate headaches, migraines, and stress relief and comes in a few fun colors.

Check out this cooling gel bead mask on Amazon here.

Grace & Stella Hot & Cold Gel Bead Eye Mask

Here is a hot and cold gel bead eye mask from Grace & Stella to give you the best of both worlds. This mask is microwave and freezer safe and promises to help with headaches, swelling, and tired-looking eyes.

See this hot and cold gel bead eye mask on Amazon here.

Can You Microwave A Gel Bead Mask?

Although many gel bead masks are microwave safe, it is always a good idea to double-check. Certain types of gel masks are made explicitly for heating and may not be freezer or fridge friendly. The gel beads inside an eye mask expand when heated, so if you put the wrong kind in your microwave, expect to see some melting. From what we found, it is best to keep microwave time under 20 seconds regardless of which mask you are using.

Why Should I Heat My Mask?

When it comes to whether or not you should heat your mask, that will depend on what is bothering you. You can warm your gel bed mask to reduce sinus issues and even help with headaches. Many people don't enjoy a cold mask under their eyes, so a warmer option is best for that person. With that said, a warm eye gel bed mask will not work on puffiness and dark circles like a cooler one will.

Are Colder Eye Masks Better For Skin?

If you are worried about how your skin will react to a gel bead mask, don't sweat it. The temperature of your eye mask is more for symptom relief and shouldn't cause damage to your skin. Cooler masks are great for puffy, dull skin and work to give you that "well-rested" look. That is not to say they are better between the two, but they help with your eye's physical appearance more than a heated mask will.

Does My Gel Mask Go In The Fridge Or Freezer?

According to what we found, your eye mask should go into the freezer 30 minutes before use. Putting your mask in the fridge will end up taking a while compared to the freezer, which is why we recommend against it. If you are not in a rush or don't want your mask too cold, you can leave it in the refrigerator overnight.

Is It Bad To Wear An Eye Mask At Night?

Depending on your schedule, wearing an eye mask at night or while you sleep can be a lifesaver. One of the hidden benefits of wearing an eye mask at night is a better sleep schedule. This is due to an eye mask blocking artificial light and even natural light from waking you up throughout the evening. Exposure to artificial light, such as a TV or computer screen, can suppress melatonin and lead to insomnia. If you struggle to fall and stay asleep, an eye mask might be the perfect solution.

Does Wearing An Eye Mask Overnight Have Side Effects?

From what we found, the only potential side effect from wearing an eye mask overnight is skin irritation. Skin problems can arise due to a dirty eye mask or a material you might be allergic to. We recommend finding a hypoallergenic mask to wear at night and keeping it as clean as possible. If you apply eye serums before bed, make sure to pat the surrounding area dry so you don't end up clogging your pores with a mask.

MZOO Contoured Sleep Eye Mask

Here is an eye mask from MZOO that is perfect for sensitive skin. This mask is contoured to block out any light around you and is made with soft, high-quality memory foam and fiber fabric.

Follow this link to see this eye mask on Amazon here.

Special Dream Organic Cotton Sleep Mask

Here is another eye mask from Special Dream that is made with 100% organic cotton. This eye mask promises to block unwanted light, not irritate the skin and is one-size-fits-all.

Check out this organic cotton eye mask on Amazon here.

Do Eye Masks Help With Migraines?

If you find yourself struggling with migraines, an eye mask may be a solution. Like we mentioned earlier, a heated gel bead eye mask works wonders on those suffering from migraines and congestion. The warm gel beads work to deeply penetrate the eye area and release any pressure that you may be having. Even wearing a simple cloth eye mask at night or during a migraine can help block light from making the situation worse.

Can I Wear A Cold Mask During A Migraine?

Although a warmer eye mask will work better to calm a migraine or headache, you can use a colder option. If you decide to apply a cool gel bead mask to your eye area, make sure it is not frozen. Too dramatic of a temperature can cause your migraine to get worse, so try putting your mask in the fridge versus the freezer. The key to soothing a migraine with an eye mask is a moderate temperature, meaning not too hot or too cold.

Our Final Take

Using a gel bead eye mask can seem tricky at first, but it can work wonders on your eyes with the proper application. Whether you suffer from puffy eyes, dark circles, headaches, or even sinus congestion, gel bead masks are an excellent at-home remedy. It is vital to choose the right type of eye mask to help your issue, so make sure to read your product's intended use. We found that even using a simple cotton eye mask at night can help with insomnia and sleep-related problems. Regardless of your beauty regimen, doing a quick 20-minute eye mask can give you a refreshed and ready-to-go look.

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