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If you are someone who suffers from dry, itchy, watery eyes, don’t worry - you are not alone. According to a study from the National Library of Medicine, 6 million Canadian adults may have Dry Eye Disease. That's around 15% of the entire population and women tend to be more affected than men.
If you have visited a doctor regarding your condition, there is probably a good chance he or she has recommended some sort of heating instrument to help curb dry eye symptoms.
What is a heated eye mask you ask? Well, there are a few different types. Firstly, they look very similar to a sleeping mask. Some cover just the eyes while others are made bigger covering the nose and eyebrows as well. Certain types are powered by USB. These are called electric heating eye masks. They contain specific heating elements like infrared technology and time & temperature controllers to allow for precise use. The heat is meant to penetrate the oil glands which has many soothing benefits . Microwavable heat masks are a popular choice amongst dry eye sufferers as well. The material of these heated eye masks can vary greatly with some being produced using cotton or even silk.Â
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Here are 4 powerful benefits of using a heated eye mask:
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 Unclogging those Meibomian Glands
If you have ever experienced blurry vision after using a warm compress this is actually a good thing so don't worry. It means the dry eye mask is working by releasing the secreted oils.
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 Get Rid of Those Pesky Styes
 Styes can not only be unpleasant to look at but they can be pretty painful as well. They usually can heal on their own but a warm compress can be a very effective form of treatment. Applying warmth to a stye can be helpful in promoting the natural drainage of pus and oil.Â
There are a few ways you can apply a warm compress to a Stye. A washcloth soaked in warm water works well. Try laying it across your wrist to gage the heat before putting it on your eyes. Then, put your index finger under the washcloth and apply it directly to the Stye. Do this 4-5 times a day for 10 minutes each time. This can get a little messy so you might want to try using a microwavable or electric eye mask as an alternative method depending on where the Stye is located.
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 Perfect For Relaxation
Living in a world where Ipads, laptops and smartphones are inches away from our faces for hours a day can have a real strain on our eyes. We rarely give our eyes the break that they deserve. Using a heated eye mask can give you that spa-feeling treatment right in the comfort of your own home.Â
A heated eye mask can be a great way to promote relaxation and relieve stress. The warmth and gentle pressure around the eyes can help to soothe tired eyes, ease tension headaches, and promote a sense of calm.
When choosing a heated eye mask, look for one that is comfortable to wear and that provides a good amount of warmth without feeling too hot or uncomfortable.Â
Overall, a heated eye mask can be a great addition to your relaxation routine, helping you to unwind and de-stress after a long day.
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 Enhanced Sleep Quality
 We all know the importance of a good nights rest and using a heated eye mask before bedtime can create a relaxing and calming environment, helping you unwind and prepare for a restful sleep. The warmth can also aid in relieving tension headaches or sinus pressure that may interfere with sleep.
Many heated eye masks are designed to provide light-blocking properties as well, which can be helpful if you're sensitive to light when trying to sleep. Blocking out external light sources can create a darker sleep environment, which can enhance melatonin production and improve sleep quality.