
This $19 Product Beat Reviewers' Nail Fungus When Nothing Else Worked
And dermatologists explain exactly why it works so well.
We're on the precipice of sandal weather, whether your toes are ready or not. But if a particularly persistent and unsightly toenail fungus is giving you some trepidation, here is one powerful $19 treatment that reviewers have said worked when nothing else would. And dermatologists explain why.
Easily accessible at Amazon — where it's amassed over 12,000 5-star ratings — The Foot Cure toenail fungus treatment promises to address fungus, but also nail psoriasis and overall nail damage. It's a naturally powered solution that many have found successfully restores thickened, discolored and flaking nail beds and has provided hope when 'I didn't believe there was for decades,' according to one reviewer.
If you're experiencing similar feelings of despair, board-certified dermatologist and skincare brand founder, Dr. Brooke Jeffy said that nail fungus is a common and especially stubborn condition to treat because nails are hard and not porous, making it difficult for topical medications to penetrate the nail to treat the infection.
'Also because the nails grow slowly, treatment needs to occur over a long period of time to have any change of eradicating the infection making compliance with treatment tricky,' Jeffy said.
Board-certifed dermatologist and owner of Sage Dermatology and Mohs surgery clinic in Utah, Dr. Angela Brimhall, explained that the Foot Cure formula contains 25% undecylenic acid, 'a compound that has antifungal properties that disrupt the cell membranes of fungi, inhibiting their growth and reproduction.'
Amazon
The treatment is also enhanced with oregano oil and tea tree oil, a combination that Brimhall said creates a synergistic effect that can enhance treatment efficacy.
'Oregano oil is known for its potent antimicrobial properties [and] contains carvacrol and thymol, which can further help combat fungal infections by disrupting fungal cell membranes and exhibiting antifungal activity,' she said, adding that tea tree oil is renowned for its antiseptic and antifungal properties.
To use, Brimhall says to wash and dry the nail and surrounding skin thoroughly before applying the treatment using the brush-on applicator. Repeat this process twice daily and avoid covering the area after application for maximum penetration.
You'll know it's working if you see a band of fresh nail forming at the base, but, for optimal results, Brimhall stresses that consistency is key and it may take up to a year to see an entirely new nail clear of damage.
'Preventive measures play a crucial role in maintaining nail health and avoiding fungal infections,' Brimhall said. 'Work to keep nails dry by thoroughly drying your nails after swimming, bathing or showering to reduce moisture buildup.'
She also reminds us that it's always a good idea to seek guidance from a medical professional if symptoms persist because there could be some underlying conditions that might need to be addressed.
The passionate endorsements of Foot Cure users can speak for themselves up ahead, and if you're ready to tackle your annoying foot fungus sooner rather than later, grab a bottle for yourself from our included links.
' It works on the biggest skeptic I know: Me. As a nail fungus sufferer for more than 30 years ― the thickening yellow kind, not the chalky (candida) kind, I found a product that works and I sincerely thought I never would.
It never matters where nail fungus started, it only matters that you have a snowball's chance of ridding yourself of it. At one point in my life, all ten toenails succumbed to the horrid fungus. Other products seemed to give a good showing for a while, but none fully resolved any single nail in the long term.
This product has restored 7 of 10, and the others continue to improve, but are thicker and more dense to get through to the base of the infection. I continue to keep up treatment twice daily as directed, and try to file or trim nail thickness as low as possible.
There is hope, and I didn't believe there was for decades. None of the endless videos showing actors posing as doctors with a product that does nothing but waste your money will help.
This solution, the brush-on variety, should surprise you.' — Amy Mattey
'I don't like taking time for reviews so here it is. I had s toe nail fungus on both big toes because of not wear socks and not changing out my shoes. Ok I tried creams, gels, everything over the counter could bring. Then saw this and purchased because you know I already wasted money on others.. my nail beds were yellow and just a tad brittle . Wish I had before pics. But after like a week of application it is looking HEALTHY STEALTHY YALL. I still need to keep applying but I'm seeing a healthy difference from day 1. I am not going to ashamed of wearing sandals or covering my nail beds with nail polish. I'm 53 and I just want pretty or cute toes. It works and not buying anything else.' — Meliora
'If your looking for a good product and you lost hope in removing nail fungus then you came across the right reviews this product helped me with my skin condition the nail fungus went away and now I have clean beautiful toes I can finally wear sandals and be comfortable. I would also recommend buying Amazon foot spa so you can drench your foot in water and alcohol and apply nail treatment. you don't have to hide those toes away anymore!!!' — Ali
'I very seldom write a product review. However, I'm so surprisingly satisfied with this product that I have to write one now. I have had toenail fungus for over 40 years and have tried prescriptions, over-the-counter treatments, natural medicine treatments, even soaking in bleach, but nothing worked. I started using this several months ago, and my new nail has grown back to about 1/2 way - fungus free!! I had to cut it back almost to the cuticle! One thing I need to mention is that for any product to work efficiently, you need to soak your nail in water, remove the yellow, flaky stuff underneath, then clip the nail back as far as you can without cutting away live nail. Clean out as best you can, then apply product. Be vigilent! I apply it in the mornings and at night before bed. I will continue using it twice daily until the entire nail has grown out. I HIGHLY recommend FootCure Tonail Fungus Treatment!!' — E. Berling

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Buzz Feed
14 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
25 Amazon Parenting Products Reviewers Love
A reversible crib mattress that goes from firm newborn support to plush memory‑gel comfort for toddlers. Reviewers rave it fits snugly in standard cribs, cleans up in a flash, and feels like a one‑time purchase for years of sweet dreams. Promising review: "We bought this mattress for our first child and just repurchased it for our second. I love how firm it is for the infant and that we can flip it over to use for a toddler as well. No smell, no noise when baby is rolling, expands quickly." —KarliPrice: $138.50 A pack of Mighty Patch hydrocolloid acne treatment dots to obliterate teen breakouts faster than you can snap a selfie. Reviewers call these overnight miracle workers — especially for whiteheads. Promising review: "OMG! It actually works! My son gets really bad, large acne breakouts that are really hard to heal. He put these on before bed and woke up to his large white pimples being gone! It's completely gone. I usually pay $50 a visit to a dermatologist for 30 minutes for him to get extractions, which is pretty painful for him. We will be ordering more of these and using these instead!! If I could give more stars I would!" —Amazon CustomerPrice: $12.99 (for 36 dots, also available in an invisible dot version) A travel booster seat because you never know when the restaurant will run out of those sticky, clunky high chairs, leaving you with a wiggly toddler sliding all over your lap as you try to dine with dignity. Promising review: "We love how lightweight and compact this booster seat is. It is so easy to travel with and take into any restaurant and not have to worry about using their not-so-clean high chairs and booster seats. It fits well around all chairs and safely secures without us having to worry about our son moving it around or falling out. The design is so cute, and our son loves sitting in it, so it must be comfy! Definitely a must-have for on the go!" —Katie BertPrice: $17.10+ (available in three colors) An all-terrain utility wagon built for family road trips, neighborhood strolls, and backyard shenanigans — hauling kids, coolers, and even cranky toddlers in one ~rolling chariot~ of parental peace of mind. Promising review: "I bought this wagon a year ago after looking at quite a few different ones. I use this for travel sports. So I like how deep it is and the taller sides because I have a cooler, two big bags, 2–3 chairs and sometimes a canopy in it. So nothing is falling out of this wagon when I'm pulling it. The longer handle is nice because it's easier to pull and it won't come for the back of your heels like other wagons the strap that wraps around the wagon and Velcro's broke. I reached out the company and they offered to refund me some money and what to search for on Amazon to replace it. How awesome is that! Definitely great customer service and I'm glad this is the wagon i purchased." — $99.99 (available in two colors) A fold-flat travel potty seat to stash in your diaper bag, so when nature calls at rest stops or restaurants, you can summon throne-level dignity with zero public-restroom panic. Promising review: "We are on our second of these, having lost the first one in between children potty training. The seat is easy to use and sticks well to toilet seats. I have taken to using a plastic wedge/lever to unstick the suction cups from the seat for sanitary reasons. Most importantly, the setup is quick and easy, while sanitizing it later on is just as simple. The included bag really helps when you can't spray down the seat after use. The little ones find it pretty easy to sit on the narrower opening and not fall in like a standard toilet seat as first toilet seat held up well over a years worth of constant use and was only replaced when we lost it in storage. Hope this helps those on the fence!" —A. BerardinelliPrice: $14.95 (available in three colors) An easy-to-assemble toy organizer that corrals action figures, plushies, and squishables into color-coded harmony, because living room disasters are so last season. Promising review: "I loved this the day I bought it, and two years later, it's exactly like it was when I bought it. Super sturdy, goes well with anything children, keeps things easy to find, and not heavy at all." —PattyPrice: $60.08+ (available in 13 colors) The How-To Cookbook for Teens, a cookbook for teens to swap 'cereal-for-dinner' shame for legit chef cred — featuring 100 mouthwatering and familiar recipes including nachos, sloppy joes, shrimp scampi, and mustard and maple-glazed chicken. Promising review: "I bought this cookbook for my son who will be headed to college next year and wants to learn to cook for himself. The explanations are so well laid out making it super easy to follow. He has made three recipes so far and they have all turned out great! He loved the beef stroganoff and the pancakes he's made, and his favorite dessert is the chocolate mug cake (and he's convinced that may be the only dessert he needs to get through college. 😂) I highly recommend this cookbook since it's given my son so much more self confidence in the kitchen!" —Theresa VecchioPrice: $8.48+ Kid-size noise-canceling headphones to shield tiny ears at theme parks, on family road trips, during fireworks, at those ~rowdy~ monster truck events, or at their first concert. Promising review: "Have had these for my son for a little under two years! They are very durable! And adjustable so he has been able to grow with them and expand the headband. Highly recommend. He also has tossed them several times where they have broken and you can easily fix them and pop the cushions back in." —anelPrice: $11.54+ (available in 18 colors and styles) A tear-free face wash for parents to introduce pre-teens to skincare without the drama — gentle enough for sensitive skin, fun enough that they'll actually scrub in that ~dreamy~ foam. Promising review: "I wanted to find a natural and gentle cleanser for my 12-year-old daughter, and I'm happy to share this product was great. Been using it for about a year, and no complaints so far! Recommend it." —LizzettePrice: $18.95+ (available in four scents) A digital thermometer for when your little one is looking a little under the weather, so you can stop spiraling with ramblings on of "Are they warm? Are they burning up? They look sick. I should just drop everything I'm doing and take them home." This thermometer also doubles down to check bath water temps — guessing games be gone! Promising review: "This is so easy to use and easy to read! My toddler now thinks the whole family needs their temperature checked all the time to make sure we're all 'gween.'" —Morgan SchmittPrice: $13.59 (available in two colors) A sunscreen stick applicator to turn SPF application from beachside chaos into a chill swipe — just load it up, glide the soft sponge on, and keep your hands sand- and meltdown-free while you chase that wriggly guppy of a toddler. Promising review: "This is a GAME CHANGER for the summer. I had it saved for some time, but was hesitant to buy based on the price for something that didn't include sunscreen — but I'm so glad I finally purchased. The container is easy to fill and held an entire tube of our sunscreen. The roller/sponge made it easy to apply on a squirmy toddler, and only needed a tiny bit of rubbing in after using. Will be phenomenal for using on the playground and beach this summer — and my husband has asked for one for the grown-ups in the house too!" —KatePrice: $15.98 (available in 10 colors) An interactive bath toy to channel water through rainbow tunnels and waterfall spouts — turning your tub into the *hottest* mini water park this side of summer camp. Promising review: "If you're kid doesn't have pipes for the tub you gotta get them some! Even if they don't use them as intended and make them into connecting pipes, it's a great scoop and pour water toy. My toddler thinks she's a scientist with these things. I try replace them every year so they don't get too gross. Wish I had these growing up!" —PajamamaPrice: $13.98+ (available in two colors) A faucet-shield splash guard because toddler tidal waves deserve to stay in the tub — no more drenched floors, damp walls, or frantic towel hunts afterward. Promising review: "I saw this a few times, but didn't want to purchase due to the price and we have a very old tub I wasn't sure it would work on. Learn from my mistake and buy this! Worth every penny! I have two boys who can't not splash, play with water guns, water cannons — you name it. After my 2-year-old accidentally poured out whole buckets of water on the floor three times in one week, I ordered this while they were still in the bath! It sticks, it works, and I haven't had to clean up the floor from spilled water since!" —CakelvrPrice: $59.95 (available in four colors) A stain remover spray to eradicate ketchup, marker, and smoothie disasters on your kid's outfit — laundry game leveled up, panic moments deleted. Reviewers rave about how *lightning fast* the spray works on even the most stubborn of stains. Promising review: "Why aren't more moms recommending this stuff!? It is GREAT! It's easy to apply and pretty much lifts the stain right away or even later. I took it with us on vacation because our condo didn't have an in-house washing machine or dryer. I have small children who are messy and would spray this on the stains as soon as I could. Some of these stains sat for three to four days and when I got home to wash, they ALL came out. I was wearing a white shirt and got some blood on it while on vacation. I sprayed it and scrubbed in the sink immediately, but it didn't seem to be coming out, but it just needed time to soak in I believe. The next day the stain was much lighter and we headed home. The stain sat for two days before being able to wash and it CAME ALL THE WAY OUT. I couldn't believe it — especially after setting in for days and drying. The only thing is this does have a bit of a chemical smell so I'm not big on the smell. However it doesn't linger and can be overlooked. 10/10 recommend for ANYONE if you want to get stains out of things." —Casie SwinneyPrice: $7.99+ (also available in multipacks, as on-the-go wipes, and in larger sizes) A Hatch sound machine that reviewers love for its soothing sound library, intuitive app controls, and customizable nightlight modes. Plus, it's the secret weapon that has even the fussiest baby drifting off. Promising review: "I've purchased a few other sound machines but with the birth of my second child finally decided to splurge and get the Hatch. I don't regret it at all and even bought a second one and a mini one for my room because I so enjoyed the sounds. The app is very easy to use and I love all the customizations even if you don't pay for the monthly subscription. It's the perfect white noise to fall asleep to." —JenniferPrice: $69.99+ (available with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) A full-coverage silicone bib to corral every crumb, drip, and dollop, making macaroni messes officially a bib-only zone and saving your floors from spaghetti showers. Promising review: "This bib has been a game changer in feeding time for my baby! Clean-up is so much easier (especially on yogurt days), and I don't have to wash clothes as much. The material is GREAT! I can see this lasting a long time. The price was great as well. I'll probably purchase another for travel or to send to daycare." —jlonayPrice: $13.95+ (available in two sizes and up to 27 colors) A clip-on stroller organizer that snaps coffee, wipes, water bottles, diapers, snacks, and your phone into one grab-and-go hub, so you can glide through the park sans juggling act. Promising review: "I cannot recommend this Momcozy attachment enough. Especially for strollers that have only one cup holder or the cup holder is not even big enough to hold your massive tumbler. This is totally worth it and fits my large Graco Uno2Duo stroller. Put it on your registry or buy it for yourself!" —NicolePrice: $26.99+ (available in nine colors) A zipper binder that becomes your child's on-the-go study HQ — featuring a built-in five-tab expanding file for color-coded classes, rings roomy enough for hundreds of sheets, interior and exterior zip pockets for pens, chargers, and snacks, plus a handle and shoulder strap so they can carry their entire school day without backpack chaos. Promising review: 'Helps my chaotic child be organized! We recently got this for my fifth grader, who could barely contain all her things in her full-sized backpack. This binder was large enough to hold all her folders, pens, boundless lip glosses, and small erasers, and zips up to contain it all. It is now a breeze to pack up her bag in the morning. Highly recommend!' —Max Price: $16.61+ (available in 22 colors and designs) A sandwich cutter set to turn every lunch into a celebration. Reviewers love how the sturdy molds slice through bread, cheese, and fruit, plus the handy cleaning brushes make post-snack cleanup a breeze, and the perfectly party-sized pieces keep kids asking for more. Promising review: 'Cuts very well! Now my 14-year-old, who has been eating school lunch for a few years now is requesting 'Uncrustables.' This has made it easier for me to pack my two boys lunches and make it fun for them.' —Ashley RojasPrice: $4.99+ (available in seven styles and sizes) A diaper caddy for swapping kitchen-island chaos for grab-and-go organization — boasting sturdy handles, roomy compartments (hello, book-ready side pockets), and a lightweight design reviewers say blends seamlessly with their furniture and justifies the price. Promising review: "I love this diaper caddy! It has a ton of compartments and holds everything I need for baby to carry from room to room. If you're on the fence, definitely buy it. You won't regret it!" —Amanda M BallaPrice: $22.95+ (available in two sizes and five colors) A palm-sized portable white noise machine you can tuck in your pocket, purse, or diaper bag to soothe fussy babies with 15 non-looping sounds, auto timers to save battery, and recharge on the go — because parenting doesn't pause for nap time. Promising review: "We needed to replace our old portable sound machine and we are so happy with this! Super tiny, but the sound packs a punch. The volume range is great, and so many sounds to choose from. Easy to use. USB chasing wire included. It'll be a great addition traveling with little ones on adult trips." —MattPrice: $15.99+ (available in 10 colors, two versions, with or without a carrying case, and in multipacks). A set of snack cups reviewers rave about for their leakproof lids, dishwasher-tough durability, and toddler-friendly grip —perfect for on-the-go car rides with zero snack spills. Promising review: "They're durable and perfect for little hands. The soft flaps make snacks easy to grab while preventing messes, and the lids stay secure. They're easy to clean, hold a good amount of snacks, and are great for on-the-go. Excellent value and highly recommended!" —Manjeet KaurPrice: $5.42+ (available in two color combinations and in a two or four-pack) 642 Tiny Things to Draw, a pocket-sized drawing book packed with hundreds of teeny-tiny prompts to spark sketch-time anywhere — great for the budding artist looking not for how to draw, but what to draw. Reviewers say it's the perfect on-the-go creativity booster. (Just bring a pencil.) Promising review: "My 11-year-old daughter likes to draw. I was getting sick of her asking me what to draw, so I gave her this as a Valentine. She loves it! Some of the concepts get her thinking outside the box." —S. DearloafPrice: $9.25 A Baby Brezza formula machine that reviewers say turns 3 a.m. feedings into a breeze — precise formula mixing, three temp settings, and one-touch dispensing save time. (Just know some users flag accuracy and cleaning quirks.) Promising review: "This is 100% worth every penny we paid for it. It makes bottles in a matter of seconds and at the perfect temperature. It was also very easy to assemble and is also very easy to clean. It makes late-night/early-morning feedings an absolute breeze. 10/10 recommend!" —Maggie CristPrice: $299.99 A resealable pack of Boogie Wipes to zap stubborn boogers, soothe sensitive skin with aloe and chamomile, and keep little noses clean — reviewers say they're gentle enough for daily use and never dry out. Promising review: "If you have small kids, babies, or dogs, these are great to keep on hand. Although more expensive than some alternatives, they work well and don't irritate the skin like other wipes. I like to keep some of these in the car and my bag, just in case. They also work great for snotty noses, sticky fingers, and dirty puppy faces. They are a little smaller than other baby-type wipes, but I feel more comfortable using them than others. They also have a pleasant scent and are pretty durable." —Angela BowmanPrice: $13.47 for a 90-pack

Business Insider
18 hours ago
- Business Insider
The best sleep mask
Imagine this: you're on a crowded plane, trying to catch some jet-lagged rest while the overhead lights sear into your eyes. Or, you're trying to sleep in on a weekend after a long week of work, and the pesky sunlight keeps peeking through the curtains. Whether you're traveling or staying at home, the best sleep masks help you get restorative rest to be your best self the next morning. To find the best sleep masks, I connected with Kelly Murray, a certified pediatric and adult sleep consultant and owner of Kelly Murray Sleep Consulting, and Dr. Jennifer Tsai, a board-certified optometrist and founder of Line of Sight, for more on how sleep masks affect sleep quality and eye health. And if you're a sleep mask skeptic, don't be: according to Murray, sleep masks genuinely help you sleep better at night, since blocking out even the smallest amount of light helps produce more melatonin and can help your circadian rhythm stay consistent. After testing a dozen sleep masks, the MZOO Sleep Mask is the most comfortable. Its contoured memory foam keeps pressure off your eyes and blocks out light. For a luxurious, silky option, the Slip Silk Contour Sleep Mask is smooth, cool, and comes in an array of patterns and colors. Our top picks for the best sleep masks Best overall: MZOO Sleep Mask - See at Amazon Best budget: Mavogel Sleep Mask - See at Amazon Best cooling: TheraICE Sleep Mask - See at Amazon How we choose the best sleep masks To choose the sleep masks, I tested over a dozen that made it through a rigorous research process. Use each sleep mask for at least three nights, noting comfort and blackout. I also used it while traveling. I sat in a moderately lit room, a brightly lit room, and directly point a flashlight at my face while wearing each mask to test blackout When applicable, adjust each sleep mask to the smallest and largest band size, observing range of adjustment Best overall I'm usually skeptical of nondescript stand-alone brands on Amazon. Frequently, these brands prioritize affordability over quality, or are clearly duping an original idea while also missing the mark. So, to recommend an Amazon brand, a product really has to impress me. And the MZOO Sleep Mask did just that. MZOO's sleep mask exceeded all my expectations. Out of the dozen masks I tried, the MZOO mask was, by far, the most comfortable. It's contoured, so a layer of memory foam hugs your forehead, nose, and cheekbones but keeps the material away from your eyes and reduces any pressure. The memory foam is pleasantly squishy, contouring easily to your face. With a CPAP and a satin bonnet, I'm usually wary about adding more accessories to my sleep setup out of fear of feeling overstimulated as I try to sleep. But the MZOO Sleep Mask is so lightweight, it feels like you're wearing nothing. Between the soft memory foam, cool fabric, and adjustable band, this mask feels perfect against my face. The mask fabric itself is cool to the touch, so I didn't have to worry about my face overheating throughout the night. The band is thick, stretchy, and fully adjustable to fit any head size, including my melon of a noggin. Still, it stayed on snugly each night. It also has excellent light-blocking capabilities. It passed the bright room and direct flashlight tests with flying colors. I'd feel comfortable using this mask in every situation, whether I'm snoozing in my bedroom or on a brightly lit plane. The MZOO Sleep Mask comes in five colors and includes foam earplugs and a storage bag. I didn't love the MZOO logo on the front of the mask — I hate feeling like a walking advertisement, and I think it'd look better without the logo — but the mask is otherwise well-designed and appealing. Best budget Thankfully, sleep masks aren't the most expensive sleep product. It's one of the smallest investments you can make for better sleep. The Mavogel Sleep Mask is the best you can find for under $10. Mavogel's sleep mask is very simple. It doesn't have any contouring features, so the fabric touches your eyes like a traditional sleep mask. I'm very sensitive about too much pressure on my eyes, and this was one of the few non-contoured sleep masks that saved my eyes from uncomfortable pressure. I also found that I could open and close my eyes as needed. This was one of the most adjustable masks I've tried, thanks to an adjustable band that comfortably fits every head size. The mask also has a nose flap to help block out light seepage around the edges. There's a wire inside that you can mold to fit your nose. I did notice this mask slipped off more than others in the middle of the night, so be sure to take your time adjusting it to fit your face. The Mavogel mask had average light-blocking. To test light blocking, I observed light bleed-through when using the mask in a moderately lit room, a brightly lit room, and with direct contact with a flashlight (more on testing procedures below). It passed the moderate light tests, but light was clearly visible in a brightly lit room. I tried the yellow, which is a lighter color, so I'd expect it would perform in a darker color like black or purple. It's sold in 17 colors, so you can pick one to block light and stand out from the traditional black sleep masks if you prefer. Best silk A silk sleep mask is the ultimate companion to the best silk pillowcase, bringing a sense of luxury to your bedroom. Silk is a smooth, cool, yet delicate material that lends itself well as asleep mask. Silk sleep masks are helpful for those who don't want to risk a breakout or skin irritation, since silk's lack of friction is proven to benefit skin and is gentle on your hair and around the eyes. Plus, there's something just downright lavish about using a silk sleep mask. Slip's Silk Contour Sleep Mask has that iconic Breakfast at Tiffany's look, while blocking light for your best beauty rest. With slight divots for your eyes, Slip's Contour Sleep Mask is a step up from its original Sleep Mask, which doesn't have a contoured design and sits directly on your eyes. The Contoured design was specifically designed for people with eyelash extensions, so you'll be able to enjoy darkness without long lashes getting in the way. The mask fits around your head with a simple stretchy band. I have a large head, but I felt no discomfort or pressure from the band on my head, face, or eyes. It stayed put throughout the night. The mask itself is filled with a foam that compressed comfortably against my eyes, forehead, and cheekbones. During testing, I found that silk sleep masks generally perform worse in light-blocking tests than other materials. This was also true of Slip's mask. While in a bright room, I could see light passing through the mask, even with my eyes closed. The light was also noticeable in a moderately lit room. I had no problems using it at night; however, this mask is better suited for nighttime use instead of travel. Slip is one of my favorite brands when it comes to bright, fun designs. The Contour Sleep Mask is sold in nine colors, including classic black and a beautiful purple-pink gingham. Silk is a lavish material, so this mask is more expensive than others on our list. You'll also have to hand wash the mask. That said, it's the best sleep mask for beauty lovers and people with eyelash extensions. Best cooling As a hot sleeper, a cooling eye mask is my favorite summer sleep hack. The cool feeling of the TheraIce Sleep Mask soothes my tired eyes after a long day at my computer while also fighting off sweat as I fall asleep. The TheraIce Sleep Mask has a simple design: it's black with an adjustable band and a smooth outer fabric. The magic happens on the inside. The inner side of the mask has raised padding made with a squishy gel. You can pop the entire mask in the freezer or microwave to cool or heat the gel, giving it a soothing cool or warm feel. I mostly froze the gel for cooling, since I'm a hot sleeper, but the warm mask felt nice as well. One note: Dr. Tsai recommends avoiding gel masks if you have sensitive eyes or meibomian gland dysfunction, since gel can trap heat and moisture. To cool the mask, I put it in the freezer about an hour before I wanted to use it. Once frozen, the cooling sensation is comfortable, not overwhelming. Other cooling masks I tried were uncomfortably cold on my face and eyes, but the TheraIce Sleep Mask was the perfect temperature. The cooling didn't last more than an hour, though, so it mostly soothed me to sleep rather than providing long-term temperature regulation. I don't have chronic pain, but I imagine that the cooling sensation would feel amazing when you're battling a headache. The raised gel padding also lifts the mask's fabric away from your eyes, so you can open and close your eyes comfortably without any uncomfortable pressure. It also has excellent blackout, excelling in bright rooms and direct flashlight tests. The mask isn't washable; in fact, it's not supposed to get wet. To clean it, dab it with a damp cloth, but avoid saturation. Best weighted Nodpod Weighted Eye Mask Perfect for soothing migraines, calming anxiety, or easing into restful sleep, this unique eye mask features four equally weighted pods that contour to your face, blocking out the light and providing soothing pressure to help relieve stress. Check price at Amazon Check price at Nordstrom Check price at Anthropologie What we like Soothing weight for easy sleep Unique design Easy care What we don't like Can feel overstimulating Doesn't stay secure all night Not breathable Specifics Material:Cotton, velvet, polyethylene beads Care:Wash on normal setting in garment bag, air dry Adjustable?:Yes If you love the subtle pressure of a weighted blanket, you'll probably enjoy the feel of a weighted sleep mask. Weighted with plastic beads, the Nodpod Weighted Sleep Mask, also known by the brand as the "weighted blanket for your eyes," is nine ounces of gentle comfort. Visually, the Nodpod looks different than every other mask on our list. Unlike our other masks, which have an adjustable stretchy band, the Nodpod is open-ended. It's designed to lie over your eyes and naturally fall off as you fall asleep. I'm a restless stomach-side sleeper, so I knew that this design wasn't going to work for me. Thankfully, you can pull the end of the Nodpod through a small hole at the other end to keep it secure against your head. However, it wasn't very secure and ended up falling off my face most nights. Honestly, though, I prefer only having the mask on as I fall asleep. I love the feel of weighted blankets and masks, but that feeling can be overwhelming on your face all night long. Instead, the gentle weight helped soothe me to sleep, then fell off to avoid any discomfort. I like to use this mask when I'm feeling especially stressed or anxious, since the pressure helps my tired eyes and quiets my brain. The Nodpod is also super soft, with one side made of cotton and the other made of velvet. It's not the most breathable mask we tried, but I never overheated, either. It's also one of the easiest sleep masks to care for. Just toss it in a garment bag and wash it in a full load with your clothes, then lay it out to air dry. It's sold in six main colors, like black and pink, and additional limited edition colors, but those tend to sell out quickly. Best for travel The Ostrichpillow Sleep Mask is our top eye mask for traveling. Like any good sleep mask, it's soft, comfortable, and breathable, but it also has a unique design that lends itself well to sleeping while sitting up or leaning. There are defined ridges on the browbone and the cheekbones, which give your eyes plenty of room to open and close. This makes it suitable for long-term use since your eyes aren't subjected to any uncomfortable pressure. The ridges are comfortable while sitting up, but I wouldn't recommend using this mask while lying on your side or stomach. The contour of the mask can dig into your cheekbones, which is generally uncomfortable and prevents me from falling asleep. It has excellent light blocking, too, so hopefully you'll be able to get some much-needed rest on your flight. I couldn't see any light at all in a brightly lit room, and I couldn't see light from a flashlight, either. There was some light seepage around the nose, so it took a second to get perfectly adjusted, but once it fit my face, there was absolutely no light to be seen. I used this mask to take a nap during the day on a road trip to Kansas, and slept soundly without sunlight peeking through the edges. What else we tested On my journey to find the best sleep mask, I also tested: Alaska Bear Sleep Mask: A classic budget eye mask, I preferred the texture of the Mavogel to the microfiber feel of the Alaska Bear. Baloo Weighted Silk Sleep Mask: I loved this weighted mask with a mulberry silk shell, but it's much more expensive than the Nodpod. It gets its weight from tiny glass beads and the inclusion of either amethyst or rose quartz, which is supposed to help you channel good energy if you believe in the healing properties of crystals. Manta Cool Sleep Mask: A rival to the TheraIce sleep mask, the Manta Cool's cool sensation was overwhelming, and the stones put too much pressure on my eyes. Manta Pro Sleep Mask: This mask nearly made our guide in the travel category. It's a good sleep mask with excellent blackout capabilities, but at $85, we found it wasn't worth the price. What to look for when choosing a sleep mask When shopping for a sleep mask, keep an eye out for the following: Comfort: Sleep masks are supposed to help you sleep, not hinder it. For the best night's sleep, look for design elements that make a mask more comfortable. Gel and memory foam are soft and squishy against your face, stretchy bands keep pressure off your eyes,and contours keep pressure away from your eyes. "Some people love the contoured ones that don't touch your eyelids at all — especially if you're a side sleeper or wear eyelash extensions," Murray said. Material: Murray recommends shopping for a mask with breathable materials. "Look for silk, bamboo, or soft cotton that breathes well. Avoid anything synthetic that might make you sweaty or cause skin irritation," she said. Dr. Tsai recommended avoiding gel masks if you have sensitive eyes. Blackout: Murray noted that even the smallest amount of light can interrupt your melatonin production, so blackout is especially important. When considering blackout or light-blocking masks, think about how you'll be using a sleep mask. Blackout isn't as important if you're already in a dark bedroom. If you're looking for a mask to sleep on a bright plane or train, though, you'll want to ensure the mask can completely block out all light. Look for features like contouring nose panels and eye cups that help block light Adjustability: Sleep masks should fit everyone, whether you have a small or large head. Straps should be stretchy or fully adjustable. Features like velcro straps are also a plus. Care: If handwashing is the bane of your existence, look for sleep masks that are machine-washable. Most should be washed in a garment bag and air dried. How we tested the best sleep masks Comfort: I used each sleep mask for at least three nights, trying every sleeping position to find what was comfortable and uncomfortable. After each night, I logged my experience with each mask, noting feel, fit, security, and ease of use. I also used each sleep mask in broad daylight as a passenger during a long car ride to test how it fared with upright sleeping. Blackout: To test blackout effectiveness, I performed three tests. First, I put on each mask in a moderately lit room (open windows, lamps), observing any light seepage through the fabric or edges. I repeated this test in a brightly lit room (overhead lights, lamps, open windows) and with a flashlight pointed directly at the mask. Adjustability: I adjusted each mask to its smallest and largest size and noted my own experience and comfort adjusting it. Sleep mask FAQs Is it OK to wear a sleep mask every night? It's generally OK to wear a sleep mask every night. Murray actually encourages people to wear a sleep mask every night. "Think of it as creating your own personal darkness sanctuary, regardless of what's happening outside," she said. Dr. Tsai noted that daily use might not be best if you have chronic eye issues, advising that "If you have chronic dry eye, blepharitis, or recent eye surgery, check with an eye doctor first." How tight should a sleep mask be? You'll want to adjust your sleep mask to be comfortable, but stay on and block out light. "A sleep mask should be snug enough to stay in place but loose enough to avoid pressure on your eyeballs or lids," Dr. Tsai said. "If you wake up with blurred vision, puffiness, or discharge, your mask might be too tight. Choose adjustable masks with a contoured or hollowed design that doesn't directly touch your eyelids." Do I have to wash my sleep mask? Cleaning your sleep mask is very important for your eye health. Just like you would wash your sheets or pajamas on a regular basis, Dr. Tsai noted that a dirty mask can transfer bacteria to your eyelids or eyelashes, which can cause irritation or even styes. Always follow the care label on your mask.


Hamilton Spectator
19 hours ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Ontario and Canada recalls: New salami food warning, craft kit sold at Walmart, power banks sold on Amazon
Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency recently issued recall notices for various consumer products and food items — including some sold through Amazon, Walmart and more. Health Canada has issued numerous product recalls for items such as baby 'nests,' craft kits sold at Walmart and power banks sold on Amazon . The CFIA issued several notices for food recalls in Canada this week, including a food recall warning for more salami connected to a salmonella outbreak in Canada. A food recall was also issued for Pavao's brand Pork & Chicken Sausage and Texas Hamburger due to undeclared soy and milk. The recalled products were sold in Ontario. More than 86 people have now become sick in Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba and British Columbia in connection with the outbreak. Nine people have been hospitalized. Check out our previous week's recall roundup . A food recall was issued for certain Pavao's brand 'Pork & Chicken Sausage' and 'Texas Hamburger' due to undeclared soy and milk. The recalled products were distributed in Ontario. 'Do not use, sell, serve or distribute the affected products,' CFIA warns in their recall notice published on July 18. The recalling company is Pavao's Meats & Deli. A food recall warning has been issued for more deli meat sold in Canada linked to an ongoing salmonella outbreak. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency issued a warning for Rea brand Soppressata Salami Sweet recalled due to possible salmonella contamination on Monday, July 14. The recalled salami was distributed in Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. Health Canada has issued recalls notice for a number of products sold at Canadian Tire. Canadian Tire recently updated their website's recall page with a number of recalled products sold at the popular store — including part of a kids fishing set, air conditioners, hunting products, part of a popular cooking appliance, as well as chainsaws and pole saws. Health Canada has issued a consumer recall notice for iStore branded Magnetic Wireless Power Banks 5000 mAH due to burn risk. The recalled power banks have the model number IST 09991/W05 and UPC 776704099915. 'Immediately stop using the recalled product and contact iStore for a refund,' Health Canada warns. 'During normal use of the product, it may overheat and expand, causing a burn and fire hazard.' The recalled power banks were sold on Amazon. In June, Health Canada issued a separate warning about other recalled power banks also sold on Amazon . Health Canada issued a product recall notice for American Crafts Resin Starter Kit due to a possible chemical hazard. 'Immediately stop using the recalled product and dispose of the item in accordance with local hazardous waste guidelines,' Health Canada warns in a recall notice published on July 18. Walmart Canada, DeSerres Inc., Infinity Crafts and Ladner Village Crafts were listed as importers on the recall notice. In Canada, 2,519 recalled kits were sold from May 2021 to March 2025. Health Canada issued a consumer product recall notice for the La Millou Baby Best Nest due to fall, strangulation and entrapment hazards. 'Immediately stop using the recalled products and contact Moda Kids for a refund,' the government agency warned. The recalled baby nests were sold in Canada between November 2023 to April 2025. Health Canada also issued a consumer advisory for the Hapden Travel Portable Crib Fence Bed Cradle available on may pose strangulation, entrapment and fall risks. You can report a food concern or complaint to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency online. Consumers can report any health or safety incidents related to the use of products by filling out a consumer product incident report form . Report any drug or health product side effects or complaints to Health Canada. You can check for more recall notices published by Health Canada and CFIA online . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .