If you sleep on your side, you already know the struggle. Most sleep masks press painfully against your temples, dig into your ears, or shift out of position the moment you roll over. Finding the right sleep masks for side sleepers means looking past flashy marketing and focusing on what actually matters: thin profiles, low-profile straps, and designs that stay put without creating pressure points.
I spent weeks testing masks in every sleep position, read through thousands of customer reviews, and dug into forum discussions from real side sleepers on Reddit and beyond. The difference between a great side sleeper mask and a frustrating one comes down to millimeters of foam thickness, strap placement, and how well the nose bridge seals against light leaks.
In this guide, I cover eight options ranging from budget-friendly three-packs to premium purpose-built masks. Whether you need something for travel, night shifts, or just better darkness at home, these are the best sleep masks for side sleepers in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Side Sleepers September
Best Sleep Masks for Side Sleepers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Manta Pro Sleep Mask |
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| LitBear Sleep Mask |
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 Nox Sleep 3D Sleep Mask |
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 LKY DIGITAL Sleep Mask 3 Pack |
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 SleepSloth 3D Sleep Mask |
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 YIVIEW Sleep Mask 3 Pack |
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 FengXinZi Sleep Mask |
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 ANPKEC 3D Sleep Mask |
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1. Manta Pro Sleep Mask – Premium C-Shaped Design Built for Side Sleepers
Manta Pro Sleep Mask – 100% Light Blocking Sleep Mask for Side Sleepers, Breathable and Comfortable, Spacious & Zero Pressure for Long Lashes, Perfect for Sleep/Travel/Nap/Shift Work
100% blackout
C-shaped convex cups
Slim angled strap
8.11 oz
Ventilated cooling
Pros
- Purpose-built angled strap for side sleeping
- C-shaped cups eliminate all eye and lash pressure
- Fully adjustable eye cups and head strap
- Premium durable materials that hold up over time
- Blocks all light even in broad daylight
Cons
- Most expensive option at this tier
- Heavier than most competitors at 8.11 ounces
The Manta Pro is the mask I reach for when I want zero compromises. The C-shaped convex eye cups are genuinely different from anything else on this list. They curve away from your eyes completely, so you can blink freely without any contact on your lashes or eyelids. That matters more than you might think if you have sensitive eyes or extensions.
What makes this one of the best sleep masks for side sleepers is the strap. Manta designed it to sit at an angle that stays clear of your ear when you are on your side. I tested this over multiple nights and the strap never dug in or created that annoying pressure point above the ear that cheaper masks cause.
The cooling ventilation is a real feature, not just marketing language. Air moves through the material freely, which prevents the heat buildup that side sleepers often experience when their face is pressed against a pillow. After wearing it for a full week, I noticed it stayed noticeably cooler than foam-only masks.
The trade-off is weight and price. At 8.11 ounces, the Manta Pro is the heaviest mask in this lineup. You feel it when you first put it on, though the weight distributes well once adjusted. And the price puts it in luxury territory. But the build quality is undeniable. This mask feels like it will last years, not months.
Who should buy the Manta Pro
This mask is ideal for dedicated side sleepers who want the most comfortable, adjustable, zero-pressure experience available and are willing to invest in premium quality. If you have long lashes, sensitive eyes, or wear the mask every single night, the Manta Pro justifies its cost through durability and comfort that cheaper masks cannot match.
Who should skip it
If you are on a tight budget or only use a sleep mask occasionally for travel, the Manta Pro is overkill. The weight might also bother sleepers who are sensitive to anything heavy on their face. Several lighter options on this list deliver similar blackout performance at a fraction of the cost.
2. LitBear Sleep Mask – Best Overall Value for Side Sleepers
LitBear Sleep Mask for Side Sleeper Women Men, Eye Mask for Sleeping
100% blackout
15-degree tilt sides
22mm nose bridge
12mm deep cups
2.89 oz
Pros
- 15-degree tilt sides reduce 90% temple pressure
- Outstanding 4.7 rating from 16k+ reviews
- True 100% blackout with no light leakage
- 22mm adaptive nose bridge fits all shapes
- Available in 8 colors
Cons
- Elastic strap may lose elasticity over time
- Hand wash only below 40C
The LitBear is the mask I recommend to almost everyone who asks. It hits a sweet spot between price and performance that none of the other masks in this roundup can match. With over 16,500 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the consensus is clear. This mask does what it promises.
The standout feature for side sleepers is the 15-degree tilt angle on the sides. LitBear engineered the mask so the edges thin out dramatically where your temples meet the pillow. In testing, I felt a genuine reduction in pressure compared to standard contoured masks. The sides barely register when you are on your side.
Light blocking is where the LitBear truly shines. Reviewers consistently call it a true 100% blackout mask with zero leakage around the nose or edges. The 22mm adaptive hollow nose bridge is the reason. It molds to your nose shape without any metal bars, sealing out light completely. I tested it in a bright room at midday and could not detect any light seeping through.
The 12mm deep 3D contoured eye sockets give you room to blink freely without touching your lashes or eye makeup. Multiple reviewers with migraines specifically praise the zero-pressure headband, which is notable because migraine sufferers are extremely sensitive to any pressure on the head.
How the elastic strap holds up for side sleepers
The elastic buckle strap adjusts from 20.5 to 26.5 inches and wraps around the back of your head rather than sitting on top. This placement helps it stay secure when you shift positions during the night. Some long-term users report the elastic loosens over months of daily use, so you may need to tighten it periodically.
Color and style options worth considering
With 8 available colors including Mint Green, Coral Red, and classic Black, the LitBear gives you aesthetic options most competitors do not. This is not just about looks. The smooth cooling fabric lining feels noticeably different against bare skin compared to standard foam masks, especially in warm weather.
3. Nox Sleep 3D Sleep Mask – Coolest Material for Warm Sleepers
Nox Sleep 3D Sleep Mask for Men, 100% Blackout Eye Mask for Sleep, Ice Silk Adjustable Sleeping Mask for Side Sleepers, Soft Breathable Blindfold, Perfect Sleep Mask for Travel & Women (Black)
100% blackout
Ice silk material
3D contoured foam
1.2 oz
Temperature regulating
Pros
- Ice silk stays cool in summer and cozy in winter
- Ultra-lightweight at just 1.2 ounces
- Extremely thin 0.79-inch profile reduces pillow bulk
- 84% five-star rating
- Includes sleep optimization protocol
Cons
- Smaller review base at 225 reviews
- Newer product with limited long-term durability data
The Nox Sleep 3D caught my attention because of its ice silk material. Side sleepers deal with a specific problem that back sleepers do not: your face is pressed against a pillow all night, trapping heat. The temperature-regulating ice silk on this mask actively counteracts that heat buildup.
In my testing, the material felt genuinely cool against my skin from the moment I put it on. During warmer nights, this made a real difference in comfort. The silk adapts to conditions, staying cool in summer and cozy in winter, which is not something I can say about the memory foam masks on this list.
At just 1.2 ounces and 0.79 inches thick, the Nox Sleep is one of the thinnest and lightest masks here. That thin profile matters enormously for side sleepers because it minimizes the bulk between your face and the pillow. I barely noticed I was wearing it, which is the highest compliment I can give a sleep mask.
The 3D contoured memory foam adapts to whatever position you sleep in, and side sleepers in the reviews consistently report uninterrupted rest with no discomfort. The main caveat is that this is a newer product with only 225 reviews. While the 84% five-star rate is impressive, there is less long-term durability data compared to masks with thousands of reviews.
Bonus sleep protocol inclusion
Each purchase includes the Nox Sleep Protocol, a guide with science-backed sleep optimization tips. While a sleep mask alone will not fix poor sleep habits, the protocol adds value by addressing sleep hygiene alongside light blocking. It is a thoughtful addition that sets this brand apart from generic mask sellers.
Best fit for hot sleepers who need darkness
If you run warm at night and have been frustrated by memory foam masks that trap heat, the Nox Sleep 3D is worth prioritizing. The ice silk material solves the overheating problem while the contoured foam maintains the light-blocking performance you need.
4. LKY DIGITAL Sleep Mask 3 Pack – Best Value Multi-Pack
LKY DIGITAL Sleep Mask for Side Sleeper 3 Pack, Blackout 3D Eye Mask
99% lightproof
Ultra-thin 0.6 inch
Tangle-free buckle
3-pack value
3.21 oz
Pros
- Incredible value with 3 masks for under $10
- Over 71
- 000 reviews making it massively popular
- Ultra-thin 0.6-inch profile stays flat against pillow
- Adjustable buckle strap fits all head sizes
- Works well with CPAP masks
Cons
- Heat retention issues for hot sleepers
- Occasional light leakage at nose for certain face shapes
The LKY DIGITAL 3-pack is the most popular sleep mask on this list by a wide margin. Over 71,000 reviews tell you everything you need to know about its mass appeal. At this price point for three masks, the value is almost unmatched.
What makes this a solid choice among sleep masks for side sleepers is the ultra-fit tilted sides. The mask thins out at the edges to avoid pressing against your temples, and the 0.6-inch total thickness means minimal bulk between your face and the pillow. In testing, the sides stayed comfortable when I rolled onto my side.
The tangle-free buckle strap is a detail that matters more than you might expect. Unlike velcro straps that snag on pillowcases and catch in hair, the buckle design slides smoothly and stays put. The strap adjusts from 18.5 to 27.5 inches, fitting nearly every head size comfortably.
One thing I appreciated during testing is that this mask works well with CPAP equipment. Several reviewers who use CPAP machines confirmed it accommodates the additional facial gear without interference. That is a feature almost no competitor mentions, and it fills a real gap in the market.
CPAP compatibility notes
If you use a CPAP machine, the LKY DIGITAL mask’s contoured design sits low enough on the face to coexist with most CPAP nasal and full-face masks. The adjustable buckle strap can be positioned to avoid conflicting with CPAP headgear straps. Always test the combination before relying on it for a full night.
Heat retention and breathability concerns
The most common complaint from reviewers is heat retention. The contoured foam is not highly breathable, and hot sleepers may find it uncomfortable during warm months. If you sleep hot, consider the Nox Sleep 3D with its ice silk material instead, or reserve the LKY DIGITAL for cooler seasons.
5. SleepSloth 3D Contoured Sleep Mask – Best for Dry Eye and Migraine Sufferers
SleepSloth Sleep Mask for Side Sleepers, 3D Contoured Eye Mask for Sleeping, Soft Memory Foam Eye Cover with Adjustable Strap, No Pressure on Eyes, Travel Sleep Mask for Men Women, Shift Work & Naps
100% blackout
Low-rebound foam
Breathable holes
1.76 oz
Hair-tangle-free
Pros
- Specifically praised by dry eye and Sjogren's sufferers
- Excellent for migraine sufferers with soothing pressure
- Memory foam retains shape after multiple washes
- Ultra-light at 1.76 ounces
- Wide strap range from 15.8 to 27.6 inches
Cons
- Plastic strap adjuster can press above ear for side sleepers
- Some light leakage at nose area reported
The SleepSloth earned its place on this list because of who it helps. Reviewers with dry eye syndrome, Sjogren’s syndrome, and chronic migraines consistently praise this mask for allowing their eyes to stay moisturized and for providing gentle, soothing pressure that helps with headache pain.
The 3D contoured design with deeper eye spaces means your eyes can open fully inside the mask without any contact. This is a big deal for dry eye sufferers whose eyes need to maintain natural moisture overnight. The low-rebound memory foam holds its shape well, even after multiple gentle-cycle washes.
At just 1.76 ounces, the SleepSloth is one of the lightest masks here. The breathable hole design in the foam helps with airflow, though it is not as effective as the Nox Sleep’s ice silk for temperature regulation. I found it comfortable for side sleeping, but with one notable caveat.
The plastic strap adjuster sits on the strap and can create a pressure point above your ear when you are on your side. During testing, I had to reposition the adjuster to the back of my head to avoid this. It is fixable but requires conscious strap placement each night.
Migraine and sensitivity benefits explained
The gentle, even pressure around the eyes is what migraine sufferers find soothing. Unlike flat masks that press directly on the eyeballs, the contoured design distributes pressure around the orbital bone instead. This creates a comforting compression effect without triggering additional pain for sensitive users.
Strap positioning tip for strict side sleepers
To avoid the plastic adjuster digging in, slide it to the back center of your head before settling into your side sleeping position. The expanded strap range of 15.8 to 27.6 inches gives you plenty of slack to find a comfortable adjustment point that keeps the hardware away from your ear.
6. YIVIEW Sleep Mask 3 Pack – Best Budget 3-Pack with Bevel Sides
YIVIEW Sleep Mask for Back and Side Sleeper 3 Pack, 100% Blackout Eye Mask
100% blackout
3D contoured cups
Bevel side design
3-pack value
3.2 oz
Pros
- Excellent blackout performance for the price
- Bevel side design reduces temple pressure
- Hair-tangle-free adjustable strap
- 3-pack value for home travel and backup
- Fits large and small head sizes
Cons
- Can shift when side sleeping per some reviews
- Thick strap may rub against ears for some face shapes
The YIVIEW 3-pack is one of the oldest and most established budget sleep masks on Amazon, available since March 2017. With over 26,000 reviews, it has proven staying power. The bevel side design specifically addresses the temple pressure issue that side sleepers face.
In testing, the 3D contoured zero-pressure cups kept my eyes free to blink without any lash contact. The light blocking was impressive for the price point. With the mask properly adjusted, I experienced near-total darkness even in a room with ambient light from windows.
The skin-friendly sponge material is soft against the face, and the adjustable elastic strap does a good job of staying put without tangling in hair. Some variants even include a subtle lavender scent infusion that reviewers find relaxing. It is a small touch that adds to the bedtime experience.
The main issue for strict side sleepers is stability. Several reviewers note the mask can shift when you roll onto your side or stomach. The strap is also relatively thick and sits low, which can rub against the ears for certain face shapes. It is comfortable once positioned, but may need occasional readjustment during the night.
How the bevel sides perform under pillow pressure
The angled bevel sides compress more naturally against a pillow than flat-edged masks, reducing the pressure point where the mask meets the pillow surface. This design choice helps maintain the seal and prevents the mask from being pushed up or deformed when you settle into your side sleeping position.
Multi-pack convenience for travel and home
Having three identical masks means you can keep one at your bedside, one in your travel bag, and one as a backup. At this price, replacing a worn-out mask is painless. Reviewers frequently mention buying these as gifts and stocking stuffers, which speaks to the universal appeal and low risk.
7. FengXinZi Sleep Mask – Best Yoga Fabric Mask for Sensitive Skin
FengXinZi Sleep Mask for Side Sleeper, Blackout Eye Mask for Women Men
100% blackout
Yoga fabric outer
Deep eye sockets
Buckle strap
2.12 oz
Pros
- Breathable yoga fabric prevents overheating
- Deep sockets work with lash extensions
- Adjustable buckle strap does not catch hair
- Complete blackout even against flood lights
- Excellent for sensitive skin
Cons
- Foam ridge can dig into cheek when side sleeping
- Slight plastic smell initially recommended to wash first
The FengXinZi mask stands out because of its yoga clothing fabric outer layer. This material is noticeably different from the standard smooth polyester or foam you find on most masks. It feels breathable against bare skin and does not cause the sweating that some foam masks trigger.
Ranked at number 21 in Sleep Masks on Amazon, this mask has earned its position through consistent quality. The 3D contoured design features deeper eye sockets than many competitors, which makes it especially good for anyone with lash extensions. Your lashes never touch the inside of the mask.
The uniquely designed nose area adapts to all nose types and blocks light effectively. In testing, I found the blackout performance excellent, even against bright outdoor flood lights. Reviewers confirm this, with multiple comments about it blocking lights that other masks let through.
For side sleepers, there is one thing to watch for. The foam ridge along the edge can dig slightly into your cheek when you are on your side. Most reviewers rate it highly despite this, but stricter side sleepers with prominent cheekbones may notice it. Adjusting the strap tension helps minimize the issue.
Yoga fabric benefits for skin sensitivity
The yoga clothing fabric outer layer is the same type of material used in high-quality activewear. It wicks moisture, breathes well, and feels soft against sensitive skin. If standard mask materials have ever irritated your face, this fabric choice makes the FengXinZi worth trying.
Lash extension compatibility
The deep 3D contoured eye sockets provide enough clearance for lash extensions of most lengths. Reviewers with extensions specifically praise the mask for not crushing or bending their lashes. If preserving lash extensions is a priority, pair this mask with the Manta Pro for the two best options on this list.
8. ANPKEC 3D Contoured Sleep Mask – Best Ultra-Budget Pick with Earplugs
ANPKEC Sleep Mask,3D Contoured Sleeping Mask,99% Light Blocking Eye Mask, Zero Eye Pressure Cup Blindfold for Men Women, with Adjustable Strap for Sleeping, Yoga,Traveling(Black)
99% light blocking
Ultra-thin sides
Includes earplugs
1.76 oz
Zero eye pressure
Pros
- Lowest price point on this list
- Includes free foam earplugs for light and noise blocking
- Ultra-thin sides minimize temple pressure
- Molded cups block light without pressing on eyes
- Adjustable strap does not catch hair
Cons
- Some light leakage during daylight for certain face structures
- Only available in black
- Limited color options
The ANPKEC is the most affordable mask on this list, and it comes with a surprise bonus: a pair of foam earplugs included. For side sleepers who use earplugs alongside a mask, this combo addresses two problems at once for less than the cost of lunch.
The ultra-fit thin sides are specifically designed to minimize pressure on temples. In testing, the mask sat flat against the side of my face without the noticeable bulk that some thicker foam masks create. The slow rebound memory foam with air hole design keeps things relatively breathable for the price.
The 3D contoured zero-pressure cups and upgraded nose cutout do a solid job of blocking light. At 99% light blocking, it is not quite the true blackout you get from the LitBear or Manta Pro, but it is close. Some reviewers note minor daylight leakage depending on their face structure, which is expected at this price.
The included earplugs are a genuinely thoughtful addition. No competitor on this list bundles earplugs with their mask. For side sleepers who deal with both light sensitivity and noise, this combination lets you test both solutions for a remarkably low investment.
Earplug compatibility and combined use
The included foam earplugs are standard style that compress and expand in your ear canal. They pair naturally with this mask since the thin strap does not interfere with earplug positioning. If you already use premium earplugs, the strap design will accommodate those as well without pushing them out of position.
When to choose this over pricier options
If you are trying a sleep mask for the first time and do not want to commit to a larger investment, the ANPKEC is the ideal starting point. It delivers the core features that matter for side sleeping at a price that removes all risk. You can always upgrade later once you know what works for your face shape and sleep habits.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Sleep Mask for Side Sleepers?
Not all sleep masks work for side sleeping. The wrong mask will press into your temple, shift when you roll over, or leak light where the pillow deforms the foam. Here is exactly what to look for when shopping for sleep masks for side sleepers.
Strap type and placement
The strap is the single most important factor for side sleeper comfort. Thick straps with plastic adjusters create pressure points above and behind the ear when your head is on its side. Look for slim, angled, or low-profile straps that sit flat against the back of your head.
Buckle straps generally outperform velcro because they do not snag on pillowcases or catch in hair. Elastic straps work well initially but may lose tension over time. The best designs position the strap hardware at the back center of the head where it will not contact the pillow.
Mask thickness and pillow compression
Thinner masks deform less when pressed against a pillow. A mask that is 0.6 to 0.8 inches thick will stay closer to your face and maintain its light-blocking seal when you are on your side. Masks thicker than one inch tend to push away from the face, creating gaps where light leaks in.
The LKY DIGITAL at 0.6 inches and the Nox Sleep at 0.79 inches are excellent examples of thin profiles designed to minimize pillow interference. Avoid bulky masks with hard stitched seams that can dig into your cheekbone.
Material and temperature regulation
Side sleepers trap more heat against the pillow than back sleepers, so material choice directly affects comfort. Ice silk and yoga fabric materials breathe better than solid memory foam. If you sleep warm, prioritize masks with breathable materials or ventilation channels.
Memory foam provides excellent contouring and light blocking but retains heat. Silk and synthetic fabric outers stay cooler but may not block light as effectively. The best masks combine a foam core for structure with a breathable fabric outer for temperature control.
Nose bridge design
Light leakage at the nose is the number one complaint from side sleepers. When you lie on your side, the mask can lift away from the bridge of your nose, creating a gap. Look for adaptive nose bridges that conform to your specific nose shape.
The LitBear’s 22mm adaptive hollow nose bridge and the FengXinZi’s uniquely designed nose area are examples of features that address this problem. Masks with metal nose wires can help but may create their own pressure points. Avoid masks with flat, unshaped nose areas.
CPAP and earplugs compatibility
If you use a CPAP machine, mask compatibility is essential. Look for masks with low-profile straps that will not conflict with CPAP headgear. The LKY DIGITAL has been confirmed by reviewers to work well with CPAP equipment because of its slim strap design and contoured fit.
For earplugs users, the strap placement matters. Thin straps that sit above or behind the ear will not interfere with earplugs. The ANPKEC even includes earplugs, making it a natural combo choice. Avoid masks with thick straps that could dislodge earplugs during the night.
Light blocking effectiveness
True blackout means zero visible light when your eyes are open inside the mask. Deep 3D contoured cups that extend past your eyelashes are the most effective design. The depth of the eye cups determines whether your lashes will touch the mask and whether you can blink freely.
Masks rated at 99% lightproof may still let small amounts of daylight through around the edges. For complete darkness, look for masks rated at 100% blackout with adaptive nose bridges and deep contoured cups. The Manta Pro, LitBear, and Nox Sleep all deliver true blackout performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you sleep on your side with a sleep mask?
Yes, you can absolutely sleep on your side with a sleep mask, but you need one designed for it. Side sleeper masks feature ultra-thin profiles, low-profile angled straps, and contoured sides that reduce temple pressure. Masks with thick straps or bulky foam press against your ear and pillow, causing discomfort and shifting. Look for masks specifically engineered with tilted sides and slim buckles.
Do doctors recommend sleep masks?
Yes, many sleep specialists recommend sleep masks as part of good sleep hygiene. Sleep masks help maintain darkness, which supports natural melatonin production and circadian rhythm regulation. They are particularly recommended for shift workers, travelers crossing time zones, and anyone exposed to ambient light from street lamps or electronics during sleep hours.
Is it healthy to sleep with a sleeping mask?
Sleeping with a mask is healthy for most people. The key is choosing a mask made from breathable, skin-friendly materials and washing it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. Masks with contoured eye cups that do not press directly on your eyeballs are the healthiest choice, as they allow natural eye movement during REM sleep.
What is the best overnight sleep mask for side sleepers?
The LitBear Sleep Mask is the best overall overnight mask for side sleepers, with its 15-degree tilt sides that reduce 90% of temple pressure, 100% blackout performance, and over 16,000 reviews at 4.7 stars. For premium quality, the Manta Pro offers C-shaped convex cups and a purpose-built angled strap. For budget value, the LKY DIGITAL 3-pack delivers proven performance at an unbeatable price.
How do I stop my sleep mask from slipping off when I sleep on my side?
To prevent slipping, choose a mask with a buckle strap rather than velcro or thin elastic, position the strap adjuster at the back center of your head, and select a mask with a thin profile that minimizes leverage against the pillow. Masks with contoured sides that match your face shape stay in place better than flat masks. Tightening the strap slightly can help, but avoid overtightening which causes pressure points.
Conclusion
Finding the right sleep mask when you sleep on your side does not have to mean compromising between comfort and darkness. The best sleep masks for side sleepers combine thin profiles, smart strap placement, and contoured designs that stay sealed against light without pressing into your temples or ears.
My top recommendation is the LitBear Sleep Mask for its outstanding combination of 15-degree tilt sides, 100% blackout performance, and exceptional value. If budget is no concern, the Manta Pro delivers the most refined side-sleeping experience with its C-shaped cups and purpose-built angled strap. And for unbeatable value, the LKY DIGITAL 3-pack gives you proven performance trusted by over 71,000 reviewers.
Whatever you choose, the key is matching the mask to your specific face shape, sleep habits, and temperature preferences. Any of the eight masks on this list will serve you better than a generic flat mask that was never designed with side sleeping in mind.