Andromeda Paris — Guide
How to choose your sleep mask
From silk grade to momme, everything you need to know for truly restorative sleep.
Sleep is the only luxury measured in lost hours.
Every night, the quality of your rest depends on a factor most people ignore: light. Even imperceptible, even through closed eyelids, it is enough to inhibit melatonin production and disrupt your cycles. A sleep mask is not a travel accessory—it's a performance tool, provided you choose it well.
In short: A good sleep mask must meet three criteria—total darkness, skin-friendly material, and comfortable fit all night long. 22 momme 6A grade mulberry silk is considered the premium standard for all three.
01 — The Fundamentals
Why Total Darkness Changes Everything
Your brain produces melatonin—the sleep hormone—only in the absence of light. The slightest light stimulus, even through your eyelids, activates specialized photoreceptors that signal your hypothalamus to slow down secretion. The result: you fall asleep slower, your deep sleep is shortened, and you wake up feeling less rested.
A well-fitted mask creates an environment of total darkness, regardless of your bedroom, the season, or your geographic location.
Optimized Melatonin
Total darkness = earlier and more intense melatonin peak, for easier falling asleep.
Deeper Sleep
More time in N3 and REM phases, which govern physical and cognitive recovery.
Travel & Jet Lag
Plane, train, hotel: maintain your circadian rhythm wherever you are in the world.
02 — The Material
Silk, Cotton, Synthetic: The Uncompromising Comparison
Not all masks are created equal. The choice of material not only determines your immediate comfort but also the long-term health of your skin and hair.
| Material | Comfort | Skin & Hair | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mulberry Silk | Exceptional | Hydrating, anti-friction | ★★★★★ |
| Satin Cotton | Good | Neutral to slightly absorbent | ★★★☆☆ |
| Polyester / Satin | Average | Accumulates static electricity | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Bamboo / Viscose | Good | Breathable, thermoregulating | ★★★☆☆ |
Mulberry silk is woven from the cocoons of the *Bombyx mori* silkworm. Its fibroin structure gives it natural moisturizing properties—unlike cotton, it doesn't dehydrate your skin, it preserves it.
"Mulberry silk doesn't rub against the skin—it moves with it, without friction, without pressure. It's a difference you feel from the very first night."
03 — The Grades
Grade A, AAA, 6A: Why It Changes Everything
Silk grade evaluates the length, continuity, and natural whiteness of the filaments. Here's what it truly means.
| Grade | Filament | Whiteness | % Production |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade A | Short, irregular | Yellowish | ~60 % |
| Grade AAA | Long, uniform | Cream | ~25 % |
| Grade 5A | Very long, fine | Natural white | ~10 % |
| Grade 6A Andromeda | Extra-long, continuous | Pure white, lustrous | < 5 % |
Less than 5% of global mulberry silk production achieves Grade 6A. This classification is awarded to the longest filaments, taken from the heart of the cocoon.
What is 6A grade silk? 6A grade is the highest classification for mulberry silk. It refers to extra-long, perfectly continuous filaments of exceptional natural whiteness. Less than 5% of global production achieves this. It's the only grade used by Andromeda.
04 — The Weight
Mommes: Finding the Right Balance
Momme (mm) is the unit of measurement for the weight of silk fabrics. The higher the number, the denser and more opaque the fabric. But beyond a certain threshold, it becomes too heavy to be comfortable on the face for several hours.
At 22 momme, the fabric is dense enough to ensure total opacity, while remaining breathable.
How many mommes for a silk sleep mask? The ideal weight for a silk sleep mask is between 19 and 22 mommes. Below 19 mm, the fabric lacks opacity. Above 25 mm, it becomes uncomfortable. 22 momme represents the recognized premium standard in the industry.
05 — Care & Durability
Caring for Your Silk to Make It Last
Grade 6A silk is an investment that can last for years—provided you follow a few simple but essential care rules.
Hand wash — cold water
Cold to lukewarm water (max 30°C) with a special silk detergent or gentle sulfate-free shampoo. Rinse with cold water.
Lay flat to dry, in the shade
Never wring silk. Blot with a clean towel, then lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight.
Iron if necessary — low temperature
Silk temperature (~110°C), without direct steam. Iron inside out with a protective cloth in between.
Storage
Store away from light, in its protective pouch. Avoid prolonged contact with staples or jewelry.
06 — Frequently Asked Questions
What You Ask Us Most Often
What is the difference between mulberry silk and "natural" silk?
Mulberry silk specifically refers to silk produced by *Bombyx mori* fed on white mulberry leaves—the finest and most uniform variety. All silk is natural, but mulberry silk is the only one to offer long, continuous filaments suitable for luxury textiles.
Is a 22 momme Grade 6A mask suitable for side sleepers?
Yes. At 22 momme, the mask remains flexible enough not to create uncomfortable pressure in the side position.
How to verify the authenticity of Grade 6A silk?
Each Andromeda mask comes with an authenticity QR code traceable to the manufacturing batch.
Is silk suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin?
Yes, it is often even recommended. Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, resistant to dust mites, and does not retain bacteria unlike cotton.
What is the best silk sleep mask?
The best silk sleep mask combines 6A grade mulberry silk, 22 momme weight, an adjustable elastic band, and total darkness. These four criteria together guarantee optimal comfort, durability, and dermatological benefits.
Andromeda Paris
Le standard du sommeil d'exception
Soie de mûrier. Grade 6A. 22 mommes. Chaque nuit devrait ressembler à la dernière.