Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on October 2013

Stress, the dry air of Japanese winter and long hours staring at the computer screen can leave your eyes baggy, saggy and sore. Hot Steam Eye Masks (¥498 for 5 at Tomod’s, ¥900 for 14 at Amazon.co.jp) from cosmetics maker Kao claim to help perk up your peepers with warmth and a fine mist steam. Think of them as a kairo heat pack—but for your face. The heating effect lasts around ten minutes, making them ideal for a short break during a long day at the office, unwinding on a flight or relaxing your facial muscles before bed. Scented versions include chamomile and ginger, lavender and sage and yuzu citrus. There is also an unscented version with less girly colors so the wary salaryman can recharge without ridicule from his coworkers.