Human emotions are highly complex, which is one of the reasons why they are often only understandable on a meta-level. Against this backdrop, the HP Reverb G2 Omnicept Edition virtual reality headset offers a new approach towards recognition. In its development, sensors were added to monitor the heart rate, pupil size, eye movements and mouth expressions of the headset wearers. These data are used to understand user reactions to virtual content. It thus becomes possible to monitor what the cognitive load of users is and what expressions they are making. Equipping the headset with Omnicept sensors and software thus enables developers and businesses to understand the users’ facial expressions and reactions to virtual reality. When used for training, it is possible to exactly determine when a user is overwhelmed with information. When used for research, it allows seeing the effect of content on the heart rate of a test subject. Using the headset as a communications tool via avatars, it is possible to mirror the facial expressions of the user, which makes virtual reality communication appear more natural. The design of this headset combines outstanding optical clarity with a lightweight, individually customisable fit. It offers advanced wearing comfort and is suitable for prolonged use.