If you’ve ever squirmed in bed at the thought of greasy hair or woken up with a crinkled face, you’re not alone. Our sleep habits can significantly impact our appearance, and waking up without the dreaded bedhead and sleep wrinkles is something we all want. Enter the silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases have long been touted for their luxurious feel, but the silk pillowcase benefits extend well beyond their elegant looks. Silk pillowcases enhance the quality of our sleep, leading to smoother hair, healthier skin, and a more luxurious sleep experience that feels like self-care every night. This article will explore the numerous benefits of silk pillowcases to help you achieve your goal of waking up looking and feeling refreshed. Also what is the difference between Duvet vs Comforter.
Cloud-like fluffy duvets from Yumerest can also help you achieve your objectives of waking up looking and feeling refreshed with smoother hair, healthier skin, and a luxurious sleep experience that feels like self-care every night.
What Is the Difference Between a Silk and Cotton Pillowcase?
Nearly four years after silk pillowcases hit store shelves, many cotton fans have become converts, sure that their silk pillowcase has beauty benefits for their skin and hair. Others are happily holding on to their favorite non-silk pillowcases, sleep wrinkles be damned. A big question, given that silk pillowcases cost between $25 and $90 or more, is whether they are worth it.
In general, dermatologists say there don’t seem to be any downfalls to having one, apart from the steep price tag. There does seem to be truth to the widespread claims of smoother hair and skin after sleeping on silk.
Skin Health Insights from Dermatologist Orit Markowitz
“Our skin is our largest organ, and I believe that any product that can help maintain our skin texture is worth it,” says Orit Markowitz, MD, a dermatologist with SUNY Downstate University in New York City.
“I have seen this firsthand with my patients when they come in and point out that they have noticed one side of their face appears more ‘sunken.’ When I ask if it’s the side they sleep on, the answer is yes.”
What Is the Difference Between a Silk and Cotton Pillowcase?
While cotton is a popular fabric choice for pillowcases on the market, silk fabric offers several benefits that are beneficial for the skin and hair. The silk material for pillowcases acts as protection for both your skin and hair. This supports healthy hair and skin by having a natural cooling effect and reducing friction.
If you have sensitive skin, you can safely use a silk pillowcase. "Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, so it is great for those with sensitive, eczema, or allergy prone skin," explains Lauren Penzi, MD, board-certified dermatologist. "Unlike cotton and other fabric pillowcases that absorb moisture, silk pillowcases are better at wicking off moisture." As a bonus, silk fabric has a soft and luxurious feel.
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13 Silk Pillowcase Benefits for a More Luxurious Night’s Sleep
1. Bye Bye Wrinkles: Smooth Sleep with Silk Pillowcases
Silk pillowcases help prevent wrinkles. The claim that the smooth texture of silk pillowcases is gentle on the skin and can reduce fine lines, whereas cotton pillowcases can cause creases in the skin, which can lead to wrinkles over time, is accurate, according to the experts we spoke to.
"Yes, silk pillowcases can prevent fine lines and wrinkles," says Dr. Tara Francis, aesthetic doctor and founder of Enhance by Dr. Tara. "Silk contains essential amino acids, which help speed up skin cells' metabolism and prevent wrinkles' formation. Always make sure you check that you're using a pillow that's made from pure silk and not a synthetic form."
Silk Pillowcases and Wrinkle Prevention
"Wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process which occur as our body’s natural collagen levels decline. However, there are also lifestyle and environmental factors which can exacerbate them," explains Nina Prisk, an NMC registered independent nurse prescriber.
"When we sleep, the skin on our face is pressed into the pillow causing creases to appear. Over a prolonged period of time, this can of course have a permanent impact on the skin. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can be beneficial to the skin for a number of reasons. The friction caused by some materials such as cotton can mean that the skin is dragged or tugged when you move around at night. However, because the surface of silk is smooth your skin glides over it more easily, effectively helping to reduce facial lines and wrinkles."
2. Silk Pillowcases Hydrate Skin
Silk pillowcases hydrate skin. This claim is also valid. Silk pillowcases don't absorb moisture (or dirt) easily, and this reportedly keeps skin from drying out, whereas cotton bedding (even sets with the best thread count) will absorb moisture, which can dry out your skin.
"Silk absorbs less moisture than cotton," confirms Dr. Tara Francis. "Your skin stays more hydrated on silk and is a great option for those who suffer from dry skin or live in dry climates. The natural silk fiber is more effective when repelling moisturizer than any other materials."
Silk Pillowcases for Hydrated, Plump Skin
"Silk is unique because of the fact that it doesn’t remove moisture from the skin, which helps skin to retain hydration and plumpness," explains Nina. "Materials such as cotton are very absorbent and therefore any face creams that you put on before bed will soak into your pillow before your skin can fully benefit."
"The proteins in silk, in contrast, enable it to form a moisture barrier against the skin which allows it to retain the products you’ve applied as well as its own natural moisture in order to prevent dehydration of the epidermal cells. This means skin will maintain adequate hydration and plumpness."
Silk Pillowcases: A Skincare Support, Not a Cure
"It can be gentle on the skin and absorb less of the skincare that you apply in the evening, which can make the skin more hydrated and allow the active ingredients to work on treating skin concerns such as acne and fine lines," explains Carrie.
"However, there is minimal research surrounding the qualities of silk and its implications on the skin alone. Think of a silk pillow as an accessory to your skincare; it can help it be absorbed but it isn't a treatment in itself."
3. Silk's Antibacterial Qualities Help with Acne
Silk pillowcases are beneficial for anyone susceptible to acne, and Dr. Hasia Al Khubra, a GP specializing in skin and aesthetics, explains that this claim about silk pillowcase benefits is somewhat valid.
“Whilst there’s no evidence that silk pillowcases prevent acne breakouts, they have been found to have micro-level antibacterial properties," says Dr. Hasia Al Khubra. "As they don’t absorb as much moisture or bacteria they may be a better option for anyone with acne-prone skin."
Clean Silk Pillowcases Matter for Clear Skin
From a hygienic standpoint, how often you wash your sheets also plays a part in the effectiveness of silk pillowcases. Dr. Hasia explains, "However, it’s important to wash your pillowcase regularly as even silk pillowcases will build up dirt over time, which can impact acne."
4. Body Temperature Regulation: Sleep Cool and Comfortable
Silk pillowcases regulate body temperature. It's claimed that silk can help to regulate temperature. This claim is also valid, as with the best cooling pillows, silk pillowcases can help your body regulate its temperature overnight, keeping you cool.
Silk Pillowcases for Year-Round Temperature Control
"Absolutely, silk has the benefit of regulating and insulating your body temperature," confirms Dr. Tara Francis. "Many use silk all year round, as it can help keep you warm in cooler months, and cool in the warmer weather too."
“Unlike cotton pillowcases which will absorb moisture and feel warmer the longer you sleep on it, silk pillowcases are more breathable and thought to be good for regulating body temperature as they can keep you warm in the winter and cooler in the summer,” adds Dr. Hasia Al Khubra.
5. Amino Acids in Silk Pillowcases Benefit Your Skin
Amino acids in silk pillowcases will benefit your skin. This claim is dependent on the quality of your chosen silk, but essentially it is true. "Silk pillowcases contain 18 amino acids which are absorbed by the skin whilst you sleep to promote cell regeneration and repair, improving your skin’s elasticity levels," explains Dr. Tara Francis.
Dr. Hasia Al Khubra explains why it depends on the quality of silk pillowcase, saying, “the efficiency depends on the type of silk pillowcase you buy, ideally you want one that’s pure mulberry silk as this kind of silk contains the 18 amino acids which are really beneficial for your skin in terms of cell regeneration and repair.” This suggests that investing in the best silk pillowcases is worthwhile to reap the full benefits.
6. Silk Pillowcases Tame Frizzy Hair
Silk pillowcases tame frizzy hair. Due to the smooth texture of silk, people tout that it reduces friction on your hair, therefore helping to prevent frizzy, tangled hair as you sleep. According to our expert, this is indeed the case.
Silk Pillowcases: A Haircare Essential
"At this point in the hair game, it’s surprising if you’re not incorporating silk products in some form because why wouldn’t you?" asks Lisa Laudat, celebrity hairstylist. "There are so many benefits as silk can help your hair stay hydrated, and preserve your hair’s natural oils."
"This is especially important for anyone with curly hair which can become dry and break easier than straight hair, but overall silk hair products should be a staple for everyone who wants to keep their hair in great condition."
7. Silk Pillowcases Prevent Split Ends
Believe it or not, silk pillowcases prevent split ends. The benefits of helping hair stay hydrated are thought to help with breakages; therefore, it is suitable for preventing split ends.
“Silk pillowcases are great for preventing split ends and I love silk pillowcases for this reason," says Lisa. "If they’re made of 100% Mulberry silk they’re really soft, gentle, and great for protecting your hair against breakage. They really do help keep your hair in the absolute best condition."
8. Dust Mites Hate Silk Pillowcases
A silk pillowcase a day keeps dust mites away. Here’s a thing you don’t want to think about if you have allergies. A good portion of the allergens that stuff up your sniffer come from dust mite droppings.
Seriously, it’s one thing to get a slight hay fever from grass pollen. It’s another thing altogether to get it from bug poop.
Silk Pillowcases: Naturally Hypoallergenic Protection
Fortunately, silk fabric’s tight weave and naturally occurring amino acids make it inhospitable to allergens. Mold and mildew don’t find much of a home in silk, either. Unfortunately, you can’t say the same about your cotton pillowcases, they're more or less allergen magnets for your pillow.
9. Silk Pillowcases Soothe Your Skin
Silk is a hypoallergenic material, so it’s less likely to irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions. If you have sensitive skin or certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, a silk pillowcase may irritate your skin less than synthetic fibers or even cotton. And there’s some evidence to support this claim.
Silk for Eczema Relief: A Gentle Boost
In one small study, people with atopic dermatitis were asked to wear silk underclothes for 8 weeks. Within a month, participants had less skin redness, swelling, and itching.
Their symptoms continued to improve throughout the remainder of the study period. A silk pillowcase won’t replace your eczema and psoriasis treatment. But it’s less likely to irritate your face and may even improve your symptoms.
10. A Luxurious Feel
Aside from all of the other advantages we’ve discussed, there’s one more!
“Silk does for the body what diamonds do for the hand,” Oscar de la Renta once said
Silk has reigned as the Queen of Textiles for over 4000 years. It is the ultimate luxurious cloth for the discriminating shopper. So, if you are being honest with yourself, there’s no substitute for the luxurious sensation of sleeping on silk!
11. Are Silk Pillowcases Anti-aging?
Sort of. Silk pillowcases can decrease wrinkles and improve the appearance of skin’s hydration, which can make you look more youthful. But if anti-aging is your goal, remember that fine lines and “wrinkles only account for 5 percent of your face.” That means you'll also need to combat signs of dull skin and uneven skin tone with the right products and treatments, experts advise.
12. A Cleaner Sleep
There are few, if any, surfaces we press our faces against so often and for so long as our pillows. This, unfortunately, means that any grime or bacteria that make their way onto your pillow are also going to be in prolonged contact with your skin.
Silk Pillowcases: A Cleaner, Hypoallergenic Sleep
While you should still wash your pillow regularly, silk has properties that help it stay cleaner in between washes. Because silk takes in less moisture than other fabrics, it’s less likely to serve as a host for dust mites and for bacteria from your face and skin.
Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, so its dryness helps prevent bedroom allergens in comparison to other fabrics that retain moisture, such as cotton pillowcases. Who wouldn’t feel more refreshed knowing their pillow is providing an even cleaner, more hygienic atmosphere than before?
13. Non-toxic
You can sleep easily knowing that, unlike cotton, silk hasn’t been produced using a lot of chemicals and pesticides. And, because it’s naturally soft and silky, it doesn’t need to be treated with chemical softening agents. The natural colour of A-grade mulberry silk is ivory, and therefore, ivory silk doesn’t need to be dyed.
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What to Look For in a Silk Pillowcase
When you're ready to upgrade your sleep routine with a luxurious silk pillowcase, you'll want to ensure it's made of pure mulberry silk. This type of silk is the strongest and smoothest available, making it an ideal choice for your hair and skin. Mulberry silk is graded as A, B, or C, with Grade A being the highest quality for weaving.
Silk Pillowcase Grades and Quality Tips
Grade A mulberry silk has long, strong strands that are even stronger than a strand of steel with the same length and diameter. A high-quality mulberry silk pillowcase can easily last for years if laundered and cared for properly. Grade B comes from undeveloped cocoons and is of lesser quality. Grade C often has a yellowish color and shorter fibers.
Beware of silks that include blends of other fabrics, particularly silks that contain synthetic materials, such as rayon and polyester. Compared to pure silk, these combinations are unlikely to offer the same level of benefits.
Momme Count vs. Thread Count: What to Look For in Silk Quality
Silk is measured in momme count, not thread count. If you can't find a momme count on your product, it's not a 100% silk pillowcase.
Momme is a traditional Japanese unit of measurement. A higher momme creates a thicker and heavier fabric that's stronger and more durable. A lower momme creates a finer and thinner fabric that's less durable.
Silk Momme: Finding the Ideal Weight for Pillowcases
The denser the weave, the heavier the fabric, and the higher the price. Sheets made of 22 momme silk are expected to have twice the lifespan of sheets with a lower momme count. But it's not as simple as going for the highest momme. The price of silk increases exponentially as the momme increases.
Additionally, too high a momme results in fabric that has more texture and may feel less smooth on the skin. You want your silk to be smooth and soft, but it also needs to be durable. Silk at 19-22 momme is ideal for a silk pillowcase, while 25 momme or higher is more suitable for sheets.
Pillow Size Matters: Choose the Right Dimensions
Select a pure silk pillowcase that is the correct size for your bed, ensuring it stays in place while you sleep. After purchasing a silk pillowcase, the last thing you want is to end up sleeping on a bare pillow.
Color and Style: The Luxe Factor
Depending on your taste and style, you'll want to find a silk pillowcase available in multiple colors to coordinate with the rest of your bedding.
And of course, the fabric of your silk pillowcase should feel lustrous, opulent, and friction-free. After all, the goal is to give you the smoothest, most tranquil night's rest on earth.
Budget: Invest Wisely for Quality
Purchase a quality product that fits within your budget. Look for pillowcases with a 19- to 22-momme count. Higher counts are more durable than lower counts, so they'll last longer (they are also more expensive, though). It's also a good idea to get a product that's certified nontoxic, which means that the silk hasn't been exposed to certain chemicals during manufacturing.
Caring for Your Silk Pillowcase
Your silk pillowcase will require special care. But following these steps will ensure that your pillowcase lasts for years:
Silk Pillowcase Care: Gentle Washing and Drying Tips
Hand wash your silk pillowcase with a gentle, pH-neutral detergent, such as a silk-specific detergent, in cool water. You can also wash it in your washing machine. Just make sure to wash it separately from non-silk items in cold water on the gentle cycle.
It also helps to wash it in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from snagging on the washing machine drum. Hang your pillowcase to dry; don't put it in the dryer. It's best to hang it indoors and away from windows. Direct sunlight can fade silk.
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