Unbeknownst to some people, the unlikely culprit behind your skin and hair woes could be the cotton pillowcases you've come to know and love—so if major bed head and sleep lines are what your nightmares are made of, you should probably consider making the switch to a silk pillowcase.
The truth is, transitioning from cotton to silk pillowcases isn't just aesthetically pleasing—think of how much prettier your bedspread will look—it can also have major hair and skin benefits.
“Cotton pillowcases can cause friction that leads to folding and wrinkling of the skin,” explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “Softer fabrics like silk take away the friction for potentially less wrinkles in the long run.”
It’s simple: Would you knowingly expose your skin and hair to harmful and drying materials? Of course not! But many are currently spending six to eight hours daily on cotton pillowcases that can create the perfect environment for skin inflammation, wrinkles, and damaged hair. “If you compare silk to cotton, cotton fabric acts as an absorbent, drawing moisture from both the skin and hair," says Michelle Henry, MD FAAD, founder and owner of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan in New York City. "Further, the fact that it’s absorbing our moisture makes it a potential breeding ground for bacteria growth."
As for your strands, all that tossing and turning goes over much more smoothly on silk. “Due to the soft, smooth texture of silk, there’s hardly any friction created,” says David Adams, chief colorist and trichologist at Fourteenjay Salon in New York City. “Less friction means less tangles, less frizz and fewer split ends.” Don’t forget, you spend about one third of your life in bed sleeping so what you lay your head on at night matters.
It’s time to toss out your cotton cases and make the most out of your nighttime routine with silk fabric that does the work while you catch some well-deserved Z’s.
These mulberry silk pillowcases (mulberry silk is one of the highest quality silks you can buy) are made from silk that is extracted from the cocoon only after the moth has left and has no more use for it. Plus, every product in the line is tailored and printed at a fair trade company in Jaipur, India.
Another mulberry silk pick, this one includes a hidden zipper to keep your pillows looking sleek and clean. Another perk: They're sold in packs of two.
Skeptical about this whole silk pillowcase thing? Test the trend with this affordable pillowcase from Spasilk. Both sides are made of 100 percent silk (not a cheap silk blend you'd expect at this price point), giving you all the benefits at a lower cost.
This pillowcase is made of pure mulberry silk and uses natural dyes, making it an extremely safe option for sensitive skin or people prone to allergies.
This is the top-rated silk pillowcase on Amazon, and for good reason. Not only do reviewers rave about how it made their hair softer and smoother, it's also machine-washable. Effective and convenient? I'm sold.
Blissy’s cult-like Instagram following and consistent 5-star ratings are indicative of the brand’s commitment to quality. You’ll feel and look well-rested after sleeping on the highest quality 22 momme (this is a measurement of the silk's density; 22 is the highest grade) silk night after night. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and friction-resistant to prevent split-ends and bad hair days.
Sweet dreams await when you use this pillowcase. This lush bedding is made from 100 percent grade 6A mulberry silk that tries to turn back the hands of time by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Choose from pink, blue, or marble.
Feel like treating yourself a bit? Try Slip’s navy-blue pillowcase fit for royalty. You’ll be glad you did when you experience the soft-to-touch plush 22 momme mulberry fabric melt into your skin like a dream. Your skin and hair routines won’t be in vain as this pillowcase absorbs significantly fewer amounts of product overnight than traditional cotton pillowcases. It also promises to reduce friction on the skin to help minimize wrinkles and creases on the face.
Enjoy tangle-free hair and luminous skin with this eco-friendly and cruelty-free vegan silk pillowcase. Made from bamboo—a similar texture as silk—it offers the same soft, slippery feeling as its counterparts. What makes this option so unique is its cooling technology that reduces heat and decreases night perspiration.
If you're investing in a silk pillowcase, why not make your bedroom look cute while you're at it? This brand has every print from florals to cheetah, so you're bound to find one that fits your vibe. Not only are they trendy, but they are also good quality, thanks to a 400 thread count.
Fine lines and wrinkles won't stand a chance against this ultra silky pillowcase. It's also less absorbent than a cotton alternative, meaning your expensive anti-aging skincare will stay on your face, not in your pillow.
Shell out a little more for this Good Housekeeping Institute pick, which was top-rated for its sturdy fabric and moisture-wicking abilities (a.k.a. night sweats will be a thing of the past).
Satin pillowcases might not be as luxurious as their silk counterparts, but they still feel incredibly soft. And the best part? They're machine washable.
If you're looking for an option that could also double as a sham, this ruffled one can do just that. It's also certified eco-friendly, non-toxic, and comes in 13 shades.
Named after the long-haired Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) of Austria, these 100% silk pillowcases will have your hair gliding across them with ease. Read: No tugging or breakage. The coordinated piping also adds a sophisticated touch.
The embroidered detail on this silk pillowcase makes it extra fun for gifting and will make for the cutest #wokeuplikethis selfies.
This affordable option comes with a zipper that keeps the case in place so you can avoid it slipping and sliding off your pillow at night.
Between birthdays and holidays, this pillowcase makes the best gift for loved ones not only because of its hair protecting benefits, but also because of its super chic packaging and affordability.
Soft, comfortable, and under $10? I'm always on board with that!
This set comes with everything you need to protect your hair and skin from harsh fabrics while you sleep: two silk pillowcases, an eye mask, and a satin elastic hair band.