4 Reasons Why You Need a Silk Pillowcase (Seriously)

I am a little bit fascinated by Kourtney Kardashian. I mean, we have so much in common! She has three kids, I have three kids. And… that’s about where the similarities end. But I enjoy the natural living advice and beauty tips on her blog. She’s nutty, but the health nuttery I like!

In a recent post, Kourt said she always sleeps on a silk pillowcase, even taking one with her when she travels. What a diva, right?! But the infamous Kardashian sister is correct about the beauty benefits of silk (though it pains me to say it).

Photo from ShhhSilk

Why You Need a Silk Pillowcase

I plunked down $20 (!) for a pillowcase to give it a try. Silk sheets have never been my thing; they’re just too slippery. But a pillowcase is perfect.

Silk’s main claim to fame is helping to prevent wrinkles. The idea is that if you’re a side sleeper the pulling and tugging between your face and the pillow can cause sleep lines and wrinkles, and silk reduces that pressure. Science hasn’t proven that one out yet, but here are 4 more reasons why you need to replace your pillowcase stat.

Silk is naturally hypoallergenic

Silk is hypoallergenic, which is good for allergy sufferers. The fibers have a natural resistance to dust mites, mold and other allergens. You can even go one step further and get a pillow filled with silk fibers instead of feathers to reduce the collection of dust and dander. The breathability of a silk pillowcase prevents collection of common household allergens. 

Silk helps skin retain moisture

Cotton pillowcases are super absorbent. They pick up dirt and oil from your skin, and when you sleep on the same pillowcase night after night, it can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. With less friction, you are less likely to experience acne breakouts which may be triggered with frequent rubbing. 

Natural silk pillow cases are less absorbent. Your skin and hair stay moisturized because your pillowcase isn’t absorbing all of the natural oils from your skin.

Silk naturally also contains amino acids that are easily absorbed into the skin. Silk amino acids are used in formulating shampoos and conditioners as well as moisturizers and body lotions because they create a protective barrier and preserve moisture. The amino acids bond with the keratin in your skin to help it regenerate as you sleep.

Silk protects your hair

My favorite thing about a silk pillowcase is avoiding morning ‘crazy hair.’ With super short hair, I often wake up with it standing straight up, which my kids love. When you toss and turn at night, the friction created on regular pillowcases can damage the hair follicle and lead to shedding. That, in turn, leads to less shine and more frizz.

Silk fibers are also similar in structure to your hair. This helps keep the hair smooth as it moves across a silky pillowcase and maintain the integrity of the hair shaft.

Silk keeps you cool

Silk naturally regulates heat, which helps you maintain the correct body temperature. It doesn’t conduct heat, so if you want to keep cool at night on hot days, go with silk. On the flip side, it retains heat during cold weather.

1. Spasilk 100% Pure Silk Pillowcase // Compared to cotton pillowcases, silk doesn’t dry out your skin and hair, and dermatologists recommend sleeping on a silk pillowcase to reduce wrinkles.

2. Slip Silk Pillowcase // This luxurious, hypoallergenic sham protects delicate facial skin and hair from the scratches, creases and tugs caused by standard cotton, reducing split ends and ensuring a night of restorative beauty sleep.

3. LilySilk 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase // Inexpensive yet effective in treating common sleep-related facial and hair problems, the mulberry silk pillowcase is the easiest way to turn your everyday sleep into a rejuvenating journey of comfort.

4. Manito Silk Filled Pillow // Your silk filled pillow will remain cooler throughout the night, resulting in a more comfortable and restful sleep.

5. Tayyakoushi 100% Silk Pillow Cover Set of 4 // This flower print set is a pretty addition to your living room or patio.

6. Fishers Finery Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase // Recommended by Good Housekeeping magazine, the mulberry silk pillowcases from Fishers Finery come in a wide range of colors to fit any home decor. 

This post was medically reviewed by Dr. Rina Mary Allawh, M.D., a dermatologist who performs adult and pediatric medical dermatology, skin cancer treatment and cosmetic dermatology. Learn more about Hello Glow’s medical review board here. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.