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's passionate about green beauty. I'm also into green beauty. And...well, 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 nuttiness 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).

Why You Need a Silk Pillowcase

I plunked down $20 (!) for a pillowcase to give it a try during my beauty sleep. Silk sheets have never been my thing—they're just too slippery, and I'm obsessed with linen sheets. 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 also prevents the 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 by frequent rubbing. Natural silk pillowcases, however, 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 proteins made up of amino acids [source] that are easily absorbed into the skin. Silk amino acids are used in formulating shampoos and conditioners [source] as well as moisturizers and body lotions because they create a protective barrier and preserve moisture. 

Silk protects your hair.

My favorite thing about a silk pillowcase is avoiding crazy bedhead in the mornings. I have dreamed of being someone who wakes up with good "second-day hair," but that's rarely the case.

That's because 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.

The silky smoothness of the material helps keep the hair smooth as it moves across the pillowcase and maintains the integrity of the hair shaft, thus increasing your chances of waking up to a good hair day.

Silk keeps you cool.

Silk has been said to naturally regulate 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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. 

Silk Pillowcase FAQ

How do I choose the right silk pillowcase? 

Look for pillowcases made of Mulberry silk. It's the highest quality silk on the market.

Essentially, opting for Mulberry silk for your pillowcase is the equivalent of choosing Egyptian cotton for your sheets. The long, uniform fibers in Mulberry make the fabric even more smooth and durable than standard silk.

What is the best momme silk for a pillowcase? 

Instead of being measured in thread count, silk fabrics are measured in momme, or the weight of the fabric. The momme usually ranges from 15–30, but it's a good rule of thumb to aim for 22 momme or higher when buying a silk pillowcase. 

What is the difference between a silk pillowcase and a satin pillowcase? 

Silk is a natural fiber, whereas satin is a weave. While satin may be more cost-friendly than silk, it is often lesser in quality as well.

Both can support skin and hair while you sleep, but silk is a natural fiber that tends to feel more luxurious. 

Does sleeping on a silk pillowcase really make a difference? 

While sleeping on a silk pillowcase won't reverse the aging process, it definitely makes a difference for tangles, frizz, and wrinkles. Dermatologists say that sleeping on a smooth, silky surface can help hair and skin over time.

While you might not notice changes right away (though I saw an immediate improvement in bedhead), you should appreciate the difference in the long run. So spritz on a bit of fall asleep fast pillow spray, and enjoy your silky zzzz's.

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