When it comes to beauty sleep, what you sleep on is pretty important. What about silk pillowcases? Beauty influencers use them and hair stylists recommend them. But what benefits do they actually provide? Well, as it turns out, a lot and you should definitely be using one. Here’s the low-down. 

Can Silk Pillowcases Prevent Wrinkles?

Can silk pillowcases really reduce wrinkles? According to Dr. Hartman, -founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, the answer is yes. He explains that “crush wrinkles” caused by sleeping on the side of the face can be minimized by using silk pillowcases. The friction associated with tossing and turning during sleep is eliminated when sleeping on silk. However, it’s important to note that this is not an overnight solution, but rather a long-term preventative measure. Because we spend a significant amount of time in bed, over a lifetime this can cause damage to the skin due to friction. Silk, with its low coefficient of friction, provides the least amount of damage compared to other materials.

Does Using a Silk Pillowcase Keep Skin and Hair Hydrated?

Due to Silk’s incredibly smooth texture, it indeed can. According to Dr. Neal Schultz, a New York City-based dermatologist, the smoothness of silk prevents excessive absorption of moisture from the face, so it ensures that the skin remains well-hydrated without losing essential moisture. The same goes for your hair. They can also prevent frizz by the way. Other materials like cotton tend to soak up oils. This quality makes silk pillowcases an excellent choice for individuals with dry skin or hair, especially during the dry winter months.

Do Silk Pillowcases Prevent Acne?

What about Acne? Could sleeping on silk do anything for prevention? We wish the answer to this was yes, but it’s just not necessarily true. While silk may not absorb as much moisture as cotton, it should not be expected to effectively treat acne or prevent breakouts. Instead, if you struggle with breakouts or adult acne, it is recommended to follow a skincare routine specifically designed to clear acne (and refrain from touching your face!).

Do Silk Pillowcases Really Make a Difference?

Bottom line; yes, silk pillowcases have the potential to enhance the hydration of your skin and hair, prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, and leave you with smoother, frizz-free hair when waking up in the morning. However, it’s important to note that they won’t work miracles. But who can’t use the extra help right?! When shopping for silk to sleep on make sure to look for a fabric weight of 22 or more; mulberry silk is a great option. Happy beauty rest!