Should You Use a Silk Pillowcase For Good Skin and Hair?

Beauty sleep? Yup, it's a thing. If you're looking to cut down on #badhairdays, consider swapping your cotton pillowcase with a more suitable choice. Picking the right pillowcase fabric plays an important role in determining the texture and feel of your hair. And, while most of us have been updating our hair care arsenal with the latest products in the biz, who knew silky bedding was the secret to frizz-free locks? 

"Silk pillowcases have been embraced by the hospitality and wellness industries and have garnered the attention of beauty enthusiasts all over the world. Due to the fabric’s absorbent properties, it doesn't strip your hair off of its natural moisture overnight. In addition, the material is a lot less rough on your strands as compared to regular pillowcases, and avoids friction during sleep," explains Pooja Singh, National Creative Director, Hair, Lakmé Salon.

"The movement during our sleep often leads to hair breakage and can make the hair thinner, frizzier, and cause split ends. The natural, smooth texture of silk prevents the hair from rubbing, thereby reducing breakage and thinning," she adds. Dr Stuti Khare Shukla posits that the smooth surface of a silk pillowcase reduces friction. Hence, it's less likely that you'll wake up with frizzy, tangled hair. "Silk pillowcases are a godsend for those who suffer from a dry, flaky scalp since they can retain more moisture (cotton as a fabric is more porous than silk)," she informs. 

Pooja Singh says, "For curly, wavy hair, you could also wrap your hair in a bonnet made of silk or satin, to keep your curls intact. In such a way, you'll wake up with bouncy, frizz-free curls or waves. In recent times, we’ve witnessed a surge in clients that are interested in silk pillowcases. Silk or satin hair bonnets, scrunchies, and scarfs are alternative options that lend similar benefits." 

Besides, silk is said to offer anti-ageing properties to the skin as well. "The fabric is free of added chemicals and contains natural substances that ward off allergies and resulting skin conditions," reveals Dr Khare. Several studies have brought to light the antimicrobial properties of DermaSilk, a European silk fabric. It provides relief to irritated skin and doesn't aggravate eczema or other skin conditions. Plus, it helps keep wrinkles at bay due to lesser friction caused as a result of the fabric.