The Truth About Sleeping On Silk

I’ve tried several silk pillow cases and eye masks over the last 14 or so years and for the past 8 years have only slept on high quality Mulberry Silk. The cases and masks (Don’t EVER use cotton eye mask while you sleep) I chose to carry on my site are based purely on quality: Smoothness, Momme weight, Charmeuse weave, durability, and a big one for me: How WELL they wash without falling apart.

We all know silk pillow cases help prevent lines and wrinkles because you experience less friction on your skin. That alone, provides a chain reaction of skin and hair benefits. 

However, the MAIN reason I started using silk years ago was my investment in topical skincare. That’s what initially sold me on the idea of only sleeping on silk. I invest a lot of money on my skincare products. I’ve always believed in investing  in quality ingredients.

I’m sure most of us have lived through that heart crushing moment when we’ve accidentally knocked over a bottle of magical serum and then washed it down the sink with tears. It HURTS! When I found out what sleeping on cotton does to our skin, I imagined the same thing. Why am I prioritizing my skincare if I’m then allowing my pillowcase to absorb not only my products but my own moisture from my skin? I was sold.

In all honesty, I normally sleep on my back once I’m actually ready to go to sleep. However, there are some nights I feel like I deserve a good’s night rest and nothing feels better to me than face planting on my pillow and sleeping on my stomach. It’s horrible, I know. With silk, I feel less guilty.

With all the claims, what does silk ACTUALLY do for your skin? They can’t ALL be true, right?

You’re right. Based on my own experience, I know how I benefit from silk but I’m still not so sure about some of the claims.

Does Silk Help Retain Moisture? 

Yes. Natural Silk is less absorbent. This benefits your skin and hair because it isn’t absorbing your product and natural oils.

Silk contains amino acids that are easily absorbed into the skin:

Not so sure. Yes, silk contains amino acids used in formulating skincare and hair care. People believe the amino acids bond with the keratin in our skin and hair and help it regenerate as we sleep. In all honesty, I HOPE it does that but it seems a bit far fetched. How do we KNOW it’s being absorbed? When you experience the benefits of sleeping on silk, it’s most likely from the other reasons mentioned. 

Does Silk Naturally Regulate Heat?

Yes. Unlike cotton, which absorbs moisture, silk wicks moisture away to keep you dry and cool all night long. Silk fibers are inherently temperature-regulating. This is a big one for me where I live. 

There’s nothing worse than feeling hot and sweaty when you’re trying to sleep except for waking up sweaty and gross. My kids have always made their way to my pillow while sleeping with me. They love their mama, but truth be told, they just wanted my pillow because they were hot. On the flip side, it keeps you warm during colder months. 

Are Silk Pillowcases Naturally Hypoallergenic?

Some of silk’s hypoallergenic properties include a natural resistance to dust mites, fungus and mold, in addition to many other allergens. However, unless your allergies are related to your bedding,this may not be relevant to you. If you have allergies, add a mattress protector amd regularly wash all bedding.

Does Silk Help Manage Breakouts?

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. 

Are Silk Pillowcases Anti-aging?

Yes, in combination with other efforts to keep your skin healthy. Silk pillowcases can decrease wrinkles and improve the appearance of skin’s hydration which can make you look more youthful.

I hope this helped clarify any confusion you had about Silk. After years of sleeping on silk and trying numerous brands, this is the silk I’ve had the best experience with: HIGH QUALITY SILK PILLOWCASES AND SLEEP MASKS