We’re sure your pillowcase isn’t the first thing you think of when it comes to perfecting your haircare or skincare routine, but applying all those serums, lotions and creams won’t do much if they end up getting soaked into your cotton pillowcase. That’s why many are turning to silk pillowcases for the supposed benefits for your hair and skin.
It’s claimed that sleeping on silk will leave your hair more hydrated and less damaged, and celeb fans include Victoria Beckham, Katy Perry, Cindy Crawford and Kim Kardashian, but is a silk pillowcase really worth investing in?
We’ve got award-winning celebrity hairstylist and founder of MAYFIVE Hair, Katie Allan, to answer your burning questions.
What is the science behind silk pillowcases?
One of the main benefits of sleeping on a silk pillowcase is that your hair is left more hydrated than if you were sleeping on a cotton pillowcase, but how exactly does this work? Katie explains, "Silk leaves your hair more hydrated, as traditional cotton pillow cases soak up the natural oil, moisture and bacteria from your hair due to the fact that cotton is more porous."
"Silk is also frictionless," Katie adds, "Which means your hair will be less prone to knots, tangles and damage. The frictionless nature of silk can also help prolong a blow dry or styling."
Sounds like a win-win to us.
How does a silk pillowcase help with hair and skin?
Sleeping on a silk pillowcase is especially recommended for those with dry, damaged or frizzy hair and flaky scalps. This is because they help retain your hair's nature moisture, keeping your locks more hydrated and less prone to breakage.
According to Katie, "A silk pillow case is more gentle on both your hair and skin, which mean that you are less likely to experience breakage."
Does sleeping on a silk pillowcase really benefit you?
Katie points out the following as the main benefits of silk pillowcases:
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Stronger, more hydrated and healthy hair - silk leaves your hair more hydrated than cotton as it doesn't soak up your hair's natural oils or moisture
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Regulates your body temperature - silk helps keep you cooler so it's ideal to sleep on during a heatwave
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Prevents fine lines and wrinkles - silk won't pull on your skin when you move during your sleep as it is frictionless, this reduces the risk of developing fine lines and wrinkles
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Smoother, luscious, frizz-free locks - the lack of friction when sleeping on silk also means you'll wake up with smooth and glossy hair rather than a frizzy bedhead
What is a copper pillowcase?
A copper pillowcase is usually made with polyester and nylon embedded with copper oxide particles. Copper, one of the nine essential nutrients that the human body needs to function, is known for its antibacterial and healing properties.
Is a silk or copper pillowcase better for you?
The benefits of silk and copper pillowcases are very similar and Katie says both "may be effective in helping you achieve stronger, smoother and more hydrated healthy hair". However, they should be used alongside a good haircare or skincare routine rather than seen as a replacement.
Katie explains, "Ensure you have regular conditioning treatments and cuts with your stylist, follow their advice for at home haircare products and conditioning treatments which are best suited to your hair, reduce heat as much as possible, and also ensure you’re eating a healthy and varied diet with lots of protein."