Are silk pillowcases good for hair?

Silk pillowcases can help make your hair more manageable and be an important part of your hair care routine. Silk's smooth surface prevents friction which helps to combat hair frizz and the non-absorbent surface helps to preserve hair’s naturally occurring oils. Leading to more manageable locks!

Find out why in our guide:

1. Why are silk pillowcases good for your hair?
2. Reduced friction and breakage
3. Do silk pillowcases help with frizzy hair?
4. Can a silk pillowcase help preserve my hairstyle?
5. Are silk pillowcases good for my scalp?
6. Gentle on delicate hair types
7. Hydration retention
8. Hypoallergenic properties
9. Do silk pillowcases help with greasy hair?
10. Silk v satin pillowcases which is best for my hair?

  

Why are silk pillowcases good for your hair?

Hair health is influenced by many factors such as genetics, diet, lifestyle, sun exposure and the environment. The natural structure of silk can however be beneficial to your hair and skin:

• Moisture-wicking properties help to maintain moisture balance.
• The smooth surface can reduce hair friction by up to 43%, according to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
• It's naturally hypoallergenic.

Silk is a natural protein fibre produced by silkworms. The unique structure of silk fibres consists of tightly packed amino acid chains leading to a strong, flexible, soft and smooth natural fabric. 

 

Reduced friction and breakage

The smooth surface of a silk pillowcase can reduce the friction between your hair and pillow, resulting in less tangling and breakages. Unlike other pillowcase fabrics, which can cause hair to snag and become damaged, silk allows your hair to glide over your pillowcase as you sleep, reducing hair breakage.

  

Do silk pillowcases help with frizzy hair?

Silk can help to combat frizzy hair and static electricity by reducing friction and maintaining the natural moisture balance of your hair. This is especially good if you have dry or damaged hair, as it helps to seal the hair cuticle and prevent moisture loss, leading to smoother more manageable locks.

  

 

Can a silk pillowcase help preserve my hairstyle?

This partly depends on your hairstyle! Sleeping on silk can help to preserve your hairstyles for longer periods because its smooth surface reduces friction and pulling against the fabric helping your hairstyle to last throughout the night.

 

Are silk pillowcases good for my scalp?

Silk pillowcases have excellent temperature regulating properties. By maintaining a comfortable sleeping temperature, they prevent excessive sweating and the build-up of bacteria on the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth. 

Gentle on delicate hair types

Silk pillowcases are ideal if you have delicate or sensitive hair, such as curly or textured hair. The soft and non-abrasive nature of silk will help to maintain the natural curl pattern and texture of your hair, reducing frizz and preventing friction damage.

Hydration retention

Similar to its benefits for the skin, silk pillowcases help to retain the moisture in your hair. The smooth surface of silk prevents moisture loss and helps to distribute natural oils along the hair shaft, resulting in hydrated shiny hair.

Hypoallergenic properties

Silk is naturally hypoallergenic which is ideal if you have a sensitive scalp. By creating a clean and allergen-free sleeping environment, silk pillowcases help to prevent scalp irritation and inflammation.

 

Do silk pillowcases help with greasy hair?

There are two ways which silk pillowcases can help with greasy hair.

1. Reduced friction: The smooth surface of silk reduces friction between the hair and the pillow surface, which may prevent excessive stimulation of the sebaceous glands, responsible for producing oil, thereby reducing the likelihood of greasiness.
2. Absorption of excess oil: Silk fibres are naturally moisture-wicking, enabling them to absorb excess oil and sweat from the hair and scalp. By drawing moisture away from the hair follicles, they can help to regulate oil levels and prevent oil build up on the scalp.

Silk v satin pillowcases which is best for my hair?

Silk is a natural fabric. Satin is a type of weave, not a specific fabric. Satin can be made from man-made plastics such polyester and rayon.

Satin does not have all the naturally derived benefits of silk for your hair but the smooth texture will reduce friction. 

Intrigued by the benefits of silk pillowcases and eager to experience luxurious comfort firsthand? Discover our natural collection of silk pillowcases and silk eye masks. Your hair and skin will thank you!

Emily spent over a year testing our silk pillowcases and eye masks, learning a lot along the way. So if you need to know more, try our other silk guides:

• Are silk pillowcases good for skin.
• How to wash silk bedding.
• Silk pillowcase and eye mask guide.