How do you wash silk pillowcases?

Silk pillowcases can be washed by hand or in the washing machine. When using the washing machine, turn it inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag. Set it to the gentle cycle with cold water. It’s a good idea to pretreat stains, use a delicate detergent, and add distilled white vinegar to rinse water. When hand washing, be careful not to twist or wring the silk. Place on a drying rack to dry.

Is a silk or satin pillowcase better?

If you’re looking for a luxurious sleeping experience that benefits your skin and hair, silk is the best option for you. Satin may appear similar, but silk is a natural fiber, while satin is synthetic. Silk is also hypoallergenic, which means it repels allergens like dust mites. Studies show that it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used in the treatment of skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis.

How long do silk pillowcases last?

While some resources say about a year, others note that when properly cared for, high-quality silk pillowcases can last for years. Storing silk pillowcases correctly, when not in use, can help extend the life of the material. Silk can be stored using a wide bar hanger or in a breathable garment bag. Ensuring it’s clean and dry before tucking it away can help prevent attracting moths.

What are the pros and cons of silk pillowcases?

Hydrating, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and hypoallergenic properties make silk a great choice for those with allergies, acne, or sensitive skin. Beautifying benefits range from decreased hair breakage to fewer wrinkles in the skin. Because it is a natural fiber, silk does require extra care and may be a bit more expensive. For many, however, the quality justifies the extra care and price.

The 6 Best Silk Pillowcases for Hair and Skin of 2023

Most skin care routines consist of face creams, serums, and hair care regimens, but experts say it’s not just about what you put on your body—what you sleep on matters too. Silk pillows, which prevent breakage in hair and are more gentle on skin compared to traditional cotton pillowcases, can take your sleep to a whole new level.

According to Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, MD, dermatologist and the director of Houshmand Dermatology and Wellness in Dallas, Texas, silk pillows are excellent options for those with acne-prone and sensitive skin or those wanting tamer hair because the silk is less abrasive and doesn’t intake as much moisture from the face and hair as other fabrics do. They're naturally hypoallergenic and offer a smooth surface that will create less friction with your skin and locks when you sleep.

Silk quality is measured by momme, the weight of the fabric and pillowcases tend to average between 19 to 25 momme, with the higher the number the softer the silk. We researched dozens of silk pillowcases and evaluated the weight of the fabric (momme), softness, color variations, zippers, skin type, benefits, and affordability.

Check out the best silk pillowcases on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase at Amazon

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Best Budget:

ZIMASILK 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase at Amazon

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Best for Skin:

Fishers Finery Mulberry Silk Pillowcase at Amazon

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Best for Acne:

Hygenie Acne-Fighting Pillowcase at Walmart

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Best for Sensitive Skin:

ALASKA BEAR Mulberry Silk Pillowcase at Amazon

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Best Luxury:

Branché Charmeuse Pillowcase at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Health

4.8

Sephora

We selected Slip’s Pure Silk Pillowcase as our top pick because it's made of the highest grade of mulberry silk and is free of toxic dyes. In lab testing the silk, which has a high density of 22 momme, researchers found that the pillowcase reduced facial friction by 43 percent compared to cotton pillowcases, winning its reputation as a cult favorite among celebrities and dermatologists. Reviewers rave that they love how opulent the fabric feels and say they wake up with smoother skin. This pillowcase also comes in over 12 colors and designs, making it easy to find your perfect fit.

Price at time of publication: $110

Courtesy by Amazon

While silk can be a pricey luxury for the bedroom, Zimasilk’s 100 percent Mulberry Silk pillowcase is a perfect option that won’t break the bank. It’s made of 19 momme silk, has a 600 thread count, and includes a hidden zipper to prevent the fabric from moving as you rest.

Reviewers say they’ve seen a major improvement in their skin since using this pillowcase, waking up with smoother skin and softer hair. Plus this pillowcase comes in over 20 colors making it easy to find one that fits your style and personality.

Price at time of publication: $33

4.9

Amazon

This pillowcase is made from 100 percent mulberry silk and has a high 25 momme density, making it one of the softest options on the market. Thanks to its weight and natural materials, it’s an option that will do well with all skin types—even acne-prone skin. The high density assures moisture stays in your hair so you won’t wake up with messy tangles, frizz, or fuss.

“Silk is among the softest and most gentle fibers available, which is why silk pillowcases are often used as a part of an anti-aging routine. They can be used across all skin types, even those with ultra sensitive skin,” Joshua Zeichner MD, the Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, tells Verywell Health.

Price at time of publication: $50

Courtesy by Walmart

These handmade Acne Fighting Silver Ionic Pillowcases by HyGenie are made with silver ionic technology that create a sanitary, microbe-free sleeping surface. Not only does this pillowcase offer the luxurious slippery texture you want in a silk option, it’s also packed with anti-inflammatory silver in the fabric that kills 99.9 percent of bacteria.

This powerful pillow offers maximum protection against odors and pollutants and is an excellent option for those with acne and easily irritated skin. Reviewers have raved that their skin looked better, little acne bumps have disappeared, and some people with sensitive skin who usually wash cotton pillowcases every few days to avoid bacterial build-up say they can sleep with this product for over a week and wake up with a clean, fresh face.

Dr. Houshmand advises people with acne prone skin to wash their faces well before going to bed to make the best use of these pillows, and to make sure hair is free of products that contain ingredients like oil or silicone that can cause inflammation.

Price at time of publication: $26

Courtesy by Amazon

The Alaska Bear Natural Silk Pillowcase is made of pure mulberry silk, all natural dyes, and is hypoallergenic, making this a great option for those with sensitive skin. It comes with a 600 thread count and 19 momme making it very breathable and soft. This option also features a hidden zipper to assure it stays in place all night and as a bonus it comes in 30 stunning patterns and colors and six sizes to assure the perfect style for your bedroom.

Dr. Houshmand says silk is the way to go for patients with sensitive skin because it is more gentle on the skin than cotton competitors. “Cotton fabric draws in the moisture from your hair, skin, and products. This can lead to irritation in those with more sensitive skin types. The moisture brought into the pillow can also draw in bacteria, causing breakouts,” Dr. Houshmand says. Silk takes in less moisture meaning that much needed hydration will remain in your hair and skin.

Price at time of publication: $26

Courtesy by Amazon

The Branché Charmeuse Pillowcase turns a night’s sleep into a radiant, relaxing, and lush pampering session. These special pillowcases are created by Donna Hinds Gaynor, a veteran in the design and textile industry, and they are often found in the top hotels and spas across the country.

The pillowcases are exceptionally smooth and its gliding surface prevents wrinkles, boosts skin hydration and reduces hair loss. Each sheet is made of 100 percent premium silk and non-toxic dyes, weighs 22 momme, and they come in eleven stunning shades. While it’s pricier than other options on the market, it’ll make every night’s sleep a dream in the lap of luxury.

Price at time of publication: $95

Final Verdict

It’s a smart move to incorporate silk pillowcases into your beauty regimen as it’s softer on the skin than cotton and polyester competitors. By nature silk is hypoallergenic, its fibers have a natural resistance to dust and allergens, and it is smooth and soft to the touch, making it not just a healthy choice for the body, but a luxurious one.

A solid, price-friendly option is Alaska Bear Natural Silk Pillowcase, which appeals to all skin types, even sensitive and acne-prone skin. When in doubt try the Zimasilk’s 100 percent Mulberry Silk Pillowcase which offers the lovely, slippery finish customers love without breaking the bank.

What to Look for in Silk Pillowcases for Hair and Skin

Weight and Density

Silk quality is determined by momme, the weight and density of the fabric. If you want a higher-quality, softer fabric, look for a higher momme. Most silk pillowcases average 19 momme.

Zippers

Silk pillowcases can be tricky because they’re so soft and slippery they can glide right off the pillow. Clever designers have incorporated hidden zip closures in their designs to keep the fabric in place while still looking chic.

Blends

There are a wide variety of silk pillowcases on the market. Dr. Zeichner suggests going for 100 percent silk pillowcases because they’re the softest on the skin. He also warns to “look out for any silk blends. Especially those with any synthetic fibers like polyester,” that can be rougher on the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you wash silk pillowcases?

Silk pillowcases can be washed by hand or in the washing machine. When using the washing machine, turn it inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag. Set it to the gentle cycle with cold water. It’s a good idea to pretreat stains, use a delicate detergent, and add distilled white vinegar to rinse water. When hand washing, be careful not to twist or wring the silk. Place on a drying rack to dry.
Is a silk or satin pillowcase better?

If you’re looking for a luxurious sleeping experience that benefits your skin and hair, silk is the best option for you. Satin may appear similar, but silk is a natural fiber, while satin is synthetic. Silk is also hypoallergenic, which means it repels allergens like dust mites. Studies show that it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used in the treatment of skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis.
How long do silk pillowcases last?

While some resources say about a year, others note that when properly cared for, high-quality silk pillowcases can last for years. Storing silk pillowcases correctly, when not in use, can help extend the life of the material. Silk can be stored using a wide bar hanger or in a breathable garment bag. Ensuring it’s clean and dry before tucking it away can help prevent attracting moths.
What are the pros and cons of silk pillowcases?

Hydrating, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and hypoallergenic properties make silk a great choice for those with allergies, acne, or sensitive skin. Beautifying benefits range from decreased hair breakage to fewer wrinkles in the skin. Because it is a natural fiber, silk does require extra care and may be a bit more expensive. For many, however, the quality justifies the extra care and price.

Why Trust Verywell Health?

As a health writer, Marlene Lenthang knows just how important it is to find the right product for your body and mind. Over the years she has written about health crises, vaccines and product guides. She takes careful note of doctor recommendations, medical research and customer reviews in every product review to assure readers can choose quality products and understand the science behind them.