Sleep is so important. Not only does it have a huge impact on our mental health, but it affects our physical health, too. That's why we are all about taking the necessary steps in order to get our full eight hours a night. Whether it's unwinding before bed with the best beauty sleep products, getting into bed with a weighted blanket or spritzing one of the best pillow sprays, we'll do whatever it takes. Which is why the best silk pillowcases have become the latest must-have product, which we are fully on board with.
You see, believe it or not, there are some downsides to a deep sleep. That's right, we're talking about the effects it can have on our skin and hair. Tossing and turning throughout the night can cause flyaways, split ends and even blemishes. That's where the silk pillowcases come in.
These clever pillowcases have become a must-have for the ultimate beauty sleep, so we've spoken to the experts to find out exactly how they can help. Not only that, but we've rounded up some of the best silk pillowcases that are worth adding to your basket.
What are the benefits of using a silk pillowcase?
Silk pillowcases are renowned for their beauty benefits, but what do they actually do?
We spoke to Chris Luckham, head of education at FOREO skincare, who said: "When it comes to pillowcase choices, only some are smooth enough to offer profound benefits for the skin and hair. Silk pillowcases are growing in popularity, boasting their ability to reduce irritation due to their soft and sleek texture."
"From a skincare perspective, this helps to reduce any friction between the pillowcase and your skin, therefore reducing dragging and inflammation - especially great for side sleepers. For those suffering with blemishes, silk pillowcases tend to absorb less moisture and oils compared to a regular cotton case, keeping it more hygienic."
This also means that even though you might be applying your best night cream before bed, you won't be seeing its full effects if using a cotton pillowcase, as it will be absorbing a lot of the product.
Not only do silk pillowcases benefit the skin, but they benefit the hair, too. As mentioned above, the soft and sleek texture reduces friction, which can in turn reduce breakage. It also means that you are less likely to wake up with that dreaded bedhead look. A win win if you ask us.
Are there any downsides to using a silk pillowcase?
Silk is a trickier fabric to handle when it comes to washing and caring for it. Brands like Slip recommend that you hand wash your pillowcases "with a gentle pH neutral liquid detergent".
That's obviously a downside as you can't just chuck it in with your normal bedding wash. However, the general rule of thumb when washing any silk pillowcase is to put your machine on a delicate setting, with cold water and ideally in a delicates care bag. These can be picked up cheaply from Amazon (and work well for your bras too).
Coloured silk pillowcases can also fade easily if in direct sunlight. So when you're drying them, it's better to do so inside rather than on a washing line outside. Also, if your bed faces a window, we'd recommend moving your silk pillowcase behind other cotton ones or tucking your duvet or blanket over the pillowcases to protect them.
How did we decide on the best silk pillowcases?
Wondering what we looked for when rounding up the best silk pillowcases? We've listed everything below.
- How much are they?
- What colours and sizes do they come in?
- Will they be easy to clean?
- If tested, how comfortable were they to sleep on?
- How can they benefit the skin and hair?
15 best silk pillowcases to shop now
If you're looking to invest, we've rounded up our top picks and looked at everything from the best overall option, to the most affordable and luxury silk pillowcases and which ones are designed to last you the longest. Time to put the 'beauty' in beauty sleep.
1. Marks and Spencer Pure Silk Pillowcase
Marks and Spencer have created their own silk pillowcases, which are so affordable at just £30.
Pros:
This pillowcase is made from 100% silk, making it such great value for money. There are lots of colours to choose from, and the rectangular shape means it will also fit most pillow types.
Cons:
You can only wash this pillowcase on a delicate wash at 40°C and it can't go in the tumble dryer due to the material, so that is something worth keeping in mind.
2. Slip Silk Pillowcase
The Slip pillowcases are famous for a reason. Made from 100% Mulberry silk, after testing them ourselves, we can confirm that you really will feel like you are sleeping on a cloud.
Pros:
This pillowcase is made from the brand's specially-commissioned slipsilk™, which has been developed over 10 years and is scientifically shown to reduce friction. It comes packaged in a beautiful box, which makes it a great gift option for a loved one (or yourself). It is truly so soft, and features with a chic 'Slip' logo on the bottom of the pillowcase. It has a standard opening, making it easy to get on and off, and after using one for a while, we don't think we will ever go back to normal pillowcases again.
Cons:
The pillowcases do tend to come in lighter colours, so we wouldn't recommend it if you like to fake tan regularly or if you tend to forget to take your make-up off before bed.
3. LilySilk 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase for Hair and Skin
This LilySilk pillowcase has hundreds of five-star reviews, ours being one of them.
Pros:
This silk pillowcase is great value for money, and comes in a range of different colours so you can choose one to suit your style. It also comes with a 100 night guarantee, meaning you can get a full refund if you don't see the results you desire. After trying it for ourselves, we'd purchase it again and again.
Cons:
The pillowcase only comes in one size, so it may not fit all pillow shapes.
4. John Lewis The Ultimate Collection Silk Standard Pillowcase
This silk pillowcase by John Lewis comes in the most beautiful pebble colour.
Pros:
Aside from the colour, this pillowcase is great for reducing friction on your hair, due to the fact that it's made from the highest quality Mulberry silk for a smooth feel.
Cons:
It seems that reviewers only had one complaint, and that was that it didn't last very long. We recommend reading the washing instructions before use to prevent this from happening.
5. Silk Works London Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
This Silk Works pillowcase might be more of an investment, but it is great for achieving smoother skin.
Pros:
This silk pillowcase is super non-absorbent, meaning any night creams or serums you apply before bed will stay right where you want them. "I definitely noticed a difference in my skin after using this pillowcase for a couple of weeks, and I don't think I will ever go back to a cotton one again." Grace Lindsay, Ecommerce Writer.
Cons:
This pillowcase does have a slightly higher price point, but the results are worth it.
6. Blissy Black Standard Silk Pillowcase
This pillowcase will help you sleep better thanks to its cooling powers.
Pros:
Due to the thermo-regulating powers of silk, this pillowcase will keep you cool throughout the night. The best news? It's also machine-washable.
Cons:
We can't think of many cons with this one, and it seems that reviewers would agree.
7. Coco & Wolf Thorpeness Silk Pillowcases Set of Two
