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21 best silk pillowcases for hair & skin protection

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21 best silk pillowcases for hair & skin protection

Once upon a time, silk pillowcase might have sounded like the sort of nonsensical rarefied behaviour that would make Cleopatra raise an eyebrow. But, far from being a prime example of the myriad ways that a fool can be parted with her cash, this, truly, is one lavish investment that can actually do something for your face and hair.

Yes. Keep reading... Well, cotton is absorbent. It can draw hydration out from your complexion – which is one of the key things that you're fighting when it comes to preventing fine lines. Silk, on the other hand, leaves all of that juice put.

Plus, a study published in the British Association of Dermatology showed that pillowcases made using the smooth fabric proved less irritating than trad cotton in people with eczema. Meanwhile, a silk pillowcase can help with tangles and breakage, thanks to the lack of friction. This is especially important if you have curly or Afro-textured hair.

If you're after all natural fibres, silk pillowcases are the way to go. Often a lot of the more affordable silk pillowcases you find will be a blend with satin. These still offer reduced friction for your skin and hair compared with cotton and other classic pillowcase fabrics.

Here are a bunch of silk pillowcases to buy now, to match every price point.

A plain white silk pillowcase should be a staple in everyone’s bedding collection. Crafted from luxe Mulberry silk, this swanky cover has some classy Oxford edges with a wide-stitched hem for a super-indulgent look. The silk is GOTS certified, meaning it’s organic and meets the leading textile standards for ethics and sustainability.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Cream Sizes: Standard

You can rely on The White Company to create something really chic so, for a boutique hotel vibe, now you’re covered. Crafted from top-quality 19 momme silk, this uber-soft pillowcase will keep you cool throughout the night on every level.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Chalk Sizes: Standard, super king

Prepare to get cosy. Soak and Sleep’s super-cute bundle contains a pair of lovely silk pillowcases and some boujee cashmere bed socks (ideal for WFH days). It would also make a generous birthday gift for a pal.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Blue Sizes: Standard

Something a little different, but with more eco-friendly perks: Aeyla's silk pillowcases are made with eucalyptus instead of the traditional silkworm fibres, making them 100% vegan-friendly, biodegradable while retaining that same coveted silky finish. They’re dyed with natural ingredients, so they’re good for those with sensitive skin, and come in three colours.

Momme weight: N/A Colours: White, stone, light blue Sizes: Standard

All the pillowcases at the Ethical Silk Co are made in Fairtrade factories in India. The brand utilises a different production method to your average, resulting in a top-quality silk with an unusual matte lustre (giving it more of a fine linen-type feel) than your standard shiny finish. The brand also donates 10% of profits to charity, which is nice.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: White, stone, light blue Sizes: Standard, queen size

If you're looking to treat a pal for their birthday (or just boost the luxe-factor in your own room), Marks and Spencer’s silk pillow can be personalised with your initials. Add a pure silk eye mask to your order for maximum boujee bedtime vibes.

Momme weight: Not specified Colours: White Sizes: Standard

Bit rogue – this pillowcase has been infused with moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid to help you wake up to smoother, firmer and more hydrated skin. Honestly? We’re not expecting this to replace our skincare routine, but we don’t think any extra TLC will hurt. In any case, the cover is made from Oeko-Tex-certified fibres, so it’s got good eco-credentials, and it uses a very high-grade quality silk. All in all, given it’s just £30, it’s worth a try at least.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Black, grey, white Sizes: Standard

Dusk is our go-to for luxe homeware at affordable price points. Its bedding range includes this dreamy silk pillowcase. If you live in fear of ruining a fresh white duvet set, fret not, because you can get an equally stylish look with this sleek charcoal black.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Charcoal, ivory Sizes: Standard

This silky number was the winner of the best silk pillowcases by our friends at the Good Housekeeping Institute, so you know it's legit. Crafted from 25 momme silk (one of the highest weights we’ve found), it will keep that cool-side-of-the-pillow feeling all night long. The US-based brand has also partnered with Ecodrive to crack down on global carbon footprints, committing a percentage of each sale to planting new mangrove trees.

Momme weight: 25 momme Colours: Light blue, white, silver, taupe Sizes: Standard

This 100% mulberry silk pillowcase is available in 27 colours, it's hypoallergenic, smooth, soft and breathable. A win win.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: White, ivory, black, blue, pink, teal, grey, charcoal, purple Sizes: Standard

This one has a bougie 900 thread count, and it comes in a decent range of pretty colours. Our fave is this sweet pink hue. Seriously, what can't you get on Amazon?

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Pink, white, blue, grey, black, blue, ivory Sizes: Standard, large

Because when you're already going extra, why not go hard?

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: White, blue, pink, grey, black, purple Sizes: Standard, King

If you're on a real budget, you might want to look into satin rather than silk. This still gives you that smooth surface to lay your tresses on (and those frizz-free perks) but at a more pocket-friendly price.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Ivory, blush, champagne, charcoal, sage, lavender Sizes: Standard

For everyone who's still not over having all marble, everywhere, at home – this one's for you.

Momme weight: 22 momme Colours: White, pink, silver, black, marble Sizes: Standard

This Queen Size Slip Pillowcase in 'White' has been specially-commissioned and scientifically tested to provide anti-ageing, anti-sleep crease and anti-bed head benefits.

This long fibre Mulberry silk pillow case offers a luxurious night-time experience that is gentle on skin and hair.

Momme weight: 22 momme Colours: White, pink, caramel, gold, silver, black, marble Sizes: Standard

Deemed as 'five star luxury', this pillow is made from Tussah silk and promises to keep your head and face cool and fresh at night through its breathable, moisture wicking properties.

Momme weight: 22 momme Colours: White Sizes: Standard, super king

Crafted from thick and heavy mulberry silk, this number is also free from any colouring – so, ideal if you have sensitive skin that flares up at the slightest provocation.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: White Sizes: Standard

This buy is still mulberry silk – however, one side is cotton, which brings the cost down. Just keep that side hitting the bed and throw your hair over the fancy side for a (cheaper) silk sleep.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Teal, white, purple, pink Sizes: Standard

With a seriously fancy strand of silk used, this pillow is set to let you wake up with a fresh, smooth face. Plus, it's available in 10 colours, so a version for every bedroom.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Black, caramel, charcoal, pink, rose gold, silver, white Sizes: Standard

Classic as you like, this dye-free silk case is a terribly elegant choice.

Momme weight: 19 momme Colours: Nude Sizes: Standard

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21 best silk pillowcases for hair & skin protection

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