If you think skin and hair care are out of the question, your bedding might not cross your mind. But (as our testers quickly discovered), the quality, materials, and design of your pillowcase can be the cause of redness, dryness, shedding, and the overall health of your skin and hair.

While fabrics like cotton, jersey or linen can strip your hair and skin of natural oils, silk is a much softer option that can prevent lines and wrinkles and keep your hair and skin looking healthy and fresh.

Silk is not only hypoallergenic and antimicrobial2, the material also helps to maintain the health of your hair. Harlapati agrees that sleeping with a silk pillowcase has many benefits. “[Silk pillowcases] are hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with eczema or sensitive skin,” she explains, adding that they provide anti-aging benefits because they don’t tighten the skin.

“Silk pillowcases also have antimicrobial properties and prevent skin care products from transferring, which is an advantage for those with acne-prone skin,” says Garlapati. “They don’t absorb moisture from the skin and hair, which reduces frizz, breakage and hair loss.”

We also love the natural cooling effect of silk, which makes for a more comfortable sleep no matter what time of year (or what climate you live in). These pillowcases are also aesthetically pleasing and help create a luxurious feel in your bedroom without having to overhaul your entire decor or bedding.

The only downside, Harlapati points out, is that silk pillowcases often cost more. However, when you consider the amount of money that many people spend on skin and hair care products, investing in a silk pillowcase seems like a no-brainer, especially when the alternative could be ridding your skin and hair of the very products you’re counting on. on.