15 best silk pillowcases for smoother hair and skin in 2024, tried and tested
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The time to invest in one of the best silk pillowcases – and ditch your standard cotton pillowcases – has come. With winter in full swing, the benefits of a temperature-regulating silk pillowcase are not to be overlooked. We all know first-hand how a good restorative slumber can benefit our overall health, and our choice of bedding plays a huge part in how well we sleep. But for an additional beauty boost, silk pillowcases are it.
Silk boasts a wealth of beauty benefits, including anti-ageing properties for our skin and anti-frizz properties for our hair. In fact, silk helps to retain the skin’s natural moisture while we snooze, keeping it soft and supple, and in turn reduces fine lines, wrinkles and breakouts.
Suffice to say, a silk pillowcase is a no-brainer for those of us with sensitive skin, too. It’s little wonder this organic textile has long been recommended by dermatologists. Similarly, pure silk keeps our hair naturally hydrated, and thanks to its luxuriously smooth surface, there’s far less friction than with cotton or linen alternatives, meaning a silk pillowcase can be used to prevent hair breakage, static, and even split ends. The result? Gorgeous, glossy locks – who doesn’t want to wake up to a good hair day, every day?
Typically, silk pillowcases are sold either individually or in pairs, and can be used separately to complement our luxe bedding set-up. But for all-out opulence, look for complete pure silk bedding sets, sheets, and bedspreads. Throw in an electric diffuser and a weighted blanket, and you’re in for the best beauty sleep of your life.
SKIP TO: How we tested the best silk pillowcases | What to look for in a silk pillowcase |Which silk is best for pillowcases? | Where to buy a silk pillowcase | Are cotton or linen pillowcases bad for skin and hair? | Silk pillowcase FAQ's | Is slip or blissy better? | Is it worth buying a silk pillowcase | How we tested the best silk pillowcases | Our top picks |
Black Friday silk pillowcase deals
- The White Company Audley Pure Silk Oxford Pillowcase, WAS £80, NOW £64
- John Lewis Organic Mulberry Silk Standard Pillowcase, WAS £45, NOW £31.50
- Cult Beauty Slip Silk Pillowcase, WAS £89, NOW £66.75
How we tested the best silk pillowcases:
Our editors have slept on tonnes of silk pillowcases to evaluate differences in their design and materials, and these are the ones we (and countless reviewers) swear by. All of these picks are at least 19 momme and scored top marks in comfort, durability, and reducing hair flyaways as well as skin creases. Lean more about how we test.
What to look for in a silk pillowcase:
- Momme: Momme count refers to the density of silk and indicates the quality of the material. Think of it like thread count — more threads mean extra durability. Most luxury silk pillowcases run from 19 momme (soft, relatively affordable) to 22 momme or 25 momme (top-of-the-line, more expensive). For the highest-quality textiles, look for mulberry silk; the fibres are longer and more uniform, making the fabric smoother and longer-lasting.
- Colour: These days you can find a silk pillowcase in almost any shade. Classics (like white, beige, and black) and jewel tones (like royal blue and orange) are the most common options. Silk is highly susceptible to washing machine-resistant stains, so pick a dark colour or a busy print if the marks will bother you.
- Closure: A zipper closure keeps the material tight over your pillow, making silk’s natural wrinkles less prevalent. Envelope closures, on the other hand, have more give. Fidgety sleepers might find that these slip off during the night.
- Care: Make sure to read the care instructions before throwing your pillowcase set in the laundry with your bed sheets and duvet cover. Not all pillowcases can be machine-washed on a delicate cycle; some types of silk require hand washing in cold water. Line-drying is best, as dryers can cause damage to the material; you can steam your pillowcase to remove any wrinkles.
- Price: Are expensive silk pillowcases better than the budget-friendly ones? In short, not necessarily; they often use high-quality materials and finishing so they’ll last longer, but our testers loved plenty of under-£50 price point options that stood the test of time just as much as Blissy and other high-end competitors.
Which silk is best for pillowcases?
Mulberry silk is widely regarded as the best silk for pillowcases due to its long fibres, which create a smoother, stronger fabric. This type of silk comes from the cocoons of the Bombyx mori moths, solely on mulberry leaves, leading to a high-quality, hypoallergenic material that is gentle on the skin and hair.
Where to buy silk pillowcases:
Where beauty meets fashion meets homeware, there’s certainly a crossover of brands offering silk products, and therefore we’re pretty spoilt for choice when it comes to silk pillowslips. On the one hand, you have the bedding-focused outlets such as Gingerlily, Soak & Sleep, and The White Company, and on the other, dedicated brands whose raison d’être is our silk-enhanced haircare and beauty regime. Think Blissy and SLIP. But high street giants such as John Lewis and M&S are not to be overlooked either, along with Amazon, who stock some impressively wide silk pillowcase offerings, often at more affordable prices.
Are cotton or linen pillowcases bad for skin and hair?
Cotton and linen pillowcases may absorb moisture, but they can leave your skin and hair feeling dry and deprived of essential hydration overnight. Both fabrics often have a slightly rough texture that can cause friction, leading to frizz, hair damage, and those pesky sleep lines. Opting for a smoother surface to rest on, like silk, can help retain moisture and keeps your skin and hair looking refreshed and nourished.
After more sleep content? Head this way for the best silk bedding and over here for the best Egyptian cotton bedding to transform your bedroom, and in this direction for mattresses for your best night’s sleep yet. This way for mattress toppers, weighted blankets, mattress protectors and body pillows. Finish things off with the best duvet covers, blankets, linen bedding and a good quality pillow spray to send you off to the Land of Nod. Looking for something else? Head over here for best-selling Amazon products, this way for LED face mask reviews, and here to get up to speed on the best sleep positions.
Ahead, our full edit of tried and tested silk pillowcases to elevate your beauty sleep tenfold.
1/15Best silk pillowcase, overall
19 Momme Housewife Envelope Silk Pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For a zip fastening/zipper closure.
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm.
- Silk: 100% 19-momme silk charmeuse, GOTS certified.
- Colourways: 11.
- Tested by: Georgia Trodd, Senior Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This luscious pillowcase from Lilysilk is crafted from pure mulberry silk for a truly indulgent feel. I didn't believe the hype behind silk pillowcases to begin with – in fact I'll be the first to admit I thought they were a bit of a fad.
I used to think, "How can fabric really affect your hair or skin?" But Lilysilk has completely changed my mind. In fact, my fiancé has even started enjoying the benefits of using them too.
I get severe bed head in the mornings, but nowadays I look like I've just exited the salon (probably an exaggeration, but you get the point). My dry and acne-scarred skin has improved tenfold, too, and when people say that sleeping on a silk pillow is like resting your cheek on a cloud; they are not wrong. I'm annoyed at myself for not ditching the cotton sooner.
Pros & ConsPros- It comes in various colours and has a hidden zipper for a secure fit.
Cons- Hand wash and air dry only.
2/15Best luxury silk pillowcase
Audley Pure Silk Oxford Pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For luxury.
- Dimensions: 90cm x 50cm.
- Silk: 100% 19-momme mulberry silk.
- Colourways: One.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: The White Company's most indulgent bed linen yet, this high-quality silk pillowcase comes as part of the brand's highly coveted Audley collection. It's crafted from 19-momme mulberry silk, is machine washable for ease and will make sure you wake up feeling refreshed.
I've been sleeping on this silk pillowcase for over three months now, and my skin feels so much smoother and softer since switching to silk. Each morning, I wake up without creases on my face, no matter what position I sleep in, not to mention, the cool touch has kept me comfortable throughout the night, especially during two UK heatwaves earlier this summer.
That said, if you're wondering if a silk pillowcase is still worth the investment during winter, I also wondered the same but I can confidently say that the silk helps regulate temperature, keeping me cosy and warm without overheating, making it just as beneficial in the colder months.
Pros & ConsPros- It's naturally hypoallergenic, free of creases and the perfect companion to your TWC eye mask.
Cons- Only one colour available.
3/15Best patterned silk pillowcase
Cherry Blossom Pure Silk Pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: Design.
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm.
- Silk: 25-momme mulberry silk of the highest grade 6A long-fibre
- Colourways: 24.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: Not only will the print of this cherry blossom pillowcase calm you, but so will the fabric. Handcrafted from 25-momme pure mulberry silk, this design is thermo-regulating, hypoallergenic and mite resistant.
Of all the silk pillowcases I've tested (and as a shopping writer, I've tried quite a few), Mayfair Silk offers the widest range of patterns — 21 to be exact — and its pillowcases feel like a dream to sleep on. I was initially worried about putting this silk pillowcase in the washing machine because of how delicate it feels, but I was pleasantly surprised that it retained its colour and shape after multiple washes.
Though it’s certainly an investment, it comes with a 30-night sleep guarantee. It also requires less frequent washing than cotton, which is an added bonus.
Pros & ConsPros- Lots of colours and prints to choose from, plus it comes with a 30-night sleep guarantee.
Cons- Envelope-style closure means your pillow is more likely to fall out in the night.
4/15Best Mulberry silk pillowcase
Ivory Pure Mulberry Standard Housewife Pillowcase Pair
Specifications:
- Best: For a lustrous finish.
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm.
- Silk: 100% 19-momme mulberry silk.
- Colourways: Seven.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This pair of silk pillowcases means that you and your partner can both enjoy the benefits – or you can just keep one for a spare when you're washing the other!
As a beauty writer, I’m no stranger to using silk pillowcases. Given that my tangle-prone hair practically demands it, I’ve made it a nightly habit to protect my strands while I sleep.
From the moment I tried this pillowcase, I was impressed by the luxurious, soft material, which instantly felt more premium than many others I’ve used over the years. After a month of consistent use, I noticed a significant reduction in hair fallout and far fewer tangled knots in the morning — a huge win for me. The silk's smooth surface helps reduce friction, which means less breakage and split ends, too.
Beyond the hair benefits, I also noticed an improvement in my skin. The hypoallergenic properties and its ability to retain moisture helped my skin feel smoother and more hydrated when I woke up.
Pros & ConsPros- Naturally temperature-regulating, this one proves great for hot flushes and keeping hair tangle-free.
Cons- Soak & Sleep's packaging is pretty basic across all of the brand's bedding offering, so perhaps it's not the best for gifting.
5/15Best smooth silk pillowcase
Silk Hair & Skin Beauty Pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For minimalist interiors.
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm.
- Silk: 19-momme 100% silk.
- Colourways: One.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: The smooth, cool finish feels sensational to sleep on (it's the secret to a good night's beauty sleep), and despite its delicate feel you needn't worry about the durability. It'll last a lifetime.
Crafted in Portugal from pure silk, this pillowcase boasts naturally hypoallergenic properties and is designed to help retain moisture in both hair and skin. As someone who struggles with frizz and dryness, I was particularly excited to try this out.
Right from the first night, I was impressed by how soft and comfortable the silk felt against my skin. After using it for a few weeks, I noticed a reduction in frizz, which has always been a struggle for me. My hair felt smoother in the mornings, with fewer flyaways and tangles.
I also think it makes a wonderful gift, either on its own or paired with the brand’s signature scented candles or cashmere socks.
Pros & ConsPros- Machine washable for ease.
Cons- Only one colour available.
6/15Best affordable silk pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For affordable luxury.
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm.
- Silk: 100% pure mulberry silk.
- Colourways: 10.
- Tested by: Shaunelle Harrydass-Clark, GLAMOUR's Intern.
Why we love it: This relatively affordable silk pillowcase from M&S proves you can indulge in life’s little luxuries without breaking the bank. It boasts classic, clean-lined shaping and is crafted from pure mulberry silk.
I’ve been using this pillowcase at home for a month, and I found that it stayed in place without slipping out of my pillow (unlike some others i've tested before) and kept my curly hair protected from snagging throughout the night. My only wish? That they came in a pair.
We have to admit, these silk pillowcases are so popular that many colours are often out of stock. If you find a shade that complements your decor, we recommend acting quickly.
Save when you shop for the best hair bonnets and anti-allergy pillows with these Marks & Spencer discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Unusually for silk bedding, the pillowcase comes in a good range of colourways, including subtle shades of mink, mint, and soft green.
Cons- Nothing to see here!
7/15Best teal silk pillowcase
Organic Mulberry Silk Standard Pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For 5-star reviews.
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm.
- Silk: 19-momme mulberry silk.
- Colourways: 14.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: From John Lewis's Ultimate Collection, this mulberry silk pillowcase is available in 14 stunning colours. Made with organic silk and GOTS certified, it's naturally hypoallergenic and sustainably produced, allowing us to sleep soundly knowing it's eco-friendly.
While the claims of keeping skin hydrated and preventing hair snagging are hard to measure, I did find it cooling on warm, balmy nights and appreciated that it maintained the 'cool side of the pillow' feel throughout the night.
As a naturally hot sleeper, I still find the pillowcase to still be useful despite the cold weather – the silk fabric helps regulate temperature, keeping me cool without feeling chilled. The breathable nature of silk allows for air circulation, which is especially helpful for those prone to night sweats or hot flashes.
Save when you shop for the best silk pillowcase and the best satin pillowcase with these John Lewis promo codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Loads of colours to pick from.
Cons- Washing instructions are a cool hand wash inside out only using a fine mesh laundry bag with a specialist silk liquid detergent and no fabric softener.
8/15Best rated silk pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: Credentials.
- Dimensions: 76cm x 51cm.
- Silk: 100% mulberry silk.
- Colourways: Six.
- Tested by: Samantha Reynolds, PA to Deborah Joseph, UK Editor In Chief & European Editorial Director.
Why we love it: SLIP silk pillowcases reign supreme, and it's no wonder why when the designs are as soft and sumptuous as this one!
I’ve been using the SLIP pillowcase for a few weeks, and it’s been a game-changer. The silk feels incredibly smooth, and it has really helped reduce frizz in my hair while I sleep. It stays in place all night, and I wake up with my skin feeling softer too. My only regret is not getting one sooner!
Our team also love the brand's matching scrunchies, turbans and eye masks. Our hair's never felt so smooth!
Save when you shop for the best silk pillowcase with these Cult Beauty promo codes.
Pros & ConsPros- It's the most popular, tried and tested.
Cons- It's quite expensive, especially if you want more than one for your bed.
- 9/15
Best silk gift set
Specifications:
- Best: Gift for a loved one.
- Dimensions: 28 x 15cm.
- Silk: 100% 19 momme mulberry silk.
- Colourways: One.
- Tested by: Hattie Cotmore, Associate Visuals Editor.
Why we love it: Dusk's silk gift set comes with a 100% mulberry silk pillowcase, scrunchie and eye mask, everything you need for a luxurious night's sleep. The pillowcase is soft to the touch, making it comfortable to sleep on – especially if you’re a side sleeper who smushes their face into the pillow like me.
I love the ivory colourway, it’s a sleek addition to other bedding styles. And if it doesn’t match your bed linen perfectly just slip it to the bottom of your pillows until you go to bed.
Whilst it’s hard to say if the silk is improving my hair and skin, my complexion is looking pretty glowy right now, and I’m inclined to think the silk may be playing a part in that. It’s also a pretty gift for friends who like something a little indulgent.
Pros & ConsPros- The gift set includes an eye mask, a scrunchie, and a matching pillowcase set.
Cons- It's only available in one colour.
10/15Best housewife style silk pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: Cooling pillowcase.
- Dimensions: 50 x 75cm.
- Silk: 100% mulberry silk 22 momme.
- Colourways: Two.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This mulberry silk pillowcase offers exceptional temperature-regulating properties, making it an ideal choice for year-round use.
Made from 22 momme mulberry silk, it’s incredibly breathable, cooling, and moisture-retentive. It has truly enhanced my sleep experience, keeping me comfortable and refreshed throughout the night.
While Scooms' has a more limited colour selection, with only an ivory or black hue to pick from, it stands out for its attractive pricing. At £50 for a standard size, and £55 for a king size, it's one of the most affordable pillowcases in our edit.
Pros & ConsPros- Comes in a gift box, machine washable and OEKO-TEX certified.
Cons- None here!
11/15Best grey silk pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For beauty sleep.
- Dimensions: 75 x 50cm.
- Silk: 22 momme mulberry silk.
- Colourways: 3.
- Tested by: Neamh Randall, Commerce Photo Editor.
Why we love it: I’ve been looking to upgrade my bed linen for a while, so this silk pillowcase was a fantastic addition to my bed. The softness feels wonderful against my skin and has significantly reduced the frizz from my usually tangled bedhead.
As someone with sensitive skin, I appreciate that it’s free from harmful dyes and chemicals. Plus, it comes in a beautifully packaged gift box, making it a thoughtful gift option for someone special.
Pros & ConsPros- Zipper or envelope style to pick from.
Cons- Nothing here!
12/15Best silk pillowcase for curly hair
Specifications:
- Best: For curly hair.
- Dimensions: 50cm x 75cm.
- Silk: 100% 19 momme mulberry silk.
- Colourways: Two.
- Tested by: Shaunelle Harrydass-Clark, Intern.
Why we love it: As someone who has never used silk pillowcase before, I wasn't certain that introducing one to my routine would make a difference.
It's safe to say I have been proven wrong, because this pillowcase from Only Curls has honestly been a godsend. It's oh-so soft to sleep on and has done wonders for both my textured curly hair and my skin. It's even helped keep me keep cool during the recent London heatwaves and helped me to regulate my temperatures while sleeping – (no more flipping my pillow in the middle of the night woohoo!).
My hair has been feeling softer and silkier and I have definitely been waking up with more manageable curls. My skin has also been a lot softer when I wake up and I have noticed a reduction in the amount of breakouts I’ve been experiencing. I will definitely be investing in more silk pillowcases and maybe even silk bedding in the future.
Pros & ConsPros- Ideal for all curl types, it helps maintain your curls overnight.
Cons- None here!
13/15Best hair protecting silk pillowcase
Akoya Pearl Standard Sized Silk Pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For hair-protection.
- Dimensions: 75 x 50 cm.
- Silk: 22 momme silk.
- Colourways: 10.
- Tested by: Hattie Cotmore, Associate Visuals Editor.
Why we love it: We've waxed lyrical about how Drowsy's sleep masks have dramatically improved our sleep, so naturally, we were eager to try the brand's silk pillowcases. In short: they exceeded our expectations.
I love the look of Drowsy's 22 momme silk pillowcases. You can't beat silk for a touch of added luxury to your bedroom. In any of the ten colourways this would make an old pillow look chic, but the pearl is my favourite for a failsafe match with any bedding.
The smooth fabric reduces friction, which is gentle on my hair and skin, and the envelope closure ensures the pillow stays securely in place. If you're looking to upgrade your skin and hair care routines this is an investment worth considering.
Pros & ConsPros- Available in a wealth of gorgeous hues.
Cons- None here!
14/15Best hypoallergenic silk pillowcase
The Big Silk Hypoallergenic Pillowcase
Specifications:
- Best: For allergy sufferers
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm
- Silk: 100% mulberry
- Colourways: Two
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: The Big Silk’s bestselling pillowcase is made from 100% mulberry silk and is renowned for its anti-frizz and anti-bed head properties. It’s little wonder it’s garnered a host of devoted fans.
Importantly, it lives up to its claims so you can say goodbye to frizzy hair and sleep creases. It's worth noting that it's available in just one colour — a lovely soft pink — so if that shade doesn’t suit your bedroom decor, this option might not be the best fit.
Pros & ConsPros- The pillowcase is beautifully crafted and features subtle embroidered branding.
Cons- It’s pretty expensive.
15/15Best pleated silk pillowcase
Pair of Pleated Silk Pillowcases
Specifications:
- Best: Decorative detail
- Dimensions: 75cm x 50cm
- Silk: 19-momme natural silk
- Colourways: One
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This pair of luxury pillowcases combines all the benefits of pure silk with on-trend ruffles. Unapologetically girly, the pleated border adds textural interest to the bedroom while the fabric brings a beautiful sheen.
With its timeless and refined design, these pillowcases will complement any style of bed linen. They come in a pure cotton case that’s perfect for storing and protecting bed linens or for travel, making it a thoughtful gift idea for loved ones.
For a coordinated look, matching cushion covers are also available to layer a variety of pillows on your bed for extra dimension.
Pros & ConsPros- These statement pillowcases boast a classic design and are beautifully handcrafted and finished.
Cons- At over £100 per pillowcase, you’ll need to justify the outlay.
Is slip or blissy better?
This ultimately depends on your personal preferences as both brands offer high-quality options. Slip is best known for its luxurious feel and durability — something we’ve experienced firsthand when testing —and is frequently recommended by dermatologists. Blissy, however, is praised for its hypoallergenic properties and more affordable price point. If you're new to silk pillowcases and want to try them out before fully committing, Blissy is a great option for transitioning from cotton to silk bedding.
Is it worth buying a silk pillowcase? The verdict:
Silk, derived from domesticated silkworms, is widely agreed to be less likely to contribute to fine lines than your average cotton pillowcase, which doesn’t have such a smooth surface. Plus, silk pillowcases might even make your beauty routine more effective – they won’t pull the hydration out of your skincare products overnight, meaning your creams and serums will actually have a chance to penetrate the skin’s barrier and do their job. “They keep your products from escaping from your skin, so you can really ensure they are penetrating,” says celebrity facialist and La Mer global skin care adviser Georgia Louise.
Perhaps most importantly? Just like your silk scrunchie, or silk sleep masks, silk pillowcases lessen the chances of breakage, frizz and split ends caused by moving around in your sleep, making for smoother, healthier hair. Silk bedding also proves a great choice for curly hair, so if you’re as obsessed with the viral Curly Girl Method as we are, add in a silk pillowcase to the regime and your ringlets will thank you for it.
As for other health benefits, the material is naturally breathable, hypoallergenic and prevents the build-up of dust mites, fungus, mould, and other allergens, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. Silk pillowcases also tend to be great at temperature regulating, which means less flipping of your pillow over to the cool side.
While the effects of silk pillowcases on skin and hair are still under-researched, a few studies (like this 2019 article) have found promising results. Empirically, though, the material’s benefits are easy to see – just read the reviews for any silk pillowcase and you'll be convinced. Ready to switch over to a truly luxe silk pillowslip? Thought so.
