Silk - it’s the material that can give your beauty sleep extra benefits. From anti-crease pillowcases to bedhead-beating hair wraps, these are the bedtime upgrades worth making
As we’re sure you’re well aware of by now, we love a time-saver here at GTG. We’re all for anything that makes our mornings go that little bit smoother, from multitasking makeup to beauty storage ideas that keep things nice and organised. However, there’s one that’s increasing in popularity as of late due to its ability to start working well before the sun comes up - silk.
In particular, a silk pillowcase can be your secret weapon when it comes to fighting bedhead. As top hair stylist Jamie Stevens explains:
“When you sleep, your head creates friction against your pillow which causes breakage, flyaways and frizz. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can help your hair slide rather than rub which means much shinier hair that’s in better condition. It will also help hold any blowdry for longer too.”
Its zero-tug appeal can also provide some welcome skin benefits, namely protecting cheeks from dreaded pillow crease. Silk can also be less irritating than synthetic fabrics and, as silk’s less absorbent than cotton, it won’t rob moisture from your skin, leaving your face softer and suppler in the morning. Some even say that a silk pillowcase can prevent fine lines from becoming deeper too.
That being said though, don’t expect one to make you look 10 years younger. As Dr Ewoma Ukeleghe, medical and cosmetic doctor and founder of SKNDOCTOR highlights, more scientific evidence is needed to support their anti-ageing claims. “If you have particularly sensitive skin, then it may be worth testing out a silk pillowcase,” she tells me. Think of them more as a supplement to your skincare regime - a retinol product and SPF should be your first ports of call in her opinion.
Going silk from the neck down could offer up some worthwhile benefits too, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. It's also one of the lightest fabrics you can get and tends to adjust to body temperature as well.
The main drawback? The cost of pure silk will leave a dent in your bank account. Considering that we spend around a third of our lives sleeping though, it’s a price many are willing to pay to make that time count for as much as possible.
Here are seven silk bedtime upgrades to get you started.
Slip Queen Silk Pillowcase, £79
If you find cotton or synthetic fabrics a bit scratchy or irritating, this anti-crease pillowcase made from 100 per cent pure mulberry silk’s for you. Available in 10 colours, there’s an option for every bedroom decor.
Silke London Hair Wraps, £45 each
These stylish hair wraps are for those who like to keep their hair out of their face but don’t like the tug of a hairband. Just twist up hair into a bun at the top of your head and pop it on - a bit like you would a swimming cap, but far more chic.
John Lewis & Partners Silk Pyjama Set in Silver, £110
You won’t want to wear anything else after slipping these PJs on. With subtle contrasting piping along the hemlines and collar, and a relaxed fit for extra comfort, they’re the perfect gift to someone else or, y’know, yourself.
Slip Silk Eye Mask, £45
A silk eye mask tends to be gentler on the delicate skin around the eye area in our experience. There are loads out there, but this is a firm favourite. It feels luxe but practical - its thickness and elasticated band prevent it from slipping off in the middle of the night.
Holistic Silk Pillowcase, £65
Infused with dried lavender, this is part silk pillowcase, part pillow spray . Dreamy.
Slip Pure Silk Large Hair Scrunchies, £39 for three
Ideal for the kink or breakage-prone, these scrunchies provide a snag-free alternative to traditional hair bands.
John Lewis & Partners Silk Piped Dressing Gown in Pink, £110
Again, you’ll want to wear this both indoors and outdoors. With contrast piping on the neck and cuffs and a tie at the waist, it offers up instant old Hollywood glamour - regardless of how un-Hollywood the pyjamas you’ve got on underneath are.
Read more: This is the best sleeping position for your health and skin.