Are silk pillowcases really worth it? How to buy silk pillowcase in NZ?

Silk pillowcases are not new, but they seem to have exploded in popularity. Silk has been used for thousands of years in a variety of applications. It’s the only naturally occurring filament fiber, which means its threads are continuous and don’t need to be stitched together. Silk also regulates temperature well and doesn’t absorb much moisture. These properties are the main reasons for its supposed beauty benefits. Fibers that have to be spun together to form threads have rougher textures, such as cotton or linen. Because they contain more “corners,” even though they can be blended and treated to be softer.

Silk pillowcases are embraced by the beauty and wellness industries. Celebrities use them. Instagrammers love them. Hair stylists recommend them. This doesn’t mean you have to rush out to buy one. What silk does — and doesn’t do — for hair?

Heat styling, chemical treatments, color, and rough handling can weaken strands and create split ends and dryness, leading to breakage.
The benefits of a silk pillowcase are most pronounced for hair because the silk can help hair retain moisture from products and natural oils and reduce friction that could cause tangles and breakage. It’s especially beneficial for curly or natural hair, which doesn’t retain as much moisture as straight hair and is more prone to breakage. People with straighter or smoother textures could still benefit from reduced friction, but silk scarves or pillowcases aren’t essential for their hair care.

How to choose a silk pillowcase? There are numerous pillowcase options available in stores and online at prices ranging from $10 to more than $100. If you want to try one, look for a product made from 100% mulberry silk. Many products provide the momme count, a number up to 30 that indicates silk’s weight and density. However, it’s not the best unit for quality because metals or fillers can be added to artificially increase the number. Look for certification from the OEKO-TEX, which means the product doesn’t contain chemicals or additives.