Are silk pillowcases really good for your skin and hair?(2)

4. Do silk pillowcases keep my hair healthy?

In some ways, yes: They help keep moisture in the hair, and Schultz says that silk can help with brittle hair. Cotton is more porous than silk, so while traditional pillowcases absorb moisture from the hair, silk keeps it where it belongs: in the hair. This means that if your hair is dry or your scalp is flaky, a silk pillowcase will be a godsend.

5. Can silk pillowcases regulate temperature?

Silk may not be the coolest bedding option, but it does regulate temperature. According to Lexie Sachs, associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's textile lab, silk fibers themselves have the ability to regulate temperature. Unlike cotton, which absorbs moisture, silk wicks it away, keeping you dry and cool all night.

6. Do silk pillowcases prevent acne?

Not necessarily. It's true that silk doesn't absorb moisture like cotton, but you shouldn't expect it to clear up acne or prevent it. Instead, if you suffer from acne or adult acne, you're better off with an acne-clearing skin care regimen (and stop touching your face!) .

7. Are silk pillowcases naturally hypoallergenic?

Unless your allergies are directly related to your bedding, don't bet on it. Schultz says the claim that silk is naturally hypoallergenic is "not relevant to most people." If you do suffer from allergies, try adding a mattress protector to your bed to block out allergens and environmental irritants, and make sure you wash your bedding regularly.

8. Do the amino acids in silk pillowcases improve your skin?

Not really. Schultz explains that while silk contains amino acids and natural proteins (and amino acids are great for skin care), they are not transferable to the skin and do not provide any measurable benefits.

9. Do silk pillowcases prevent hair split ends?

The slick texture of silk prevents tangles and frizz, but it does not completely prevent hair breakage and damage. Instead, try using a deep conditioner and regular trims to prevent split ends.

10. Can silk pillowcases be anti-aging?

Sort of. Silk pillowcases can reduce wrinkles and improve the hydration of your skin, which can make you look younger. But if anti-aging is your goal, remember that fine lines and "wrinkles only make up 5% of your face". That means you also need to combat signs of dull skin and uneven skin tone with the right products and treatments.