While setting up a bedroom, many focus on bed frames and sheets, paying little attention to pillowcases. However, pillows make the most contact with your face and hair, making them as crucial, if not more.
A person typically spends 8-10 hours asleep, meaning that the skin and hair spend at least half a day in contact with pillowcases. Many dermatologists suggest purchasing a linen or eucalyptus pillowcase to address skin or acne issues. The numerous options in the market can leave confusion. Worry not because this guide breaks down what you should examine while purchasing pillowcases.
How does a Pillowcase affect Skin and Hair?
Micro-cuts
The leading cause of facial redness and acne is microtears and cuts. Almost everyone moves while asleep, and the skin rubs against the pillowcase during this time. Rougher and less refined materials can create tiny micro-cuts due to friction. These cuts cause redness and inflammation and are susceptible to infection (acne).
Moisture-wicking
Pillowcase fabrics that do not wick moisture effectively don’t let the skin breathe. The buildup of oils and sweat irritates the skin by clogging the pores, encouraging acne and pimple formation.
Dirt
Even if the pillowcase is absorbent, it needs regular cleaning. The buildup of dirt and sweat in the fabric can encourage bacterial growth, leading to acne.
Frizz
Everyone deals with bedhead. However, the extent is under your control. Friction between the pillowcase and your hair creates static charges, resulting in frizz. Satin and silk pillowcases create less friction, fixing your bedhead.
Pillowcase Materials and their Benefits
Eucalyptus
Tencel uses wood pulp fibers to provide consumers with an eco-friendly alternative. A eucalyptus pillowcase is more breathable than cotton, more sustainable than bamboo, and softer than linen. It is a fabric that offers a better alternative to other materials.
Moreover, eucalyptus pillowcases are hypoallergenic and completely natural, making them perfect for those with easily irritable skin.
It is efficient in moisture-wicking and is incredibly gentle on the skin.
Cotton
Cotton pillowcases are usually available in cotton-polyester blends since 100% natural cotton is not consistently super soft. Cotton is ultra-breathable and wicks moisture. However, it does little to help with bedhead.
Wool
Woolen pillowcases are perfect for cool weather. They are natural moisture-wicking insulators that keep you warm and dry through the night. Woolen blends are also hypoallergenic, preventing any inflammation and redness.
Satin
Satin is less absorbent and does not wick moisture. These properties help the skin and hair preserve moisture balance. However, this is possible only in cool to moderate weather. Unlike silk or cotton, satin does not absorb oils or night creams, making overnight skincare routines more effective.
Satin pillowcases are cool to touch and easier to maintain than silk and other luxurious fabrics.
Satin pillowcases prevent knotting and tangling due to less friction. These properties exponentially reduce hair loss.
Silk
Silk pillowcases are the best for those who despise bedhead and hair loss. Although not vegan, silk is gentle on the hair and prevents knotting, tangling, and hair breakage. It is relatively less absorbent but does absorb skin products like overnight cream. It is a hot fabric, and using silk pillowcases in the summer could cause acne. However, silk remains one of the best fabrics for hair.
Maintenance
To prevent dirt buildup, regularly wash pillowcases at least once a week. Always read and follow label instructions for washing. Always ensure that the pillowcase is compatible with the weather – using a silk pillowcase in the summer could be disastrous for the skin.
After choosing a pillowcase, ensure that you handle the materials with adequate caution.
