There’s a reason we call it beauty sleep: a good night’s rest can erase dark circles and transform a tired complexion, leaving you looking and feeling as fresh as a daisy.
It’s not always possible to get the recommended seven to nine hours of shut-eye a night, however, so could your choice of bedding enhance your skin – and prevent bedhead hair – while you snooze?
Some beauty buffs won’t sleep on anything but silk, and now there are even copper and skincare-infused pillowcases promising to smooth your strands and decrease the signs of ageing.
But do these fabrics really make a difference, or will catching enough Zs keep your hair and skin at their healthiest?
What happens to skin while we sleep?
“While we sleep, skin cells regenerate, and the production of collagen and elastin, two essential proteins for skin elasticity and youthfulness, increases,” says Dr Radmila Lukian, dermatologist at Lucia Clinic.
“Moreover, the skin’s protective barrier strengthens, helping it retain moisture and shield against environmental stressors.”
That’s why you can end up with a dull, lacklustre complexion if you’ve not been getting enough rest.
“Increased blood flow to the skin during sleep delivers the necessary oxygen and nutrients for cell renewal,” says Dr. Johannes Uys, GP at Broadgate General Practice.
“Adequate sleep will contribute towards a healthier complexion as a result, while poor sleep can lead to skin issues such as dryness and premature ageing.”
How important is sleep for hair health?
“Deep sleep is vital for hair as this is when the body repairs and regenerates hair cells,” says Mark Blake, globally recognised trichologist and Nioxin ambassador.
If you’re suffering with stress, sleep gives your body a break and a chance to recover.
“Stress can cause hair loss conditions such as telogen effluvium,” says Blake, meaning temporary shedding of hair.
“Sleep is the time your body does a form of damage control, sending anti-inflammatory agents to areas of damage: repairing, replacing, and removing damaged cells in the body. ”
Can your pillowcase fabric have a detrimental impact?
“The fabric of your pillowcase can have a notable effect on your skin,” says Lukian.
“Coarse or abrasive fabrics can lead to friction, potentially causing skin irritation and even tiny tears.”
This can be particularly problematic for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Cotton could, Uys says: “Lead to frizz or hair tangles because of increased friction, and may also potentially dry out the skin because of its greater propensity to absorb moisture.”
While there’s no evidence that friction during the night can cause hair loss, if you don’t wash your pillowcase frequently enough (ideally once a week), it could affect the condition of your hair.
Blake says: “Bacteria, sebum and general dirt can be transferred from your pillowcase back on to clean hair leaving it dull, lank, and lifeless when you wake up.”
What’s the best type of pillowcase for skin and hair?
If you want the smoothest and least absorbent pillowcase, experts say silk is usually the best – but also the most expensive – option, unless you’re vegan, as it’s derived from insects.
“Silk pillowcases reduce friction, which can help prevent wrinkles,” says Lukian. “Silk is also less likely to absorb moisture from your skin, aiding in maintaining skin hydration.”
Satin, which is a silk-like textile woven from a variety of materials, is a cheaper alternative, she says: “Satin pillowcases have a smooth surface that reduces friction and can be a suitable choice for those concerned about skin health.”
If you prefer a crisp cotton pillowcase, Lukian recommends: “Look for ones with a high thread count, as they tend to be smoother and gentler on the skin. Cotton is breathable and can help prevent overheating during sleep.”
Blake agrees that silk is the top choice when it comes to looking after your hair.
“The tight weave gives a smooth, slippery surface helping prevent bed head allowing you to wake up with the same hairstyle you went to bed with,” he says.
“Silk pillowcases cannot hold bacteria, fungus or mould and so are not a breeding ground or health hazard.”
Could the new generation of high-tech pillowcases supercharge your sleep?
“These products often incorporate materials like copper-infused fabric, with the promise of promoting collagen production and reducing wrinkles,” Lukian explains.
“Skincare-infused and ‘anti-ageing’ pillowcases may offer some benefits, but should not replace a holistic skincare routine and healthy lifestyle choices when aiming to maintain youthful and healthy skin.”
