The Surprising Benefits of Silk

One of the most coveted fabrics in the world, it seems that silk should be reserved only for the most luxurious occasions. From the emperors of ancient Chinese dynasties to style icon Coco Chanel, this material was meant for sophistication, elegance, and glamour. Today, silk is purchased by anybody who's willing to invest in it for several reasons, apart from its appearance and feel. Here are some of the more surprising benefits of silk that you may not have known about.

Silk Can Improve Sleep Quality

Being comfortable is necessary for quality sleep, so a good sleeping environment is essential. Factors such as noise levels, room darkness, and temperature are ideal for the most comfortable sleeping conditions, as explained on the CDC website.

Using silk for your beddings can help you keep cool as it's a breathable fabric, and it also controls moisture. Plus, silk is smooth, soft, and incredibly comfortable to lie on. These conditions encourage your body to relax and fall into deeper sleep for improved sleep quality.

It’s Ideal for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin caused by conditions like atopic dermatitis (eczema) can benefit from silk thanks to its smooth, non-irritating fibers. Unlike other fabrics, silk doesn’t absorb moisture from the skin, allowing it to stay hydrated and prevent dryness. While sleeping on a silk pillowcase can help your delicate facial skin, silk can be a perfect fit for your wardrobe too. Fortunately, silk is widely used in fashion today. You can often find it used for clothing items like slip or sheath dresses.

Sheath dresses are an excellent option if you’re looking for something you can use for several occasions. The fitted, straight, and tight silhouette highlights your body’s shape and adheres to fashion’s “rule of thirds,” as discussed here. Since a sheath dress takes up a third of your top and two-thirds of the bottom, it is a very flattering choice for perfect proportions and a taller and leaner appearance. Silk pajamas are also a popular option today and are a great alternative if you prefer not to go with silk sheets. There are many designs and lengths to choose from to ensure sensitive skin remains cool and moisturized with no irritants.

Silk Prevents Allergies

Another excellent property of silk is that it rarely ever causes allergies. Not only is it free of potentially irritating chemicals, but the silk fibers are also naturally designed to protect silkworms from predators like dust mites.

These fibers secrete a protein to repel allergy-inducing mites, mold, and fungi, an impressive characteristic that silk does not lose even after being woven into clothing for humans.

It Helps Promote Better Skin and Hair

Silk has also been shown to benefit the skin when paired with a proper skincare regimen and good hygiene practices, such as switching your pillowcases out every week.

Since silk fiber is much smoother than cotton, it can help prevent new wrinkles by reducing the friction on your face as you sleep. This also reduces tangles, frizz, and damage to hair, as explained by a Washington Post article. While silk is not solely responsible for such results, it goes a long way in contributing to them with your self-care routine!

Silk is more than just a soft and luxurious fabric. The technology used to harvest silk fibers and create a sturdy, breathable, yet delicate material has made it possible to enjoy its benefits listed above. It's a versatile fabric that is perfect for warm summer nights and an excellent staple for every season, even fall, which we discuss in our blog post, Why Silk is your Next Fall Must Have. Whether you choose a dress, pillowcase, or a set of pajamas, investing in silk means choosing a fabric that is as beneficial as it is beautiful.

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