A Silk Pillowcase or A Satin Pillowcase?

You’ve probably heard people talking about silk pillowcases – should you get one too?

Satin pillowcases are much cheaper, but is the price difference worth paying for real silk?

Here’s a story from one of our customers:

Joanna’s Experience with Silk

Hi, I’m Joanna – a big fan of silk. This is how my silk journey started.

I wanted to replace my old cotton pillowcase because I kept seeing people raving about silk pillowcase. The idea that you could get smoother hair and softer skin just by sleeping sounded amazing – no fancy routines or products needed. As a busy mum, that really appealed to me.

I started looking online and saw some brands selling silk pillowcases for $80–$100 each. That seemed a bit much, so I hunted around for cheaper ones. I bought a “silk pillowcases” for under $10. Bargain, right? Well, not really – they were satin. I didn’t know the difference back then.

When it arrived, it was shiny and super slippery. I tried it that night, hoping I’d wake up with smooth hair and glowing skin. But apart from feeling slippery, nothing felt special. Actually, I didn’t even like the slippery texture. My skin is sensitive, and in winter it gets dry and itchy. With those “silk” pillowcases, my face felt irritated and red. My hair also got static. After a few nights, I went back to my old cotton pillowcase. At least I hadn’t wasted $100!

I didn’t think about it again until my mum gave me a real silk pillowcase from SPOIL ME SILK N’ PEARLS for my birthday. I told her I’d tried silk before and didn’t like it. She laughed and said, “Those cheap ones were probably satin. Real silk is different.”

When I compared my $10 “silk” pillowcase with the one my mum gave me, they looked similar at first glance. But the real silk felt softer, finer, and lighter. I couldn’t tell a huge difference by just touching them, but once I slept on the real silk, I understood.

It was so smooth and soft – not that fake, plasticky slipperiness satin has. My hair didn’t magically become shiny overnight, but it wasn’t as tangled or frizzy when I woke up. My skin felt calm and comfortable – no irritation at all. Plus, the silk stayed cool, which helped me sleep better.

Thanks to my mum’s gift, I fell in love with silk. I’ve since tried other silk products, and I’m hooked. Once you start your silk journey, you won’t go back!

Thanks to SPOIL ME SILK N’ PEARLS, a reliable store that sells genuine silk at a reasonable price, I’m no longer worried that silk is too expensive to afford.

Silk vs Satin – What’s the Difference?

The comparison of silk pillowcase and satin pillowcase

*Note: The texture of both silk and satin material can also vary depending on the weave technique used. Sometimes, the weave and finishing of satin can make its texture very similar to silk, making it hard to tell the difference by hand feel alone.

What are Prons and Cons of Silk vs Satin?

Which is Better for Natural Hair – Silk or Satin?

When comparing silk to satin (polyester) for natural hair, both fabrics reduce frizz and breakage by creating a smooth surface that minimises friction.

Silk is a natural fibre that is soft, breathable, and helps hair retain its natural oils, keeping it moisturised and healthy. It’s also skin-friendly, making it ideal for sensitive or easily irritated skin, as it doesn’t cause friction or absorb moisture like cotton. In addition, silk regulates temperature and feels luxurious, but it is more expensive and requires gentle care.

Polyester satin, on the other hand, is made from synthetic fibres. While it offers similar smoothness to protect hair, it’s not as breathable or skin-friendly as silk and can sometimes cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin. However, it is far more affordable and easier to wash, making it a practical option for those who want hair protection on a budget. Both work well for reducing frizz, but silk remains the premium choice for overall hair and skin health.

Is Mulberry Silk Real Silk?

Yes, mulberry silk is real silk—in fact, it’s considered the highest quality silk available. It comes from the cocoons of silkworms that are exclusively fed mulberry leaves, which results in fibres that are smoother, stronger, and more uniform than other types of silk.

Because of its purity and long, continuous fibres, mulberry silk feels softer, has a natural sheen, and is more durable compared to lower-grade silks or synthetic alternatives. It’s 100% natural, hypoallergenic, and gentle on both hair and skin, making it a premium choice for pillowcases, bedding, and clothing.

Why Does My Satin Pillowcase Say 100% Polyester?

If your satin pillowcase says 100% polyester, it means the fabric is entirely synthetic and not made from natural silk. Satin refers to the weave, not the fibre itself—it’s a weaving technique that gives the fabric a smooth, glossy finish on one side and a dull surface on the other.

Most of the time, if the material is real silk, sellers will clearly emphasise the word “silk” (e.g., “100% mulberry silk”) instead of calling it satin or silk satin. When a product is marketed as satin, it’s usually made from polyester or other synthetic fibres, as polyester satin is cheaper to produce but still offers a smooth texture that helps reduce hair frizz. However, unlike silk, polyester satin is less breathable, doesn’t retain moisture as well, and may not be as gentle on sensitive skin.

How Much Should a Silk Pillowcase to Buy?

What is the Best Silk Pillowcase to Buy?

SPOIL ME SILK PILLOWCASE & SILK PRODUCTS