You want to be on the lookout for fabrics that are hypoallergenic and breathable, that reduce friction and therefore irritation, and don't soak up a ton of products like face creams and serums so that the oils and any bacteria fester on your bedding. These include: Silk pillowcases. Satin pillowcases.
The best pillowcases for acne are breathable, soft, and easy to clean. This helps reduce moisture buildup and skin irritation. Certain materials, like bamboo-derived fabrics and silk, tend to be softer and gentler on the skin.
The smoothness of the material can help reduce irritation and resulting inflammation. At the same time, satin pillowcases tend to absorb less, reducing the risk of oil and bacteria buildup pressing against your face as you sleep.
Satin is one of the best materials for pores. The silky material allows pores to breathe throughout the night which reduces the chances of acne. Similarly, if you are prone to dry skin and require a lot of moisture to keep your skin looking supple and youthful, satin can help.
Although some articles say that satin can cause breakouts, this may not be true. It doesn't really matters what material your pillowcase is made of, if it is not changed regularly, then it can have more grime, dirt and sweat.
While both of these soft, slippery fabrics are smart choices, one comes out on top. “Silk is my go-to for my patients with acne or acne-prone skin,” said VanHoose. “Silk is superior because it is made from 100 percent pure, natural fiber. It's smooth and breathable and it doesn't harbor bacteria.”
Dermatologists have suggested that natural fibres are the best for your skin, think organic cotton, wool, cashmere, hemp, silk, alpaca, and linen. Properties of organic fabrics, like the fact that they are soft, moisture-wicking, and hypoallergenic always work best for the skin.
With silk and satin pillowcases, skin is able to breathe more which helps with minimizing pores, reducing irritation and redness, and increasing firmness. Regardless of the type, change pillowcases every few days because the natural oils and product residue from your hair can clog facial pores and lead to acne.
Which one you choose comes down to a few factors, like price and preference. "I like satin more because it's less expensive than silk, but it's also smoother than silk, reducing the friction between the hair strands and the pillowcase," says Dr. Isfahan Chambers-Harris, Trichologist, Ph. D.
The texture of the fabric helps to retain natural shine and freshly blown out and styled hair." Silk is hypoallergenic and less absorbent, preventing the trapping of oil or bacteria on the pillowcase, which benefits the skin and complexion as well.
Sleeping position
If you sleep sideways, you are most likely to have acne on the side of your face, including the cheeks. Sleeping on your back is perhaps the most appropriate way as there is minimal contact between the surface and your face in this position.
Mack says she would recommend switching your pillowcases every two to three days and the rest of your bedding every week. Now, she says every day or every other day is ideal.
But Itsines may be on to something: Experts say if you have acne-prone skin, cozying up to clean fabric at night may help keep your complexion clear. "Dirt, bacteria, and often makeup collect on a pillowcase," says Debra Jaliman, a New York City-based dermatologist and creator of the Sea Radiance skincare line.
Some of the most common skin-friendly fabrics are “cotton, linen, cashmere, silk, hemp and those made with wood pulp,” mentioned Sarkar. "Any fiber that has good conductive and wicking properties are good for people who have different skin conditions.” Another fiber worth investing in is bamboo.
Acne treatment needs time to work. Using a different product every few days can also irritate your skin, causing new breakouts. If a treatment works for you, you should notice some improvement in 4 to 6 weeks. It can take two to three months or longer to see clearing.
Bacteria and dirt will build up more slowly on silk or satin than on cotton, but you still need to wash it frequently. You don't want to be applying a fresh layer of skin irritants every time you go to sleep! For this reason, read the label carefully before deciding between silk or satin pillowcases.
Satin is also soft, so it won't pull at your skin or hair which means it's better compared to a cotton pillowcase and can help prevent the formation of wrinkles or reducing breakage and frizz.
Machine wash satin pillowcases with a gentle detergent and cold water on a delicate setting. Put the pillowcases in a mesh laundry bag for protection. Air dry them on a clothesline or on top of a fluffy towel away from direct sunlight. Use a steamer or an iron on low heat to get rid of wrinkles.