Silk vs satin pillowcase: what’s the difference?
Shopping for a smooth pillowcase, you will see two words everywhere: silk and satin. They look similar, they both feel smooth – and satin is often much cheaper. So what is the difference between a silk and a satin pillowcase, and does it matter for your hair and skin?
The short answer
Silk is a fibre. Satin is a weave. Silk is a natural protein fibre made by silkworms. Satin is a way of weaving threads to create a glossy surface – and it can be made from silk, but most satin pillowcases are made from polyester, a synthetic fibre.
Silk vs satin at a glance
| Mulberry silk | Polyester satin | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Natural protein fibre | Synthetic (plastic-based) |
| Feel | Soft, smooth, natural sheen | Slippery, glossy |
| Breathability | High | Low |
| Temperature | Cool on warm nights, cosy in winter | Can feel warm and clammy |
| Friction against hair | Low | Low |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Hair: both are smooth – but not equal
Both silk and satin have a smooth surface, so both cause less friction than cotton. That is why satin pillowcases are often sold as a budget alternative for frizz-prone hair. The difference is in comfort and breathability: silk is a natural fibre that breathes, while polyester traps more heat.
Skin and comfort: where silk wins
Because polyester does not breathe well, a satin pillowcase can feel warm and sticky on your face, especially on warm nights or if you sleep hot. Silk is breathable and feels pleasant on the skin all year round. Silk also absorbs less moisture than cotton, so more of your night cream stays on your skin.
How to tell real silk from satin
- Check the label: real silk says “100% silk” or “100% mulberry silk”. “Satin”, “silky” or “silk-feel” usually means polyester.
- Look for momme: silk is measured in momme (e.g. 22 momme). Polyester satin is not.
- Feel it: silk feels soft and slightly warm to the touch and has a soft, pearly sheen; polyester satin is more slippery with a glassy shine.
- Price: a very cheap “silk” pillowcase is almost always satin.
So which should you choose?
If budget is the main concern, a satin pillowcase is better for your hair than rough cotton. But if you want a natural, breathable fabric that feels good on your skin every night, choose 100% mulberry silk. Our silk pillowcases are made from grade 6A mulberry silk in a substantial 22 momme weight, OEKO-TEX® certified. Learn more about why we chose mulberry silk.
Frequently asked questions
Is satin as good as silk for hair?
Satin also reduces friction compared with cotton, so it can help with frizz. But it is less breathable and can feel warm, which is why many people prefer real silk.
Is a “satin silk” pillowcase real silk?
Only if the label says 100% silk. Satin describes the weave; the fibre can be silk or polyester.
What does 22 momme mean?
Momme measures the density of silk. 22 momme is a high-quality weight – denser and more durable than the 16–19 momme often used in cheaper pillowcases.
Still deciding? Read our comparison silk vs cotton pillowcase.
