Are satin and silk the same?
At first glance, silk and satin might look similar. But in actuality, the two materials couldn't be more different.
Believe it or not, satin isn’t even a material—it's a weaving technique usually involving several types of (mostly) synthetic fibers like polyester, rayon, and nylon. Generally, satin is cheaply made, and because of that, it is easily snagged, torn, and damaged and needs replacing after only a few months.
On the other hand, silk is one of the highest-quality natural materials in the world, and the only naturally occurring filament fiber. Its threads are continuous and don't need to be stitched together—you can't pull a strand of silk into its component fibers. Mulberry silk is the most luxurious silk available because of its “pure, uniform color and long individual fibers.”
The bottom line? Satin is imitation silk.
Are satin pillowcases safe?
Believe it or not, the synthetic nature of satin (particularly when made with polyester) might make it toxic to your skin. The manufacturing process to create polyester satin can introduce harsh chemicals into the fabric, potentially harming your skin and hair.
According to research from Stockholm University, thousands of chemicals are found in some clothing items, and several of the substances "were not on the producers' lists and are suspected to be by-products, residues or chemicals added during transport."
Following the initial study, certain substances were identified for additional analysis. The factors contributing to the further testing were "occurrence, quantity, toxicity and how easily they may penetrate the skin." Disturbingly, "[t]he highest concentrations...were found in polyester."
Remember—at the end of the day, polyester is a plastic.
How can you tell if silk is safe?
Silk, on the other hand, is a natural fiber. And we take silk one step further by guaranteeing it’s clean and safe for you and your family. Fishers Finery silk is Oeko-Tex Made in Green certified.
What does this label mean for you? It gives you peace of mind that the product you're bringing into your home has been:
- Tested for more than 300 harmful substances
- Manufactured using environmentally friendly and socially responsible processes
The Made in Green label means a product has also earned Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and Oeko-Tex STeP certifications, which are the true, universal measure of quality and safety. In many cases, the criteria are more stringent than international requirements because Oeko-Tex tests for regulated and non-regulated substances, including:
- Banned azo dyes
- Carcinogenic and allergy-inducing colorants
- Pesticides for textiles made of natural fibers
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
- Tin organic compounds
- Chlorinated phenols
- Phthalates (softeners)
- PFOS
- PFOA
- Surfactant wetting agent residues (APEOS)
- And much more.
When you purchase from Fishers Finery, you can sleep easy knowing your silk is 100% safe.
What are the benefits of silk?
Beyond being non-toxic and better for the environment, silk pillowcases benefit your hair, skin, and sleep.
Preeti Gopinath, Associate Professor of Textiles at the New School's Parsons School of Design, explains, "[silk] has no joints and is perfectly smooth, which gives it that shiny appearance and soft texture." Silk has a super smooth texture, allowing hair to glide over its surface without any friction.
Also, according to certified sleep science coach Carlie Gasia (via marthastewart.com), satin "retains heat," making it less comfortable and breathable than silk. Whereas silk has "'natural insulation and temperature-regulating properties [which] make it great for individuals who experience both hot and cold nights, making it versatile for all seasons.'"
Glamour interviewed Dr. Nicole Salame, FAAD, a general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatologist, who agrees that silk is the key to better hair and skin, "'...silk helps retain both the moisture and natural oils of the hair. This prevents hair dryness and promotes hydration and shine...Silk is also hypoallergenic, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive scalps or eczema. Its cooling effect can also reduce sweat, which can further cause scalp irritation and damage.'"
Do yourself a favor—choose silk pillowcases over satin.
Silk is better than satin in every way. People might say they’re more expensive, but they last longer. And one silk pillowcase is cheaper than four satin ones. Even though satin looks similar to silk, it doesn’t come close to matching the “natural beauty, luxury, and versatility of silk.”
Ready to invest in silk? Trust the cleanest, most luxurious silk pillowcase available at the best price—Fishers Finery’s 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcases.
