When you consider your skin- and hair-care non-negotiables, your bedding might not come to mind. But (as our testers quickly found out), the quality, materials, and design of your pillowcase could be to blame for redness, dryness, shedding, and the overall health of your skin and hair.

While fabrics, such as cotton, jersey blends, or linen, can strip your hair and skin of its natural oils, silk is a much gentler option that can prevent lines and wrinkles and keep your hair and skin looking healthy and fresh.

Not only is silk hypoallergenic and antimicrobial2, the material also helps maintain your hair health. Garlapati agrees that there are many benefits to sleeping with a silk pillowcase. “[Silk pillowcases] are hypoallergenic making them a great option for those with eczema or sensitive skin,” she explains, adding that they provide anti-aging benefits since they do not tug at the skin.

“Silk pillowcases also have antimicrobial properties and prevent the transfer of skincare products which offers a benefit to those with acne prone skin,” Garlapati says. “They don’t absorb moisture from skin and hair, which reduces hair frizz, breakage, and shedding.”

We love the natural cooling effect of silk, too, which makes for a more comfortable sleep no matter what time of year it is (or what climate you live in). These pillowcases are also aesthetically pleasing and help bring a sense of luxury to your bedroom, without needing to overhaul your whole decor or bedding.

The only downside Garlapati notes is that silk pillowcases are often on the pricier side. When you consider the amount of money many people spend on skincare and hair products, though, investing in a silk pillowcase feels like a no-brainer—especially if the alternative options could be stripping your skin and hair from those very products you’re counting on.