How Your Pillows Could Be Sabotaging Your Skin
We spend roughly one-third of our lives sleeping, and during this time, our skin comes into close contact with our pillows and pillowcases. While we may not give much thought to our bedding, it could be harboring some unwanted guests that can wreak havoc on our skin.
2/12/20242 min read
The Dirty Truth About Pillows and Pillowcases
Our pillows and pillowcases can accumulate a variety of substances that can be detrimental to our skin health:
Oil and dirt: Throughout the night, our skin produces oil and sheds dead skin cells, which can transfer onto our pillows and pillowcases.
Allergens: Pillows can be a haven for allergens such as pet dander, dust, and dust mites, which can trigger skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Over time, these substances build up on our bedding, creating an environment that can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and other skin concerns.
How to Keep Your Pillows and Pillowcases Clean
To minimize the impact of dirty pillows and pillowcases on your skin, follow these simple tips:
Wash your pillows once a month: Aim to wash your pillows at least once a month to remove accumulated dirt, oil, and allergens. Check the care labels for specific washing instructions.
Change your pillowcases weekly: Pillowcases should be changed and washed on a weekly basis to prevent the buildup of skin-irritating substances.
Consider silk or bamboo bedding: Silk and bamboo pillowcases are less likely to absorb moisture and oil from your skin compared to cotton pillowcases. They also create less friction against your skin, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair
In addition to keeping your bedding clean, it's important to avoid sleeping with wet hair. When you sleep with wet hair, the moisture can create a damp environment on your pillow, which can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi. This, in turn, can lead to scalp irritation and even fungal infections.
To protect your skin and scalp, make sure your hair is completely dry before going to bed. If you must sleep with damp hair, consider using a silk or satin pillowcase, as these materials are less absorbent than cotton and can help prevent moisture from collecting on your pillow.