There’s a reason silk is as precious as it is – it makes us look and feel our best. While silk in liquid form has helped us unlock a new world of skincare possibilities, in its natural fiber form, it can also help maintain your health and vibrant looking hair.

We have all heard of the allure of silk sheets and pillowcases, but what many don’t know is what specifically about silk makes it so good for us. Humans have used silk in contact with hair and skin for over 5,000 years. It has been used as an under-layer when climbing Mount Everest and as pajamas on hot summer nights. Now, we would like to explain why editors at Marie Claire are raving about it for hair. We know that by using a silk pillowcase, you’ll wake up with smoother, less frizzy hair, but the benefits of silk aren’t limited to pillowcases.

The first natural wonder of silk is that it is produced as a single fiber averaging 900 meters long. Unlike cotton, which has to be combed and twisted into larger threads, silk is made as a single incredibly strong and thin fiber.

The second aspect of silk, the molecular level, is what is truly amazing. The fiber itself is comprised of a column of silk proteins stacked on top of one another. The silk protein segments then are folded into a crystal form. This highly organized structure is what gives silk its strength. However, the amazing thing is that these silk crystals are actually separated from one another through protein segments that work as very flexible springs. It is this unique combination of strength and flexibility that allows us to knit these strong thin silk fibers into ultra-smooth, lightweight and extremely durable fabrics.

Now you know what is happening at the protein level of silk to give you that morning look and feel you deserve. In a follow up post, we will share other unique features of silk that also make it great for your skin!