How Your Hair Dye & Styling Products Affect Your Silk Pillowcase

Silk pillowcases have truly become a beauty essential — they’re gentle on your hair, kind to your skin, and add a quiet, luxurious touch to any Australian bedroom. But what many Aussies don’t realise is that certain hair dyes and styling products can gradually damage this beautiful fabric over time.

At LS Silk, we occasionally hear from customers who notice unexpected wear or discolouration on their darker silk pillowcases. While silk is surprisingly durable for such a delicate fabric, it is — much like your hair — a protein fibre. And that means it can react to harsh ingredients in ways you might not expect.

Why Hair Colour and Styling Products Affect Silk

Silk is composed of natural protein threads, which are responsible for that unmistakable sheen and softness. But those same fibres are vulnerable to chemical changes — very much like hair itself.

Here’s a look at what can cause the damage:

• Hair Colour Chemicals: Freshly coloured hair can leave behind traces of peroxide, ammonia, or other colourants. These can alter the colour of your silk, weaken the fibres, or create rough patches — especially when the hair is still processing or hasn't been washed thoroughly enough.
• Styling Products: Hairsprays, serums, oils, and heat protectants may contain alcohols or silicones that cling to the silk surface. Over time, this can cause build-up, discolouration, or even breakdown of the weave.
• Dark Silk vs. Light Silk: While any silk can be affected, deeper **colours** such as navy, burgundy, or emerald tend to show damage more clearly. Fading, splotches, or subtle changes in sheen may be more visible than on ivory or blush.

How to Protect Your Silk Pillowcases

The good news? With just a few simple adjustments, you can easily extend the life of your silk pillowcases — and keep them looking as beautiful as the day they arrived.

🛁 Wait After Colouring

Avoid sleeping on silk immediately after colouring your hair. Give it a few washes to fully set and rinse out excess pigment.

💆♀️ Rinse Before Bed

If you’ve applied heavy products like dry shampoo, mousse, or oils, consider a quick rinse before bed — or use a protective hair wrap.

🧺 Use a Wash Bag (The Aussie way to wash!)

Always wash your silk pillowcases in a protective mesh bag, using a cold, gentle cycle and a pH-neutral detergent made specifically for silk. This is non-negotiable for longevity!

🔄 Rotate Regularly

Keep two or more silk pillowcases in rotation. This gives each one a much-needed break between uses — especially helpful if you regularly treat your hair with colour.

🎨 Consider Lighter Colours

If you frequently dye your hair, opting for lighter shades like ivory or rose gold may help reduce visible marks over time.

Treat Your Silk Like You Treat Your Hair

Silk is a beautiful, natural fabric — but just like your hair, it truly thrives with a little mindful care. By being aware of the products you use and how they interact with your bedding, you can preserve the beauty and luxurious feel of your silk pillowcases for years to come.

At LS Silk, our pillowcases are proudly crafted from 22-momme premium mulberry silk, designed to be both luxurious and long-lasting for the Australian climate. And if you ever notice anything unusual, our customer care team is here to help troubleshoot and guide you in getting the very best from your silk.