Silk and satin are often confused, yet they have nothing in common. While you might think satin is a fabric like silk, you might be surprised to learn that it's actually... a weave!
Yes, "satin" doesn't refer to a material, but rather to a way of weaving threads. Depending on the fiber used (silk, cotton, polyester, etc.), the appearance and quality of the resulting fabric vary considerably. Here's everything you need to know to distinguish between the two worlds and avoid making a mistake when buying.
Silk : a noble and beneficial natural material
Silk is a naturally occurring fiber produced from the cocoon of the silkworm, the silk moth. It has been known for centuries for its softness, delicate sheen, and ability to breathe and adjust to body temperature.
Its smooth texture reduces friction, preserves skin and hair moisture, and makes it ideal for sensitive or blemish-prone skin. It's also hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and naturally thermoregulating: cool in summer, comforting in winter.
With us, you'll find these qualities in our 100% mulberry silk pillowcases , woven from a weight of 19 mommes, the ideal density for combining lightness, strength and comfort. They are available in square or rectangular formats , to suit all habits. And to prolong the pleasure, we also offer silk kimonos, which are elegant, breathable and incredibly comfortable to wear.
Satin : a weaving technique, not a material
Unlike silk, satin is not a fiber but a weaving method , which creates a smooth, shiny surface on the front and a matte surface on the back. This weave can be applied to natural materials (such as cotton or silk) or synthetic materials (such as polyester).
It is this shine that makes satin visually similar to silk, especially when it is made of polyester. But be careful : polyester satin has neither the virtues, nor the nobility, nor the comfort of real silk. It is a derivative of plastic, made from petroleum, which does not allow the skin to breathe, creates static electricity, promotes perspiration and retains impurities.
Silk vs. Satin : Differences That Matter
While the two may seem similar at first glance, their day-to-day effects are very different.
Silk is a precious material that acts as a passive treatment: it preserves moisture, soothes irritation, reduces frizz, and protects hair. Synthetic satin, on the other hand, offers none of this. It can even have the opposite effect, by poorly absorbing moisture, heating the skin, and promoting nighttime discomforts (perspiration, blemishes, flyaways, etc.).
How to recognize real silk ?
Here are some simple tips to tell if you're dealing with real silk, without having to damage the fabric:
- Look at the light : silk reflects light gently, with natural, slightly changing reflections. Polyester, on the other hand, shines evenly, almost like a plastic.
- Feel it : Silk is soft yet slightly grippy. It glides elegantly, but lacks the artificial slipperiness of synthetic satin.
- Rub it between your fingers : real silk sometimes produces a very characteristic, slight rustling sound, called “the rustling of silk.” A discreet detail… but one that doesn’t deceive.
How to care for your silk pillowcase (or kimono) ?
Silk deserves some care to ensure it lasts. Here are our tips for care:
- Machine wash at 30°C, on a delicate cycle, in a protective net.
- Avoid the dryer : prefer air drying, away from sunlight.
- Dry cleaning possible with perchloroethylene, normal cycle.
- Use a mild detergent, without bleaching agents or harsh enzymes.
In summary : silk, a conscious choice
Choosing silk means choosing an authentic material that cares for you while you sleep. It respects your skin, protects your hair, regulates your body temperature, and offers unparalleled comfort. It's more than just a fabric: it's a beauty gesture, a moment of well-being, a natural luxury you can feel every day.
Satin, especially synthetic satin, can give the illusion of comfort. But behind the lustrous appearance, it offers none of the benefits of real silk.
Now that you know the difference, you'll know exactly what to choose and why !