Silk and sleep wrinkles
What are sleep wrinkles?
Sleep wrinkles are the wrinkles that form when the face is subjected to pressure from the pillow – typically when sleeping on the side. Unlike regular wrinkles, which are mainly caused by aging and facial expressions, sleep wrinkles form as a result of repeated pressure and friction against the skin while we sleep.
When the skin is pressed against the pillow night after night, temporary folds and lines can appear. Over time, this repeated pressure can develop into more permanent wrinkles, which are also visible when awake.

Sleep wrinkles normally occur on areas of the face that come into contact with the pillow, such as cheeks, forehead, or chin. They can be more pronounced and take longer to settle compared to temporary wrinkles formed by facial expressions like smiling or frowning.
While sleep wrinkles usually disappear during the day, repeated formation of these wrinkles over time can contribute to the development of more permanent wrinkles and signs of aging on the face. Therefore, using soft and smooth materials like silk pillowcases can help reduce friction and pressure on the skin during sleep and thus reduce the occurrence of sleep wrinkles.
How do you avoid sleep wrinkles?
There are several ways you can try to avoid or reduce the occurrence of sleep wrinkles. Here are some tips:
Choose the right pillowcase: Use silk or satin covers instead of cotton covers. Silk and satin have a smooth surface that reduces friction against the skin and thus decreases wrinkle formation. Silk is, however, the most optimal choice because it is a natural and breathable material that is both softer and gentler on the skin than synthetic satin. At Cillouettes, we offer a wide range of silk pillowcases. You can find them all right here.
Sleep on your back: Sleeping on your back instead of on your side or stomach can help reduce pressure and friction against the face and thus lower the risk of sleep wrinkles. It may be a habit that takes time to get used to, but it can be worth trying.
Use a silk or satin pillow: In addition to the pillowcase, you can also consider using a whole pillow made of silk or satin. These materials provide a smooth surface that reduces friction and pressure on the skin.
Be mindful of pillow height: Choose a pillow that provides adequate support for the neck and head, but avoid a pillow that is too high, as this can create more pressure on the face and thus increase the risk of sleep wrinkles.
Try facial exercises and massage: Regular facial exercises and possibly massage can help increase blood circulation and relax the facial muscles. This can help reduce tension and decrease wrinkle formation.
Skincare before bedtime: Apply a moisturizing night cream or serum before bedtime to hydrate and nourish the skin. This can help keep the skin moist and elastic, which can contribute to reducing the visibility of sleep wrinkles.
Avoid tightening the skin: Try to avoid putting pressure on or pulling the skin when you sleep. Avoid sleeping with your face pressed against the pillow or with your hands under your head, as this can increase the risk of wrinkles. At Cillouettes, we sell our popular anti-wrinkle pillow. A pillow specially designed to help you practice sleeping on your back, while keeping your face completely free when you sleep on your side.
Be aware that although these tips can help reduce the occurrence of sleep wrinkles, they cannot completely prevent them. Sleep wrinkles are a natural part of aging and will occur in most people over the years. However, it is possible to reduce their visibility by taking some of the above precautions.
