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Best Silk Pillowcase for Hair Breakage: Momme Count & Grade to Prevent Damage
Key Takeaways
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Silk pillowcases reduce friction that causes hair breakage, protecting fine, fragile, or treated hair overnight.
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Hair damage occurs when the protective cuticle is lifted; smoother surfaces, such as silk, retain moisture and prevent brittleness.
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Momme count matters: 19 momme provides basic protection, 22 momme pillowcases offer a smoother, denser surface, and 25 momme delivers maximum protection for fragile or over-processed hair.
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Silk grade affects performance: 6A is the highest quality, with long, uniform filaments that minimize friction, while 5A and 4A are slightly less uniform and durable but still better than cotton or synthetic fabrics.
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Mayfairsilk offers premium Grade 6A Mulberry silk pillowcases, sheets, and accessories in 22–25 momme, designed to protect hair and skin while combining luxury, durability, and responsibly sourced materials.
What is the Best Silk Pillowcase for Hair Breakage?
The best silk pillowcase for hair breakage is a 25 momme Grade 6A Mulberry silk pillowcase, as its dense, ultra-smooth surface provides maximum friction reduction and long-lasting protection for fragile, fine, colour-treated, or heat-styled hair. The higher momme count creates a stronger, more uniform weave that allows hair to glide freely, helping prevent cuticle lifting, moisture loss, and overnight breakage.
A leading option is the 25 momme pillowcase from Mayfairsilk, crafted from premium Grade 6A Mulberry silk and finished for consistent smoothness. Its durability, breathability, and responsibly sourced materials make it a reliable choice for maintaining healthier strands and reducing damage over time.
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Mayfairsilk: Luxurious Slumber in Matte Silk As Featured in Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar & Vanity Fair  Experience True Silk Luxury:
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What Momme Count Means for Your Hair's Health
Momme count measures the density and quality of silk, similar to thread count for cotton. Higher momme means more silk per square inch, a smoother surface, and good protection for hair.
For healthy, strong hair, momme affects how well friction is minimised and how the pillowcase holds up over time.
25 Momme: Premium Protection with Mayfairsilk
Pillowcases from Mayfairsilk in the 25 momme range provide the perfect combination of luxury, durability, and hair protection. The denser silk allows hair to glide smoothly while maintaining its integrity after repeated washes.
These pillowcases are ideal for fine, colour-treated, or heat-styled hair, as well as fragile or over-processed strands, helping reduce breakage and keeping hair healthier night after night. The premium silk content makes them a worthwhile long-term investment for hair care.
19–22 Momme: Entry-Level to Optimal Protection
19 momme pillowcases provide a gentle introduction to silk, reducing friction compared to cotton. They are lighter and less dense, which can make them slightly more delicate over time. Suitable for healthy hair or minimal styling, they provide adequate protection but may not be ideal for frequent heat styling, colouring, or chemical treatments.
22 momme pillowcases offer a smoother, denser surface that glides easily over hair and provides more durable protection for most hair types. They are ideal for fine or moderately styled hair, striking a balance between luxury and everyday use. The only drawback is that they are slightly heavier than 19 momme and may feel less lightweight on the pillow for those who prefer an ultra-light option.
At Mayfairsilk, all our pillowcases are made from 25 momme Mulberry silk, while our bed sheets are crafted in 22 momme.
Momme counts of 22–25 provide smoother, denser silk that offers good hair protection.
Silk Grades Explained: 6A vs 5A vs 4A
Beyond momme weight, silk grade impacts how well a pillowcase protects your hair. Grades indicate the quality of silk filaments: higher grades have longer, more uniform filaments with fewer imperfections, resulting in a smoother surface that reduces hair breakage.
While less advertised than momme, grade can be just as important for hair health.
6A Grade: The Gold Standard for Hair Protection
6A silk represents the highest quality commercially available, made of the longest, most uniform filaments. Our 25 momme pillowcases and 22 momme bed sheets are all made from the same Grade 6A long-fibre mulberry silk, creating an exceptionally smooth surface that minimises friction.
This is particularly beneficial for fragile or processed hair. While 6A silk commands a premium price, its protection makes it a worthwhile investment for healthier, stronger hair.
6A Mulberry silk provides a uniform, ultra-smooth surface that protects treated hair.
Lower Grades: 5A & 4A
5A and 4A silk still provide hair benefits compared to cotton or synthetic fabrics, but the filaments are shorter and less uniform.
This can lead to slightly more friction for frizzy hair and less long-term durability. These grades are suitable for lighter use or less fragile hair, but may not deliver the same level of protective performance over time as 6A silk.
Make Your Final Decision: Which Silk Pillowcase Is Right For You
Choosing the right silk pillowcase depends on your hair type, styling habits, and overall hair care goals. For moderately healthy hair seeking preventive protection, a 22 momme pillowcase provides a smooth, durable surface that reduces friction without being overly heavy. Those with fragile, over-processed, or severely damaged hair may benefit from 25 momme pillowcases, which provide maximum smoothness, durability, and enhanced protection during sleep.
Practical factors such as washing preferences, rotation options, and replacement frequency also influence your choice. Even the finest silk pillowcase is only one part of a complete hair care routine. For the best results, pair your pillowcase with nourishing hair products, gentle styling methods, and a balanced diet that supports hair strength.
By combining a high-quality silk pillowcase with attentive daytime care, you can minimise breakage, lock in moisture, reduce frizz, and maintain overall hair health. A protective sleep surface not only supports stronger strands but also promotes shinier, softer hair, making a silk pillowcase a valuable investment in your hair’s well-being.
Mayfairsilk: Luxury Silk for Hair & Skin
At Mayfairsilk, we offer a premium range of silk pillowcases, bed sheets, and accessories crafted to elevate your nightly routine. Our collection includes 25 momme pillowcases, 22 momme sheets, and a selection of silk essentials, such as eye masks and scrunchies, all designed with timeless colours and refined finishes that enhance elegance and comfort in the bedroom.
Mayfairsilk pillowcases help maintain hair moisture and reduce frizz, supporting shinier strands.
What makes our silk unique is the use of Grade 6A long-fibre Mulberry silk across both our 25 momme pillowcases and 22 momme sheets. This creates an exceptionally smooth, dense surface that reduces friction, helps prevent hair breakage, and supports moisture retention for healthier hair and skin. The careful weave and matte finish enhance durability while maintaining a luxurious, soft feel.
Sustainability is at the heart of our production. Our silk is naturally biodegradable and created through environmentally conscious processes, and every product is certified to OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 to ensure it is free from harmful chemicals and dyes. This commitment allows you to enjoy luxurious, long-lasting silk products that are as safe and responsible as they are beautiful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can silk pillowcases completely stop hair breakage?
Silk pillowcases significantly reduce friction-related hair breakage but cannot prevent all damage, which also comes from heat styling, chemical treatments, and overall hair health.
They are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive hair care routine that includes gentle products, regular trims, and proper nutrition. Premium options like Mayfairsilk pillowcases combine smooth, durable silk with careful craftsmanship, providing a protective sleep surface that supports healthier hair over time.
How often should I wash my silk pillowcase to maintain its benefits?
Regular washing removes oils, sweat, and product buildup that can roughen the silk surface, but over-washing can gradually wear down the fibres. Rotating between two pillowcases helps maintain a smooth, clean surface without compromising the silk’s protective qualities.
What's the difference between silk and satin pillowcases for hair?
Silk is a natural protein fibre that mirrors the structure of human hair, reducing friction and preserving moisture. Satin, often made from polyester or blends, is smoother than cotton but lacks silk’s natural hair-friendly properties, so it offers less protection against breakage and dryness.
Are machine-washable silk pillowcases as effective as hand-wash-only options?
Machine-washable silk can provide the same hair protection as hand-wash options when designed with reinforced seams and high-quality mulberry silk. Following care instructions ensures the fibres stay smooth, durable, and effective at reducing friction.
Can men with short hair benefit from silk pillowcases, too?
Yes. Silk reduces friction on short hair, helping prevent breakage and maintaining hair density. Its smooth surface also helps styled hair last longer and regulates scalp moisture, reducing dryness, irritation, and thinning over time.
*Note: The prices and product listings mentioned above are approximate and may vary over time or by location. Actual costs can differ based on pricing policies, provider experience, and market conditions.