What Does Hypoallergenic Mean? Fabric Guide for Sensitive Skin

 

For those with sensitive skin, finding bedding that doesn't cause irritation can be a real challenge. Certain fabrics like wool and polyester are notorious for causing issues for sensitive skin types. Symptoms like redness, itching, and bumps are common, making it difficult to get a good night's sleep.

The solution lies in hypoallergenic bedding. But what exactly does hypoallergenic mean? Simply put, it refers to bedding made with materials less likely to cause allergic reactions. Brands create hypoallergenic sheets, pillowcases, and comforters using tightly woven fabrics that limit the absorption of irritants like dust mites.

The good news is there are plenty of comfortable, soft hypoallergenic options available today. In this blog post, we'll overview:

• What makes bedding hypoallergenic
• The best hypoallergenic fabrics for sensitive skin<
• Things to look for when shopping for hypoallergenic bedding
• Reviews of our top hypoallergenic sheet and pillowcase picks

If you struggle with skin irritation from bedding, this guide is for you. Read on to learn how to create a skin-friendly oasis, so you can finally get some peaceful rest.

What Does Hypoallergenic Mean? 

The term "hypoallergenic" gets thrown around a lot, especially when it comes to bedding and fabrics. But what exactly does it mean?

Hypoallergenic simply means something is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. This could apply to anything including cosmetic products, laundry products, and even pets. For bedding, this usually refers to fabrics that are tightly woven to limit the absorption of common allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander.

However, there are currently no legal regulations around using the term hypoallergenic for textiles. Essentially, brands can slap this label on products even if they haven't been specially designed to reduce allergens that may cause an allergic reaction.

So how can you find the best fabrics for bedding that really are gentler on sensitive skin? Here are a few tips:

• Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX, which ensure fabrics are free of harmful chemicals.
• Check the product label for natural fibers like silk, linen, and bamboo. They naturally inhibit allergens better than synthetic fabrics.
• Read reviews and see what other users with allergies say about the bedding.
• Avoid irritating materials like wool and polyester.

While standard bedding is not completely allergen-free, hypoallergenic materials can virtually eliminate exposure. Carefully examine materials and features like labels, certifications, and washing guidance to discover the most skin-friendly and breathable bedding for your unique needs.

What You Should Know About Hypoallergenic Fabric 

Hypoallergenic is a word you see on fabric a lot, especially bedding. That’s because microscopic nooks and crannies in bedding fabrics can become a home for invisible allergens like pet dander and dust mites. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, about 20 million people have an allergic reaction to dust mites.

That fabric can also cause an allergic reaction because of the chemicals used in the processing, color dyes, or substances found in the fabric itself.

When it comes to fabric, though, hypoallergenic doesn’t just refer to allergens. 

Bedding touches your skin for hours. You move around on it, too. It can trap moisture and oil from your body. All these things can irritate sensitive skin. A rough weave can rub against it and cause itchy or dry patches to form. 

When the Word Hypoallergenic Fails You

The problem with the label hypoallergenic on fabric is that no one defines it. There are no federal standards determining when manufacturers can use the word and when they can’t. So, just because you see hypoallergenic fabrics on a bedding label doesn’t mean the product won’t cause skin irritation.

That means consumers with skin issues shouldn’t rely too heavily on the label. Understanding the fabric that will be touching your skin is more important. Instead, you need to look closer at the fabric itself. You need to be able to recognize synthetic materials and be able to pick out the material known to cause fewer allergic reactions. 

What are Some Popular Hypoallergenic Materials?

Which fabrics are truly hypoallergenic?

Some fabrics known to be skin-friendly include natural fabrics such as:

• Mulberry silk
• Flax-based materials like linen
• Organic cotton
• Bamboo
• Eucalyptus

There are also some synthetic options on the market, such as microfiber. Microfiber can be made of different materials, but it has a tight weave that is resistant to allergens. Just watch for synthetic dyes and harmful chemicals if you have allergies.

Which hypoallergenic material is the best?

Of all the hypoallergenic options, mulberry silk stands out as the ultimate skin-friendly fabric due to its ultra-soft texture and numerous hypoallergenic properties. In fact, let's take a closer look at why silk bedding is ideal for sensitive skin.

Silk: The Ultimate Hypoallergenic Fabric

Silk bedding provides a safe haven for sensitive skin. This luxurious fabric boasts unique properties ideal for allergy sufferers. Silk fibers contain a natural protein coating, creating a naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic material. Unlike other fabrics, silk repels the allergens and bacteria that cause reactions. Its smooth, irritation-resistant texture lets sensitive skin rest easily. For those who struggle with skin sensitivities, silk offers a trustworthy shelter.

Not only does silk help protect skin from irritation, a 2022 study shows that the protein on silk fibers actually has healing power. That means you could wake up with your skin feeling better than it did when you went to sleep. 

Silk provides a breathable barrier, resisting household allergens like dust mites and pet dander rather than absorbing them. Allergy sufferers can sleep soundly wrapped in the comfort of hypoallergenic silk, without the worry of irritants reaching their skin.

Silk Vs Other Hypoallergenic Fabrics

Silk is superior to other hypoallergenic fabrics because it doesn’t just avoid trapping allergens—its smooth fibers actively repel them. Silk contains natural proteins that moisturize skin and hair, unlike cotton which sucks moisture from your skin and hair.

While both silk and cotton have absorption properties to draw sweat from the skin, cotton holds onto the moisture rather than letting it evaporate. This can lead to irritation for sensitive skin types. It also encourages the growth of bacteria and can lead to acne breakouts.

Silk, on the other hand, whisks moisture away and allows it to evaporate, keeping skin comfortably dry.

The luxuriously smooth surface of silk lets skin glide across it without friction or irritation. You won’t find that friction-free experience with most other materials, even softened cotton.

Overall, silk stands out from other gentle fabrics due to its allergen-resistant properties, moisture control, and sheer smoothness—all benefits for sensitive skin.

Nothing Compares to Mulberry Silk

Mulberry silk isn't just naturally hypoallergenic, it takes it to the next level when it comes to luxury and comfort. Not only does mulberry silk protect sensitive skin from irritants, but it also makes it healthier. It helps to replenish moisture instead of drawing it out. 

For the same reason, beauty experts recommend mulberry silk for your pillowcases. It will keep your hair silky and smooth and frizz-free. You can look forward to spending less time styling your hair when you sleep on mulberry silk pillowcases  

Mulberry silk pillowcases are:

• Breathable
• Soft
• Hypoallergenic
• Cooling

But with so many silk pillowcases on the market, which should you buy?

Why Blissy Stands Out

In the world of hypoallergenic bedding, Blissy stands out for its high-quality, cooling mulberry silk pillowcases. Founded in 2019, Blissy creates next-generation pillowcases made from luxurious long-strand mulberry silk.

What makes Blissy the premier choice?

• OEKO-TEX Certification - Blissy silk is tested for over 100 harmful substances and certified free of toxic chemicals, dyes, and more. Not only is this safer for sensitive skin, it's more eco-friendly.
• Hidden Zipper - Blissy's hidden zipper is entirely hidden inside the pillowcase seam to prevent irritation. It also blocks dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens from entering your pillow.
• Endless Design Options - With over 50 colors and patterns, Blissy offers the widest selection of any mulberry silk brand. Find the perfect design to elevate your bedroom.
• Fast Free Shipping - Blissy provides free shipping on every order, with most arriving within 3 business days in the US.
• 5-Star Customer Service - Real sleep specialists are available 24/7 to provide personalized guidance and support your rest goals.
• 100k+ 5-Star Review - With over 100,000 glowing 5-star reviews, Blissy has earned the trust of customers for transforming their sleep and skin health. More rave reviews than any other silk brand.

As happy customers rave:

“My Blissy is the little indulgence that I look forward to all day…”

“The pillowcase is incredibly soft …and my hair looks amazing in the morning…”

“Not only do these silky mulberry pillowcases offer cool comfort and silky hair and skin but also that colorful pop for my bedroom and guest room decor.”

With its unparalleled quality, innovative design, and rave customer reviews, Blissy stands out as the premier mulberry silk brand. Treat yourself to the ultimate skin-friendly, luxurious sleep experience with Blissy mulberry silk pillowcases.