David E. Bank, director and founder of The Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery.
“Acne mechanica is any type of acne that is the result of material or objects touching your face. When your pillowcase isn’t laundered or changed regularly, a build-up of dirt and oil from the environment as well as your skin and hair touching the pillow is transferred back to your skin. This can clog pores and cause blemishes.” It probably doesn’t matter what material your pillowcase is made of, but rather what’s lurking on it. Although some articles say that satin can cause breakouts, Dr. Bank believes this is not necessarily true. He explains,