THE SCIENCE OF CLEMENTINE'S SILK
The chemistry behind organic silk is fascinating and underpins its unique benefits. Many know some of it's benefits but few understand the unique molecular properties which make it far more than just a luxury fabric. In the scientific community, the medicinal, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties are well documented and studied, yet rarely shared with the broader public. We thought we should, and highlight the reasons why we decided to focus on only 100% organic certified.
The Benefits of silk
Silk’s healing properties for hair and skin are well discussed and documented because of its unique amino acid composition, protein rich makeup, and smooth texture.
HYDRATION SUPPORT
The sericin of silk provides a natural moisture barrier, enhancing hydration and offering UV protection to promote healthier and smoother skin.
COLLAGEN ELASTICITY
Most users report firmer, more elastic skin within days of using a silk pillowcase at night. The structure of included fibroin shares similarities with human collagen, working to support elasticity and aiding in the reduction of fine lines.
HEALING PROPERTIES
Fibroin’s similar structure to collagen has other benefits including its bio compatibility (ability for it to be compatible with living tissue with no adverse reactions), and promoting cell adhesion which can support skin and tissue regeneration. Because of these properties, silk fibroin is often used in cosmetic and medical products
HYPOALLERGENIC BENEFITS
Organic silk’s natural hypoallergenic properties make it dust resistant, anti bacterial, and lighter on the epidermis. This is beneficial for all, though especially those with sensitive or acne-prone conditions.
HYDRATION MAINTENANCE
Sericin helps hair to retain moisture by forming a protective, semi-permeable film on the hair shaft, reducing the amount of water that evaporates from the hair. This is a unique property compared to other fabrics.
PROTEIN ENRICHMENT
Since hair is primarily made of keratin, another protein, the amino acids in raw silk can form a protective barrier and provide a supplementary protein treatment.
HAIR STRENGTH
Fibroin’s elastic properties impart a degree of flexibility to the hair, helping it withstand tension and manipulation without snapping.
FRICTION REDUCTION
Smooth natural fibers help reduce friction, which means less breakage and frizz when your hair rubs against it (e.g., during sleep on silk pillowcases).
The Properties of silk
Silk is an extremely protein rich fiber composed mainly of two proteins: sericin and fibroin. These proteins are responsible for the material’s unique physical properties, such as strength, durability, and healing. Fibroin forms the central core of the thread, and sericin acts as the gum-like coating, binding the filaments together at a molecular level.
Not all created equal
Not all silk is created equal though. Chemicals, toxins, and plastic blends used in the production of many disrupt the molecular structure and reduce, even remove, its natural benefits.
Clementine’s mulberry silk is cultivated without pesticides or chemicals, preserving the integrity of it's natural protein structure. Beyond pesticides, when standard dyes, chemical washes to straighten the fabric, or any kind of harsh detergents are used in the production, its benefits are severely reduced, sometimes even nullified. These washes also have a harmful impact to our oceans and environment.
PURITY AND EFFICACY
Chemical-free raw silk retains its full natural protein structure, which is ideal for skin and hair health, helping the fullness of it's medicinal benefits come to the forefront.
DIRECT CONTACT
With no microscopic layer between the silk and your skin or hair, the full benefits of its natural sericin and fibroin amino structure are enhanced.
CLEANLINESS AND HYPOALLERGENIC
Chemical free organic silk is perfect for those with sensitivities, as there are no residues that could cause irritation.
STRENGTH AND DURABILITY
Without harsh chemicals weakening the natural fibers, the organic nature of this fabric maintains its natural strength and durability, meaning that garments can last longer without losing their shape or luster.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Fabric produced without harmful chemicals has a lower environmental footprint. The absence of pesticides and fertilizers used in the cultivation of mulberry trees or production of the fabric protects ecosystems and reduces water pollution.
BIODEGRADABILITY
When a chemical-free silk garment reaches the end of its life, it is fully biodegradable. It can decompose naturally, adding the fabric's nutrients back into the soil without leaving harmful residues.
Enhancing Silk
In a world first, we have taken our 100% GOTS certified organic 6A silk and infused actives through a process called in situ silver nano particle synthesization. These have become oru Silver Ion and Atelier Medica collections.
The only organic silver ion embedded silk in the market, and offers medical grade luxury for all skin and hair types.
CLINICALLY STUDIED
Independent clinical studies show that silver ion infused silk is a proven antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal treatment.
ADVANCED SKIN BENEFITS
Actively eliminates 99.9% of acne causing bacteria. Silver ion silk is clinically tested for the elimination of bacteria colonization in acne, eczema and other inflammatory conditions.
ACCELERATED HEALING
Accelerated healing of scar tissue and broken hair follicles
LASTS WITHOUT WASHING
An enhanced medical grade antibacterial fabric, Clementine's silver ion collection lasts without washing for up to 3-5 times longer than conventional silk, actively killing bacteria, mold, and fungi, with enhanced odor resistant properties.
PREVENTATIVE
Beyond the natural benefits of organic silk, when infused with silver ions, it is proven to assist in the prevention of acne, eczema, and skin rashes on sensitivitivies.
MEDICAL ANTI-AGING
Boosted anti-ageing benefits with increased amino proteins from infused silver ions. Silver nanoparticles offer antioxidant benefits to fight against free radicals.
DISCOVER THE SILVER ION COLLECTION
The world’s most advanced organic silk, infused with cellular renewal actives; Hyaluronic acid, Squalane, & Marine collagen peptides, and Silver ions. Each active delivers revitalizing cellular benefits to skin and hair on touch via a micelle molecule delivery system. Atelier Medica by Clementine Sleepwear is the height of cosmetic textiles and the most luxurious and regenerative natural mulberry silk on the planet.
Infused hyaluronic acid:
- Restored volume and plumpness to skin
- Hydration support for skin, eyes, and hair
- Dewy appearance and skin revitalization
Infused Squalane:
- Fast absorption moisturizing benefits
- Strengthened skin and hair barrier
- Proactive prevention of wrinkles and hair follicle breakage
Infused Marine collagen peptides
- Firmer strengthened elasticity support
- Collagen level boost
- Acne and sensitive skin support
Infused Silver ions
- Clinically proven to eliminate bacteria on surface of skin and hair
- Fights free radicals with antioxidant benefits
- Accelerated healing and tissue regeneration
- Advanced acne support
DISCOVER ATELIER MEDICA
PURE PRODUCTION ENRICHES CONCENTRATION
The sericin and fibroin in silk doesn’t “run out,” but its concentration and effectiveness can diminish if exposed to harsh chemicals, extreme pH levels, or high temperatures during production or washing. That’s why choosing an organic brand that’s free from chemicals and pesticides during production is essential to realizing the full benefits that the fabric has to offer
FABRIC THAT IS CARED FOR
The way that silk is cared for can affect the longevity and efficacy of its sericin. Gentle washing, either by hand or on a delicate cycle with pH-neutral and silk-friendly detergents, helps to maintain the integrity of sericin within the natural fibers.
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Explain it to me like I’m a scientist
The healing properties of silk are often attributed to its unique physical properties which can mimic bio active peptides. Peptides are known for their ability to send cellular signals, and it's peptide-like structure is thought to do the same when it comes to skin healing and hair restoration. Like a peptide (a short form amino acid protein chain), silk fibroin and sericin (a much longer amino acid protein chain) contains a specific sequence of amino acids, primarily glycine, alanine, and serine, which are organized in a repetitive pattern. The result is thought to promote healing in biomedical contexts, and this is why this fabric is often researched for these purposes as a fabric, or derived cream.
When we realized this, we worked with labs around the world to infuse actual peptides into the fabric, the result being our Atelier Medica collection, BlueSign approved, 100% GOTS organic certified, and OEKO-Tex credentialed.
WOUND HEALING
Studies suggest that silk fibroin and sericin supports wound healing by forming a semi-occlusive film that can control and up regulate moisture levels at wound sites to promote healing. What’s more the breath-ability and anti-bacterial properties of the fabric's sericin add an extra layer of infection protection and bacteria repelling.
TISSUE REGENERATION
In the same way that peptides work, silk’s properties can help to up regulate cellular repair, promote cell proliferation, and support the skin’s natural healing processes. The structural properties of fibroin can provide a scaffold that supports the wound healing process, facilitating tissue regeneration.
ANTI-AGING EFFECTS
Fibroin has been studied for its potential anti-aging effects, possibly due to its ability to bond with skin and protect it while promoting a firm, smooth texture.
CELL PROLIFERATION
Studies suggest that sericin may promote the proliferation of fibroblasts (proliferation meaning rapid increase), which are key cells involved in the healing process for skin. As with all studies, the effectiveness can vary from person to person, though the signs are promising.
THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS
Due to its bio compatibility and beneficial amino acid composition, silk is also being researched for various therapeutic applications, including in the development of antimicrobial and antiviral agents.
CLIFF NOTES
Find here the cliff notes on sericin, fibroin, collagen, and peptides
SERICIN
Sericin is a natural and robust protein that acts as the “natural glue” which holds the silk fibers together. Sericin is rich in amino acids which are known to be beneficial for both skin healing and hair health. It acts as a natural moisturizer, and its film-forming properties can create a protective barrier, helping to retain moisture and reduce trans-epidermal water loss. For hair, sericin coats the fibers and strands, providing a protective layer which enhances shine and reduces frizziness.
FIBROIN
This is the core protein in silk fiber, making up the central structure. It's known for its robust mechanical properties and similarity to collagen, and it offers high flexibility, tensile strength, and biocompatibility. These properties allow the fabric's fibroin to form a breathable, second-skin layer when worn which has restorative and healing properties for the skin and hair. This can help maintain hydration and ensure proper thermoregulation. For hair, fibroin offers less friction than other materials, helping to keep hair smooth, untangled, and less prone to breakage.
COLLAGEN
Collagen is a protein commonly associated with elasticity and youthfulness. In the context of silk, collagen is not present as a separate entity but belongs to the same family as fibroin. Fibroin has a structure that’s similar to collagen found in human skin, which can mimic its beneficial properties when used in textiles. The close contact with this natural protein has been shown to support skin’s elasticity and can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines. In our Atelier Medica collection, Marine collagen peptides have been infused as additional actives into the fabric.
PEPTIDES
While conventional silk does not contain peptides in the form that skincare and haircare products might, it shares some functional similarities through its protein-based composition. Proteins like sericin and fibroin can form protective barriers and help maintain moisture, much like some peptides do when applied. Peptides are known for their ability to send cellular signals, and silk’s peptide-like structure is thought to do the same when it comes to epidermus healing and hair restoration. Within our Atelier Medica, the added benefits of marine collagen peptides provide a peptide boost to the fabric benefits through a micelle delivery system.
LEARN ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY
As a natural material, our Clementine products are fully biodegradable and unlike some brands with chemical washes and pesticides used, it can decompose naturally, adding nutrients back into the soil without leaving harmful residues.
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