Many people dread sleeping with wet hair, wondering if it causes damage to their hair. This article aims to explore the truth behind this myth and separate fact from fiction.
What Happens When You Sleep with Wet Hair?
When you go to bed with wet hair, your hair remains wet for the entire duration of your sleep. As you sleep, your head constantly moves around on the pillow, and this friction can cause your hair to break or become damaged.
Moreover, your hair is at its most vulnerable when it is wet, and when you toss and turn in bed, it is more likely to become tangled and knotted.
Does Sleeping with Wet Hair Cause Damage?
While sleeping with wet hair won’t necessarily cause damage on its own, it increases the risk of damage and breakage.
The friction and tangling caused by moving around in bed with wet hair can lead to hair damage over time, and if your hair is already fragile or damaged, sleeping with wet hair can worsen the condition.
The Dangers of Wet Hair
When your hair is wet, the cuticles on the outside of your hair shaft are lifted, leaving the inner cortex exposed. This can make your hair more susceptible to damage from the environment, as well as heat styling tools.
Additionally, wet hair is heavier than dry hair and can cause more tension on the scalp, leading to hair loss if you’re frequently sleeping with wet hair.
Tips to Avoid Damage from Sleeping with Wet Hair
If you must sleep with wet hair, there are several tips and tricks you can follow to reduce the risk of damage:.
- Blot your hair with a towel to remove excess moisture before going to bed.
- Avoid going to bed with soaking wet hair. Give your hair time to air dry before getting into bed.
- Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce the friction between your hair and the pillow.
- Avoid using a tight hairband or hair tie when sleeping.
- If you have long hair, plait it before going to bed to prevent tangles and friction.
Conclusion
While sleeping with wet hair won’t necessarily cause damage on its own, it increases the risk of damage if you frequently do so.
When you sleep with wet hair, the friction and tangling caused by moving around in bed can lead to hair damage over time. It is advisable to dry your hair before bed, and if you must sleep with wet hair, take steps to minimize the damage caused by friction and tangling.