Use a microfiber towel to dry your hair if necessary. They gently speed up water absorption while leaving less of a frizzy effect in their wake. [2] X Research source One best practice for hair health at any time of day is to avoid drying it intensely on high heat. Use a lower setting and keep the hair dryer about 6 inches from your hair. [3] X Research source If you must sleep with wet hair, use a satin pillowcase and fan your hair out over the pillow so it’ll dry evenly. Don’t tie it up because the hair tie will just create more friction.
If possible, time your showers to that your hair will have a few hours to gently air dry before you head to bed. Give your hair a quick blast of cold water at the end of each shower, too. The cold water helps seal moisture into your hair, giving it a healthier overall look.
Silk and satin are similar in texture; the main difference is that satin is a weave, whereas silk is a natural fiber fabric. They have the same protective effect on hair, so either is a great choice! Cotton pillowcases also have a tendency to absorb moisture from your hair. Even if you’re a peaceful sleeper whose head barely moves at night, your cotton pillowcase may be draining your hair’s natural moisture.
Plus, the smooth caps create an environment that lets your hair baste in its own natural oils throughout the night, which also improves hair health in the long run.
It’s safe to wear pulled-back styles like buns and braids for bed so long as your hair isn’t being pulled tightly from your scalp. Check to make sure your hair feels loose and comfortable before bed! Avoid continually wearing tight, pulled-back styles during the day as well. This can increase hair thinning over time and lead to a condition known as “traction alopecia. ”[9] X Research source
Satin scrunchies are also less likely to leave your hair looking visibly dented in the morning, which in turn cuts back on the time you’ll need to style it!
Essential oils can also seal your hair to prevent split ends from forming. Don’t rub the essential oil into your scalp or the roots of your hair, especially if your hair is naturally on the oily side. This process is mainly to protect your tips!
For example, pick a moisturizing conditioner if your hair tends to dry out overnight. On the other hand, if it gets oily easily, look for a lighter formula with botanical extracts. Use a cap, scarf, or braiding to keep your hair well-contained and to keep from transferring the product to your pillowcase.
It’s also a good idea to use a cap or scarf to contain your hair when you use a hair mask and prevent the product from getting onto your bedding. Use this method periodically as a complement to your regular nighttime hair routine, not as a nightly occurrence. For dry hair, 1 or 2 times a week is more than enough. For oily hair, do treatments every 2 weeks.
It’s also easier to fall asleep comfortably in cool temperatures, so you’re more likely to get a good night’s sleep overall. You could also move a humidifier into your bedroom if it tends to have dry air. Adding moisture to the air will help your hair stay moisturized overnight.
