Sometimes, the day just gets away from you. After a late-night shower, the last thing you want to do is stand around with a hairdryer. You might be tempted to just collapse into bed with your hair still damp. While it’s not the ideal routine for your hair’s health, it’s a reality for many of us. The good news is that with a few simple adjustments, you can minimize the damage and still wake up with presentable hair.
Choosing the Right Pillowcase for Your Hair
Your first line of defense is your pillowcase. Standard cotton pillowcases can create friction, leading to frizz and breakage, and they can also absorb the moisture from your hair, leaving it dehydrated. A better option is a pillowcase made of satin or silk. These smoother fabrics create less friction, which helps prevent tangles and frizz. They are also less absorbent, so your hair retains more of its natural moisture overnight.
Preparing Your Hair Before You Sleep
How you arrange your wet hair on the pillow makes all the difference. Never sleep with it tightly tied back, as the elastic can cause stress and breakage on damp, vulnerable strands. Instead, try a loose, low braid or a loose bun. This helps control the shape and reduces tangling. For shorter hair, you can simply let it flow freely above your head on the satin pillowcase. Applying a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray before you arrange it can also provide an extra layer of protection against friction and dryness.
Why a Wet Hair Bun Can Be Problematic
It might seem like a good idea to pile your wet hair into a high bun, but this can actually create issues. The core of the bun can stay wet for a very long time in a tightly packed state, creating a damp environment that is prone to bacterial or fungal growth. This can potentially lead to scalp irritation or even weaken the hair follicles over time. If you prefer an updo, the loose, low bun is a much safer and more effective choice.
Making Your Morning Routine Easier
When you wake up, carefully take down your braid or bun. You’ll likely find your hair has some gentle waves or texture. Gently finger-comb your hair to separate the waves instead of aggressively brushing, which can cause poofiness. If certain areas are still a bit damp, a quick blast with a blow-dryer on a cool setting will finish the job without adding heat damage. A light hair oil can then be applied to smooth any remaining frizz and add shine.
While it’s best to let your hair air dry completely before bed, life doesn’t always allow for it. By using a protective pillowcase and styling your hair loosely, you can make the occasional wet-haired night work for you without sacrificing the health of your hair.