Here's how to protect your hair when you sleep

Everyone has heard that we should concentrate on skinprotection and repair at night. Well, the same applies, if not more so, to our hair care routine! This is because our sleeping habits and evening routines can actually be extremely damaging to hair, causing split ends and breakage.

So if your hair goal is length, volume or shine, try incorporating some of these healthy hair habits into your nighttime routine!

Splurge on a silk pillowcase or bonnet

One of the worst offenders when it comes to tangling and hair breakage is friction! At night (especially if you're a restless sleeper) your hair rubs against your pillowcase which over time can cause split ends and frizz.

To minimise friction, opt for a silk or satin pillowcase. Or, try wearing a silk or satin bonnet at night which creates a protective physical barrier between your hair and your bedding.

Skip the bedtime shower

It turns out that sleeping with wet hair is also a big healthy hair faux pas, so skip the evening shower and wash in the morning. This is because your hair is at its weakest when wet, making breakage easier.

Sleeping with wet hair also increases drying time, meaning your scalp is wetter for longer, which encourages fungal infections to take hold!

Braids are your best friend

Sleeping with loose hair can increase its exposure to friction, but, at the same time, sleeping with overly tight hairstyles can also be damaging! Tight pony tales or buns can put undue tension on your hair follicles and scalp, which can lead totraction alopecia.

Braids, however, make a comfortable nighttime hairstyle. Try two pigtails braids for shorter hair, or one long loose braid for longer hair.

Swap in a scrunchie

Swapping your normal hair tie for a scrunchie also helps to protect your hair, especially if they're made of a slippery material like satin! Tie the ends of your braid loosely with your scrunchie for the perfect protective hairstyle.

Try a treatment

Lastly, if your hair needs an extra bit of love and attention, try sleeping with an overnight hair treatment, such as hair oil. Focus your application of oil on your scalp to promote hair growth and any areas where you notice extra breakage, for example, the nape of your neck.

Sources used:

Better not younger: 'HowTo Protect Hair While Sleeping (7 Ways)'

Boilerhouse hair: '9 simple ways to protect your hair while sleeping'