Done Hair, Perfect Sleep: Tips For Bedtime

Sleeping with done hair can be a tricky business, but with the right products and techniques, it is possible to preserve your hairstyle while you snooze. One of the most important things to consider is the type of pillowcase you're using. Silk or satin pillowcases are ideal as they reduce friction and prevent breakage, frizz and tangles. If you're not keen on changing your pillowcase, a hair wrap, scarf or bonnet made from silk or satin can have a similar effect. When it comes to your hair itself, it's best to avoid going to bed with any moisture in it, as this can lead to breakage and tangles. If you have long hair, it's a good idea to tie it up to protect the ends from snagging or pulling as you sleep. A loose braid, top knot or pineapple are all good options, but remember to use a soft hair tie or scrunchie to avoid creases and tension. For short hair, it's best to sleep with it down to avoid friction and pressure on the scalp.

Use a silk or satin pillowcase

Sleeping with Done Hair: The Benefits of a Silk or Satin Pillowcase

If you want to preserve your hairstyle while you sleep, using a silk or satin pillowcase is a simple yet effective solution. Not only will it keep your hair looking fresh and sleek, but it also has several benefits for your hair's health and appearance.

Reducing Friction and Breakage

One of the main advantages of silk or satin pillowcases is their smooth texture, which reduces friction between your hair and the pillow. This is especially important if you tend to toss and turn during the night, as the constant rubbing of your hair against a rougher fabric like cotton can lead to frizz and, over time, even cause hair breakage. The smooth surface of silk or satin allows your hair to glide over the pillowcase, minimising tangles and damage.

Maintaining Moisture

Another benefit of silk and satin is their ability to help retain moisture in your hair. Unlike cotton, which can absorb moisture from your hair, these fabrics are less drying. This is particularly beneficial if you have dry or frizzy hair, as they help to lock in hydration and prevent further moisture loss.

Skin Benefits

The benefits of silk and satin pillowcases aren't just limited to your hair. These fabrics are also hypoallergenic, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, their smooth and soft texture can help reduce sleep lines and wrinkles, as they create less pull and drag on your skin compared to rougher fabrics.

Convenience and Comfort

While hairstyles like braids, buns, and scarves can also help protect your hair while you sleep, they may not always be comfortable or convenient. A silk or satin pillowcase, on the other hand, offers a simple and comfortable solution. You can just tuck your hair in and go to sleep, without having to spend time styling it or worrying about it coming loose during the night.

A Luxurious Option

Finally, sleeping on silk or satin adds a touch of luxury to your bedtime routine. The soft and smooth feel of these fabrics can enhance your overall sleep experience, making you feel like royalty every time you hit the hay.

In conclusion, using a silk or satin pillowcase is a great way to protect your hair while you sleep. It helps reduce friction, maintains moisture, benefits your skin, and provides a convenient and comfortable option for preserving your hairstyle. So, if you're looking to wake up with sleek and healthy hair, investing in a silk or satin pillowcase is definitely a worthwhile choice.

Time your showers

Timing your showers is crucial to maintaining your hairstyle while you sleep. If you go to sleep with even a bit of moisture in your hair, it may lead to hair breakage or matted hair in the morning. Hair strands are at their weakest when wet, and any movement during sleep can cause tangles. Therefore, it is best to wash your hair when you have enough time for it to air dry before bed. Ending your shower with a cold water rinse helps seal in moisture.

If you are short on time, you can blow-dry your hair before bed and use styling products to keep your hair tangle-free. You can also try braiding your hair or putting it in a loose bun or ponytail to prevent it from getting wet when you shower. If you must wash your hair close to bedtime, make sure to dry it thoroughly, especially if you have long hair.

Additionally, consider using a hair serum or leave-in conditioner to protect your hair from the friction of your pillowcase. These products can help reduce frizz and add shine to your hair. If you have curly hair, you can also try a curl cream to enhance your curls while you sleep.

Wrap your hair in a scarf or wrap

Wrapping your hair in a scarf or wrap is a great way to preserve your hairstyle overnight. It's especially useful if you want to avoid frizz and tangles, or if you want to maintain a particular style for the next day. Here are some detailed instructions on how to wrap your hair in a scarf or wrap:

Tying a Simple Wrap:

• If your hair is long, start by tying it back into a loose bun at the back of your head or the centre of your head, depending on what's comfortable for you. If you have short hair or want to preserve a specific style, you can skip this step.
• Take a large silk scarf and fold it into a triangle. Lay the long side of the triangle across your forehead, with the scarf resting over your hair.
• Wrap the folded ends along your hairline and back to the nape of your neck. Tie the ends into a knot at the base of your neck, ensuring it's tight enough to prevent slipping during sleep.
• Fold or tuck the loose ends of the scarf under the wrapped portion or bring them back to the front of your head and tie them in a knot near your forehead. You can also wear an elastic headband over the scarf for added security.

Tying the Scarf into a Turban:

• Fold a large square scarf, preferably silk or satin, into a triangle. Place the softer side face down to reduce friction and prevent frizz.
• Hold both ends of the folded scarf and bring the centre of the folded edge to the base of your neck, ensuring no hair is between the scarf and your neck.
• Pull the folded corners up along your hairline towards the top of your head, covering your ears. Keep the scarf taut so it stays in place.
• Tie the ends into a knot and tighten it until the knot rests securely on your forehead. You can tie the ends in a bow, knot them at the back, or tuck them under the scarf.
• Pull the pointed corner of the scarf over your hair and tuck it under the knot near your forehead to secure all your hair under the scarf.

Covering a Hair Pineapple with a Scarf (for curly hair):

• Pull your hair into a loose ponytail on top of your head, known as a "pineapple." Avoid tying it too tight to prevent discomfort during sleep.
• Take a large rectangular scarf, preferably silk or satin, and fold one corner over to the opposite corner to create a triangle.
• Place the long folded edge at the nape of your neck and bring the folded corners forward along your hairline. Cross the ends to form a loose knot.
• Bring the ends of the scarf back down towards your neck and tie them into a firm knot. Tuck the loose corner under the front of the wrap near your forehead to keep your hair secure and protected.

Remember, if you have curly hair, it's best to use silk or satin scarves to avoid frizz and damage. Additionally, you can spritz your hair with water or a moisturising spray before wrapping it to maintain moisture.

Switch to scrunchies

Elastic hairbands are the go-to when securing your hair for the night, but they can put stress on your hair and scalp, leading to frizz and breakage. Instead, use a fabric scrunchie made from silk or satin to secure your hair in a top knot. This will reduce friction and you'll be less likely to wake up with a visible "dent" in your hair.

If you have long and heavy hair, you can also use a medium-sized claw clip to keep your hair off your face while you sleep. This method has been tried and tested by many people with long hair and it doesn't cause discomfort.

If you have shorter hair, opt for a loose low bun or ponytail to keep your hair tucked away and protected while you sleep.

Protect ends with an essential oil

The ends of your hair can bear the brunt of the damage that happens while you sleep. To protect your hair, you can use essential oils before you go to bed. Warm a few drops of oil by rubbing your palms together, then apply the oil to your hair, focusing on the ends. This can help seal your hair against friction and prevent split ends. Good essential oils to use include argan oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil.

Essential oils are highly concentrated and distilled from plants. They have the signature scent of the plant they are derived from. For example, it takes 220 pounds of lavender flowers to make a single pound of lavender oil. Carrier oils, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, and olive oil, are also derived from plants but have a more neutral smell and are not necessarily distilled.

Essential oils can benefit hair and scalp health when properly diluted. For example, lavender essential oil contains beneficial bioactive compounds that can have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifungal effects. It may benefit scalp health, although more research is needed. Cedarwood essential oil is thought to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss by balancing the oil-producing glands in the scalp. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which may benefit conditions that contribute to dandruff or hair loss.

Carrier oils can be used to dilute essential oils before applying them to the hair. A few drops of essential oil can be mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil, and applied directly to the scalp as a hair mask. Alternatively, essential oils can be added to shampoo or conditioner. It is important to note that essential oils should not be applied directly to the scalp as they may cause irritation. Always do a small patch test before applying any new essential oil to your hair or skin.

Frequently asked questions