Evie Summers
Sleeping with damp hair has its pros and cons. While it may be convenient for those who shower at night, it can lead to hair breakage, skin infections, acne, and fungal infections. The structural integrity of hair weakens when wet, making it more vulnerable to damage. Additionally, a damp pillow can create a warm, humid environment that promotes the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can cause issues like dandruff and dermatitis. However, some hairstylists suggest sleeping with conditioned damp hair to enhance certain hairstyles, and using silk pillowcases or scarves can help reduce friction and the risk of hair breakage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Impact on hair | Prone to damage, breakage, and tangles |
| Impact on scalp | Skin irritation, itchiness, dryness, redness, dandruff, acne, and fungal infections |
| Impact on health | No evidence of catching a cold, but can cause sickness |
| Pillowcases | Silk pillowcases are better than cotton pillowcases |
| Hair products | Use of hair serum, curl cream, and hair oil is recommended |
| Hair accessories | Use of a microfiber towel, a hair cap, or a silk scarf is recommended |
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Hair breakage and tangling
While there is a lack of strong scientific evidence that sleeping with damp hair will cause problems for everyone, it is generally agreed that hair is at its weakest when wet. The hair cuticle is made up of flaps that stand up when wet, making hair more vulnerable to damage. This is exacerbated when hair is tossed against a pillow, which can cause hair breakage.
To reduce the risk of hair breakage, it is recommended to use a silk pillowcase, as it provides less surface friction compared to a regular cotton pillowcase. Early research studies have indicated that silk pillowcases may be beneficial for skin health, and hairstylists believe they can also reduce the risk of hair breakage and tangling. Silk allows hair strands to slide as you toss and turn in your sleep, preventing friction, which leads to pulling, tugging, tangling, and breakage.
Another way to reduce friction and make hair easier to detangle is to use a conditioner, which helps seal the hair cuticle. Commercial hair oils, such as coconut oil and argan oil, can also be applied to protect the hair from damage. In addition, it is important to detangle hair before going to sleep to avoid extra stress on the hair.
Sleeping with damp hair can also increase the risk of developing skin infections, primarily on the scalp. Certain bacteria and fungi, such as Malassezia, thrive in warm, moist environments, leading to conditions like dandruff or dermatitis. A damp pillow can create the perfect environment for yeast to flourish, causing flaking and itchiness. Therefore, it is recommended to change pillowcases regularly and ensure they are dry before use.
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Skin and scalp infections
Sleeping with damp hair can increase your risk of developing skin and scalp infections. This is because pillows tend to be prone to bacterial and fungal build-up as they are in direct contact with your head for seven to eight hours every night. The warm, damp environment encourages bacteria and yeast growth, which can lead to skin and scalp infections.
Fungi, such as Malassezia, can lead to conditions like dandruff or dermatitis. According to Shah, sleeping with dry hair is preferable to prevent fungal infections. Along with the fungus naturally present on your scalp, pillows are also a hotbed for fungus, which thrives in a warm, damp environment. A study of the fungal flora on bedding discovered between four and 16 species of fungus per pillow tested, including Aspergillus fumigatus, which can cause severe infections in people with weakened immune systems.
Dr. Noelle Sherber, a Washington, D.C.-based board-certified dermatologist, explains that certain bacteria and fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and will proliferate on the scalp if it stays damp for hours. The most common type of yeast, Malassezia, can accumulate on the scalp and cause flaking, which can be mistaken for dandruff. Dr. Sherber adds that the best way to know what is causing a flaky scalp is to see a dermatologist as the differences in clinical presentations can be subtle.
While sleeping on a wet pillow, you may also be susceptible to developing small acne bumps or pustules (small, inflamed, pus-filled, blister-like sores) that can become itchy. These bumps can resemble acne but are technically a form of folliculitis caused by the same Malassezia that causes an itchy and flaky scalp.
To reduce the risk of skin and scalp infections, it is recommended to sleep with dry hair when possible. If you must sleep with damp hair, using a silk pillowcase can help reduce friction and the risk of hair breakage. Additionally, changing your pillowcases at least once a week can help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
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Fungal infections
While there is a lack of strong scientific evidence that sleeping with damp hair will cause problems for everyone, it is important to consider the potential risks involved. As wet hair dries overnight, some water is absorbed by pillows and bedding, creating a warm and damp environment that may cause issues. Sleeping on a damp pillowcase can provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can then be transferred back to the scalp, potentially causing infections.
Pillows and pillowcases can be breeding grounds for fungi, which can then be transferred to the scalp when sleeping with damp hair. Fungi, such as Malassezia, can lead to conditions like dandruff or dermatitis. A type of yeast called Malassezia can accumulate on the scalp, causing flaking that can be mistaken for dandruff. This yeast thrives in warm and moist environments, so sleeping with damp hair can increase the risk of fungal growth.
In addition to Malassezia, pillows may also harbour other species of fungi, such as Aspergillus fumigatus, which can cause severe infections in individuals with weakened immune systems. Aspergillus fumigatus can also worsen asthma symptoms. The presence of fungi on the scalp can lead to skin irritation, itchiness, dryness, redness, and flaking.
To reduce the risk of fungal infections when sleeping with damp hair, it is recommended to change pillowcases regularly, preferably once a week or more frequently. Using a silk pillowcase can also help reduce friction and minimise hair breakage. Applying hair oils, such as coconut oil or argan oil, can provide protection from hair damage and help seal the hair cuticle, making hair easier to detangle.
While the risk of fungal infections from sleeping with damp hair is uncommon, according to some experts, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take precautionary measures to protect your hair and scalp health. If you experience any symptoms of a fungal infection, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Dandruff
Wet dandruff can be caused by several factors, including irregular and infrequent shampooing, which leads to insufficient cleansing of the scalp and a buildup of dirt and dead skin cells. Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty or due to stress, can also contribute to wet dandruff by affecting the production of sebum. Additionally, certain skin disorders, such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, can cause wet dandruff.
To treat wet dandruff, it is recommended to increase the frequency of hair washing using mild shampoos and avoid using styling products that can contribute to oil buildup. Home remedies such as aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, and fenugreek paste have also been suggested to help reduce inflammation, soothe itchiness, and remove excess oil and dead skin cells from the scalp.
Sleeping with damp hair can contribute to the development of dandruff. As the hair dries overnight, some of the moisture is absorbed by the pillow, creating a warm and damp environment near the face and scalp. This environment can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, including the yeast Malassezia, which is commonly associated with dandruff. Therefore, it is recommended to take precautions when sleeping with damp hair, such as using a silk pillowcase or hair cap to reduce friction and absorb moisture, to minimise the potential for dandruff development.
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Acne
While there is no direct evidence that sleeping with damp hair causes acne, it is believed that the practice can increase the likelihood of developing acne. This is because damp hair and pillows can create an environment that encourages the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can then cause acne.
Dermatologists explain that acne occurs when pores become blocked by the body's natural oils and dead skin cells. A damp pillowcase can worsen acne by creating a humid or oily environment, leading to clogged pores and inflammation. Additionally, hair products such as conditioners can attract moisture, inadvertently becoming face products and clogging pores to cause acne.
The increased moisture from damp hair can also contribute to the growth of fungi, leading to fungal acne. This type of acne can appear on the face, chest, and back. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, resulting in discoloration, flaking, and itching.
To mitigate the risk of developing acne, it is recommended to dry hair as much as possible before going to bed. Using a microfiber towel or an absorbent towel can help remove excess water from the hair. Additionally, opting for a silk or satin pillowcase can reduce friction and absorb less water, creating a less favourable environment for bacteria and fungi to grow.
While sleeping with damp hair occasionally may not cause significant damage, individuals with sensitive scalps or brittle hair are at a higher risk of experiencing adverse effects, including acne. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid sleeping with damp hair to maintain healthy skin and hair.
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Frequently asked questions
While there is not a lot of strong scientific evidence, sleeping with damp hair can create an environment near the face and scalp that might cause problems. It is also important to note that hair is at its weakest when wet, so sleeping with damp hair can increase the risk of hair breakage.
The warm, damp environment can encourage bacteria and yeast growth, which can lead to skin infections, scalp itchiness, acne, and conditions like dandruff or dermatitis.
To minimise the risks, you can use a silk pillowcase, apply a commercial hair oil, or wear a hair cap or scarf to protect your hair from damage by reducing friction.
If you are intentional about sleeping with damp hair, it is recommended that you only do so when your hair is slightly damp, not completely wet. You can also use a curl cream or hair serum to prevent tangles, or put your hair in braids or a top knot to wake up with curls.
