The Truth About Going to Bed with Wet Hair

Many of us have gone to bed with wet hair at some point in our lives. Some people do it out of necessity due to lack of time, while others do it to avoid heat damage. Or maybe they don’t feel like doing it! However, there are some important things you may want to consider. Today’s post is diving into the truth about going to bed with wet hair.

There are some things we can compromise on and others we shouldn’t. This is one thing that you shouldn’t do. It seems like such a small topic: going to bed with wet hair. But it has many problems that can stem from it.

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Hair Damage

We have touched on this subject many times here on Hello South Blog. Hair is more fragile when it is wet. Wet hair can stretch, snap, and break more easily than dry hair.

While we sleep, our hair undergoes increased stress and friction. Going to bed with it wet can make it more vulnerable, leading to breakage, damage, split ends, and tangles.

Skin Conditions

A damp pillow provides a perfect breeding ground for certain types of bacteria that can thrive in a moist environment. As a result, the likelihood of developing skin issues such as acne, dermatitis, and other skin irritations increases significantly.

Did you know that pillows not allowed to dry properly and kept moist can harbor mold and mildew? If you are experiencing allergies that you cannot trace the source of, it might be time to wash or replace your pillow.

According to experts, washing your pillows every 3 months is recommended. Additionally, washing your pillowcase every time you wash your sheets at a minimum is recommended. We have previously published a blog post on “How Often You Should Replace These 4 Things in Your Home” that includes instructions on how to wash your pillows.

Scalp & Hair Infections

Not only can your pillow grow mold and fungus, but your hair and scalp can also, especially if you have thick, coarse hair. Dark and moist environments provide optimal conditions for certain fungi to flourish.

While not everyone may have problems when going to bed with wet hair, many people do.

Common Fungus & Infections:

• Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the scalp and can cause hair loss, itching, and the appearance of black dots. It is caused by a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments.
• Dermatitis is a skin condition caused by Malassezia, which can result in dandruff and yellow, oily patches on the face and skin.

Are There Any Pros to Going to Bed with Wet Hair?

I wish I could tell you that going to bed with wet hair is highly overdramatized, but unfortunately, it isn’t. It has many unhealthy results. There are a few instances when it is okay to go to bed with slightly damp hair.

• Misting your hair before bed and using heat-free curlers is safe for most hair types, but be cautious not to oversaturate your hair.
• A silk or satin pillowcase can benefit you if your hair is still slightly damp when going to bed. These pillowcases are not only good for your hair but also your skin. They help prevent friction and are excellent at wicking moisture away from your face and hair. Unlike other pillowcases, silk or satin pillowcases reduce friction.
• If you have thick hair, avoiding going to bed with wet hair is advisable. On the other hand, if you have fine, thin hair, you may get away with going to bed with damp hair occasionally. This is because fine, thin hair tends to dry quickly.

Do you have a habit of going to bed with wet hair? I know it seems harmless enough. I know I used never to give it much thought. But when it was brought to my attention that mold and mildew can become an issue, that was enough for me never to do it again or let my kids do it.

What are your thoughts on it? Please leave them in the comments below.