Expert warns we're damaging our hair in our sleep without even realising

03 March 2024 , 05:00

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There are a few habits that could be damaging your hair (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

We all know excessive heat is bad for our hair - but it turns out your sleeping habits could be equally as damaging.

Eva Proudman, a trichologist and hair expert for Absolute Collagen, has revealed some of the ways we may be ruining our healthy locks while getting some much needed beauty sleep.

As well as using the right products for your hair type, Eva explained that harmful factors - including using the wrong pillowcases and sleeping with wet hair - can wreak havoc on our strands.

She explained that tossing and turning at night can "lead to friction" on your hair and cause breakages. To combat this, the expert suggested tying your hair back at night to help reduce the friction - but warned it can cause pulling if not done correctly.

One way the pro suggested to do this was to tie hair back with a silk or satin scarf. By wrapping your hair, it can help to "reduce friction, lock in the hair's natural moisture, and even reduce the likelihood of split ends." If you prefer a hair bobble, she recommended loose braids secured with a satin or silk scrunchie.

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Eva also shared how the right pillowcase is important for healthy hair too. She told The Sun that sleeping on a silk or satin pillow can also help reduce breakage, as the material is far more gentle on your locks, limiting tangling and frizz. The beauty whizz added that the silk fibres won't "absorb any of your natural oils" so your scalp won't become dehydrated.

The expert also urged people to never sleep with wet hair. "Your hair is at its most delicate when it's wet, so the friction and heat from moving around in your sleep can increase matting and even breakage", she explained. If you can, the pro suggests letting you hair air dry, but you'll need to wash it several hours before going to sleep to ensure it's fully dry.

However, if you don't have the luxury of time and need to blow-dry it, she urged people to always use a heat protectant spray.

If you have curly hair or hair prone to tangling, Eva advised to use a leave-in conditioner to help protect your locks and make them easier to manage. The pro added that those who have fine hair, it's best to opt for products that contain argan oil or grapeseed oil. She explained how these ingredients will help to "lock in" moisture and "revitalise" curls overnight.

Niamh Kirk