Sleeping with wet hair can cause scalp issues and harbor bacteria, experts warn
Sleeping with wet hair may seem like a harmless habit, but skin and hair experts are warning that it could lead to a host of unexpected problems. Briana Delvecchio, a hairstylist at Ashley Lauren Beauty Lounge in New York, strongly advises against going to bed with damp hair for several reasons.
When hair is wet, the hydrogen bonds in the strands are temporarily broken, making it more elastic, fragile, and prone to breakage. Combine this with friction from your pillowcase, and you have a recipe for split ends, tangles, and long-term damage. Experts caution that sleeping with wet hair can lead to breakage and shedding over time.
But it’s not just your hair that takes a hit. A damp scalp trapped against a pillow overnight creates a warm, humid environment that’s perfect for fungal growth and bacterial buildup. This can trigger scalp irritation, dandruff, or make your roots feel greasy by morning.
In addition to hair and scalp issues, sleeping with wet hair can also impact your facial skin. The moisture from your hair transfers to your pillowcase, which can harbor bacteria and oil that contribute to breakouts or flare-ups in sensitive skin.
Dr. Noah Gratch, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, also recommends against sleeping with wet hair. Friction against the pillow can worsen damage to fragile wet hair, leading to breakage and shedding over time. The damp environment can contribute to scalp and skin issues, such as seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infections.
To avoid these complications, experts recommend towel-drying your hair and using a leave-in conditioner to protect the strands before bed. Blow-drying on low heat or loosely braiding the hair once it’s mostly dry can also help prevent breakage and scalp issues.
In conclusion, sleeping with wet hair may seem harmless, but it can lead to a variety of issues for your hair, scalp, and skin. By taking simple steps to dry your hair before bed and protect it with the right products, you can maintain healthy hair and avoid unexpected problems in the long run.
