Trying to figure out how to sleep with long hair can honestly be exhausting! We understand that after a long treacherous day dealing with your hair before bed is the last thing you want to worry about. Unfortunately, not taking the proper steps to protect your hair during the night can cause a lot of hair breakage in the future. These hair tips will give you insight on how to sleep with long hair while keeping your hair protected and prolonging your hairstyle during your beauty sleep.

Silk, Satin, or Cotton Pillowcase?

We often toss and turn during the night and this may cause a lot of hair breakage if you’re using a cotton pillowcase. Cotton pillowcases soak up moisture and cause friction, which affects both your hair and skin. Switching your cotton pillowcase to a satin or silk pillowcase is one of the most important changes you can make in learning how to sleep with long hair. Satin pillowcases reduce friction and maintain the moisture in your hair, preventing breakage, keeping it frizz-free, and prolonging your hairstyle during your sleep. Say goodbye to bed head!

And, it’s a win-win situation if you are suffering from dry skin or acne. It doesn’t soak up the night cream you put on before going to bed. Instead, it will keep you cool and moisturized throughout the night. Another plus to the satin/silk pillow is that it gives you a feeling of luxury and prevents morning creases. It’s an amazing must-have that will have you feeling refreshed when you wake up in the morning.

How to Sleep with Long Hair Using Braids

Another great option for taming your hair at night is simply braiding it. This style also has the added benefit of creating texture so you can go out looking like you spent hours getting your hair done! Oh, and the more braids, the more waves-and the smaller the braids, the tighter the waves. If you do opt for smaller braids, however, take those braids and put them up in a bun, ponytail, or large braid. How’s that for a night hair hack?!

Swap out the Elastics for Scrunchies

After heat, the next worse enemy to your hair may very well be the elastic band. Sure, they are incredibly useful for accomplishing different styles and keeping your hair at bay, but this is during the day. At night it’s best to ditch the elastic bands as they tangle easily and put added stress on your roots. Let’s face it, tossing and turning plus the elastic band makes for a pretty “hairy” situation that you’ll regret come morning. 

Instead, stock up on cute scrunchies to hold your hair or place at the end of your braid. You can also invest in satin or silk scarves to tie around your head to protect your roots and edges even further.

Run A Brush Through from Roots to Tip

This probably seems pretty obvious but don’t lie, how many times do fall asleep or jump in the bed without brushing your hair? Making a conscious effort to brush your hair before hitting the sack will eliminate any knots or tangles that are already there which would only get worse during the night. Additionally, it will actually prevent potential knots as the brushing will help lay down strays and flyaways. Try making this part of your nightly hair routine.

Another point you may not have thought about is that brushing your hair from root to tip will help stimulate the scalp and spread natural oils throughout the length of your hair right before bedtime. That means extra shiny morning hair! 

Don’t Let Your Hair Get Wet

There’s nothing like taking a hot shower right before cozying up in the bed to watch a movie or scroll Instagram but slow your roll! Your hair is at its weakest when it is wet so going to bed (especially on a cotton pillowcase!) is the last thing you want to put your delicate tresses through. Take the time out to completely dry your hair to prevent breakage and dryness. 

What you can do, however, is apply an oil treatment such as Morrocan, argan, coconut, grapeseed, or olive oil. This will keep your hair hydrated, moisturized, and less prone to breakage while you sleep. Your hair is sure to be soft, shiny, and smell divine come morning.

Every princess needs her beauty sleep, protect your crowning glory with these simple tips! Learning how to sleep with long hair is half the battle, stay updated with all our blog posts for more tips on how to keep your hair looking it’s best.

ES Team