Wearing a bonnet or silk scarf to protect your hair while you sleep is a common practice, especially for those with curly or textured hair. But should you put your bonnet on if your hair is still wet before bed? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of putting wet hair in a bonnet.
Can You Wear a Bonnet With Wet Hair?
Putting wet hair in a bonnet is generally not recommended. Wet hair trapped in a bonnet can cause hygral fatigue, mildew growth, curl pattern disruption, and breakage. The moisture and friction against wet hair fibers while sleeping can weaken and damage hair over time.
However, wearing a bonnet with damp or partially dry hair may be okay occasionally if proper precautions are taken.
Use a microfiber towel to absorb excess moisture, allow some air drying time before putting the bonnet on, use lightweight leave-in products, and take the bonnet off first thing in the morning.
What Type Of Bonnet Should I Use For Wet Hair?
- Avoid bonnets with terry cloth lining. The texture can cause friction and roughen hair cuticles when hair is wet.
- Look for bonnets lined with smooth satin or silk. The slippery fabric will glide over damp hair gently.
- Opt for lightweight polyester, satin, or silk outer bonnet materials instead of heavier fabrics.
- Try a bonnet with multiple loose ties instead of elastic. You can tie it gently without squeezing wet hair.
- Choose a larger bonnet that doesn’t compress wet hair tightly. This allows space for air drying.
3 Wet Hairstyles You Can Sleep In
1. Loose Braids
Gently separate your wet hair into sections and braid each one loosely. The braids don’t need to be perfect, just loose enough to allow airflow. Tie the ends with a soft scrunchie or fabric tie if desired. The braids prevent tangles and friction.
2. High Loose Bun
Pull your wet hair up into a very loose and high bun on top of your head, securing with a soft hair tie. Optional – wrap a silk scarf around the bun. This “pineapple” style keeps your hair contained on one area of your head.
3. Satin Hair Wrap
Use a wide, silky satin scarf or specially designed hair wrap to gently tie back your wet hair. Wrap the fabric loosely to avoid compression. Tuck in the ends securely. The smooth material won’t cause friction overnight.
How to Take Care of Your Damp Hair
Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to detangle damp hair. Start from the ends working up to avoid breakage.
Sleep with damp hair in a protective style on a satin pillowcase. Never rub hair dry with a towel before bed.
Apply any leave-in treatments or styling products lightly when hair is damp, as it will absorb more product than dry hair.
Avoid brushing or styling damp hair aggressively. Use gentle motions without pulling or tugging on strands.
Opt for loose, low-manipulation hairstyles while hair is damp like braids or buns to prevent friction damage.
Use soft scrunchies, fabric hair ties, and claw clips rather than tight elastics on damp hair. Reduce tension on strands.