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Many people enjoy showering at night as a relaxing way to wash off the day’s stress. However, recent discussions among dermatologists have brought to light potential risks associated with the common practice of going to bed with wet hair.
According to dermatologists, sleeping on wet hair can increase the risk of hair damage and scalp issues. When hair is wet, it becomes more elastic and prone to breakage. Dr. Ife J. Rodney, a dermatologist and founding director of Eternal Dermatology and Aesthetics, explained that wet hair is more fragile and susceptible to breakage when subjected to friction and tension during sleep.
Dr. Cindy Wassef, an assistant professor in the department of dermatology at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, warned that sleeping on wet hair can create a moist and warm environment on the scalp, which may predispose individuals to bacterial and yeast infections. These infections can manifest as small bumps or pustules on the scalp, exacerbate existing dandruff, or lead to respiratory issues if damp pillows and bedding promote mold growth.
While occasional instances of sleeping on wet hair may not lead to severe hair health issues or hair loss, experts recommend drying hair before bed whenever possible. Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, reassured that while it’s preferable to sleep on dry hair, occasional instances of going to bed with wet hair are unlikely to cause significant harm.
To minimize the risk of hair damage and scalp issues, experts suggest alternative strategies to protect hair while sleeping. These include using loose scrunchies or hair ties to gather hair, sleeping on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction, or wearing a satin head covering. Additionally, individuals can focus shampoo on the scalp and conditioner on the ends of their hair, use products formulated for their hair type, and take precautions to protect hair while swimming.
Ultimately, while sleeping on wet hair may not always lead to immediate harm, adopting preventative measures and drying hair before bed can help maintain healthy hair and scalp conditions in the long term.
