Is It Bad to Sleep With Wet Hair? The Answer May Surprise You

We asked a handful of experts whether it’s bad to sleep with wet hair. Keep reading to learn about both sides of the argument.

By Hair.com & Powered By L’Oreal Professional Products Division

Update Date: 08 Oct 2024

Is It Bad To Sleep With Wet Hair?

While there isn’t a 100% definitive answer, the general consensus on sleeping with wet hair is that it’s often not the best idea. The reason why, however, might be different than you’d think. You may have heard that sleeping with wet hair can make you sick, but a study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) dispels this as a myth. In actuality, the main reason experts recommend against going to bed with soaked strands is tied to hair damage.

Joshua Zeichner, MD and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, explains, “Sleeping with wet hair is not ideal. When the hair is wet, it’s actually weaker than when it’s dry, meaning that it’s more likely to develop breakage from friction that occurs while you sleep.”

Some experts believe the answer is more nuanced—sleeping on wet hair may work for some people, but not everyone. Texas-based hairstylist Pepper Pastor shares, “For clients with medium textured hair ranging from straight to wavy, I recommend it as an option for taking a break from blow drying.” However, she notes that it may not be a great solution for those with extremely curly to coily hair.

Aside from damage, Dr. Zeichner points out some other less-than-pleasant situations that can arise from hitting the hay with wet hair. First, when your hair is wet and comes in contact with your face, it can result in skin irritation or acne. Second, the doctor explains, "Wet hair can wet your pillowcase, creating an environment that may encourage colonization of some microorganisms like mold or yeast.”

How Can You Sleep With Wet Hair Without Damaging It?

Pastor says she personally loves going to bed with wet hair, explaining, “I have medium textured hair, so I enjoy waking up to a head of dry, fluffy hair. Sleeping with wet hair allows me to lay off the blow drying.” You may have the same sentiments, and Pastor has some tips for waking up with a similarly voluminous effect. Surprisingly, she claims that applying heat protection is a must.

It doesn’t matter that you are going to let it air dry; heat protection has memory and will guard your hair from what you do the next day. Here’s a quick cheat sheet on each formula:

• For damaged or weakened hair: Kérastase Résistance Ciment Thermique Blow Dry Heat Protectant
• For frizzy hair: Kérastase Discipline Keratine Thermique Anti-Frizz Hair Milk
• For thick, dry, or unmanageable hair: Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Blow Dry Heat Protectant
• For length retention: Kérastase Résistance Extentioniste Thermique Blow Dry Primer

If your heart is set on heading to sleep before blow-drying your mane, there are also some measures you can take to make it a “better” option. Ashley Branda, master stylist and owner of Two 01 salon in Hoboken, New Jersey, says that if she had to sleep on wet hair, she would first dry most of her scalp and mid-shaft before hitting the pillow. Then, she would apply a deep conditioning treatment through her lengths and ends to make use of the time.

More Editor-Approved Tips For Sleeping With Wet Hair

Understanding the potential risks of sleeping on wet hair can help you make an informed decision for your haircare routine. If you do decide to slip under the sheets after a good scrubbing, here are a few more ways to make those eight hours gentler on your strands.

Opt for a silk pillowcase

First and foremost, you’re going to want to minimize friction while you toss and turn; this can help keep breakage at bay. As such, we recommend switching to a silk pillowcase.

Wrap your hair

If you don’t want to mess with your bedding aesthetic, you can wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or cover it with a bonnet. The natural hair community has long touted the benefits of hair wrapping, but any hair type (especially those prone to dryness or frizz) can benefit from the protection it offers.

Choose gentler hair ties

Picking the right hair tie is key if you plan to rock a wet ponytail or braid. It’s best to reach for spiral hair bands and thicker scrunchies instead of thin hair ties or rubbery elastics.

Try an overnight hair serum

As the name indicates, overnight hair serums are designed for use while you sleep with the goal of giving locks deeper repair and nourishment.

Is It Bad To Sleep With Wet Hair: The Bottom Line

Occasionally sleeping with wet hair is not the worst thing you can do to your hair. If you think sleeping on wet strands is damaging your hair and want to make a change, try adjusting your nighttime routine so you get ready for bed earlier and can give your hair the proper time to dry.