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Did you know that you damage your hair more during your 8 hours of beauty sleep than you do for the whole rest of the day?
And it gets worse...
During the night your hair will experience an unsettling amount of friction (unless you use a good silk pillowcase made for fine hair) which literally breaks your hair apart, leaving it scattered all over your pillowcase in the morning.
A great deal of your hair's protection at nighttime comes down to which protective sleep hairstyle you use when you're sleeping.
And if you're new to this, then you're in the right place.
In this post I'll share my top 10 protective sleep hairstyles, paired with expert nighttime hair care advice to keep your hair damage free while you sleep.
Here's what we're going to cover:
And if you have any questions at any point, please leave a comment in the comments section below. I reply to ALL comments within 24 hours.
As the name suggests, a protective sleep hairstyle is a type of nighttime hairstyle that protects your hair while you're sleeping?
A good protective sleep hairstyle will protect your hair from a variety of nighttime issues, including:
In addition to this, the right protective sleep hairstyle will also help your hair by:
The protective sleep hairstyles are generally a form of plait or knot that limits the pulling/tugging and friction of your hair. Thereby limiting the damage.
No two protective sleep hairstyles are the same. Therefore choosing the best protective hairstyle for sleep can be tricky. One hairstyle might be good for one thing, and another is better for something else.
What hairstyles you should sleep in depends entirely on the following:
There are several factors the determine which protective sleep hairstyle you should sleep in. Review this list of factors and think about what's important for you.
In the section below I'll share our 10 protective sleep hairstyles and nighttime hair care advice, and with each nighttime hairstyle I'll share the benefits for each in line with the factors above.
This will help you choose the protective sleeping hairstyle that best suits your needs/wants, hair type and current situation.
Most traditional protective sleep hairstyles are very simple, and look simple too. But they don't usually offer much in the way of aesthetic value...
Aesthetic value can be an important factor for those nights that are not spent alone (wink).
Therefore, among our top protective hairstyles when sleeping, I have also shared a few nighttime hairstyles that are not only practical, but are also stylish and a bit sexy.
You're welcome.
The loose plait is an incredibly easy way to manage your hair overnight. Especially suitable for back sleepers and side sleepers, it lays flat, ensuring comfort.
For those concerned about any possible annoyance, side plaits are an excellent alternative.
This nighttime hairstyle is suitable for all hair lengths and thicknesses, and will ensure you wake up with a slightly wavy hairstyle.
This is also a very functional hairstyle for girls with frizzy hair and works well if your hair is slightly damp.
1. Detangle:
2. Be gentle:
3. Braid it:
4. Wake up:
Straight hair enthusiasts, this protective sleep hairstyle is for you! It maintains that sleek look while preventing any excessive waves.
It's suitable for all hair thicknesses, however it's ideal for girls with long hair.
Also works for any sleep style. (I welcome you to try to toss-and-turn your way out of this hairstyle).
1. Twist it up in a top bun:
2. Secure it:
This style doesn't just protect; it adds a level of volume that's hard to resist!
I've added this tip in here because if you're going to go to the lengths of using protective sleep hairstyles then you may also be interested in learning about other hair care methods that will protect your hair while you sleep.
Also this may be among the best protective sleep hairstyles for short hair.
Making the switch from your ordinary pillowcase to a silk variant (specifically our Silk Pillowcase)Â can do wonders for your hair.
Turn each sleep into an 8 hour hair care routine.
The thing is, unlike cotton, silk is naturally smooth texture which reduces friction against your hair. It acts as a barrier against breakage and helps you get softer hair. Naturally.
It's one of the many affordable luxuries that you really can't afford to live without.
1. Out with the Old:
2. In with the New:
3. Sleep On It:
4. Care and Maintenance:
5. Feel the Difference:
I recommend that you complement your silk pillowcase with a protective sleep hairstyle for maximum benefit.
Nourishing your hair with natural oils is like feeding your body with vitamins – essential for vitality and health. The right oil can work wonders, from healing an unhealthy scalp to imparting a silky sheen to your tresses.
Treating your hair with oils can be crucial in winning the nightly battle of protecting your hair.
1. Choose the Best Oil for Hair:Â Your choice of oil can make a world of difference.
2. Detangle Your Hair:
3. Section and Apply:
4. Massage Your Scalp:
5. Comb Through:
6. Protective Style & Sleep:
7. Morning After:
Incorporating this routine into your nighttime hair care not only preps it for the next day but also deeply conditions and revitalises, ensuring you wake up to soft, manageable, and glowing locks.
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Let's face it: after a late-night shower, the temptation to hit the sheets with damp hair is strong. But remember, wet hair is far more fragile and prone to breakage.
Hence, if you aim to maintain those luscious locks, drying your hair before bedtime is crucial.
Especially for those with curly or fine hair types, you need to follow protective measures as these types are more susceptible to damage.
But don't worry; you don't need a blow dryer to achieve this. Let’s delve into the simple steps for efficient hair drying, naturally.
1. Towel Dry Gently:
2. Detangle with the Right Brush:
3. The Inversion Method (BONUS):
4. Air Dry:
5. Stay Hydrated:
What if you have wet hair and you don't want to dry it?
Well, you're in luck because I have a good protective sleep hairstyle for wet hair too.
Enter, Heatless Overnight Curls.
Not only is this nighttime hairstyle perfect for wet/damp hair, it's also an excellent way of adding curls to your hair without heat styling.
1. Preparation:
2. Sectioning:
3. Twist and wrap:
4. Secure:
5. Protect:
6. Morning reveal:
7. Style:
Tip: For added definition, you can apply a curl-enhancing cream or mousse to your damp hair before twisting.
While festival hair trends like glitter roots and space buns are fun, there's one style that stands out because of its practical value: the Dutch braid.
Not only does it flaunt a unique aesthetic, but it's also one of the best protective sleep hairstyles for curly hair.
It's like having the best of both worlds: fashion and function.
Even if you have a diamond face shape, these braids can beautifully frame and complement your features. Let's get ready to master this protective sleep hairstyle for curly hair.
1. Preparation:
2. Sectioning:
3. Starting the Braid:
4. Dutch Braiding Technique:
5. Adding More Hair:
6. Securing the End:
7. Repeat on the Other Side:
8. Finishing Touches:
Voilà ! With the Dutch festival braids, not only are you embracing one of the hottest festival hair trends, but you're also ensuring that your locks, whether curly or straight, are protected through the night.
Note: The video was made for creating dutch festival braids with Halo Hair Extensions, however you can also create this style as a protective sleep hairstyle sans halo hair extensions and other decorations.
The Princess Jasmine Ponytail, inspired by the enchanting world of Agrabah, isn’t just a visual treat; it's a functional marvel.
This low ponytail style isn't just easy to achieve, but it also offers a touch of royal flair. Especially ideal as a protective sleep hairstyle for curly hair, it can be a lifesaver for those struggling with an oily hair day or simply wanting a change.
Best of all? It’s one of the easy protective hairstyles for sleeping that doesn't sacrifice style for comfort.
1. Preparation:
2. Positioning:
3. Securing the Ponytail:
4. Finishing Touches:
5. Sleep Time:
Incorporating this elegant yet straightforward protective sleep hairstyle into your nighttime routine not only ensures you wake up with manageable locks but also that you drift off feeling like royalty.
For those yearning for a touch of indie flair, boho braids are your go-to. These aren’t just chic; they're amongst the best protective sleep hairstyles for wavy hair, ensuring you wake up with perfectly tousled waves without the fuss.
This is the perfect protective sleep hairstyle for side and front sleepers. And it works for fine and thick hair types.
However, it's not as ideal for short hair types since they generally don't have enough hair to plait in this style.
1. Prep Your Hair
Before diving into the braiding process, it's essential to have clean, detangled hair. If your waves need a bit of a pick-me-up, spritz some curl refresher to revive and define them. This will also make the braiding process smoother.
2. Section Your Hair
Part your hair down the middle, creating two equal sections. If you have a preferred side for parting, that works too. Remember, boho is all about effortless style!
3. Start Braiding
Begin a loose three-strand braid on one side of your part. The key to the boho look is not to pull too tight; we want it looking laid-back and relaxed. Once you reach the end, secure with a gentle hair tie. Repeat on the other side.
4. Personalise Your Braids
To enhance the boho feel, gently pull out a few strands around your face. This will give you that effortless, beachy vibe in the morning.
5. Overnight Care
For those with wavy hair, maintaining the texture is crucial. Consider applying one of the best hair masks before starting the braiding process. This not only protects but nourishes your hair, making it even more radiant when you let those braids loose in the morning.
6. Morning Unveiling
Come morning, gently unravel your braids. Use your fingers to separate the waves for a more natural look. If needed, a dash more of the curl refresher can help shape and hold your waves for the day ahead.
Embrace your inner free spirit with boho braids, and relish in the fact that these aren’t just stylish – they’re a protective sleep hairstyle for wavy hair that guarantees beauty sleep in its truest sense!
Long hair can sometimes have a mind of its own. But for all my long-haired friends out there, the twisted rope braid is your saving grace.
Not only is it one of the best protective hairstyles to sleep in, but it also ensures your hair remains tangle-free throughout the night, so you can wake up feeling more Rapunzel and less witch from the woods.
1. Prep Your Hair:
Start with clean, detangled hair. If you've recently washed your hair, ensure it's completely dry to avoid unnecessary breakage. For an added boost, consider applying a hair loss serum enriched with niacinamide for hair. It's a great way to nourish your locks and promote strength.
2. Separate Your Hair:
Divide your hair into two even sections. The key is to ensure both sections are as equal in size as possible to get a symmetrical braid.
3. Twist It Up:
Take one section and start twisting it. Remember, the direction you twist one section should be the opposite of the other to ensure they combine seamlessly in the next step. This method ensures a more intricate and tight appearance.
4. Combine Your Twists:
Once both sections are twisted, cross them over one another to form a rope-like appearance. As you wrap them together, ensure you're maintaining tension to keep the style intact.
5. Secure Your Braid:
Using a gentle hair tie, preferably one without metal parts, secure the end of your braid. You can also add a touch of hair serum at the ends for added protection and shine.
6. Sleep and Shine:
Now, all you've got to do is hit the hay! As you rest, your twisted rope braid works its magic, protecting your long hair from the usual nighttime wear and tear.
Remember, the twisted rope braid isn't just one of the many hair protective styles for sleep; it's arguably one of the best protective hairstyles to sleep in for those with longer locks. So give it a try and enjoy your beauty sleep with a side of hair protection!
A: Protective sleep hairstyles are specific styles designed to minimise hair damage and frizz while sleeping.
A:Â Most hair care related hacks will give you a small incremental gain in terms of hair health. And some will give you a big gain. Protective sleep hairstyles are one of those things that give you BIG gains.
A: It varies based on hair type, but generally, styles that reduce friction, such as the loose plait or boho braids, can be incredibly effective.
A:Â Aside from the right protective sleep hairstyle for your hair type and sleep style, i would also suggest that it makes sense to invest in a good silk pillowcase to protect your hair. You will be surprised at how effective they are.
A: Apart from adopting protective sleep hairstyles, using products like almond hair oil, investing in a silk pillowcase, and ensuring your hair is dry can make a big difference.
A: Absolutely! Braids, especially styles like the Dutch festival braids or twisted rope braid, can help reduce friction and tangling.
A: Along with the protective sleep hairstyles, wearing a silk or satin headscarf can also provide an added layer of protection.
A: The amount of hair that someone may lose during sleep varies from person to person. However, in general the average person is said to lose 100 strands of hair per day. And depending on what you do with your hair during the day, a lot of that hair may come out at night, while you're tossing and turning.
A good protective hair sleep style is meant to minimise the amount of hair fall you experience at night, whilst also minimising other factors like friction, tugging/pulling, and more.
Having beautiful hair isn’t just about the right products or the perfect cut; it’s also about how you treat it overnight.
Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, fine, or long hair, there's a protective sleep hairstyle out there for you.
And remember, a little oil and that luxurious silk pillowcase can make all the difference. Sweet dreams and even sweeter hair days ahead!