Have Long, Layered Hair? How to Protect Your Tresses While You Sleep

Sleeping with long, layered hair can be a struggle. The longer your hair the more prone it is to damage and dryness. It is also susceptible to tangles. If you want to keep the length without sacrificing your hair’s health and appearance, protect your tresses by doing the following.

A Filipino myth claims that sleeping with wet hair can make you go blind. Doing so will not rob you of your vision, but you still shouldn't sleep with damp hair. Hair is weaker when it is wet. According to the National Institutes of Health, wet, virgin hair can stretch by up to 30 percent of its original length without damage. Anything beyond that causes irreversible changes in its structure, leading to fracture. Drying your hair before going to sleep helps prevent the damage it would otherwise incur.

If you’re the type to toss and turn, then your hair will inevitably suffer from friction while sleeping. Your strands can rub against your pillows and each other, ruffling your hair cuticles. The result? Frizz, tangles, and even damage. Switching to silk pillowcases protects your hair even while you toss and turn because of their super-smooth texture, which prevents tangles and frizz. They can also keep your hair hydrated since they absorb less moisture than cotton.

If you can’t swap your cotton cases for silk just yet, wrap your long, layered hair with a silk scarf instead. It would have the same effect: protect your hair from friction, preserve moisture, and prevent frizz. Another bonus benefit is it would keep your hair from your face and neck. You’ll see the difference especially if you have wavy or curly hair. You could also use a satin headscarf if silk is not available.

Women with long, layered hair tend to sleep with their hair tied in a bun or tight ponytail. It may seem like an effective way to prevent tangles (as well as keep you cool), but it can damage both your hair and scalp. The tension caused by the ponytail can strain your scalp, eventually causing damage and hair loss. The friction from the regular ponytail band can also cause breakage. Loosely tying a scrunchie would be a safer bet. Better yet, just wear your hair down and let it hang over your pillow.

Reinforce your hair’s strength with Dove Botanical Silicone Free Shampoo for Damaged Hair Restore. It features a silicone-free formula and 100% pink Moroccan rose botanical oil all aimed at nourishing and reviving your hair.

Conditioning regularly makes your hair soft and manageable. It also protects it from friction-caused tangles and frizz. The National Institutes of Health explains that conditioners do this by neutralizing the negative electric charge of the hair fiber by sealing the hair cuticle. Applying an overnight conditioner cream or serum coats your hair with a layer of protection that also happens to make it look smoother and shinier.

Use Dove Botanical Hair Conditioner for Damaged Hair Restore to replenish your hair’s nutrients and give it a vibrant bounciness. After drying your hair, apply TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum, a non-greasy formula that smoothens hair and leaves it looking healthier.

Don't let stressing over your long, layered hair get in the way of good sleep — and good sleep shouldn’t damage your tresses. Protect your crowning glory with the tips above. Don't forget to practice a haircare routine that includes regular conditioning.