When it comes to protecting your hair while sleeping, one important thing you should consider: How are you wearing your hair at night? Do you leave it free to fall across your face and get tangled? Do you pull it up into a tight bun or ponytail? If so, you may want to reconsider your sleeping hairstyle. Wearing your hair loose can cause it to get oily throughout the night. Meanwhile, wearing a tight hairstyle puts strain on your strands and could lead to breakage or thinning hair. For an easy hairstyle that will be gentle on your locks, a braid is recommended by many.
"[Braids] keep the hair from getting all over the place and are a good way to maintain your hair if you already have waves," hair salon owner Nunzio Saviano tells Byrdie. He also reveals that braids can benefit those with naturally tight curls because the style can help relax their curls and combat frizz. Wearing a braid at night minimizes friction between your hair and the pillow, meaning it's a great way to combat breakage. Braids also keep hair from getting tangled at night and can even aid in locking in moisture.
Wearing a braid can also give you beach waves — an easy hairstyle for the next day — while keeping your face clean. Of course, it's key to braid dry hair, and keep the style loose. Meanwhile, if your hair is too short or braids aren't for you, there are other options.
