After a busy day, many people unwind by washing their hair and enjoying a warm shower. However, exhaustion can lead to falling asleep with wet hair. Myths suggest this habit causes flu or accelerates hair damage. But what are the actual consequences? Let’s take a closer look.

Consequences of Sleeping with Wet Hair

Ideally, it’s best to sleep with completely dry hair. However, when fatigue takes over, you might end up dozing off with damp locks. A common myth claims that sleeping with wet hair causes headaches and flu, but experts have debunked this notion.

According to Healthline, sleeping with wet hair does not cause flu or headaches. Flu is caused by a virus, not wet hair. The virus enters the body through the nose, mouth, or eyes, typically spreading through saliva droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

That said, dermatologists highlight some real risks of sleeping with wet hair, particularly for hair and skin health:

Hair Damage

Wet hair is at its weakest, making it more prone to breakage. As you toss and turn during sleep, friction between your hair and the pillowcase can lead to tangles and split ends.

If you use styling products with harsh chemicals, the damage risk increases. These chemicals can strip essential fatty acids from the hair cuticle, allowing the hair to absorb more water and become swollen. This weakens the hair structure, making it susceptible to breakage.

Fungal Infections of the Scalp

Damp hair and pillows create a moist environment conducive to fungal growth. Fungi like Malassezia thrive in such conditions, exacerbating issues like dandruff or dermatitis.

Moreover, a damp pillow can harbor fungi that lead to scalp irritation and itching.

Acne

While there’s no direct evidence linking wet hair to acne, damp pillowcases can become breeding grounds for bacteria. This can indirectly contribute to acne, especially if bedding is not cleaned regularly.

To minimize hair damage from sleeping with damp hair, always ensure your hair is as dry as possible before bed. If time is limited, use a microfiber towel to remove excess moisture. You can also sleep with a hairnet, shower cap, or switch to morning showers to avoid going to bed with wet hair.

Although sleeping with wet hair does not cause serious health concerns, it can compromise hair health over time. For persistent hair issues, consult a dermatologist or beauty specialist. You can also seek expert advice using the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download via the App Store and Play Store.

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