This bedtime habit can cause severe hair loss
What common mistake leads to hair loss (photo: Freepik)
Significant hair loss can occur for various reasons, and prolonged hair shedding may even indicate an underlying illness. This condition can arise due to a common mistake, according to the Daily Express.
Why hair might fall out
Sleep expert Adeel Ul-Haq has advised against going to bed with wet hair to prevent hair loss and damage.
While it may save time, sleeping with wet hair makes it fragile and prone to breakage.
The moisture, combined with your natural oils, gets absorbed into the pillow, which dehydrates the hair, making it more brittle.
Going to bed with wet hair can also increase the likelihood of split ends, dullness, and scalp itchiness.
Sleeping with wet hair not only damages it but also raises the risk of bacterial growth.
"When you go to sleep with your hair wet you give bacteria the perfect breeding ground, this bacteria can then find itself on to your pillows and sheets. You may think that washing your sheets gets rid of this bacteria, but it can seep into your pillows where millions of fungal spores can grow," the expert explained.
These spores can lead to ringworm, dandruff, rashes, and dermatitis.
What you should do
If you shower late in the evening, consider using a shower cap to keep your hair dry.
If you notice your hair becoming brittle or looking damaged after sleeping, investing in high-quality silk pillowcases can help. Silk allows hair to glide more easily while you move during the night, reducing friction and breakage.
Air drying is one of the gentlest methods for drying hair, minimizing the risk of damage. Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer on low heat and maintain an optimal distance to avoid overheating the scalp.
Additionally, use protective hair care products. Always apply a heat protectant spray before blow-drying and follow up with a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair healthy.
Previously, we reported on the causes of autumn hair loss and how to prevent it quickly.
