Old wives’ tales claim that sleeping with wet hair can lead to illness or catching a cold, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. However, there are some risks associated with sleeping with wet hair, such as damage to the hair and scalp. Fungus can also be a concern.
When you wake up in the morning after sleeping with wet hair, you may notice that your hair smells like mildew and has a stale and damp aroma similar to the early stages of mold formation. Dusty Schlabach, a hairstylist and salon owner, explains that if the hair remains wet, it creates an environment for fungus and bacteria to thrive. This can lead to scalp issues such as discoloration, itchiness, buildup, and flakiness.
Fungi thrive in dark, moist, and humid environments, which makes your pillow an ideal breeding ground for them. A study conducted in 2005 found that there can be up to 16 types of fungal species found on pillows.
Sleeping with wet hair can also result in broken and tangled strands, especially for people with curly hair. When the hair is wet, the cuticle, which is the outer layer of the hair, expands. If it remains stretched for too long, it can become damaged and lead to dryness, brittleness, breakage, and frizz.
In addition to hair damage, there are different types of fungal infections that can occur in the hair and scalp. Malassezia, a type of fungus, is commonly found on the skin but can cause issues when there is an excess due to humidity and oily skin. It is linked to a skin disease called dermatitis. Another fungal infection is scalp ringworm, which affects the scalp hair and can lead to hair loss if left untreated. Lastly, there is a rarer fungal infection called black piedra that forms black nodules on the hair shafts and can cause breakage and alopecia.
To prevent these issues, it is advisable to dry your hair before bed or use a diffuser if you have curly hair. Using a silk pillow can also reduce friction on the hair and prevent breakage. Anti-fungal products such as shampoos and creams can help kill the yeast that causes infection, but they may also dry out the hair. Adjusting your shower routine to the morning can promote skin and hair health, as it helps combat oily hair and removes sweat and buildup.
In summary, while there is no direct link between sleeping with wet hair and respiratory illnesses, there are risks associated with it such as hair and scalp damage and fungal infections. It is important to take steps to dry your hair before bed and use products that can prevent breakage and fungal infections.