Everyone has their own unique bedtime ritual. Puting on the newest Netflix flick, taking off your make-up, and whatever else you to prepare for some Z's. When you start wearing wigs, you have to add a few steps to your usual routine. There are several reasons why you may be tempted to sleep in your wig. Maybe you’ve had a rough day and are just exhausted. Maybe you have a house guest over. Or maybe you are a house guest and do not have your wig stand/other necessities or would just feel more comfortable in your wig. Whatever your reason is, there's one question that needs an answer: Should you sleep in your wig?
We’re here to share our advice on sleeping in a wig, other options to keep your head both covered and cozy, and tips to keep your wig protected.
Sleeping in a Wig: To Wear or Not to Wear?
To put it simply, we highly recommend NOT sleeping in your wig. Here’s why:
- As you toss and turn throughout the night, the wig fibers rubbing against your pillow create friction. This can lead to giant tangles of the rat’s nest variety and even cause irreparable damage to the wig. Even those who have the ability to wake up in the same position they fell asleep in will notice wear from sleeping in their wig.
- Sleeping in your wig decreases the lifespan of the wig significantly.
- Wearing your wig to bed can also cause scalp irritation. You may even notice a build up of oils or sweat after overnight wear. This can eventually lead to buildup in the wig cap, causing the hair to come loose from the cap or increasing the need to wash the wig more often.
Instead of sleeping in your wig, we recommend storing your wig on a wig stand away from windows overnight. You should also comb your wig with a wig comb before bed to get out any tangles from the day. Caring for your wig properly will keep it in tip-top shape for the longest amount of time.
Cozy Bedtime Alternatives to Wigs
Instead of wearing your hairpiece to bed, other more comfy choices are available. For many experiencing hair loss, wearing a cover on your head overnight is crucial. Without your biological hair to hold in the heat, some people notice they feel more chilly and uncomfortable. This is where a sleep cap can really save the day. Sleep caps come in several different materials, such as bamboo, fleece, or cotton. You can even find different styles and colors to compliment your favorite pair of PJ’s! Click here to shop a full selection of sleep caps.
Here are three of our favorites:
1. Emily Satin Sleep Cap
Made from super soft satiny material in the USA, this lacey sleep cap is functional and cute.
Click here to shop the Emily Sleep Cap.
2. Bamboo Featherlite Sleep Cap
This bamboo sleep cap by Cardani is the ultimate in comfort! Ultra soft and cozy, this cap is as light as a feather.
Click here to shop the Featherlite Sleep Cap.
3. 100% Cotton Cozy Cap
This cotton sleep cap is a versatile classic. Wear it for sleeping, or wear it during the day when you want to give your wig a break.
Tips for Sleeping in a Wig
While we do not suggest wearing your wig to bed, we understand that circumstances may lead to you feeling more comfortable sleeping in your wig. Here are 5 tips to help keep your wig in good condition when you must wear it to sleep:
1. Designate a “Sleeping Wig."
If you plan to sleep in your wig every so often, we recommend investing in a less expensive hairpiece you intend to only use overnight. Having a dedicated wig for sleeping will help keep your everyday wig safe from frizzing or knotting.
2. Wrap Your Wig in a Silk Scarf or Bonnet
Wrapping up your wig in a bonnet or scarf before going to sleep will help to hold your locks in place and prevent damage and tangles caused by friction. Shop silk scarves here.
3. Use a Silk Pillowcase
Silk pillowcases have become all the rage for keeping your biological hair less frizzy and looking healthier. Fortunately the smooth surface of a silk pillowcase also does wonders on synthetic hair! While you may still experience some tangles, the silk will prove far more effective and beneficial than a standard cotton pillow case. Sleeping on silk pillowcases has even more benefits that you can learn about here. Shop silk pillowcases here.
4. Braid Your Wig
If your wig is long, try putting it in a loose braid before hitting the hay to help prevent tangles.
5. Thoroughly Comb Your Wig in the AM
Before starting your day, you’ll want to gently comb your wig to work out any tangles or snags. It’s best to place the wig on a wig stand and start from the bottom of the wig and work your way up. Make sure to use a comb specifically designed for wigs, like this one.
While wearing a wig to bed is never recommended, we understand the desire to wear your hairpiece overnight. We hope the provided tips will help keep your wig looking fabulous and healthy. Also, don’t forget about sleep caps!
Do you have any tips for sleeping in your wig? How about your sleep cap preferences? Let us know in the comments section below! Click here to shop for wigs.