One of the main concerns with bonnets is that they can cause tension on the hair, especially if they are worn too tightly. This tension can lead to hair breakage and damage, which can eventually lead to hair loss.
"I recommend that you avoid wearing hairstyles that cause tension on the hairline such as tight braids and hair extensions overall," explains Emmanuel. "Do not sleep with head scarves or bonnets that are tied too tight or rub against the hairline because this can cause hair breakage and hair loss," she shares.
And contrary to popular belief, Gillen recommends staying away from sleep caps (unless they're made of silk). "They can be too tight on the head and rub generally in one area, which can pull hair out from the roots and damage your hair follicle," he says.
A good satin bonnet promotes natural hair growth. Sleeping on cotton pillowcases with your natural hair uncovered causes extreme moisture loss which leads to dryness. The material of cotton naturallly absorbs moisture so it's the absolute opposite of what we want happening to our natural hair.
Cons – Some find bonnets tight – others don't. This will depend on what bonnet you buy too. Some are really tight!! I generally find wider bands more comfortable and we are very selective with the bonnets we choose at Natural Eclipse, testing them on ourselves to make sure that they are comfortable and light.
Dionne Smith says: "Silk bonnets are beneficial for all hair types, as everyone wants healthy, hydrated hair. But curly, coily hair will see more of a benefit to their curls after using a silk bonnet."
It prevents tangling
Tossing and turning equals tangling, and tangling equals split ends and breakage - a combo we definitely do not want. Wearing a hair bonnet to bed is the quickest and easiest way to avoid any knots and tangles from forming.
Satin bonnets are a must-have staple for anyone looking to protect their curls or natural hairstyle. Satin bonnets are like silk pillowcases, they prevent hair damage and reduce friction as you toss and turn while sleeping.
The elastic ends around your bonnet could very well be the culprit for your thinning edges. GASP! I know, but think about it, while you're doing a good job wearing a satin/silk bonnet, your edges are suffering due to the tension that's caused from the elastic part of the bonnet rubbing against it.
If your bonnet is too tight, your curls could be smushed against your scalp and become mis-shaped. If it's too big, your curls will fall and not be held up on top of your head. It can also slide off when sleeping if it's not snug enough against your hairline.
Hair Scarf or Bonnet
If your hair is damp, then you can wrap your strands in a silk or satin hair scarf or bonnet before going to bed. This will prevent any friction between your strands and pillowcase and will eliminate any added frizz in the process. In the morning, you can also use the scarf to style your strands.
A receding hairline is typically caused by genetics and aging related to male pattern hair loss or frontal fibrosing alopecia. Stress and hormonal changes can also cause hair loss. Hairstyles that damage and pull out hair could be avoided with changing hairstyles to help prevent a receding hairline.
The bonnet will keep protective oil off the pillow and your bed neat and clean. Besides, the silk hair bonnet is what you needed to prevent hair loss in the back of your head. It can protect your hair in every way and reduce the abrasion in sleeping.
In the end, deciding between the two comes down to how much time, energy & money you're willing to invest. While a silk cap requires a hefty amount of upkeep, a satin sleep cap will save you time (and money) all while still putting your ringlets first.
Although using a silk pillowcase does have hair benefits, wearing a silk cap is has more benefits for your hair health – keep reading to find out how: NO MORE FRIZZ OR BED HEAD | Your hair is completely protected in a silk cocoon. So, no friction, no cool damp air, and no hair rustling throughout the night.
Eating a diet enriched with antioxidants can help your hair look healthier and fuller. Herbal Remedies: Topically applying herbal preparations could support healthier, fuller hair if you have a receding hairline. Chinese hibiscus, gooseberry, aloe vera, ginseng, and gotu kala have all been used as hair loss treatments.
Whilst we know a high ponytail can cause damage, a high, loose bun is a much better option. There are a few methods to make a high bun. You can firstly, use the same method as a low bun, where you twist the hair around itself. This creates a rounder, neater bun.
If you're trying to grow your hair out but having a difficult time, one of the problems may be that your hair is breaking while you sleep. If you wear a silk sleep cap to bed, you can minimize breakage, which will help you grow longer hair.
If you're looking to protect your natural hairstyle, silk and satin hair caps for sleeping are a staple to have in your arsenal. Sleep caps reduce friction between your hair and pillow while you sleep, which keeps curls defined and hydrated, protects hair from split ends and shields against frizz.
Overnight bonnets have been a haircare staple for centuries, locking in moisture and style while sleeping. All hair types can benefit from this practice, whether you have tight curls or fine, straight hair.