Want your hair extensions to last longer? Proper care—especially while you sleep—is key! Friction, tangling, and moisture can damage extensions overnight, but with the right habits, you can keep them looking flawless. Here’s how to sleep with hair extensions without shortening their lifespan.
Which hair extensions you can sleep with?
Friction between the hair strands, or between the hair and the pillow while you sleep, can shorten the lifespan of hair extensions. To help prolong the life of beginner-friendly extensions, such as clip-in extensions, wire hair extensions, it’s best to avoid wearing them while you sleep. Remove them before sleeping can significantly extend their longevity.
However, if you have hair extensions that require professional installation and removal, it’s important to pay close attention to the details in the rest of our article. So, what types of hair extensions should you be aware of?
Tape In Hair Extensions
Tape In Hair Extensions are semi-permanent and are attached to your natural hair using a thin adhesive tapes. Because multiple pieces are installed, it’s best to consult a hairstylist to ensure they are perfectly concealed under your natural hair. These extensions can last anywhere from several weeks to a few months, so it’s important to consider the best practices for wearing them while you sleep.
Weft Hair Extensions
Weft Hair Extensions is typically sewn into braids of your natural hair and require a professional hairstylist for proper installation. They can last for several months, so it’s essential to consider how to maintain them while sleeping.
Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions
Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions come in various types, including U-tip, I-tip, and nano-tip extensions. These extensions are attached to your natural hair using either beads or hot melting techniques, and they must be installed by a professional hairstylist. They can last for several months, so it’s important to consider how to care for them while you sleep.
How to Sleep With Hair Extensions?
Sleeping with hair extensions requires careful practices to keep them in good condition and protect your natural hair. Here’s how to sleep with hair extensions, suitable for most semi-permanent types like tape ins, hair weft, micro links, fusion:
Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair and Ponytails
If your extensions stay wet for too long, they can tangle and knot while you sleep, and may even develop mold. Always ensure your extensions are fully dry before going to bed.
Detangle Your Hair Gently
Before bedtime, use a soft-bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair from roots to ends. This helps prevent matting and tangling, making it easier to manage in the morning.
Braid or Tie Your Hair
To reduce movement and friction that can cause tangling, consider loosely braiding your hair or tying it in a loose ponytail or bun. Avoid tight styles that can stress your extensions and scalp.
Use Silk or Satin Pillowcases
Sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases can reduce friction and prevent tangling and matting. These materials are smoother than cotton and help keep your hair extensions looking fresh.
Consider a Hair Wrap or Bonnet
If you have long or curly extensions, wrap your hair in a silk scarf or wear a silk or satin bonnet. This will provide extra protection against tangling and frizz.
Regular Maintenance
Applying conditioner or hair oil to your ends keeps extensions hydrated and prevents breakage. Regular stylist appointments are key for extension longevity. They can fix loosening or tangling and recommend products for your specific extension type.
Morning Care
In the morning, gently detangle or unravel your hair, starting at the ends and combing all the way down to the roots to remove any tangles that may have formed during the night.
Wearing hair extensions isn’t just about nighttime care—proper daily maintenance is absolutely essential to keep them looking smooth, shiny, and natural. Your extensions deserve the same love and attention as your natural hair! If you haven’t started following a proper care routine yet, now is the perfect time to begin—your future self and your gorgeous hair will thank you.