Just had hair extensions done? Whether you’ve splurged on hand-tied wefts, clip-ins, or tapes, one thing no one tells you is how much nighttime care matters. Your pillow might feel soft, but for your extensions, it’s kind of a battlefield.
Here’s what really happens while you sleep – and the easiest way to protect your hair (hint: it involves silk).
Why Nighttime Is Make-or-Break for Extensions
While you're tossing and turning, your hair is rubbing against your pillowcase, causing:
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Friction that leads to frizz and tangles
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Dryness from moisture being absorbed into cotton fabric
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Matting at the roots or bonds
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Shorter extension lifespan (meaning $$$ down the drain)
The Underrated Hero: Silk Bonnets
Most people think silk bonnets are just for natural or curly hair. But if you’ve got extensions, they’re your secret weapon.
Here’s why:
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Less Friction = Fewer Tangles: Silk glides instead of rubs. That means less damage and smoother hair when you wake up.
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Moisture Retention: Cotton sucks up your hair’s natural oils (and any treatment you’ve used). Silk helps your hair stay hydrated and glossy.
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Prevents Matting: Especially if you have longer extensions or dreadlocks, a bonnet keeps everything tucked neatly in place.
FAQs – Because You’re Not the Only One Wondering
Do I really need a bonnet if I already use a silk pillowcase?
A silk pillowcase is better than cotton, but your hair is still exposed and free to move around. A bonnet keeps your hair contained and protected from all angles.
What’s the best way to prep my hair for bed?
Gently brush through your extensions (hold at the root to avoid pulling), then loosely braid or tie in a low pony. Pop on your silk bonnet and you’re set.
Can I sleep with wet hair extensions?
Nope. Going to bed with damp extensions can lead to tangling, matting, and even mildew near the bonds. Always let your hair dry completely.
What if I have dreadlocks or thick hair?
Look for oversized or extra-deep silk bonnets. These are designed to fit more volume without pulling on your scalp or flattening your style. However our normal sized silk bonnets fit most hair types unless you are right at the very large end.
What Your Hairdresser Would Tell You
“Okay, so now that your extensions are in, the biggest mistake I see people make is skipping the night-time care. You’ve got this gorgeous hair – but if you’re sleeping on a regular cotton pillowcase with it all loose, you’re going to end up with knots, frizz, or even matting at the roots.
What I always recommend is using a silk bonnet – yep, even if it sounds a bit ‘extra’. It makes a huge difference. It stops your hair rubbing and tangling while you sleep, keeps your hair feeling softer for longer, and helps the extensions last.
Just brush through your hair gently before bed, loosely braid or tie it low, pop on the bonnet, and you’re good to go. Think of it as a little insurance policy for your hair – it’ll keep it looking salon-fresh longer.”
TL;DR – Protect Your Hair Investment While You Sleep
If you've spent time and money getting your dream hair, don’t undo it overnight.
A silk bonnet might not be the first thing you thought of – but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever slept without one.
