Long hair can end up beneath your shoulder or arm when you turn in bed. Hard clips can press against the pillow, and bonnet bands can catch the ends. Start by freeing the hair, then choose whether you want it loose or covered.
Lift your shoulder or arm off any trapped hair before moving it. Gather the loose lengths gently and lay them on the open pillow space beside or above your head. Turn your head to check that you can move without pulling.
A bonnet can keep loose lengths together when they keep slipping under you. Choose enough depth to hold them without packing or twisting tightly. Keep the roots loose. If you prefer uncovered hair, use a smooth pillowcase and move the lengths clear.
Rinse-out conditioner helps your hair slip apart when you detangle. Spread it through the lengths that need it, especially the ends, using the amount on the bottle. Rinse it out after the stated time. Keep using one that already leaves your hair manageable.
Browse rinse-out conditioners. Tell the consultation what you want from a conditioner and what you disliked about previous ones.
If your ends still feel rough or catch together after washing, try a small amount of leave-in there. Check whether the product goes on damp or dry hair. Let damp lengths dry before covering them, and skip extra product when your hair feels comfortable.
Browse leave-in conditioners. For help choosing a leave-in, describe where your hair feels rough and what you already apply.
The illustrated method shows how to place the bonnet, tuck the ends, check the band against your pillow and release it in the morning. Use a clean, dry bonnet with room for your loose hair. Installed braids and twists need their own care.
Guide: Put on a loose sleep bonnet
After washing, leave the bonnet off while your hair dries. Check the roots, nape and inner lengths as well as the surface. If evening drying regularly runs past bedtime, move the wash earlier so those areas have time to dry.
Guide: Air-dry your hair
Bring your hair-care questions to the consultation. You can also read comparing sleep coverings and pillowcases.
Tell us where your hair gets trapped, whether you prefer it loose or covered, and how it feels in the morning. The consultation can help you choose a comfortable sleep routine and conditioning products for the tangles you deal with.
The Hair Care Consultation gives you a personal plan with product recommendations, routines and guidance on your hair-care questions.
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