Having dreadlocks is an amazing and freeing hairstyle choice. However, for some, sleeping with dreadlocks is uncomfortable or awkward. Dreadlocks are bulky and get in the way while trying to get comfortable and fall asleep.
Get the right pillow
The wrong pillow causes neck pain, headaches, and a poor night’s sleep. Look for a pillow that provides ample support and keeps your head aligned with your spine. Memory foam and contoured pillows often work well for dreadlock wearers. Using a satin or silk pillowcase also prevents pulling or friction against your locs. You want to experiment with pillow height and firmness to find the best option for your dreadlocks and sleep style. Use a satin bonnet or dreadlock sock to cover your locs. It will contain your dreads and prevent friction, breakage, and lint from collecting in your hair while you sleep. Pulling your dreadlocks up into a loose ponytail or pineapple hairstyle on top of your head also works well. Secure your hair gently without tight elastics or bands that could break the locs. You also want to wrap your dreadlocks in a satin scarf. Silk or satin hair coverings are ideal since they are soft, smooth materials that won’t tug or damage the dreadlocks.
Choose comfortable sleep positions
Sleeping positions that bunch your Locs together or press them at awkward angles against your head or neck will likely cause discomfort. Try to sleep on your back using a rounded pillow under your neck. It allows your head to rest evenly without putting pressure on one side. Or, sleep on your side with enough space between your head and shoulders so your dreadlocks spread out. Use pillows between your knees or hug one against your torso to align and relieve pressure. Stomach sleeping tends to scrunch hair so it needs adjusting to feel your best.
Tie up loose dreadlocks
If you have loose or thinner dreadlocks, these spread out and feel messy overnight. Pull back and tie up looser locs before bedtime. Use covered hair ties or spiraled scrunchies to prevent catching and breaking hair. Wrapping smaller sections together contains them so they don’t end up twisted around your face, neck, or body during sleep. Also, attach shorter layers or baby dreads around the hairline if needed. Get all those loose hairs tied up neatly before getting into bed. For another protective option, you wrap your dreadlocks before bed to keep them contained. It is an excellent choice if you tend to toss and turn and want to prevent friction and pulling on your locs overnight. Simple cloth head wraps, bandanas, or scarves work well. There are also special dreadlock nightcaps sold for this purpose. They wrap around the head and tie or snap closed over your locs for comfort and protection.
Use loose styling methods
Avoid tight ponytails, buns, or tightly braided hairstyles for sleeping. The tugging and pulling lead to damage and hair loss over time. Also, skip rubber bands around sections of hair which similarly break strands. Stick to loose, gentle hair ties and head coverings. You want your dreadlocks to feel free and relaxed as you are drifting off. Tight styling methods tend to make sleeping less comfortable. Temperature also makes a difference in how restfully you sleep with dreadlocks. Heat and humidity make dreads feel clingy and sweaty, disrupting comfortable rest. Keeping your bedroom a bit cooler and using lightweight blankets helps. Or, tie up your locs if needed. Some people find adding products like oil or wax before bed makes their dreads feel heavy in warm conditions. Play with temperature regulation to see what gives you the best night’s sleep.
Care for locs gently
Always handle your Dreadlocks gently while going to bed and upon waking. Avoid harsh brushing or tight ponytails which cause breakage. Use wide-tooth combs or your fingers in the morning if knots need detangling. Separate sections carefully and take care when changing positions during the night. Too much friction or tugging during sleep weaken and damage dreadlocks over time. Avoid fluffy, thick blankets that envelop your head and dreadlocks at night. Opt for smoother, breathable natural fiber blankets. Ensure any hood from your pajamas or nightgown doesn’t tug on your locs. Pull it forward or remove it for comfort. You want bedding that doesn’t add weight, heat, or bunching to your hairstyle while sleeping.
Get styling products
Using finishing and locking products designed for dreadlocks also helps your comfort level at night. Waxes, gels, and spray sheen smooth down frizz and flyaway hairs that tickle and bother your face. They also add weight to help thin locs stay contained. Ask your stylist which styling products they recommend based on your dreadlock type and concerns with nighttime comfort. Try to sleep with your dreadlocks while paying attention to any discomfort or pain. Your sleep position, pillow, and haircare routine may be causing neck tension, pinched nerves, and shoulder/back pain. Your body needs to be adjusted until it can enjoy a restful sleep. Sleeping with uncomfortable dreadlock positioning or care may cause distress.
Ensuring a comfortable and protective night’s sleep with dreadlocks involves implementing a series of mindful practices designed to safeguard the integrity and appearance of your locks while promoting ease and comfort. By selecting the appropriate sleeping accessories like silk or satin pillowcases and scarves, you not only preserve the moisture of your hair but also prevent friction and subsequent breakage. Creating a bedtime routine that includes securing your dreadlocks gently, whether in a loose ponytail or a bonnet, aids in maintaining their structure and preventing them from becoming misshapen or flattened as you sleep. Additionally, paying attention to the cleanliness of your sleep environment, including regularly washing your protective gear and pillowcases, contributes to overall scalp and hair health. By incorporating these steps into your nightly routine, you can rest assured that you will not only enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep but also wake up with dreadlocks that are as healthy and vibrant as they are well-maintained and protected. Sweet dreams and happy locking!