These are the 5 best silk bonnets to buy to protect your hair during sleep.
In her latest vlog, Molly-Mae claimed to have started sleeping with a silk hair bonnet and according to her, it’s been key to protecting her hair from the innately messy nature of sleep.
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But hair bonnets aren’t a new thing. They’ve been used by those with curly or Afro hair for decades due to their unique ability to prevent static and reduce frizz.
From silk pillowcases to 10x strength hair spray and everything in between, I’ve tried countless methods to preserve my locks during sleep. Despite me sleeping like the dead (I really don’t move at all), I still manage to wake up looking as though I’ve just emerged from a red-weather warning level windstorm. So, will I really benefit from wearing a silk bonnet? I spoke to some experts to find out.
Why is a silk hair bonnet good for hair?
“Wearing a silk hair bonnet to bed can be incredibly beneficial, particularly for those with textured hair, such as curly or Afro hair, or anyone looking to preserve a styled look overnight,” says Gustav Fouche, owner of Gustav Fouche salon in Notting Hill.
“Silk helps reduces friction and keeps the hair’s shape intact, which means your style lasts longer and stays smoother. It also helps to minimise frizz and can even manage perspiration, keeping your hair looking fresh,” he says.
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What’s the difference between silk and other fabrics?
According to celebrity hairstylist and founder of Studio23 Jason Collier, other fabrics like cotton are less helpful in reducing friction and breakage. “Silk is especially beneficial for limiting tension as you move in your sleep,” he explains. “Silk also helps preserve your hairstyle for longer, whether that’s a blow-dry, braids or curls. It locks in moisture, too, preventing your hair from drying out overnight, which is particularly helpful if you’ve got naturally dry or coarse strands.”
What type of hair will benefit from silk bonnets?
The experts at Beauty Club London point to those with textured, curly or bleached hair as particularly benefiting from silk bonnets during sleep. This is because the bonnet helps to preserve moisture overnight by preventing the fabric from absorbing your hair’s natural oils.
“I always recommend silk bonnets to clients who want to maintain healthier, shinier and more manageable hair,” says Jason. “It’s a small investment that delivers big results.”
What are the best silk bonnets to buy?
Blissy
This option from Blissy has been designed to protect hair from breakage and frizz, as well as to lock in your hair’s natural oils. £51. uk.blissy.com
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Jasmine Silk
Made with 100% mulberry silk, this bonnet has classic elasticated edges to suit a range of hair lengths and will be sure to keep your hair secure throughout the night. £23. jasminesilk.com
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Only Curls
Featuring a cute bow at the front, this fully lined, sleek turban will help to keep your curls intact overnight, so you can free up some time in your mornings. £16. onlycurls.com
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SILKE London
Founded by London-hairstylists, this brand is on a mission to reduce the use of electrical tools that are damaging to hair, and instead use the natural benefits of silk to preserve hairstyles while you sleep. Its hair wraps start from £50 and are made from 100% pure mulberry silk, but you can also find silk hair ties, scrunchies and heatless curlers on the website. £50. silkelondon.com
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LilySilk
For those who prefer a cap rather than a bonnet, this option from LilySilk makes a great choice. £36. lilysilk.com
