Long hair is back. But how do you keep it in pristine condition?

Well-maintained long hair is the ultimate accessory, whether it’s swinging in the breeze, tethered in a ponytail or bound in a plait. Keeping long hair in mint condition centres around hair health and the way we sleep on it is central to this.

Leave-in restorative night treatments work their magic while you get your beauty sleep.Credit: Getty Images

Sleeping with heads pressed against cotton pillows and tossing and turning creates friction and if your hair is damp post shower, the potential damage increases. “There are a few things that can damage the hair while sleeping, including lack of proper drying, tangling, and increased pressure,” says hair stylist Philip Barwick.

So, before bed, if you wash your hair at night, make sure it’s completely dry. Your hair is most vulnerable when it’s wet as it has more elasticity and can break, so sleeping on wet hair can weaken the hair cuticle and also be a hot house for bacteria, yeast and dandruff.

Tangled hair can compound issues so brush your hair before bed to detangle it and help reduce breakage and split ends. Also, invest in silk pillowcases like Slip Silk Pillowcase ($99) as they reduce friction on the hair and help prevent tangles and breakage, as well as aid in moisture retention. Unlike regular pillowcases, the smooth silk fibres don’t cause damage to your hair by creating friction and roughening up your hair’s cuticles. They also maintain better temperature control, helping to prevent sweating from your head or neck, which can ruin any hairstyle. An added benefit is they reduce pressure on your skin.

At night, steer away from tight hairstyles like buns and ponytails, as this adds extra pressure and stress on the hair follicles and can cause breakage at the anchor points. A great way to sleep with long hair is by parting your hair down the middle then plaiting two braids that start just behind the ear. This will add some great texture in the morning without having a big, tangled mess. If your hair is curly, Barwick suggests “tipping your head over and gathering it at the crown and securing it gently with a scrunchy. This will preserve the curl and help reduce flattening.” Try a Slip Daisy Pure Silk Scrunchy Set ($71).

Leave-in restorative night treatments are ideal as they can work their magic while you sleep, and then you wash them out in the morning. Our latest obsession is K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Mask ($99.50). Protective spray products are also great if your hair is dry and tends to lose moisture overnight; try Christophe Robin Hydrating Leave in Mist with Aloe Vera ($50).

Ask Steph

What is the best way to cover blemishes?
Choose a concealer with good coverage that helps cover spots, neutralise redness and even out skin tone, and can be layered without looking cakey. Try Anastasia Beverly Hills Magic Touch Concealer ($49).

Send questions via Instagram, @mrssdarling.

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