If you're waking up every morning with frizz, flat curls, or dry ends—even though you faithfully wear your bonnet to bed—this one's for you. You've done your part: you've used the right creams, gels and custards to give your curls definition without the frizz. So why is your bonnet betraying you?
Let’s break it down. Because yes, your bonnet might actually be the problem. And it’s not just about the material (though satin is supreme)—it’s also about the shape. Yup, the shape of your bonnet could be holding your curls back from reaching their full, bouncy potential.
1. They Were Not Designed for Curly Hair
Bonnets can be traced back to the 13th century. As you can imagine, hairstyles looked different back then. Not to say curly hair did not exist, but when bonnets were created, they did not have curly hair in mind. Although they have stood the test of time, most bonnets on the market today are made for general use—not specifically for curly or textured hair.
2. You're Sleeping on Your Hair
While bonnets are a go-to staple for many curlies, the shape and fit of a bonnet can squish the ends of your hair.
Bonnets typically have a rounded, cap-like shape, all your curls get gathered and tucked inside. If your hair is down, you end up sleeping on your hair and if it's in a pineapple (gathered loosely at the top), the ends of your curls may end up pressed against the inner lining of the bonnet. Leading to:
- Flattened curls
- Loss of curl definition
- Bent or misshapen curls
- Frizz
3. You Have to Start Over Again and Again
When you sleep with a bonnet, your hair can get squashed underneath and take the shape of it. To get your hair back into its original shape you may have to rewet, add product or rewash your curls. This not only puts a strain on your time in the morning, but on your hair as well. Constantly adding product and water to your curls can lead to product build-up and dry hair, neither good for curls.
What You Should Do if the Bonnet Isn't Working on Your Curly Hair
Depending on how you're using it, the bonnet may be all you need to protect your curls. Congratulations! Now if you're like most curlies and bonnets just aren't cutting it, consider having standards before moving onto to something new.
No matter what you use to cover and protect your curly hair, the right hair protection for curly hair should meet the following criteria
- Be comfortable
- Satin-lined
- Stay secure through the night
- Keep your volume and curls intact
Now that we have standards.
Alternatives to The Bonnet If You Have Curly Hair
Neck Gaiter
A Neck Gaiter is a stretchy tube of fabric you slip over your head, pulling your curls, so your ends don’t get squashed.
❗ Look for satin or silk-lined versions for best results
Satin Scarves
A large square or rectangular scarf lets you control exactly how your curls are wrapped. Use the scarf to pineapple your hair. It keeps your edges protected and gets curls up so you're not sleep on them.
❗ Can take a bit of practice to tie it securely
Pineapple Method + Pillowcase Combo
If you hate wearing anything on your head, try this: Gather your curls loosely on top of your head (the pineapple) and Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase
❗ Can leave the sides of your curls exposed if you toss and turn a lot
The Afrona
Afrona includes a bit of everything. The pineapple method, satin scarf and neck gaiter in one, plus it's stylish! You can wear it to protect curly hair for sleep and when you're out and about and unlike most bonnets, it was specifically designed for curly hair.
❗ If your not used to wearing hair wraps it may need some getting used to wearing outside of the house
Got a favorite curly hair nighttime routine hack? Drop it in the comments
