**The Potential Risks of Sleeping with Wet Hair**
If you’ve ever washed your hair before bed and left it damp, you may want to be aware of the possible consequences.
Dr. Chirag Shah of Push Health clarifies that there is no scientific evidence linking sleeping with wet hair to catching a cold. “The common cold is caused by a viral infection,” he explains, “and going to bed with wet hair does not contribute to this.”
The common cold is primarily caused by viruses, with the rhinovirus being the most frequent culprit. These viruses enter the body through the nose, mouth, or eyes and spread via droplets released when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks. Additionally, you can become infected by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus or through direct contact with an infected individual.
However, while sleeping with wet hair won’t lead to a cold, Dr. Shah warns that it can increase the risk of developing a fungal scalp infection. Such infections can result in conditions like dandruff or dermatitis, making it advisable to let your hair dry before bedtime.
Moreover, the natural fungi that exist on the scalp, combined with the damp environment of pillows—which are ideal for fungal growth—can create a breeding ground for issues. Thus, keeping your hair dry at night is a wise choice.
