We are talking more and more about nighttime skincare, but the truth is that hair also needs its own nighttime treatment. During those hours of rest, the hair is free from environmental moisture, from the rubbing of scarves or coats, from the heat of styling tools, and from the daily stress that makes it frizz and dry. It is, literally, the moment when it is most receptive to nourishing actives and when it can recover best.
That is why, in recent months I have been building a nighttime hair ritual that is not only easy to follow, but really makes a difference upon waking. It is a self-care gesture, almost meditative, that allows the hair to regenerate, regain its natural softness, and noticeably reduce frizz without needing to resort to flat irons or aggressive treatments in the morning.
Everything starts in the shower, where I try to use lukewarm water and a gentle shampoo that does not dehydrate. That simple detail prevents the cuticle from opening too much and keeps frizz at bay from the very first step. When I need an extra dose of nutrition, I replace the conditioner with a hydrating mask and let it act while I finish the rest of my routine. The combination of moisture and time always leaves the hair more flexible and with better body.
When I step out, I put aside the typical towel-drying gesture. Instead, I remove the moisture by gently pressing with a microfiber towel, a minimal gesture that greatly reduces breakage and helps the hair to dry in a more orderly way.
With the hair still damp I apply a repair serum or a nourishing oil, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. The night is when I notice this step the most: the hair absorbs the actives better and wakes up much shinier and softer.
Before going to bed I gather the hair in a low, loose braid to avoid rubbing on the pillow generating frizz or knots. I do not tighten the root to avoid leaving a mark, and that simple gesture keeps the hairstyle much more controlled upon waking.
And although it may seem like a whim, sleeping with a silk or satin pillowcase is perhaps the most effective trick of the whole ritual. It preserves hydration better, reduces static, and leaves the hair much more disciplined than a traditional cotton pillowcase. Since I started using it, morning frizz has noticeably decreased.
My favorite products for nighttime hair care
Leonor Greyl Energizant Hair Serum
Leonor Greyl Energizant Hair Serum
It is one of the favorite serums among the French and recently one of my essentials as well. It is a leave-in serum from the Leonor Greyl brand. It is a highly concentrated scalp treatment, non-greasy and alcohol-free that slows hair weakening and shedding.
Chok Chok Pillowcase by Usu Cosmetics
Chok Chok Pillowcase by Usu Cosmetics
It is a genuine mulberry silk pillowcase of quality 22 Momme. It is ideal for reducing frizz in the hair. It also improves the look of the skin, as it reduces irritation. «It does not absorb cosmetics applied in the nighttime routine, thus optimizing their action and effect on the skin,» say the brand.
Signature Moisture Masque by Oribe
Signature Moisture Masque by Oribe
It is an ultra-moisturizing mask that I was also told to use in the salon. It is a mask ideal for dry hair. It leaves the hair very soft. It is formulated without parabens or sodium chloride. It is ideal whether you have color-treated hair or keratin treatments.
Spray Care Ultimate Repair Miracle Hair Rescue by Wella Professionals.
Wella Professionals Spray Care Ultimate Repair Miracle Hair Rescue
It is a leave-in spray developed to strengthen the look of damaged hair in 90 seconds. It is a spray a hairdresser recommended I use and I love it. It features a blend of AHAs that helps achieve a pleasantly soft touch and a crystalline shine, while omega-9 strengthens.
