Silk for CPAP Relief: A Little Comfort Goes a Long Way
“I needed something comfortable under the straps of my CPAP mask. It works!”
— Margaret S., LoveSilk Customer
For many CPAP users, uninterrupted sleep is life-changing — but comfort can still be a challenge. Mask straps that loop around the head or rest near the hairline often cause more than just facial pressure; they can also tug at the roots, flatten curls, or lead to breakage over time.
That’s where silk bonnets come in.
Originally loved for protecting textured and delicate hair during sleep, silk bonnets are now being embraced by a new group of wearers: CPAP users looking for gentle, breathable coverage that shields both hair and scalp overnight.
The Problem: CPAP Straps vs. Hair Health
Whether you have coily curls or fine strands, the headgear used in CPAP therapy creates consistent tension — especially if worn nightly. Over time, this can lead to:
- Hair breakage around the crown or hairline
- Thinning or friction damage at strap contact points
- Scalp irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin or dry patches
- Flattened hairstyles and disrupted curl patterns
The material of the strap, combined with sweat or movement during sleep, creates friction — and hair, like skin, needs protection.
Why Silk Bonnets Work
Silk is a natural fibre prized for its smooth texture and friction-free glide. When worn under a CPAP mask, a silk bonnet acts as a protective barrier between your hair and the straps — without adding bulk or heat.
Here’s how it helps:
- Reduces friction at pressure points where straps rest against the scalp
- Protects curls, braids, and blowouts by keeping hair smooth and undisturbed
- Minimises breakage along the hairline and nape
- Keeps scalp cool and comfortable thanks to silk’s breathable weave
- Prevents product build-up on straps from oils or leave-ins
For textured, colour-treated, or fragile hair types, the difference can be felt after just one night.
Margaret’s Story
One of our customers, Margaret, wrote to say she used her LoveSilk bonnet beneath her CPAP mask straps, simply because she needed something soft and comfortable. She wasn't looking for a haircare solution — but soon noticed less pulling, better sleep, and smoother hair in the morning.
Sometimes the simplest swaps make the biggest impact.
Tips for Wearing a Silk Bonnet with CPAP
If you're considering adding a silk bonnet to your nighttime routine, here are a few practical tips:
- Choose a snug (but not tight) fit to keep the bonnet in place without slipping
- Tuck all hair underneath, especially if you have braids or longer styles
- Adjust your straps gently over the bonnet — no need to overtighten
- Wash your bonnet weekly to avoid product or oil build-up (cold wash, pH-neutral detergent)
And yes — silk bonnets work just as well for side sleepers or those who use chin straps.
Your sleep gear shouldn’t come at the cost of your hair. Whether you’re managing sleep apnea or just protecting your strands, a silk bonnet offers a quiet kind of support — soft, breathable, and thoughtfully made.