Why Female Astronauts Prefer Open Hair in Space

Renowned astronaut Sunita Williams recently returned to Earth after a nine-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Her signature open hairstyle sparked curiosity, prompting discussions on why female astronauts often choose to keep their hair untied while in space.

When U.S. President Donald Trump humorously referred to her as the "woman with wild hair," social media erupted with questions and memes. This led many to wonder about the practicality and reasoning behind open hairstyles in microgravity environments.

Why Female Astronauts Keep Their Hair Open in Space

1. No Gravity, No Need for Hair Ties

On Earth, gravity pulls hair down, often making ponytails or buns necessary. However, in space, hair naturally floats, removing the need for restraining it.

2. Simplified Hair Washing

Astronauts use no-rinse shampoos and towels due to limited water supply. The absence of gravity makes hair washing easier without requiring complicated grooming routines.

3. Ventilation Helps with Drying

The ISS’s ventilation system efficiently aids in drying hair by circulating air, speeding up evaporation without the need for additional tools like hairdryers.

4. Personal Preference

Many astronauts find open hair comfortable and practical. Since gravity does not pull hair into their faces, they often leave it free-floating.

Hair Care Routine in Space

NASA astronaut Karen Nyberg once provided an inside look at space haircare in a 2013 video. She demonstrated how astronauts use no-rinse shampoo and towels to clean their hair. Since water is a limited resource aboard the ISS, the evaporated moisture from hair is collected, purified, and recycled as drinking water—a testament to the efficient resource management in space.

The choice to leave hair open in space is both practical and personal. Without gravity affecting their hair, female astronauts can enjoy the freedom of movement while also adhering to efficient space grooming techniques. Sunita Williams’ signature floating hair is more than just a style—it’s a testament to the unique realities of life in microgravity.