Using fabric scrunchies or fabric-covered accessories instead of standard elastic bands is said to reduce hair breakage by lowering mechanical tension and the force required to remove them.

noli's read

The concept relies on the simple physical principle that distributing pressure over a wider surface area limits friction and mechanical pulling. Tests mentioned by the Tri-Princeton suggest that fabric accessories slide more easily, which is consistent with basic trichology principles regarding the fragility of the hair fiber when subjected to repeated pulling. It is established that bare elastic bands with metal parts or those that are very thin create intense pressure points, promoting localized breakage (observational evidence and laboratory tests in the cosmetics industry). However, while comfort and the reduction of crimp marks are proven, the actual impact on overall hair health remains modest compared to other factors such as chemical treatments or heat. There are no large-scale randomized clinical trials on the subject, as research rarely focuses on hair accessories. The community largely agrees with this recommendation, viewing scrunchies as a simple and inexpensive solution to minimize daily mechanical damage.

the sources

1. 1r/HaircareScience