The air-drying trend has taken the hair care world by storm, with many touting its benefits for stronger, healthier strands. However, there’s a surprising truth hidden in plain sight: air drying, in some cases, can actually cause more damage to your hair than blow drying.
While it might seem counterintuitive, renowned hairstylist Dejan Garz explains, “Blow drying is actually gentler on most hair types.” This is because wet hair is extremely vulnerable to damage. Shampoo and warm water open the hair’s cuticle layer, making it susceptible to friction from clothing, pillows, or even just the act of rubbing your hair with a towel. The longer the hair remains wet, the greater the risk of breakage.
This is especially true for hair that has been bleached, highlighted, dyed, or chemically treated. The cuticle of these hair types is already compromised, so drying it quickly is vital to prevent further damage. Garz strongly advises against sleeping with wet hair, as the friction against your pillow can lead to split ends and breakage.
So, when is air drying okay?
If you have natural hair that hasn’t been colored or styled with heat tools frequently, your hair might be able to withstand the occasional air drying during the day. Natural curls, in particular, often look better when air-dried. However, even with a gentle diffuser attachment, the airflow from a blow dryer can disrupt the curl structure, leading to frizz and eventual split ends.
The Importance of Gentle Drying Techniques
No matter your preferred drying method, a microfiber towel is a game-changer for absorbing water and speeding up the process. Garz emphasizes that a towel turban should be used only for a few minutes, until the hair is slightly dry. Leaving it on for hours is counterproductive.
Blow Drying for Healthier Hair: A Guide to Gentle Techniques
If you choose to blow dry, always apply heat protection beforehand. Use a medium heat setting on your hairdryer. A high heat setting will negate any advantage of blow drying over air drying.
Hold the hairdryer so the airflow moves from the roots to the ends, even if that means drying your hair upside down. This helps prevent tangles and frizz.
To achieve smoothness and volume, dry your hair in sections, starting from the roots and working down. A round brush can be helpful in this process. Finish with a cool blast of air to seal the cuticle and maintain your style throughout the day.