If the idea of blow- drying your hair when you have beads of sweat trickling down your neck and back may not be appealing. And you're not alone in feeling this way. When deciding whether to skip blow-drying because it takes too much time or because you believe air-drying is healthier, many people choose to let their hair air-dry.

But here's a surprising fact: air-drying can actually cause more damage to your hair than blow-drying. "It may seem counterintuitive since we're all aware of the damage heat can cause to hair . However, blow-drying is actually gentler on most hair types and conditions," explains master hairdresser Dejan Garz.

Below, he shares professional tips on how to dry your hair as gently as possible. Why is blow-drying better for your hair than air-drying? "Our hair is incredibly prone to damage when wet ," explains master hairdresser Dejan Garz. "Shampoo and warm water open up the cuticle layer, making the hair prone to breakage from friction—like rubbing against clothing or a pillow.

The longer it stays wet, the more susceptible it is to damage." If your hair is bleached, highlighted, dyed, or chemically treated, it's even more important to use a hairdryer. "The cuticle is already compromised, so it's crucial to dry your hair quickly to prevent further damage," advises Garz.

He also warns against going to bed with wet hair, as prolonged friction against a pillow can lead to hair breakage and split ends. Dry your hair gently Ideally, you should avoid going t.