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 to bed with wet hair as much as possible, but if you've never coloured your hair and don't frequently style it with a straightener or curling iron, your hair will forgive you for air-drying it during the day. "Especially with natural curls , it usually looks nicer when your hair air dries.
Even if you blow-dry with a diffuser on a gentle setting, the airflow can cause the curl structure to crack and lead to split ends," says Garz. How to blow-dry your hair correctly and gently Master hairdresser Dejan Garz recommends drying your hair carefully after washing it with a microfiber towel, which is more absorbent and gentler on the hair due to its soft texture. "A towel turban is allowed, but should only be left on the head for a few minutes until the hair is slightly dry —and not for two hours," says the hair professional.
Then it's time to blow-dry. There is a technique to follow here. "Make sure to apply heat protection before you begin and dry the hair at a medium temperature.
You should not set the hairdryer at a temperature that's too hot, otherwise blow-drying is no more gentle than air-drying. "But you do need a bit of heat to reattach the hair cuticle after washing and to give your hair a nice shine." It's best to always hold the hairdryer so that the air flows from the roots towards the ends.
Even if you blow-dry upside down. "Otherwise your hair will get tangled and frizz will develop," says the expert. It is best if you dry your hair in sections, starting from the roots and working down, using a round brush for smoothness and volume.
Finish with a cool blast to seal the cuticles and maintain the shape and volume of your mane throughout the day. Also Read: How to pick the best shampoo for hair fall, according to your hair type What you need to know to ace your haircare routine in 2024 I paused my keratin hair treatment for the first time in 12 years—and my dry strands are thanking me for it.
