Why You Shouldn’t Blow Dry Curly Hair

When it comes to curly hair care, the question of whether or not to blow dry is a common one. While blow drying can be a quick and effective way to style curly hair, it’s important to consider the potential damage it can cause. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of blow drying curly hair and provide tips on how to minimize damage if you choose to blow dry.

Pros of Blow Drying Curly Hair

• Quicker Styling: Blow drying is a relatively quick way to style curly hair, especially compared to air drying.
• Reduced Frizz: Blow drying can help to reduce frizz by smoothing the hair cuticle.
• Increased Volume: Blow drying can add volume to curly hair by lifting the roots and creating body.
• Defined Curls: Blow drying can help to define curls and make them look more polished.

Cons of Blow Drying Curly Hair

• Heat Damage: Blow drying uses hot air, which can damage curly hair over time. Heat can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
• Loss of Moisture: Blow drying can also strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and frizz.
• Flattening of Curls: If blow dried incorrectly, curly hair can become flattened and lose its natural shape.
• Increased Frizz: If blow dried too often or at too high a temperature, curly hair can become more frizzy.

Tips for Blow Drying Curly Hair Safely

If you do choose to blow dry your curly hair, there are some steps you can take to minimize damage:

• Use a Diffuser: A diffuser attachment helps to disperse the hot air and reduce frizz.
• Use a Low Heat Setting: Always use the lowest heat setting possible to avoid heat damage.
• Protect Your Hair with Heat Protectant: Apply a heat protectant spray to your hair before blow drying to shield it from heat damage.
• Avoid Over-Blow Drying: Only blow dry your hair until it is about 80% dry. Let it air dry the rest of the way to prevent over-drying.
• Use a Wide-Toothed Comb: Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair while blow drying to prevent breakage.
• Apply a Leave-In Conditioner: Apply a leave-in conditioner after blow drying to help restore moisture and reduce frizz.

Alternatives to Blow Drying Curly Hair

If you’re concerned about the potential damage that blow drying can cause, there are several alternative ways to style curly hair:

• Air Drying: Air drying is the gentlest option for curly hair. Simply wash your hair and let it dry naturally.
• Plopping: Plopping is a technique where you wrap your wet hair in a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt. This helps to absorb excess water and reduce frizz.
• Diffusing: Diffusing is a good option for those who want to speed up the drying process without using direct heat. Simply attach a diffuser to your blow dryer and hold it a few inches away from your hair.
• Use a Curl Cream or Gel: Curl creams and gels can help to define curls and reduce frizz. Apply them to wet or damp hair and let it air dry or diffuse.

Wrapping Up

Whether or not to blow dry curly hair is a personal decision. If you choose to blow dry, be sure to follow the tips above to minimize damage. If you’re concerned about the potential damage, consider alternative styling methods such as air drying, plopping, or diffusing.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I blow dry my curly hair every day?
A: No, it is not recommended to blow dry curly hair every day as it can cause excessive heat damage and dryness.

Q: What is the best brush to use for blow drying curly hair?
A: Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush specifically designed for curly hair to prevent breakage.

Q: Should I use a heat protectant before blow drying my curly hair?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended to apply a heat protectant spray to your hair before blow drying to shield it from heat damage.