If your curls are looking dull, dry, and frizzy, the right products can make a difference. Opt for sulfate-free, curl-friendly items that keep your locks soft. A soft pillowcase helps, as do loose hairstyles. For the best results, drying curly hair properly is key. Your bouncy, soft curls deserve it.
How to dry curly hair
Your curly hair routine isn’t just one step. From washing to cocktailing products, every action affects the end result. Proper drying techniques reduce frizz, tangles, and damage while maximizing the impact on perfected curls.
The Definitive Guide To Drying and Diffusing Curly Hair
– Curl expert
For curly hair, the technique used in drying truly matters. Whether you air dry or diffuse with a cup-like attachment on a dryer, the right process ensures frizz-free, faster results after washing, conditioning, and styling.
To speed up air drying:
Apply your products on damp hair to reduce water-weight. Use a microfiber towel to remove excess water after styling. Wet plop with a shower cap to encourage curl formation from the root. After 5 to 10 minutes, dry your curly hair carefully to avoid frizz when diffusing.
The first 15 minutes of drying are very crucial.
Air dry your curly hair for 15 minutes using cold air to allow styling products to saturate and set. Sit or lie near the edge under a ceiling fan for better volume. Change position every 5 minutes. When a slight gel cast forms, it’s your cue to start diffusing. This process can take up to 4 hours, but it’s healthier for your curls. Use two-pronged salon clips to lift roots and avoid flat-roots problems.
Ditch The Blow Dryer (Usually)
When you’re in a rush and have no choice but to use a blow dryer, it’s a big deal to use the cool air function. Though not the fastest option, drying hair with cold air is safer for your delicate curls. Heat damage is a primary factor for frizz over time. Using a diffuser can disperse the air more evenly and protect your locks. Attach it to the ends of the dryer, allowing the air to wrap around your curls. This method helps prevent frizz during each session and is a true way to keep your hair healthy.
Air Drying: Good or Bad?
If you have plenty of time after a shower and no immediate responsibilities, air drying can be a good option. It works well with other methods like deep conditioning vs conditioning. For long and heavy hair, air drying might be less effective as it takes longer and may impact the shape of your curls.
For short to mid-length hair, it’s a great choice. Pat your hair with a gentle microfiber towel to remove excess water, add some gel or leave-in conditioner, and scrunch. If you want to dry faster, try sitting outside on a warm sunny day or use a fan inside.
Flip your hair every half hour to avoid flatter sides. Depending on your hair’s length and thickness, this can take from an hour to half a day.
Types of Towels
Microfiber towels are ideal for drying curly hair. Unlike standard bathroom towels, which can be rough and cause frizz or breakage to delicate curls, a soft microfiber towel gently absorbs moisture without friction.
Use one on your pillow for quicker drying while you sleep, though it may affect curl definition. This is especially important when considering other hair treatments like toner vs hair dye.
Plopping: What Is It?
Plopping is a great way to dry curly hair and even drying wavy hair quicker than air drying. On busy days, after your shower, apply leave-in conditioner or gel to your curls, then use a microfiber towel or tee-shirt to wrap your head. Secure it by bringing the bottom of the shirt over your forehead and tying the arms around the neck. This method saves time while getting dressed and doing makeup. It’s also perfect for traveling when you have limited supplies. For ease, you can use a Turbie Twist.
Plopping Curly Hair
Plopping curls is a simple method that reduces drying time and frizzy hair in one shot. It’s much gentler than using a regular cotton towel, which can remove too much water and roughen hair strands. Swaddling your curly hair in a cotton T-shirt removes excess water, enhancing curl definition and volume without the frizz. For more frizz-fighting tips, consider key hair care products like purple shampoo to maintain color, but remember, it won’t lighten hair.
Diffusing Curly Hair
When you’re in a rush, a hair diffuser attachment is your best friend. It’s definitely worth the investment and a smart purchase. It helps control the heat and air on curly hair, preventing that frizzy poof ball look.
Start by applying leave-in conditioner like Garnier Fructis Curl Nourish Butter Cream and your favorite styling product. Use the diffuser to dry your hair while you scrunch your curls toward the roots. For big hair, remove the diffuser when your hair is halfway dry and finish with the blow dryer nozzle.
Optional: Use a wide-toothed comb to tease out volume or add some waves. If you want a freestyle look, use a pick to achieve it without making your hair too crunchy.
How to diffuse curly hair
If you don’t have a ceiling fan or table fan, use a dryer diffuser on high heat and speed to mimic the air drying process. After about 10 minutes, when you feel a slight cast, it’s your cue to start diffusing. Change to the lowest setting and turn off the diffuser between sections. Cup small sections of hair into the diffuser, bring it close to the scalp, and run it for 20-30 seconds. Move carefully to avoid frizz—this is a top tip from stylist ManesByMell.
Get the best of both worlds!
For curly hair, I like to air dry about 90% and then diffuse to finish. Taking breaks and alternating between air drying and diffusing at regular intervals gives the best results—frizz-free and voluminous in just an hour.
So What’s The Best Way to Dry Curly Hair Overall?
The best way to dry curly hair is a combination of methods. Start with plopping after your shower to remove excess moisture, then air dry for soft, bouncy curls. If in a rush, use a cool blow dryer with a diffuser. Consider Turbie Twist products to change your routine.
Conclusion
Drying curly hair effectively involves a combination of methods tailored to your hair’s needs. Whether you prefer air drying, diffusing, or a mix of both, using the right products like microfiber towels and lightweight oils can minimize frizz and enhance curl definition. Experimenting with techniques like plopping and using a diffuser can make a significant difference, leaving your curls soft, bouncy, and healthy.
FAQ’s
How to properly dry curly hair?
Flip your head upside down and release a section of curls. Gather them in the diffuser and switch the dryer on low heat to minimize damage. Work through each section until your curls are 80% dry.
Is it OK to let curly hair dry naturally?
If you want to retain your natural curl pattern, air drying is ideal. Heat from diffusing can set your hair in a scrunched position, making the shape last longer. However, air drying can give great results too.
How do you air dry curly hair without the frizz?
For curly hair, try the plopping method: gently wrap your hair in a microfiber towel or t-shirt to enhance curl formation and minimize frizz. For straight hair, let it hang loose and avoid touching to prevent frizzy air drying.
How do I get moisture in my curly hair?
Use lightweight oils like argan, jojoba, or sweet almond to add moisture to curly hair without weighing it down. For deeper treatments, heavier oils like castor or coconut work well. Remember, low-porosity hair may not absorb oils effectively.
