It depends, while blasting curly hair with a hair dryer is generally not recommended, you can hair dry curly hair using the correct techniques and tools.
Air drying curly hair can lead to elongated, less defined curls due to gravity pulling them down. Therefore, using a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment, and employing techniques such as "plopping" before drying, can help enhance curl definition and minimize frizz.
Here's a breakdown:
Why Direct Heat is Bad for Curly Hair:
- Damage: High heat can damage the hair's cuticle, leading to dryness, breakage, and frizz.
- Frizz: Disrupts the curl pattern, promoting frizz.
- Loss of Moisture: Strips away essential moisture, making curls brittle.
How to Dry Curly Hair with a Hair Dryer (The Right Way):
- Use a Diffuser: A diffuser attachment spreads the airflow, minimizing disruption to the curl pattern and preventing frizz.
- Low Heat: Always use a low heat setting to reduce damage.
- Low Speed: A low speed setting will further minimize frizz by preventing the curls from being blown around too much.
- Hover Diffusing: Hover the diffuser around your hair, allowing the heat to gently dry the curls without direct contact.
- Pixie Diffusing: Gently cup sections of your curls into the diffuser and hold it near your scalp until the section is mostly dry.
- Plopping (Optional, but Recommended): "Plopping" involves wrapping your hair in a microfiber towel or t-shirt immediately after washing. This helps set the curl pattern and absorb excess water before you begin drying.
Alternatives to Traditional Hair Drying:
- Air Drying: If you choose to air dry, consider using curl-defining products to maintain shape and minimize frizz.
- Plopping (Air Dry): Plopping and then letting your hair air dry helps maintain curl definition without heat.
Summary Table:
| Drying Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hair Dryer (Diffuser) | Defines curls, adds volume, quick drying | Can cause damage if heat is too high |
| Air Drying | Gentle, no heat damage | Can lead to elongated curls, takes longer |
| Plopping (then Air Dry) | Defines curls, reduces frizz | Can take longer than using a hair dryer |
