The Curly Girl Method (CGM) prioritizes gentle hair drying to minimize damage and enhance curl definition. Avoid using a regular bath towel, as this can cause frizz and breakage. Instead, utilize a microfiber towel or a soft cotton t-shirt to gently squeeze out excess water and product from your hair. Then, let your hair air dry naturally.
Why Air Drying is Preferred in the Curly Girl Method
Several sources emphasize the importance of air drying for healthy, defined curls within the CGM. Traditional towel drying is explicitly discouraged because it:
- Causes breakage and snapping of hair strands.
- Contributes to frizz.
Alternative Drying Methods (with Cautions)
While air drying is the preferred method, some CGM adherents use alternative techniques:
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Microfiber towel plopping: Gently scrunch your curls with a microfiber towel to remove excess moisture and encourage curl clumping. This method allows for faster drying than air drying alone while remaining gentle.
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Diffusing (with caution): Although some CGM followers diffuse, it’s important to use a low heat setting and to avoid focusing the diffuser on one area for too long to prevent heat damage. Diffusing is often used to add volume.
It's crucial to remember that the goal is to minimize manipulation and potential damage while allowing your hair's natural curl pattern to form.
Product Considerations
Remember that choosing the right CGM-approved products is essential for healthy, well-defined curls. Products containing sulfates, drying alcohols, silicones, waxes, and non-natural oils are generally avoided as they can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and damage.
