Letting your hair air dry is healthier than drying it with a hair dryer, especially if your hair is prone to dryness, according to Hairfinder. Air drying also prevents static and fly-away hair, which is common in the dry winter months. Air drying may be difficult for those with thick or curly hair, as this type of hair may take longer to dry, or may tangle without the addition of heat. Even those with straight or thin hair may need to take special precautions to ensure proper drying.
Thin or Straight Hair
Step 1
Wrap your hair in a towel to absorb excess moisture. Gently pat or squeeze the towel and avoid rubbing, which may raise the hair cuticle and cause split ends.
Step 2
Comb through your hair with a wide-toothed comb. Spray a detangling agent, if necessary, and work from the ends to the roots to remove any tangles. Then comb through from the roots to the ends.
Step 3
Apply an anti-frizz serum if your hair is prone to frizz. Apply any styling or setting products at this time, as well.
Step 4
Pull straight or thin hair back in a headband and let your hair hang down in back. Allow your hair to dry naturally.
Thick or Curly Hair
Step 1
Follow steps 1 through 3 in section 1.
Step 2
Part your hair into four sections --- down the center and from ear to ear --- and braid or twist each section. Use rubber bands to secure the ends, if necessary.
Step 3
Pull your hair back in a headband and let your hair hang down and dry naturally.
Step 4
Remove the twists when your hair is dry. Shake your head to let your waves fall in place.
Short Hair
Step 1
Follow steps 1 through 3 in section 1.
Step 2
Comb or brush your hair into place and wrap your head in a scarf.
Step 3
Let your hair dry naturally, remove the scarf and fluff your hair with your fingers.
Tips and Warnings
- You can also set your hair with curlers and let it air dry. If you have curly hair, you can pull your loose hair back in a headband instead of twists and let it air dry. However, curly hair tends to draw up as it dries and may become tangled or frizzy. Cover your head with a silk scarf if you intend to let your hair dry overnight.
- Avoid going outside with wet hair, especially in winter. If you must go outside, cover your head with a scarf or hat.
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- Wide-toothed comb
- Detangling agent (optional)
- Anti-frizz serum (optional)
- Styling products (optional)
- Headband
- Rubber bands
References
- Hairfinder: Let's Talk About Dry Hair
- "Thank God I'm Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Maintaining Natural Hair"; Chris-Tia E. Donaldson; 2008
- "Textured Tresses: The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining and Styling Natural Hair"; Diane DaCosta with Paula T. Renfroe; 2004
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