Blow Drying Curls: Dos & Don’ts for Frizz-Free Finish

 

For those blessed with curls, blow drying can often feel like a high-stakes game. One misstep can lead to frizz, flyaways, and a look that’s the antithesis of those luscious, defined curls you desire. To demystify the blow drying process for curly hair, we’re breaking down the dos and don’ts, providing you with the knowledge and techniques to transform your mane into a frizz-free wonder.  Join us in reading ‘Blow Drying Curls: Dos & Don’ts for Frizz-Free Finish ’.

The Curly Hair Conundrum

Understanding Your Curls

Before you even pick up a blow dryer, understanding the intricacies of your curls is paramount. Are they tight ringlets or loose waves? High porosity or low? Knowing your hair’s intricacies will determine the products and methods that work best for you.

Maintaining Moisture

Curls thrive on moisture. They’re inherently more fragile and prone to dryness than straight hair. Always start with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, and consider a leave-in conditioner or cream to lock in moisture before blow drying.

The Heat Conundrum

Heat can be both your best friend and worst enemy when it comes to curls. Too much can cause damage, but the right amount, paired with the correct tools, can create bouncy, defined curls.

Dos for the Perfect Blowout

Pre-Drying Prep

For the best results, prep is key. Always apply a heat protectant throughout your hair to shield it from the potential damage of blow drying. Look for products with natural oils like argan or shea to keep your hair healthy and shiny.

Sectioning Strategy

Never underestimate the power of sectioning. Curly hair can be dense and voluminous, so dividing it into smaller, more manageable sections ensures that each curl receives the attention it deserves.

Tool Talk

Invest in a high-quality blow dryer with a diffuser attachment. The diffuser is a curly girl’s secret weapon, dispersing air evenly to dry your hair gently without disturbing natural curl patterns.

Technique Matters

Hold your diffuser downwards and cup a section of hair at a time, starting at the roots and slowly moving the dryer towards the ends. This encourages the hair to dry with volume and helps maintain the curl shape.

Cool It Down

Once your hair is about 80% dry, switch to the cool setting on your dryer to set the style and seal the cuticle for a sleeker, frizz-free finish. Cool air also prevents the hair from over-drying and becoming brittle.

Finishing Flourish

When your hair is fully dry, add a few drops of a lightweight, natural oil to your palms and gently scrunch from ends to roots for extra shine and to reduce any remaining frizz.

The Don’ts That Could Derail Your Do

Forget the Brush

Brushing curly hair when drying can spell disaster, causing unwanted expansion and frizz. Stick to your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle and shape your curls while drying.

Skip the High Heat

High heat can lead to moisture loss and damage, which is the last thing your curls need. Opt for a medium heat and, if your dryer has the option, use an ionic setting to reduce frizz even further.

No Need for Speed

Rushing the drying process can cause more harm than good. Take the time to dry each section completely using gentle heat to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.

Avoid the Over-Dry

Curly hair is more sensitive to over-drying than other hair types, leading to brittleness and breakage. Keep a close eye on the dryness of your hair and switch to the cool setting once it’s nearly dry.

No Crushing Curls

Resist the urge to flatten your curls against your head with the dryer or your hands. Hold onto the ends and allow the roots to dry with natural volume for a more flattering result.

Not on Dirty Hair

Don’t attempt blow drying your hair right after a workout or on days when your hair is particularly dirty. The excessive oil or sweat can cause a funky smell as well as affect the texture of your curls.