If you’re blessed with curly hair, you know that it can be a challenge to style. But with the right techniques, you can achieve beautiful, frizz-free curls that will turn heads. One of the most important steps in styling curly hair is blow drying. When done correctly, blow drying can help to define and enhance your curls while reducing frizz. However, if you’re not careful, blow drying can also damage your hair and make it look frizzy and dull.
In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to blow dry curly hair without damaging it. We’ll also provide a step-by-step guide that will help you achieve beautiful, frizz-free curls. So, if you’re ready to learn how to blow dry curly hair like a pro, keep reading!
Before you start blow drying your curly hair, it’s important to prepare it properly. This will help to protect your hair from damage and ensure that you achieve the best results. First, start by washing your hair with a shampoo and conditioner that is designed for curly hair. These products will help to cleanse your hair and remove any buildup that can weigh your curls down. Once your hair is washed, apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to help define and protect your curls. Then, use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair. This will help to prevent breakage and ensure that your curls are evenly distributed.
Perfecting the Prep
When it comes to blow-drying curly hair, preparation is paramount. The right products and techniques can make all the difference in achieving a flawless, frizz-free finish. Here are the essential steps for perfecting the prep:
1. Start with a Clean Base
Begin by washing your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo to gently cleanse without stripping away natural oils. Follow with a conditioner specifically designed for curly hair, which will help to hydrate and detangle. Rinse thoroughly and towel-dry your hair, removing excess moisture by gently squeezing or patting.
2. Apply Protective and Styling Products
After towel-drying, apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to the lengths of your hair. This will provide hydration, reduce frizz, and help to define curls. You can also use a smoothing serum or oil on the ends to prevent split ends and enhance shine.
In addition, consider using a heat protectant spray before blow-drying. This will shield your hair from heat damage, preventing dryness and breakage.
Detangling
Before blow-drying curly hair, detangling is crucial to prevent breakage and knots. Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair to enhance detangling. Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush specifically designed for curly hair. Start detangling from the ends, gradually working your way up to the roots.
Defining
To define curls, use a diffuser attachment on the blow dryer. A diffuser disperses the air, reducing frizz and enhancing curl formation. Apply a curl-defining product to damp hair and distribute it evenly. Scrunch the hair upwards to encourage curl definition. Use a diffuser on a low heat setting and hold it 4-6 inches away from your hair to avoid overheating.
| Heat Setting | Airflow |
|---|---|
| Low | High |
Start by diffusing the roots and move towards the ends. Tilt your head upside down to lift the roots and add volume. Gently move the diffuser in a circular motion, scrunching the hair as you go. Continue diffusing until your hair is 80% dry. Once your hair is almost dry, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to separate any clumps and enhance definition.
Selecting the Right Nozzle
The nozzle you choose for your blow dryer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your curls. Here are a few types of nozzles and their specific benefits for curly hair:
| Nozzle Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Diffuser |
The diffuser nozzle is a must-have for curly hair. Its wide, flat design helps to disperse airflow evenly, reducing frizz and enhancing curl definition. It also helps to minimize heat damage by keeping the heat away from the direct roots. |
| Concentrator Nozzle |
The concentrator nozzle is a narrow, pointed nozzle that directs airflow in a concentrated stream. It’s ideal for smoothing out frizz and flyaways, especially around the edges of your hair. However, it’s important to use caution with the concentrator nozzle as it can cause heat damage if used too closely to the hair. |
| Wide Tooth Comb Attachment |
Wide tooth comb attachments are excellent for detangling and volumizing curly hair. The wide teeth gently separate the hair strands, reducing breakage and creating a more voluminous, natural-looking finish. These attachments are particularly beneficial for thick, coarse, or tangled hair. |
It’s worth noting that some blow dryers come with multiple nozzle attachments, giving you the flexibility to customize your styling experience based on the needs of your curls.
Mastering the Blow-Drying Technique
1. Prepare Your Curly Hair
Before blow-drying, wash and condition your hair with sulfate-free products. Apply a leave-in conditioner to enhance moisture and detangle your curls.
2. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into smaller sections using clips. This allows you to focus on one section at a time and avoid over-drying.
3. Use a Heat Protectant
Always apply a heat protectant spray to your hair to safeguard it from damage caused by the hot air.
4. Choose the Right Temperature and Speed
Select a low or medium heat setting and a low or medium fan speed. Higher temperatures and faster speeds can damage curly hair.
5. Advanced Blow-Drying Techniques
To enhance curl definition and reduce frizz:
| Technique | Steps |
|---|---|
| Wrap curls with fingers | Hold a section of hair vertically, wrap it around your fingers, and blow-dry upward. |
| Hood attachment | Attach a hood diffuser to your blow dryer and place it over your hair to create gentle airflow. |
| Scrunch technique | Once dry, gently scrunch your hair upward to enhance curl volume and reduce frizz. |
Diffusing for Volume and Bounce
Using a diffuser is an effective way to enhance volume and create bouncy curls. Follow these steps for optimal results:
1. Prepare Your Hair
Towel-dry your hair until it’s damp but not dripping. Apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel to define your curls.
2. Attach the Diffuser
Connect the diffuser attachment to your blow dryer.
3. Divide Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections for easier drying. Start with the top layer.
4. Hover and Scrunch
Hold the diffuser about 6-8 inches from your scalp and hover it over a section of hair. Scrunch your hair towards the diffuser using your hands to encourage curl definition.
5. Repeat for Each Section
Continue hovering and scrunching each section of hair until it’s completely dry.
6. Final Touches
Once all sections are dry, use your fingers to gently separate any clumps or curls. Avoid brushing your hair as it can disrupt the curl pattern. For added volume, flip your hair upside down and shake it out to create more lift at the roots.
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Use a low heat setting. | Prevents heat damage and preserves curl integrity. |
| Move the diffuser constantly. | Promotes even drying and prevents hot spots. |
| Focus on the roots. | Creates volume by lifting hair at the base. |
Banishing Frizz and Flyaways
Pre-Blowout Prep:
To tame frizz before blow-drying, start with a conditioning leave-in product to hydrate and detangle the hair. Apply a smoothing serum or oil to the ends for extra frizz control.
Blow-Drying Techniques:
Use a diffuser attachment to disperse airflow, reduce friction, and minimize frizz. Hold the diffuser a few inches away from the hair to avoid over-drying. Gently scrunch and lift the hair as you dry to enhance curls and prevent flatness.
Product Use:
Apply anti-frizz products during or after blow-drying to seal the hair cuticle and block out humidity. Use a light hairspray with hold to keep flyaways in place.
Curl Enhancing:
To enhance curls after blow-drying, apply a mousse or curl cream to damp hair before blow-drying. These products help define curls and reduce frizz.
Heat Protection:
Always use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying to prevent heat damage and further frizz. Choose a product specifically designed for curly hair to provide maximum protection.
Table of Anti-Frizz Products:
| Product | Benefits | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Leave-in Conditioner | Hydration, Detangling | Apply to damp hair |
| Smoothing Serum | Frizz Control, Shine | Apply to ends |
| Anti-Frizz Spray | Post-Blowout Frizz Control | Apply to dry hair |
Styling Products for Curly Perfection
Essential Hair Products
To achieve blowouts with defined curls, certain products are essential. These include:
Anti-Frizz Leave-In Conditioner
This shields curls from heat damage and reduces frizz, keeping them looking smooth and sleek.
Curl-Defining Cream
This provides definition and shape to curls while enhancing their natural texture.
Hold Spray
Once your curls are styled, a hold spray helps lock in the shape and prevent frizz.
Heat Protectant Spray
This forms a barrier between your hair and the heat of styling tools, reducing damage.
Customizing Your Routine
Fine Curls
Fine curls require lightweight products to avoid weighing them down. Opt for volumizing shampoos and conditioners, and use products with hold spray sparingly.
| Product | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Redken Volume Injection Shampoo | Creates airy volume without weighing down curls |
| Ouai Curl Defining Cream | Enhances definition without stiffness |
| Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Strong | Provides light hold without crunchiness |
Thick Curls
Thick curls need more nourishment and control. Use rich shampoos and conditioners, and don’t be afraid to layer products for maximum definition.
| Product | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Davines OI All in One Milk | Detangles, nourishes, and protects thick curls |
| Kevin Murphy Curl.Control Mousse | Provides frizz control and definition |
| Aveda Air Control Hair Spray | Offers strong hold without stiffness |
Heat Settings and Timing Considerations
Selecting the appropriate heat setting and timing is crucial for preventing damage while achieving desired results. Curly hair is particularly prone to dryness and breakage, making it essential to avoid excessive heat.
Heat Settings:
For fine or damaged hair, use low heat (180-200°F) to minimize the risk of heat damage. Medium heat (200-220°F) is suitable for most hair types, while high heat (220-250°F) should be used cautiously on coarse or thick hair.
Timing:
Over-drying curly hair can lead to frizz and brittleness. Aim to dry each section in 1-2 minutes using circular motions. Alternatively, use a diffuser attachment to disperse heat evenly and prevent direct contact with the hair.
Diffuser Attachment:
A diffuser attachment helps to distribute heat evenly while enhancing volume and definition. Place the diffuser over the roots and gently lift and squeeze for optimal results. Avoid holding the diffuser too close to the hair to prevent heat damage.
Table: Heat Settings and Timing Guidelines
| Hair Type | Heat Setting (°F) | Timing (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Fine/Damaged | 180-200 | 1-2 |
| Normal | 200-220 | 1-2 |
| Coarse/Thick | 220-250 (cautiously) | 1-2 |
Cool Down for Long-Lasting Results
Once you’ve finished drying your hair, it’s important to let it cool down completely before touching it. This will help to set the style and prevent frizz. You can either air-dry your hair or use a cool setting on your blow dryer.
To air-dry your hair, simply let it hang loose and wait for it to dry naturally. This is the gentlest way to dry your hair and will help to prevent damage.
If you’re in a hurry, you can use a cool setting on your blow dryer to speed up the drying process. However, be sure to keep the dryer at least 6 inches away from your hair to avoid heat damage.
Once your hair is completely dry, you can style it as desired. Avoid using hot tools, as these can damage your hair. Instead, opt for gentle styling techniques such as finger combing or using a wide-tooth comb.
| Drying Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Air-drying | Gentler on hair, prevents frizz | Takes longer to dry |
| Cool setting on blow dryer | Faster than air-drying, still gentle on hair | Can cause some heat damage if not used properly |
How to Blow Dry Curly Hair
Blow drying curly hair can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right technique, you can achieve smooth, frizz-free curls that will last all day. Here are the steps on how to blow dry curly hair:
- Start with clean, damp hair. Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to remove any dirt or product buildup. Towel dry your hair until it is damp, but not soaking wet.
- Apply a heat protectant. This will help to protect your hair from damage caused by the heat of the blow dryer.
- Detangle your hair. Use a wide-toothed comb or brush to gently detangle your hair. This will help to prevent breakage and frizz.
- Section your hair. Divide your hair into small sections to make it easier to blow dry.
- Use the right blow dryer. A diffuser attachment will help to evenly distribute the heat and prevent frizz.
- Blow dry on low heat. Start by blow drying your hair on the lowest heat setting. This will help to prevent damage and frizz.
- Hold the blow dryer at a distance. Hold the blow dryer about 6 inches away from your hair. This will help to prevent heat damage.
- Move the blow dryer constantly. Don’t hold the blow dryer in one place for too long. This will help to prevent heat damage and frizz.
- Flip your head over. Once your hair is about 80% dry, flip your head over and blow dry the roots from the underside. This will help to add volume and prevent your hair from falling flat..
- Let your hair cool completely. Once your hair is dry, let it cool completely before styling.
People Also Ask About How to Blow Dry Curly Hair
How do you dry curly hair without a diffuser?
You can dry curly hair without a diffuser by using a towel or a microfiber hair wrap. To dry your hair with a towel, gently pat your hair dry until it is no longer dripping wet. Then, wrap your hair in a towel and let it air dry for 15-20 minutes. To dry your hair with a microfiber hair wrap, wrap your hair in the wrap and secure it with the button or velcro closure. Let your hair dry for 15-20 minutes, then remove the wrap and let your hair air dry completely.
What is the best way to dry curly hair?
The best way to dry curly hair is to use a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer. A diffuser will help to evenly distribute the heat and prevent frizz. You can also dry your hair with a towel or a microfiber hair wrap, but these methods will take longer and may not give you the same results.
How often should you wash curly hair?
How often you wash your curly hair depends on your hair type and scalp type. If you have dry, curly hair, you may only need to wash your hair once or twice a week. If you have oily, curly hair, you may need to wash your hair more often, such as every other day or even daily.Experiment with different washing schedules to find what works best for you.
