Are you tired of waking up with bed head? Do you wish you could achieve salon-worthy curls without the hassle? If so, then you need to try the towel hair wrap! This simple yet effective technique can give you beautiful, bouncy curls that will last all day long. Plus, it’s easy to do and only requires a few minutes of your time.
To start, you’ll need a clean towel and some water. You can use a regular bath towel or a microfiber towel. If you’re using a regular towel, be sure to wring it out thoroughly so that it’s not dripping wet. Once you have your towel, wet it with water and then wring it out again so that it’s just damp.
Now, it’s time to wrap your hair. Start by placing the towel on your head, with the center of the towel at the crown of your head. Bring the two ends of the towel together at the nape of your neck and tie them into a knot. Then, wrap the remaining ends of the towel around your head and tuck them under the knot. Adjust the towel so that it’s snug but not too tight. You want your hair to be able to move freely, but you also want the towel to stay in place.
Materials You Need
To make a towel hair wrap, you will need the following materials:
Towel
The most important material you will need is a towel. The type of towel you use will depend on the length and thickness of your hair. If you have long, thick hair, you will need a large, absorbent towel. If you have short, thin hair, you can use a smaller towel.
Types of Towels to Use
| Towel Type | Recommended For |
|---|---|
| Microfiber | Thick hair that absorbs water quickly |
| Cotton | Medium to thick hair that needs a more absorbent material |
| Bamboo | Thin to medium hair that is prone to frizz |
| Linen | Thin, delicate hair that requires a soft and gentle material |
Towel Size Recommendations
| Hair Length | Towel Size |
|---|---|
| Short (shoulder-length or shorter) | 18 x 24 inches |
| Medium (shoulder to mid-back length) | 24 x 48 inches |
| Long (mid-back length or longer) | 30 x 60 inches |
Preparing Your Hair
Before wrapping your hair in a towel, it’s essential to prepare it properly to minimize frizz and damage. Follow these steps for optimal results:
Towel Dry
After shampooing, gently towel dry your hair to remove excess water. Rubbing or scrunching can create friction and lead to breakage. Instead, use a soft, absorbent towel to pat your hair dry. Avoid using microfiber towels, as they can be too rough for wet hair.
Use a Wide-Toothed Comb or Brush
To prevent tangles, use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with flexible bristles. Gently detangle your hair from the ends up to the roots. Brushing too close to the scalp can damage your hair when it’s wet and more vulnerable.
Apply Leave-In Conditioner
If desired, apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair. This will help to hydrate, protect, and detangle your hair, making it less likely to tangle or break while wrapped in a towel.
Table: Leave-In Conditioner Benefits
| Benefit |
|---|
| Hydrates hair |
| Protects hair from damage |
| Detangles hair |
Drying Your Hair
### Step 1: Wrap the Towel Correctly
Place the towel flat on your head with the long edge parallel to your forehead. Bring the ends of the towel to the nape of your neck and cross them over each other. Wrap the ends around the back of your head and bring them to the front, securing them with a knot or tucking them in.
### Step 2: Secure the Towel
Once the towel is wrapped, you can secure it further by tying a knot or using a hair clip or bungee cord. This will help keep the towel in place while you go about your routine.
### Step 3: Adjust the Towel and Wait
Adjust the towel as needed to ensure it is not too tight or too loose. You want it to be comfortable but secure enough to absorb water.
Allow your hair to air dry under the towel for as long as possible. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better. The longer your hair dries naturally, the less heat damage you will cause when styling it later. If you are short on time, you can use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to speed up the drying process.
| Hair Type | Drying Time |
|—|—|
| Fine | 15-30 minutes |
| Medium | 30-45 minutes |
| Thick | 45-60 minutes |
Wrapping Technique
Step 1: Bending Over
Start by bending over at the waist and letting your hair hang down towards the floor. Gently gather all of your hair at the crown of your head and hold it in one hand.
Step 2: Centering the Towel
Take the towel and place the middle of its length at the nape of your neck, just above the hairline. Secure the towel with your hand or use a hair clip to keep it in place.
Step 3: Rolling Up
Gently roll the ends of the towel upward, towards the crown of your head. Continue rolling until the towel is snugly wrapped around your hair but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
Step 4: Twisting and Securing
Once the towel is rolled up, twist the ends together to form a secure hold. You can adjust the tightness of the twist to your desired level of snugness. Bring the twisted ends to the top of your head and tuck them inside the towel wrap. Use hairpins or clips to secure the twist in place and keep the wrap from unraveling.
Step 5: Drying
Leave the towel wrap in place for as long as desired. You can choose to air-dry your hair or use a blow dryer to speed up the process. Once your hair is dry, remove the towel and style as desired.
| Hair Length | Towel Size |
|---|---|
| Short to Medium | Standard bath towel (27″ x 54″) |
| Long and Thick | Extra-large bath towel (30″ x 60″) or microfiber hair towel |
Securing the Towel
Once the towel is placed on your head, it’s time to secure it to prevent it from slipping or falling off. Here are several methods to achieve a snug fit:
Twist and Tie Method
1. Twist both ends of the towel together, forming a tight rope-like shape.
2. Wrap the twisted ends around the top of your head and tie them firmly in a knot.
3. Adjust the knot and towel position for a comfortable and secure fit.
Turban Method
1. Position the towel on your head, with the short end covering your hairline and the long end hanging down.
2. Gather the long end and wrap it around the back of your head.
3. Cross the ends in front of your forehead and tuck them under the turban at the back.
Wrap and Tuck Method
1. Place the towel on your head, with one end covering more of your hair than the other.
2. Wrap the longer end around your head and tuck it under the shorter end at the back.
3. Continue wrapping the remaining towel around your head, tucking each layer under the previous one.
Button and Loop Method
If your towel has buttons and loops, use them to secure the wrap. Wrap the towel around your head and fasten the buttons into the loops to hold it in place.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Twist and Tie | Twist ends, wrap, and tie into a knot |
| Turban | Wrap long end around, cross ends, tuck under |
| Wrap and Tuck | Wrap longer end around, tuck under shorter end, continue wrapping |
| Button and Loop | Fasten buttons into loops to hold towel in place |
Waiting Time
The waiting time for a towel hair wrap varies depending on the desired level of dryness. Here’s a general guideline:
| Desired Dryness Level | Waiting Time |
|---|---|
| Slightly Damp | 10-15 minutes |
| Partially Dry | 20-30 minutes |
| Mostly Dry | 30-45 minutes |
| Completely Dry | 1-2 hours |
It’s important to note that the waiting time can be influenced by factors such as the thickness of your hair, the temperature, and the humidity in the air. If you’re unsure about the waiting time, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and wait a bit longer to avoid over-drying your hair.
During the waiting period, you can relax and engage in other activities, such as reading, listening to music, or working on your computer. You don’t need to constantly monitor your hair; simply set a timer or keep an eye on the clock to avoid over-drying.
Benefits of Using a Towel Hair Wrap
Reduced Frizz and Tangles
Towel hair wraps can significantly reduce frizz and tangles. The smooth texture of the towel absorbs excess moisture without creating friction, which can cause hair to become rough and tangled.
Improved Hair Hydration
Unlike regular towels, towel hair wraps are designed to retain moisture rather than absorb it. This helps keep hair hydrated and prevents it from becoming dry and brittle.
Protection from Damage
Towel hair wraps provide a gentle way to dry hair without causing damage. The soft, absorbent material helps prevent breakage, split ends, and other forms of hair damage.
Increased Volume and Shine
By wrapping damp hair in a towel hair wrap, you can encourage natural hair volume and create a smooth, shiny appearance. The towel helps to define curls and reduce frizz, giving hair a more polished look.
Reduced Drying Time
Towel hair wraps absorb excess water quickly, reducing the amount of time it takes to dry your hair. This can be especially beneficial for those with long, thick hair.
Convenience and Comfort
Towel hair wraps are incredibly convenient and comfortable to use. They stay securely in place without slipping or falling off, allowing you to move around freely while your hair dries.
Additional Benefits
In addition to the primary benefits listed above, towel hair wraps also offer the following advantages:
| Benefits |
|---|
| Prevents mildew and odor |
| Reduces hair loss |
| Promotes hair growth |
Pre-Drying Hair
Towel-drying hair is the first step in any hair care routine. Gently pat your hair with a towel to remove excess water. Rubbing your hair with a towel can damage your hair and cause breakage.
Using the Right Towel
Choose a towel made of a soft, absorbent material, such as microfiber or bamboo. These materials are gentle on hair and help to reduce frizz.
Wrapping the Hair
Place the towel on your head and secure it with a twist or a knot. Do not wrap the towel too tightly, as this can put stress on your hair and cause breakage.
Drying Time
Allow your hair to air-dry in the towel for 15-20 minutes. This will help to absorb excess moisture without over-drying your hair.
Removing the Towel
Gently remove the towel from your hair when it is mostly dry. Do not rub or wring your hair, as this can damage your hair.
Styling
You can style your hair as desired after towel-drying. Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush to gently remove any knots or tangles.
Tips for Better Results
Using a Turban Towel
Turban towels are designed to wrap your hair securely and comfortably. They are often made of moisture-wicking fabrics that help to absorb excess water quickly.
Twisting Your Hair
Twisting your hair before wrapping it in a towel can help to remove even more excess water. Twist your hair into a small bun or ponytail and secure it with a hair tie before wrapping it with a towel.
Using a Heat Protectant
If you plan to use heat tools to style your hair after towel-drying, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair first. This will help to protect your hair from heat damage.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Gently pat your hair with a towel to remove excess water | Rub your hair with a towel |
| Use a towel made of a soft, absorbent material | Use a rough or abrasive towel |
| Wrap the hair securely, but not too tightly | Wrap the hair too tightly |
| Allow your hair to air-dry in the towel for 15-20 minutes | Over-dry your hair |
| Gently remove the towel from your hair when it is mostly dry | Rub or wring your hair |
Alternatives to Towel Hair Wraps
Towel hair wraps are not the only option for wrapping your hair after a shower. There are a few other alternatives that can be just as effective, if not more so.
Microfiber Hair Towels
Microfiber hair towels are made of a super-absorbent material that can wick away moisture from your hair quickly and efficiently. They are also much lighter and more compact than traditional towel hair wraps, making them easier to pack and transport.
Turban Hair Towels
Turban hair towels are made of a soft, plush material that is gentle on your hair. They are also very secure, so you don’t have to worry about them falling off your head.
Bonnet Hair Dryers
Bonnet hair dryers are a great option for drying your hair quickly and evenly. They are also very gentle on your hair, so you don’t have to worry about damaging it.
Hair Absorbing Wraps
Hair absorbing wraps are made of a special material that absorbs water quickly and efficiently. They are also very lightweight and easy to use.
Cotton T-Shirts
Cotton T-shirts can also be used to wrap your hair after a shower. They are not as absorbent as towel hair wraps or microfiber hair towels, but they are still effective.
Pillowcases
Pillowcases can also be used to wrap your hair after a shower. They are not as absorbent as towel hair wraps or microfiber hair towels, but they are still effective.
Old Towels
Old towels can also be used to wrap your hair after a shower. They are not as absorbent as towel hair wraps or microfiber hair towels, but they are still effective.
Paper Towels
Paper towels can also be used to wrap your hair after a shower. They are not as absorbent as towel hair wraps or microfiber hair towels, but they are still effective.
| Steps |
|---|
1. Gather your MaterialsYou will need two towels, one that is long enough to wrap around your head twice and the other that can absorb as much water as possible. |
2. Wash and Condition your hairTowel hair wraps are most effective when your hair is clean and conditioned. |
3. Towel dry your hairUse the first towel to blot your hair dry. Do not rub your hair with the towel as this can cause breakage. |
4. Apply a leave-in conditionerIf you have curly or dry hair, apply a leave-in conditioner to help define your curls. |
5. Wrap your hair in the first towelPlace the first towel on your head and wrap it around your hair twice. |
6. Wrap your hair in the second towelPlace the second towel on your head and wrap it around your hair, covering the first towel. |
7. Secure the wrapSecure the wrap by tying it in a knot at the back of your head. |
8. Go to sleepLeave the wrap on your head while you sleep. |
9. Remove the wrap in the morningRemove the wrap in the morning and style your hair as desired. |
10. Wash the towelsBe sure to wash the towels after each use to prevent bacteria from building up. How to Make a Towel Hair WrapTowel hair wraps are a great way to keep your hair dry and out of the way while you’re getting ready in the morning or doing your skincare routine. They’re also a great way to protect your hair from the sun and wind when you’re outdoors. Best of all, they’re easy to make and can be customized to your own style. To make a towel hair wrap, you’ll need a towel that’s about 24 inches by 48 inches. You can use a regular bath towel, a microfiber towel, or even a sarong. Once you have your towel, follow these steps:
People Also AskHow long should I keep a towel hair wrap on?You can keep a towel hair wrap on for as long as you want. However, it’s best to remove it after 30 minutes to an hour to prevent your hair from becoming too dry. Can I sleep with a towel hair wrap on?Yes, you can sleep with a towel hair wrap on. However, it’s important to make sure that the towel is not too tight, as this can cause discomfort and damage to your hair. How do I keep my towel hair wrap from falling off?There are a few things you can do to keep your towel hair wrap from falling off. First, make sure that the towel is tied securely at the nape of your neck and the top of your head. You can also use bobby pins to secure the towel in place. |
