After you wash your hair, you have two options: you can blow-dry it or let it air-dry. Each has advantages and drawbacks. Here are some facts and tips to help you decide which is better for you.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Blow-Drying Your Hair
Blow-drying your hair can help you create the controlled style you want. It can also be time-consuming, and exposing your hair to heat for a long time can cause damage. Hair strands are covered with cuticles, shingle-like layers of protein that protect it from damage. Heat can cause the cuticles to break down, which can make hair rough and cause it to become damaged. Heat also causes hair to lose moisture at a faster rate than it can be reabsorbed from the air. This can cause it to become brittle. When hair is wet, the fibers swell. If it is dried quickly, the fibers contract, which can make the cuticles contract.
Pros and Cons of Air-Drying Your Hair
Air-drying is healthier for your hair and can help you avoid heat damage. One drawback is that it can cause you to have wet hair for hours. Combing wet hair can cause the strands to stretch while they are delicate, which can lead to breakage and split ends. Rubbing your hair with a towel can also cause damage. If you go out with wet hair and it is blown in the wind, it can develop split ends. If it is cold outside and you go out with wet hair, it can freeze and break.
How to Decide Which Is Better for You
You should decide whether it is better to blow-dry or air-dry your hair based on its condition, what style you hope to achieve, whether or not you can have wet hair for a few hours, and the weather. In general, it is better to wash and dry your hair less often to avoid drying it out and causing damage.
Blow-Drying Tips
If you decide to blow-dry your hair, try to avoid using too much heat. Blow-dry your hair for the shortest amount of time possible. Use a heat protectant spray and move the blow-dryer around to avoid overheating any one spot. Use a diffuser when you blow-dry your hair to avoid overheating it. If your hair is dry, use a silicone-based anti-frizz serum. Do not overbrush your hair because that can cause damage.
How to Air-Dry Your Hair
You can reduce the amount of time required to air-dry your hair by using a highly absorbent towel to gently blot your hair. Then fluff it from the roots with your fingers to increase air flow. Use a wide-toothed come to detangle your hair, and then use an anti-frizz serum. You can create texture by wrapping or braiding your hair while it is drying.
Make an Appointment to Get Your Hair Cut or Styled
If you want to change your hairstyle or have your hair done for a special occasion, make an appointment at The Beauty Bar. We can help you choose the right style and give you tips on how to take care of your hair so you will look beautiful every day. Schedule your appointment today.