How to blow dry curly hair

Curly hair can be tricky to manage, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve perfect curls. One of the most effective ways to style curly hair is by blow drying it. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of blow drying curly hair to enhance its natural curl pattern and achieve a frizz-free look.

Step 1: Preparing your hair

• Before blow drying, make sure your hair is clean and properly conditioned. Curly hair tends to be dehydrated, so using a hydrating shampoo and conditioner is essential.
• After washing, gently detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. This will help prevent breakage and make it easier to style.
• If you have any questions or concerns about blow drying your curly hair, consult a professional hairstylist for guidance.

Step 2: Applying heat protection

1. Apply a heat protection product evenly throughout your damp hair. This will help reduce heat damage and prevent frizz.
2. One of our favorite heat protectants is argan oil. It not only provides heat protection but also adds shine and enhances the overall health of your hair.

Step 3: Using the right tools

Having the right blow dryer and accessories is essential for achieving perfect curls. Here are some tips for selecting the right tools:

• Invest in a high-quality blow dryer with adjustable heat and speed settings. Ionic blow dryers are currently trending as they reduce frizz and dry hair faster.
• Use a diffuser attachment with wide openings to gently distribute air and prevent frizz. This attachment is ideal for enhancing the natural shape of your curls.
• Avoid using brushes or combs, as they can cause unnecessary tension and straighten your curls.

Step 4: Blow drying technique

1. Start by gently squeezing excess water from your hair using a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt. This will help reduce drying time.
2. Flip your head upside down and scrunch your hair with your hands to enhance the natural curl pattern.
3. Attach the diffuser to your blow dryer and set it to a low heat and low speed setting. This will help prevent excessive heat and loss of curl definition.
4. Using the diffuser, gently lift sections of your hair towards your scalp. Allow the diffuser to cradle your curls, keeping your blow dryer on a low setting.
5. Continue this process, focusing on one section at a time, until your hair is about 80% dry.

Step 5: Final touches

• Once your hair is mostly dry, switch your blow dryer to a cool setting. This helps to set your curls and reduce frizz.
• Apply a small amount of finishing product, such as a curl-enhancing milk or serum, to enhance shine and define your curls.
• To ensure your curls stay intact for longer, avoid touching or scrunching your hair too much after blow drying.

Blow drying curly hair for perfect curls is an achievable goal with the right techniques and tools. By following this step-by-step guide, you can enhance the natural shape of your curls, prevent frizz, and achieve a beautiful and defined curl pattern. Remember to always protect your hair with heat protectants and use minimal heat to avoid damage. Embrace your curls and enjoy your new hairstyle!

Apply a heat protectant

Applying a heat protectant is a crucial step in blow drying curly hair, as it helps to prevent damage and keep your curls looking their best. Heat protectants are hairstylist-approved products that can shield your hair from the excessive heat of blow dryers and other styling tools.

When choosing a heat protectant, look for one that contains ingredients like argan oil or shea butter. These ingredients help to moisturize your hair and reduce the risk of breakage and flyaways.

Here’s how to apply a heat protectant:

1. Start with clean, damp hair. You can either air dry your hair till it is about 70% dry or gently blot it with a towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Take a small amount of the heat protectant and rub it between your palms to evenly distribute it.
3. Apply the protectant to your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Avoid applying it to the roots, as it can weigh down your hair and cause it to become greasy.
4. If you have thick or long hair, you may need to section your hair and apply the protectant layer by layer.
5. Once the protectant is applied, comb through your hair with a wide-toothed comb to ensure even distribution.

A heat protectant forms a protective barrier on your hair, creating a shield against the heat. It also helps to lock in moisture and enhances manageability, making it easier to style your curls.

By applying a heat protectant, you can minimize the damage caused by heat styling tools and keep your curls looking healthy and bouncy.

Questions and answers:

What is the best way to blow dry curly hair for perfect curls?

The best way to blow dry curly hair for perfect curls is to start by applying a heat protectant spray to your hair. Then, divide your hair into small sections and use a round brush to blow dry each section. Make sure to use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to help enhance your natural curls. Finish off by using a styling product to lock in the curls.

Can I blow dry my curly hair without using a diffuser?

While using a diffuser is recommended for curly hair, you can still blow dry your hair without one. One method is to use your fingers to gently scrunch your hair while blow drying it on a low heat setting. Another option is to use a t-shirt or a microfiber towel to dry your hair instead of a regular towel, as this can help reduce frizz and preserve your natural curls.

How long does it typically take to blow dry curly hair?

The time it takes to blow dry curly hair can vary depending on the length and thickness of your hair. On average, it can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. However, it’s important not to rush the process and to take your time to ensure that your hair is completely dry and styled to perfection.

What products should I use when blow drying curly hair?

When blow drying curly hair, it’s important to use products that will help protect your hair from heat damage and enhance your natural curls. A heat protectant spray is a must to prevent damage from the blow dryer. In addition, using a leave-in conditioner or a styling cream can help moisturize your hair and define your curls. Finally, finishing off with a hairspray or a curl-enhancing spray can help hold the curls in place.

Are there any tips for preventing frizz while blow drying curly hair?

To prevent frizz while blow drying curly hair, make sure to use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. This helps to distribute the airflow evenly and reduces the chance of causing frizz. Additionally, avoid touching your hair too much while blow drying, as this can disturb the curl pattern and lead to frizz. Using a microfiber towel or a t-shirt to dry your hair instead of a regular towel can also help minimize frizz.

What should I do if my curls are not turning out as I want them to?

If your curls are not turning out as you want them to, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure you are using the correct technique when blow drying and using the right products for your hair type. Second, consider adjusting the heat and speed settings on your blow dryer. Lower heat and speed settings can help reduce frizz and prevent damage to your hair. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different styling products or techniques to find what works best for your hair.