Curly hair is a real beauty, but it also requires special care to maintain its shape and volume. One of the most important aspects is blow-drying, which can make the difference between soft, defined hair and frizzy, dull hair.
In this article we will give you some tips on how to dry curly hair properly, whether you use a diffuser or prefer to air-dry it. Follow our tips and discover how to best enhance your curls!
Why curly hair needs moisture
Curly hair has a different texture than straight or wavy hair, which makes it drier and more brittle. This is because the cuticle, or outer layer of the hair, is not smooth and firm, but raised and uneven.
This causes the hair to more easily lose water and natural oils, which are essential to nourish and protect it. In addition, the spiral shape of the hair prevents even distribution of sebum from the scalp to the ends, which therefore tend to be drier and more brittle.
For these reasons, curly hair needs a lot of moisture, both internal and external. Inland means drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein. External means using products specifically for curly hair that deeply nourish and moisturize it without weighing it down or making it greasy.
How to wash curly hair
The first step to perfect drying is proper washing. Curly hair should not be washed too often, otherwise you risk removing the natural lipids that protect it. Generally, it is enough to wash them once or twice a week, depending on the degree of dirt and sebum.
It is important to use a mild shampoo without sulfates, silicones, parabens or alcohol, which may dry out and irritate the hair and scalp. It should be applied only to the roots, massaging gently with your fingers, without rubbing or tangling the hair.
After shampooing, it is essential to use a conditioner or mask, always specifically for curly hair. These products are meant to detangle, soften, nourish and moisturize hair, making it more supple and defined.
The conditioner or mask should be applied to the lengths and ends, avoiding the roots, and left on for a few minutes. Then they should be rinsed thoroughly with lukewarm or cold water, which helps seal the cuticles and give shine to the hair.
How to dry curly hair with a diffuser
The diffuser is an accessory that attaches to the hair dryer and is used to distribute heat evenly and gently to the hair. It is ideal for curly hair because it dries it without ruining it, preserving its shape and volume. To use the diffuser properly, follow these steps:
- After washing your hair, gently blot it with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt, without rubbing or twisting. This serves to remove excess water, but not all of it, because curly hair needs some moisture to define itself better;
- Apply an anti-frizz product, such as a cream, gel, foam or oil, again specifically for curly hair. This product helps to nourish, moisturize and protect hair from heat, as well as prevent frizz and keep curls tidy. Spread the product evenly over the hair, using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots;
- Turn on the hair dryer and adjust the temperature and speed. It is best to use a medium or low temperature, so as not to damage the hair, and a low or medium speed, so as not to mess up the hair;
- Place the diffuser under a strand of hair and bring it close to the head, being careful not to touch the scalp. Hold the diffuser steady and let the hair naturally settle on its ends. Wait a few seconds, then move the diffuser to another strand, repeating the same process;
- If you want to give your hair more volume, you can tilt your head forward or to the sides while using the diffuser. In this way, you will lift the roots and give more body to the hair. You can also use your fingers to gently lift the roots, but without touching the lengths or ends;
- When the hair is almost dry, turn off the hair dryer and let it air dry. Do not touch the hair until it is completely dry, otherwise you risk ruining the curls and creating frizz.
How to dry curly hair without a diffuser
If you don’t have a diffuser or don’t want to use a blow dryer, you can dry curly hair without a diffuser, letting it air dry. This method is more natural and less aggressive to the hair, but requires more time and patience. To dry curly hair without a diffuser, follow these steps:
- After washing your hair, gently blot it with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt, without rubbing or twisting. This serves to remove excess water, but not all of it, because curly hair needs some moisture to define itself better;
- Apply an anti-frizz product, such as a cream, gel, foam or oil, again specifically for curly hair. This product helps nourish, moisturize and protect hair from external moisture.
- Spread the product evenly over the hair, using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots;
- To give curls more shape and definition, you can use a technique called plopping. This involves placing wet hair in the center of a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt, then wrapping the hair with the fabric, forming a sort of turban. Leave the turban on for at least 15 minutes, then gently remove it. This method helps create tighter, tidier curls without flattening or messing them up;
- Let the hair air dry completely, without touching or combing it. This could take several hours, depending on the length and thickness of the hair.
How to revive curly hair between washes
Between washes, curly hair can lose its shape and volume, becoming flat and dull. To revive curly hair without washing it, you can use some quick and easy tricks.
Use a refreshing spray, which you can make yourself with water and a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender, rosemary or lemon. Spray the spray on dry hair, then gently mash the curls with your hands to restore their shape and shine.
On dry hair, use a restructuring product, such as a cream, gel, foam or oil, always specifically for curly hair, then shape the curls with your fingers or a cold diffuser to restore definition and hold.
You could also use a dry product, such as a dry shampoo or talcum powder, which helps remove excess oil and sebum from the roots, making hair lighter and more voluminous.
Apply the product to the roots, then gently massage the scalp to distribute the product and stimulate circulation. Then brush the hair with a wide-toothed comb to remove any residual product.
How to maintain curly hair
Once dry, curly hair should be kept tidy and protected from external agents, such as wind, humidity, sun or cold. Here are some tips to preserve the beauty of your curls:
Don’t touch your hair too much, otherwise you risk breaking curls, creating frizz and dirtying your hair with sebum from your hands. If you have to fix your hair, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb, gently.
Do not use stiff brushes or combs, which could pull and tear the hair, making it dull and brittle. Use only soft and delicate accessories, such as cloth-covered rubber bands, hairpins, headbands or scarves.
Do not tie your hair too tightly, as you may damage the hair fibers and affect the shape of the curls. If you must gather your hair, do a low ponytail, a soft braid or a disheveled bun, leaving a few strands free.
Do not use harsh or chemical products, such as hairsprays, gels, dyes or perms, which may dry out and weaken the hair. Use only natural products specifically for curly hair that nourish and moisturize it without weighing it down or making it greasy.
Do not expose hair to excessive heat sources, such as blow dryers, straighteners, curling irons or sunlight, which may burn and dehydrate hair. If you must use a hair dryer, always use the diffuser and a low to medium temperature.
If you must use a flat iron or curling iron, always use a heat protectant product and limit use to special occasions. If you must expose yourself to the sun, always use a product with a sunscreen and cover your hair with a hat or scarf.
Gorgeous, shiny curls like never before
Drying curly hair is an art you can easily learn. You just need to follow these simple tips and use the right products for your hair type.
Whether you prefer to use a diffuser or let your curls dry naturally, you can flaunt soft, defined and voluminous hair without fear of frizz. Never forget to nourish your hair, protect it from the heat and refresh it from time to time. Follow our tips and your curly hair will always look wonderful!
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