Proper hair drying is more than just a quick blast with a hairdryer—it’s a crucial step in maintaining healthy, stylish hair. RUSH stylists know that the right techniques can prevent damage, reduce frizz, and help you achieve salon-worthy looks at home. In this guide, our experts share their top tips for efficient and healthy hair drying, ensuring your hair always looks its best.
Understanding Your Hair Type
Knowing your hair type is crucial for choosing the right drying methods. Different hair types respond uniquely to various techniques, affecting your hair’s health and appearance.
Identifying Hair Types
Hair types range from straight to coily, each with distinct characteristics:
- Straight: Smooth, shiny, and prone to oiliness
- Wavy: S-shaped pattern, can be frizzy
- Curly: Spiral or ringlet patterns, prone to dryness
- Coily: Tight curls or zigzag pattern, very prone to dryness
Understanding your hair type helps select appropriate products and drying techniques to enhance your natural texture and maintain hair health.
Preparation Before Drying
Gently Towel Dry
Proper towel-drying removes excess water without causing damage.
You’ll need: Microfiber towel or old t-shirt
Steps:
- Squeeze out excess water
- Wrap hair in towel or t-shirt
- Pat gently without rubbing
Apply Heat Protectant
Heat protectants are essential for preventing heat damage.
You’ll need: Heat protectant spray
Steps:
- Spray evenly on damp hair
- Comb through to distribute
- Proceed with drying
Different Drying Methods
Air Drying
Air drying is gentle and preserves hair health.
You’ll need: Leave-in conditioner or air-dry cream
Steps:
- Apply product to damp hair
- Comb through gently
- Let hair dry naturally
Blow Drying
Effective blow-drying creates volume and smoothness.
You’ll need: Blow dryer, round brush, heat protectant
Steps:
- Section hair
- Use round brush to lift roots
- Blow dry with a nozzle attachment
Diffusing
Ideal for enhancing curls and waves.
You’ll need: Diffuser attachment, curl-enhancing product
Steps:
- Apply curl product to damp hair
- Attach diffuser to blow dryer
- Dry hair using a scrunching motion
Plopping
Enhances curl definition without heat.
You’ll need: Cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel
Steps:
- Apply curl cream to wet hair
- Place t-shirt on a flat surface
- Flip hair onto the t-shirt and wrap
Post-Drying Care
Proper post-drying care is essential for maintaining hair health and extending the life of your style. These final steps can make a significant difference in how your hair looks and feels throughout the day.
Use a Serum or Oil
A small amount of serum or oil can add shine, reduce frizz, and protect your hair from environmental stressors.
You’ll need: hair serum or oil
Steps:
- Dispense a small amount
- Apply to the ends of the hair
- Style as desired
Cool Shot
Using the cool setting on your blow dryer can set your style and add extra shine by closing the hair cuticle.
Steps:
- Switch to the cool setting on your blow dryer
- Run through hair focusing on roots
- Finish with a blast of cool air
These final touches help lock in moisture, enhance shine, and ensure your style lasts longer. Remember to use products sparingly to avoid weighing down your hair.
Professional Hair Drying Services at RUSH
At RUSH, we offer expert hair drying services that go beyond what you can achieve at home. Our skilled stylists use advanced techniques and professional-grade tools to give your hair a stunning finish.
Signature Blow Dry
Our stylists combine artistry and technique to create smooth, voluminous styles that last. We use high-quality heat protectants and styling products to ensure your hair looks its best while staying healthy.
Specialised Styling
Whether you need sleek straight hair, bouncy curls, or beachy waves, our stylists can create any look you desire. We tailor our approach to your hair type and desired style.
Tools and Products
We use only the best styling tools with multiple heat and speed settings, along with various attachments for precise styling. Our product range includes premium heat protectants, volumising mousses, and shine-enhancing serums from top brands.
Customised Care
Our stylists assess your hair type and condition to choose the most suitable drying method and products. We’ll also provide personalised advice on maintaining your style at home.
Book Your Hair Appointment Now
We’d love to hear your hair drying tips or answer any questions you might have. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Ready to experience professional hair drying and styling? Find your nearest hair salon and book an appointment at RUSH today. Our expert stylists are eager to help you achieve your perfect look.
FAQ's
What is the best way to dry your hair to avoid damage?
Gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel, apply a heat protectant, and air dry or use a blow dryer on low heat with a nozzle attachment.
How can I reduce frizz when drying my hair?
Use a microfiber towel, apply an anti-frizz serum, and avoid rubbing your hair. If blow-drying, use a nozzle attachment and finish with a cool shot.
Should I towel dry, air dry, or blow dry my hair?
It depends on your hair type and time available. Towel drying removes excess water, air drying is gentlest, and blow drying offers styling control.
What are the benefits of air drying compared to blow drying?
Air drying reduces heat damage, preserves natural texture, and is low-maintenance. However, it takes longer and offers less styling control.
How do I use a blow dryer correctly to minimise heat damage?
Keep the dryer moving, use a nozzle attachment, maintain distance from your hair, use medium heat, and finish with a cool shot.
Can using a microfiber towel make a difference in drying my hair?
Yes, microfiber towels are gentler and more absorbent, reducing frizz and damage compared to regular towels.
What are some tips for drying curly hair?
Use a diffuser attachment, dry on low heat, scrunch while drying, and consider plopping to enhance curl definition.
How long should I let my hair air dry before blow drying?
Allow your hair to air dry about 60-80% before blow drying to reduce heat exposure.
Are there specific products that can help with drying my hair faster?
Leave-in conditioners with heat-activated ingredients and blow-dry accelerator sprays can help speed up drying time.
How can I add volume to my hair while drying it?
Use a root-lifting spray, dry your hair upside down, and use a round brush to lift at the roots while blow-drying.