Tired of frizz and undefined curls after drying? Mastering how to dry curly hair is the secret to perfect ringlets. The wrong technique can lead to a fluffy, shapeless mess, while the right one enhances your natural pattern. This guide breaks down the four safest methods to preserve your curl definition and boost volume. Discover the gentle art of dry air, the speedy power of blow dry, the careful approach to towel curly hair, and the clever technique of plop curly hair. Say goodbye to bad hair days and hello to your healthiest, bounciest curls yet.
Method 1. How to Air Dry Curly Hair
Air drying is the most natural way to dry curly hair, minimizing heat damage and maximizing definition. For optimal results, begin with well-conditioned hair and be patient — it takes time. This gentle method is a perfect option for those learning how to dry curly hair without causing frizz.
Step 1. After washing, gently squeeze excess water from your curls with a microfiber towel or soft cotton t-shirt. Avoid rough rubbing.
Step 2. Apply your favorite leave-in conditioner and curl-defining cream or gel while hair is sopping wet. Gently scrunch the products upward toward your scalp to enhance your natural curl pattern.
Step 3. Let your hair down and do not touch it again as it dries to prevent frizz. For extra volume at the roots, you can clip them up while drying.
Step 4. Allow your hair to dry completely naturally. Avoid going outside in cold weather with wet hair, as this can extend drying time.
Method 2. How to Blow Dry Curly Hair
For a faster, more voluminous finish, learning how to blow-dry curly hair is essential. The key is using a diffuser attachment on low heat and speed settings to mimic air drying without waiting. This method helps to dry curly hair efficiently while enhancing your natural curl pattern and reducing frizz. Here are the steps to blow-dry with a diffuser:
Step 1. Prep your hair by applying a heat protectant spray and your usual styling products to soaking wet hair. Gently scrunch with a microfiber towel to remove excess water.
Step 2. Attach the diffuser to your blow dryer. Set it to the lowest heat and speed settings to prevent damage and frizz.
Step 3. Turn the dryer on and hold it in place for a few minutes until the section feels warm and partially dry. Then, move to the next section.
Step 4. Once all hair is about 90% dry, turn the dryer off. Let your curls cool completely in place before flipping your head back up to avoid disrupting the cast.
Method 3. How to Dry Curly Hair with a Towel
Using a towel is a common step in any routine on how to dry curly hair, but the wrong technique is a major cause of frizz. The goal isn't to rub, but to absorb water without disturbing the curl pattern. To properly towel curly hair, you must ditch heavy, rough terry cloth towels and use a soft microfiber towel instead. Follow the tutorial on how to dry curly hair with a towel below and give it a try.
Step 1. After washing, do not wring out your hair. Gently squeeze out excess water with your hands first.
Step 2. Carefully place your microfiber towel on a flat surface. Bend over and lower your hair onto the center of the fabric.
Step 3. Wrap the material around your head by bringing the two longer ends up to the crown and tying them securely, or simply gathering the ends at the top.
Note: Alternatively, you can simply gather sections of your hair and gently scrunch upwards towards your scalp with the soft towel to remove moisture and encourage curl formation.
Step 4. Leave the towel on for 10-20 minutes to absorb dripping water, then remove it to let your hair dry. Avoid leaving a wet towel on your head for hours.
Method 4. How to Plop Curly Hair
Plopping is a popular method for drying curly hair that helps enhance curl definition while reducing frizz. It involves using a towel or a cotton t-shirt to "plop" your hair on top of your head, which allows your curls to dry in a natural shape without being weighed down. This method is gentle and can give you bouncy, defined curls. Be sure to use a microfiber towel or t-shirt to avoid friction and protect your curls. Check the tutorial on how to plop curly hair below.
Step 1. After washing your hair, apply your styling products (leave-in conditioner, curl cream, or gel) while your hair is still wet. Evenly distribute the product from roots to ends.
Step 2. Lay a microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt flat on a surface, such as a bed or chair.
Step 3. Bend forward and gently place your curls in the center of the towel or t-shirt. Then, wrap the towel or t-shirt around your head, gathering the fabric at the back of your neck.
Step 4. Take the two side edges and pull them up to your forehead, tying them securely into a knot or twist at the front. The remaining fabric will hang down like a pouch holding your hair.
Step 5. Let your hair sit for 20-30 minutes, or longer if you prefer. The fabric absorbs excess moisture and helps the curls set in their natural shape.
Step 6. Gently untie and remove the towel. Let your hair down carefully and allow it to finish air drying without touching it to maintain definition. Avoid sleeping with a plop, as it can cause strain on your neck.
FAQs About How to Dry Curly Hair
How to dry curly hair without frizz?
To dry curly hair without frizz, gently blot with a microfiber towel or old t-shirt. Avoid rubbing to prevent friction. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to damp hair to define curls. Let hair air dry or use a blow dryer with a diffuser on low heat. For air drying, try plopping by wrapping hair in a towel or t-shirt. Finish with a lightweight serum or oil for shine and smoothness.
How to blow dry curly hair without a diffuser?
To blow-dry curly hair without a diffuser, follow these steps:
- Prep: Apply curl cream or mousse to damp hair.
- Section: Divide hair into sections for even drying.
- Dry on Low Heat: Use a blow dryer on low heat and speed, holding it 6-8 inches from your hair.
- Lift Curls: Dry by lifting curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
- Avoid Touching: Let hair dry naturally, scrunching only if needed.
- Finish with Cool Air: Set curls with cool air to reduce frizz.
- Final Touch: Apply a lightweight serum or gel to shine.
How to dry curly hair overnight?
To dry curly hair overnight, focus on enhancing curl definition while preventing frizz and damage. Techniques like plopping, sleeping on a silk pillowcase, and wearing a "pineapple" hairstyle work well. Applying products to damp hair and covering it with a silk bonnet or scarf helps preserve the curl pattern and lock in moisture.
