How to Dry Curly Hair

You know how tricky it can be to dry curly hair without ending up with frizz, flat curls, or a long wait for it to dry. What if you could learn simple, effective ways to dry your curls that keep them defined, bouncy, and healthy-looking every time?

Whether you want quick results or prefer a gentle, heat-free approach, this guide will show you exactly how to dry curly hair the right way. Stick with me, and you’ll discover easy techniques and insider tips that transform your drying routine—so your curls always look their best.

Ready to say goodbye to frizz and hello to gorgeous curls? Let’s get started!

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Diffusing For Speed And Definition

Diffusing is a popular method to dry curly hair quickly while keeping curls defined. It helps reduce frizz and adds volume. Using a diffuser spreads the heat evenly, protecting curls from direct heat damage. This technique works best on damp hair with styling products applied. Follow these simple steps to diffuse your curls for speed and definition.

Prep Hair With Microfiber Towel

Start by gently squeezing excess water from your hair. Use a microfiber towel or a soft cotton T-shirt. Avoid rubbing, as it causes frizz and breakage. Pat your curls softly to remove moisture. Apply your favorite curl-enhancing products while hair is damp. This step helps curls hold their shape during drying.

Attach Diffuser On Low Heat

Fix the diffuser attachment to your hairdryer. Set the dryer to low heat and low airflow. High heat can damage curls and create frizz. Low settings protect your hair and dry it more gently. The diffuser spreads air evenly across your curls, helping them dry without losing their natural bounce.

Use Hover Method To Dry

Hold the diffuser slightly above your scalp. Avoid pushing it into your hair. Move it around your head slowly, hovering over sections of curls. This technique dries curls softly and maintains their shape. Focus on drying roots first, then tips. Do not rush or over-dry to prevent frizz and dryness.

Finish With Cool Shot

Once your curls are mostly dry, switch your hairdryer to the cool setting. Use the cool shot to lock in curl definition. The cool air helps close hair cuticles and reduces frizz. Finish by gently scrunching curls with your hands. This final step sets your style and keeps curls looking fresh longer.

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Plopping To Reduce Frizz

Plopping is a simple and effective technique to dry curly hair while reducing frizz. It uses a soft cotton T-shirt to wrap the hair, which helps curls form naturally and stay defined. This method avoids rough towel drying that causes frizz and breakage. Plopping can be done after applying your favorite styling products on damp hair. It saves time and keeps curls bouncy and smooth.

Lay Cotton T-shirt Flat

Start by laying a clean, dry cotton T-shirt on a flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles. Use a soft fabric instead of a rough towel. The cotton shirt absorbs water gently and reduces friction. Make sure the shirt is large enough to hold all your hair comfortably.

Gather Hair Flipped Down

Flip your head forward so your curls hang down. Carefully place your hair in the center of the T-shirt. Arrange curls to avoid tangling. This position helps curls pile up and keeps their shape. It also allows the shirt to soak up moisture from the ends.

Wrap Shirt Around Head

Bring the bottom of the shirt up to the nape of your neck. Then wrap the sleeves around your head. Tie them securely at the front or tuck them in. The shirt should hold your hair close to your scalp. This wrapping keeps curls intact and prevents frizz from air exposure.

Dry Partially Or Fully

Leave the T-shirt on for 20 to 30 minutes for partial drying. This step reduces drying time and controls frizz. For fully dry hair, keep the shirt on longer or combine with air drying. Avoid rubbing or squeezing your hair during plopping. When you remove the shirt, curls stay soft and well-defined.

Air Drying With Volume

Air drying curly hair can create natural volume without heat damage. It takes patience but gives soft, bouncy curls. The key is to prepare your hair well and use gentle techniques. These tips will help your curls dry with lift and fullness.

Apply Styling Products

Start with clean, damp hair. Use a curl cream or mousse to define curls and add hold. Apply products evenly from roots to ends. This helps curls keep their shape and prevents frizz. Avoid heavy products that weigh hair down.

Use Root Clips For Lift

Place small clips at the roots to lift hair off the scalp. Root clips create space and boost volume while hair dries. Keep clips in until hair is fully dry. This simple tool helps curls look fuller and more alive.

Avoid Touching Hair

Hands off your curls while air drying. Touching hair causes frizz and disrupts curl patterns. Let curls dry naturally without disturbance. Patience ensures curls stay defined and voluminous. Resist the urge to scrunch or comb until fully dry.

Essential Tips For All Methods

Drying curly hair the right way protects the curls and reduces frizz. These essential tips work well with all drying methods. They help keep curls healthy, defined, and soft. Follow these simple steps to get the best results every time.

Choose Microfiber Or T-shirt Towels

Use microfiber towels or a soft cotton T-shirt to dry curls. They absorb water gently without roughing up the hair. This reduces frizz and breakage. Avoid regular bath towels; they can cause damage and roughen curls.

Use Low Heat And Speed

Set your hair dryer to low heat and speed settings. High heat dries hair too fast and damages curls. Low settings protect the hair’s natural shape and moisture. Use a diffuser attachment to spread heat evenly and avoid hot spots.

Prevent Over-drying

Stop drying when hair is about 80 to 90 percent dry. Over-drying strips natural oils and causes frizz. Leave some moisture to keep curls hydrated and bouncy. Let curls air dry the rest of the way for best results.

Set Curls With Cool Shot

Use the cool shot button on your dryer at the end. The cool air helps lock in curl shape and adds shine. It also seals the hair cuticle to reduce frizz and static. Finish your drying routine with a blast of cool air.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Way To Dry Curly Hair?

Use a diffuser on low/medium heat with styling products on damp hair. Scrunch curls gently to reduce frizz. Alternatively, plop with a cotton T-shirt or air dry using root clips for volume. Avoid over-drying and finish with a cool shot to set curls.

Should I Let Curly Hair Dry Naturally?

Let curly hair dry naturally for healthy curls and less damage. Gently squeeze excess water, apply styling products, and avoid touching hair while drying. Use root clips for volume and prevent frizz by not over-drying. Natural drying enhances curl definition and maintains moisture.

How To Make Curly Hair Not Frizzy?

To prevent frizz in curly hair, use a microfiber towel to gently dry. Apply leave-in conditioner and curl cream on damp hair. Dry with a diffuser on low heat using the scrunch and hold method. Avoid touching hair while drying to maintain defined, frizz-free curls.

What Is The Rarest Hair Type?

The rarest hair type is naturally red hair, found in only 1-2% of the global population. It has unique genetics and pigmentation.

Conclusion

Drying curly hair gently keeps curls healthy and frizz-free. Use a diffuser on low heat or try plopping with a soft T-shirt. Avoid rough towel drying to prevent damage. Apply styling products on damp hair to define curls. Let your hair dry naturally when possible for best results.

These simple steps help maintain curl shape and shine. Experiment to find what suits your curls best. Embrace your natural texture with care and patience. Your curls will look beautiful and feel soft every day.