Is Air-Drying or Blow-Drying Your Hair Better? We Finally Have the Answer
If you ask someone whether they typically blow-dry or air-dry their hair, chances are, you’re going to hear about a dozen different answers. We get it; when it comes to blow-drying vs. air-drying hair, there are a ton of factors that come into play, like hair health, personal preference, and honesty, how much time we’ve got. But when it comes to our hair health, we look to the experts.
To find out the biggest differences and benefits of air-drying vs. blow-drying hair, we took it to the pros. Rogerio Cavalcante, stylist and owner of The Second Floor Salon in New York City, breaks down everything you need to know about drying your hair in the way that’s healthiest for you.
About the Expert:
Rogerio Cavalcante is a hairstylist, colorist, and the owner of The Second Floor Salon in New York City.
Is Air-Drying Good for Hair?
According to Cavalcante, air-drying is one of the healthiest ways you can dry your hair: “[Air-drying] reduces heat damage and helps retain natural moisture.” Important to note, however, is that wet hair is in its most-fragile state, so it can also be more prone to breakage if you’re not super gentle. For example, you should never go to sleep on wet hair, as the tossing and turning can create more breakage as you sleep.
To help ensure you’re air-drying your hair in the healthiest way possible, Cavalcante suggests using leave-in conditioners, anti-frizz serums, air-dry creams (we love the BRIOGEO HAIR CARE Style + Treat™ Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream), and heat-free styling gels to not only enhance texture but also nourish your hair and help reduce frizz.
Another air-dry trick is to add oil to your hair care routine. “Hask Argan oil has a good citrus smell and does not weigh hair down,” says Cavalcante. “If your hair feels frizzy or a little dry on the ends, just add a drop to your hands and spread it onto the hair.”
Is Blow-Drying Bad for Hair?
Although blow-drying gets a bad rap, in moderation—and with the right hair protection—you don’t need to toss your blow-dryers! Cavalcante says blow-drying can be damaging if you’re doing it daily, using a high heat setting, and skipping heat protectants. “Heat protectant sprays don’t make hair instantly healthier, but [they do] protect it from heat damage over time,” he adds.
“To prevent cumulative damage, it's best to avoid blow-drying everyday,” he says. “It would be better to get a good blowout at a salon, for example, or at home if you can handle it and wait a few days before washing and blow-drying again. Alternate with air-drying or other heat-free methods.”
Blow-Drying vs. Air-Drying: Which One Is Better?
Although Cavalcante says that in general, air-drying is better for your hair health, alternating between air-drying and blow-drying can still contribute to an overall healthy hair-care routine. “We know that health is not the only concern—if it were, people would never dye their hair or touch hot tools,” he says. “But to look good and keep [your] hair as healthy as possible, use good products, never skip heat protectants, and avoid daily use of hot tools.”
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