Why I Blow Dry My Curly Hair Every Week
The Surprising Benefits of Weekly Blowouts for Curly Hair
Today, I'm excited to share with you my weekly blowout routine.
Yes, I heat style my hair every week, and guess what? I still maintain my curls!
I know air drying is often hailed as the golden standard for curly hair to avoid heat damage, but through my experience and that of my clients, I've discovered some surprising benefits of blow drying.
In this post, I'll delve into five unexpected advantages of incorporating blow drying into your curly hair routine.
Benefits of Blowdrying Curly Hair
1. Retaining Moisture:
Before diving into the blowout process, it's crucial to start with freshly washed and deeply conditioned hair. Deep conditioning is key to replenishing moisture lost during heat styling. In the salon and at home I always use the Deep Repair Treatment before blowdrying because it ensures hair remains hydrated, combating the drying effects of heat styling tools.
I always tell my clients, “A wet log won’t burn”
The more moisture you put into your hair before heat styling the less likely you’ll experience heat damage.
2. Scalp Health Improvement:
Blow drying not only speeds up drying time but also promotes scalp health. For individuals with thick hair that takes ages to air dry, blow drying helps eliminate excess moisture, preventing the buildup of fungus and bacteria on the scalp. This can lead to a healthier scalp environment compared to leaving the hair wet for extended periods.
3. Time-Saving:
One of the most significant advantages I've experienced with weekly blowouts is the time-saving aspect. Unlike air drying, which can take hours or even days, blow drying allows me to wash and style my hair on the same day. This convenience has been especially beneficial during the colder months when air drying isn't feasible.
4. Versatility in Styling:
Blow drying provides a versatile foundation for various hairstyles. Whether you prefer sleek looks or textured styles like twist-outs or braid-outs, a blowout serves as an excellent base. Additionally, stretched hair from blow drying reduces frizz and helps styles last longer compared to air-dried hair.
5. Ease of Styling:
For those who are still learning to manage their curls or struggle with intricate styling techniques, blow drying offers a simpler alternative. It's a beginner-friendly method that sets the stage for easier styling. Plus, starting with stretched hair makes it easier to control and manipulate during styling, making it ideal for those new to curly hair care.
Blow Drying and Styling Process:
Preparation:
Start with freshly washed and deep conditioned hair. Apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner to damp hair to ensure adequate moisture.
Product Application:
After applying leave-in conditioner, use a blow dry cream like Le Deux to protect and moisturize the hair. Follow up with an oil-based product such as amethyst oil for added heat protection and shine.
Sectioning:
Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips or hair ties. This will ensure thorough drying and styling.
Blow Drying:
Attach a comb nozzle to your blow dryer for added control. Working one section at a time, use the blow dryer to dry the hair while stretching it with a brush or comb attachment for a smooth finish.
Setting the Stretch:
After blow drying each section, twist it into a bantu knot to maintain the stretched-out shape and prevent shrinkage.
Styling:
Once all sections are dry and set, unravel the bantu knots and fluff out your hair. Style as desired using products like flex paste for hold and definition.
After blowdrying my hair can be soft and flimsy. So I use the Flex Paste to add some hold and strength to my hair. The Flex paste keeps all my styles in shaped without added weight or crunch.
Final Look:
Below is the image showcasing my finished puff, which lasts from wash day to wash day without needing nightly retwists. With blow drying as the foundation, my hair maintains its stretched-out form, minimizing shrinkage and maximizing style longevity.
Conclusion:
While heat damage is a valid concern, the benefits of blow drying for curly hair shouldn't be overlooked. By understanding your hair's needs and employing proper heat protection measures, you can enjoy the convenience and versatility that blow drying offers. With the right products and techniques, you can achieve stunning styles while maintaining the health and integrity of your curls. So, why not give blow drying a try and discover a new dimension to your curly hair routine?