Use the hair dryer with caution
They have become an easy tool for drying and styling hair, but is regular use harmful? What is the correct way to use it? Let’s find out
Update: 2024-11-04 18:40 GMT
Hair dryers or blow dryers are gadgets that give off warm or cold air to dry wet hair faster after a shower. Hairdryers help hair look voluminous and also style the hair by using heat to curl or straighten the hair strands.
But always choose a hair dryer with adjustable heat speed and cold settings, Renowned French Hair and Makeup Artist Florian Hurel, based in Mumbai, says, “Blow drying can be a game-changer for your look, but it can also be a slow sabotage if you’re not mindful. I consider hair as a delicate fabric. When selecting a dryer, always consider the wattage. Higher wattage means faster drying, but it can also lead to higher heat, which isn’t always your best friend. Go for something powerful, but not scorching. And here’s my golden rule: always start with a low heat setting and build up if necessary.”
The correct way to use a dryer
Blow-drying techniques, such as using a round brush or flipping the hair upside down, can boost volume at the roots, giving hair a fuller look. Javed Khan, National Technical Head, Bounce Salons and Spa, says, “Start with clean, hydrated hair by using a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo and nourishing conditioner. After washing, gently towel-dry to remove excess moisture without causing friction. Apply a heat protectant to create a barrier between your hair and the heat, minimizing damage. Divide your hair into sections for even drying, starting with the lower layers. Move it continuously to avoid overheating. Use a medium heat setting to protect the hair cuticles and finish with a cool setting to seal and add shine”.
Point the nozzle down the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle, reducing frizz and enhancing shine. Once mostly dry, use the cool setting for a polished finish. Add a light serum or oil for extra shine and frizz control. To prevent damage, limit heat styling. Blow-dry only when needed, and allow your hair to air-dry partially.
Hot vs cool drying
Each hot and cool drying method has advantages and disadvantages depending on your hair type, styling needs, and time constraints. “Heat is like a double-edged sword; it can make your hair more malleable, but if overused, it strips moisture, causing long-term damage, dullness, and split ends. Cold drying, is hair’s gentle caretaker. It doesn’t give you that immediate style transformation, but it’s fantastic for finishing off a blowout or adding shine without any extra heat, essential for keeping your hair healthy and well-balanced,” explains Hurel.
Hot drying is ideal for speed and styling but risks heat damage and frizz, while cool drying promotes healthier hair but requires more time. “Warm air can feel soothing in cold weather. It helps achieve sleek, straight styles quickly, reducing frizz. However excessive heat can irritate the scalp, leading to dryness. High heat can worsen frizz in humid conditions, especially for curly hair. Cool drying is gentle on the scalp,” adds Khan.
Blow drying has always been the tried-and-true method, but hot air brushes have earned their place. They’re perfect for people who want volume and bounce without juggling a brush and dryer. It’s an all-in-one solution for someone who wants ease and efficiency.
The correct way to use a dryer
Blow-drying techniques, such as using a round brush or flipping the hair upside down, can boost volume at the roots, giving hair a fuller look. Javed Khan, National Technical Head, Bounce Salons and Spa, says, “Start with clean, hydrated hair by using a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo and nourishing conditioner. After washing, gently towel-dry to remove excess moisture without causing friction. Apply a heat protectant to create a barrier between your hair and the heat, minimizing damage. Divide your hair into sections for even drying, starting with the lower layers. Move it continuously to avoid overheating. Use a medium heat setting to protect the hair cuticles and finish with a cool setting to seal and add shine”.
Point the nozzle down the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle, reducing frizz and enhancing shine. Once mostly dry, use the cool setting for a polished finish. Add a light serum or oil for extra shine and frizz control. To prevent damage, limit heat styling. Blow-dry only when needed, and allow your hair to air-dry partially.
Hot vs cool drying
Each hot and cool drying method has advantages and disadvantages depending on your hair type, styling needs, and time constraints. “Heat is like a double-edged sword; it can make your hair more malleable, but if overused, it strips moisture, causing long-term damage, dullness, and split ends. Cold drying, is hair’s gentle caretaker. It doesn’t give you that immediate style transformation, but it’s fantastic for finishing off a blowout or adding shine without any extra heat, essential for keeping your hair healthy and well-balanced,” explains Hurel.
Hot drying is ideal for speed and styling but risks heat damage and frizz, while cool drying promotes healthier hair but requires more time. “Warm air can feel soothing in cold weather. It helps achieve sleek, straight styles quickly, reducing frizz. However excessive heat can irritate the scalp, leading to dryness. High heat can worsen frizz in humid conditions, especially for curly hair. Cool drying is gentle on the scalp,” adds Khan.
Blow drying has always been the tried-and-true method, but hot air brushes have earned their place. They’re perfect for people who want volume and bounce without juggling a brush and dryer. It’s an all-in-one solution for someone who wants ease and efficiency.
“What’s brilliant about these tools is that they distribute heat more evenly because you’re styling and drying at the same time. The brush glides through hair while adding volume at the roots and smoothing the ends. Use it on slightly damp hair rather than soaking wet. It gives you more control and ensures the results last longer. Plus, less direct heat means less risk of damage” says Hurel.
"Hair follicles can succumb to the onslaught of heat resulting in thinning of hair and a noticeable reduction in density. Using a hair dryer at a distance of 15 cm with continuous motion causes less damage. Reducing the frequency of usage to allow your hair to recover its natural moisture balance helps. Gently pre-dry your hair with a towel to remove excess moisture before using the hair dryer. -- Deepika Lunawat, Consultant Dermatologist, Mahi Skin Hair and Laser Clinic Chennai.