How to dry your hair without damaging them

Hair dryer is the first and only option that will pop in our head when someone talks about drying wet hair fast. Shockingly, science says we have been doing it all wrong. Using the wrong technique can make your hair dry not only on the outside but also from inside, giving the appearance of dull and lifeless hair. So, be sure to use the right approach.

Some anatomy first

Every strand of your hair is like a tube with inner cortex and a protective outer layer, known as the cuticle, clinging onto each other by delicate proteins. Shiny, healthy hair is an indication of a perfectly intact cuticle layer. However, with too much heat, these cuticles can get damaged by trapping water inside cortex and making it boil.

What science says

A recent study had suggested that one must be cautious with the use of hair dryers. While the wrong technique of using hair-dryer can damage the hair, the right distance and temperature can be actually less damaging than air-drying. This is simply because when hair comes in contact with water, it swells. More swelling means more pressure exerted on delicate proteins that have kept the hair intact, causing more damage.

The right formula

There is just one way in which you can dry your hair without damaging it beyond repair. First, let your hair dry naturally i.e. about 70-80 percent dry. Now, set your hair dryer on the coolest setting and start blowing air. You must always make sure that you are holding the dryer at least 6 inches away from your hair and continuously moving it around.

The quality of your hair dryer is as important as your hair-drying technique. If you can afford it, buy a high-end hair dryer with a sophisticated dial that allows you to control the temperature easily.

Image source: Getty Images

Read more on Hair Care.