Is Towel Drying Your Hair Healthy? Experts Reveal the Safest Way to Dry Your Hair

Why Towel Drying Can Be Harmful

When your hair is wet, it’s at its weakest. Rubbing it with a rough towel can damage the hair cuticle, causing split ends and frizz. Dr Sukansha Kulshreshtha, Consultant Cosmetologist, Institute of Facial Aesthetic Medicine, Lucknow, explains, “Wet hair is fragile. Vigorous towel drying can break the hair and make it look dull and frizzy. It’s better to be gentle and use the right towel.”

Many people also use the same towel for their body and hair. Regular bath towels, usually made of cotton, are rough and heavy when wet. This extra weight and friction can pull on your hair, leading to more breakage. Dr Kulshreshtha adds, “Cotton towels are not ideal for hair. Microfiber towels are much softer and absorb water without causing damage.”

The Healthiest Way to Towel Dry Your Hair

Experts says that the key is to be gentle. Instead of rubbing, pat your hair dry or gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid twisting your hair in the towel, as this can weaken the strands and cause them to snap. Dr Kulshreshtha recommends, “After washing, blot your hair with a microfiber or soft T-shirt towel. Wrap it loosely and let it absorb the moisture. Don’t rub or twist.”

Microfiber towels are especially good for hair. They are softer, lighter, and absorb more water than regular towels, reducing friction and the risk of damage. If you have fine or fragile hair, this small change can make a big difference.

What About Air Drying or Blow Drying?

You might think air drying is always best, but it’s not so simple. A study published in the Annals of Dermatology found that letting hair stay wet for too long can also cause damage. The hair shaft swells, which can weaken the structure. The study suggests that using a hair dryer at a safe distance (about 15 cm) with continuous motion can actually cause less damage than letting hair air dry completely. The safest routine? Gently towel dry first, then use a blow dryer on a cool or low setting if needed. The expert also advises using a heat protectant to save the hair from heat damage. 

Tips for Healthy Hair Drying

• Always use a clean, soft towel just for your hair.
• Pat or blot your hair instead of rubbing or twisting.
• Choose microfiber towels over cotton towels for less friction.
• Squeeze out excess water before air drying or blow drying.
• If using a blow dryer, keep it at a safe distance and use a low heat setting.
• Don’t leave hair soaking wet for too long.

Conclusion

Towel drying your hair can be healthy if you do it right. Avoid rough towels, rubbing, and twisting. Use a soft microfiber towel and gentle motions to protect your hair from damage. Gentle care is the secret to healthy, shiny hair. Small changes in your drying routine can lead to big improvements in hair health over time.