How to Air Dry Your Hair without Frizz

If you have more than a couple inches of hair, then you know the struggles that come from finding the best way to dry it without sacrificing its health or your personal sense of style. Heat tools create amazing looks, but they are not for everyday use, so learning how to air dry your hair while controlling frizz can be a lifesaver. Here are some tips for doing just that.

What Causes Frizz in the First Place?

Frizz is such a common issue among men and women that you’ll find countless articles on the subject from the likes of Cosmo and WebMD alike. Frizz occurs when the cuticles that run the length of each strand of hair – called the shaft – stick outward like a porcupine rather than lying smooth and flat. This causes individual strands of hair to separate from one another, resulting in that big, bushy, frizzy look that so many people fight to avoid.

Step-by-Step Guide for Frizz-Free Air-Dried Hair

When you blow dry your hair, you can seal those cuticles and make them lie flat, which gives the impression of sleek, frizz-free hair. Unfortunately, all that heat isn’t good for your hair. It causes drying, leads to split ends, and can even cause thinning if you do it too much, so it’s always a good idea to avoid the heat and air dry when you can. There are some awesome ways to keep frizz at bay when you air dry, too. Just follow these steps:

• Don’t Shampoo – If you can get away with it, avoid using shampoo if you’re planning to air dry. The chemicals and surfactants cause hair cuticles to dry out and go haywire, which is one of the leading causes of frizz. If you must shampoo, use as little as possible and use a really good deep conditioner when you’ve finished.
• Swap the Towel for a Tee – Now that your hair is clean and conditioned, don’t fall for the temptation of rubbing it dry with a towel, and don’t even wrap it up in a towel so it can dry. Instead, skip the towel altogether and go for a soft, worn t-shirt. It’ll absorb the extra moisture in your hair without the harsh rubbing.
• Put the Brush Down – Brushing your hair is a surefire way to make those cuticles stand on end, too. Use a wide-tooth comb rather than a brush to help keep things smoothed over.
• Find a Good Leave in Conditioner – Leave-in conditioners are vital to preventing frizz. After all, they provide a barrier between your hair shaft and the moisture in the air, keeping your look as sleek as possible throughout the day (and night!) If you’re not a fan of expensive products, consider all-natural coconut oil. Otherwise, your stylist can help you find a serum or conditioner that best suits your needs.
• Try Braids, Top Knots, or Rollers – For the perfect style without the heat or frizz, consider braiding damp hair for a kinky wave, tying it up in a top knot, or even setting it in large rollers as you sleep. Each of these will create a unique style that helps fight off frizz without a blow-dryer, curling iron, or flat iron.

For many men and women, air-dried hair and frizz are virtually synonymous. By following the tips above, though, it’s possible to find an amazing routine that results in sleek, fun, and voluminous hair – all without the frizz – and all without the need for a blow-dryer or other heat tools that could cause damage.