Blow-drying thick hair can be a time-consuming and frustrating task, especially if you don’t have the right techniques and tools. But with a few simple tips and the right approach, you can achieve smooth, voluminous, and frizz-free results. In this guide, we’ll uncover the secrets to successfully how to blow dry thick hair, so you can save time and enjoy a polished, professional-looking finish.
1. Start with Clean, Conditioned Hair
Before you even think about blow-drying, it’s essential to start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Thick hair tends to hold onto moisture, which can make it heavy and difficult to style if not properly prepped. Choose a hydrating shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type, as thick hair can easily become dry or weighed down if not properly moisturized.
Tip: Use a leave-in conditioner or detangler spray after washing to make your hair more manageable and reduce knots.
2. Dry Hair with a Microfiber Towel
The key to reducing frizz and speeding up the blow-drying process is removing excess moisture from your hair before using the blow dryer. Instead of rubbing your hair with a regular towel, gently squeeze and blot your hair with a microfiber towel. This helps absorb water without creating friction, which can lead to frizz and breakage.
Tip: Avoid wringing or roughly towel-drying thick hair, as this can disrupt the hair cuticle and lead to more frizz.
3. Apply a Heat Protectant
Thick hair tends to be more susceptible to heat damage, especially when exposed to high heat for prolonged periods. To protect your strands from drying out or becoming brittle, apply a heat protectant spray or serum before blow-drying. These products create a protective barrier that shields your hair from excessive heat while leaving it smooth and shiny.
Tip: Look for products that contain silicone, vitamin E, or argan oil, which will help lock in moisture and provide frizz control.
4. Section Your Hair
One of the biggest challenges of blow-drying thick hair is managing the large volume of hair. To ensure even drying and prevent overheating any sections, divide your hair into sections using clips or hair ties. Starting with the bottom layers and working your way up, this method ensures that each section receives sufficient attention and prevents missed spots.
Tip: Use three to four sections based on the thickness and length of your hair for more manageable blow-drying.
5. Use the Right Blow Dryer
For thick hair, it’s essential to use a blow dryer with the right power and technology. Look for a high-wattage dryer (around 1800-2000 watts) that can generate a powerful airflow, making the drying process faster and more efficient. Ionic technology is another feature to look for, as it helps reduce frizz by breaking down water molecules, allowing them to evaporate more quickly.
Tip: If you have thick, frizzy hair, a ceramic or tourmaline-coated blow dryer is ideal, as these materials provide even heat distribution and minimize damage.
6. Use the Right Brush
The type of brush you use while blow-drying can make a big difference in how your thick hair turns out. A round brush is the most common tool for blow-drying, as it helps add volume and shape. For thick hair, opt for a boar bristle round brush or one with a combination of nylon and boar bristles, as it smooths out frizz and adds shine.
Tip: For faster blow-drying, use a paddle brush or vented brush to detangle and smooth the hair before you start styling with a round brush.
7. Work in Small Sections
When blow-drying thick hair, it’s important to work with small sections at a time. Taking larger sections of hair may cause uneven drying, leading to frizz and unwanted texture. Focus on drying one small section fully before moving to the next. This ensures better control and more consistent results.
Tip: Use your blow dryer to direct air from the roots to the tips of your hair to smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizz.
8. Don’t Forget the Cool Shot
Once your hair is mostly dry and styled, don’t forget to finish with the cool shot button on your blow dryer. The cool air helps set the style, lock in moisture, and smooth the hair cuticle, ensuring your blowout lasts longer without frizz or flyaways.
Tip: Use the cool shot on your ends to seal the cuticle and enhance shine, and on your roots to add volume and hold.
9. Finish with Smoothing Products
After blow-drying, use a smoothing serum or anti-frizz cream to lock in the smooth, shiny finish. These products add a layer of protection against humidity and further frizz throughout the day. Choose a lightweight product that won’t weigh down thick hair, and focus on applying it to the ends of your hair, where frizz and dryness are most noticeable.
Tip: For added volume, try a volumizing spray or root-lifting mousse at the roots before blow-drying.
10. Avoid Over-Drying
While you may be tempted to keep blow-drying until your hair feels completely dry, this can lead to excess heat exposure and potential damage. Instead, dry your hair until it is about 80-90% dry and then finish with a round brush to style and smooth it. This prevents unnecessary heat damage and helps maintain the health of your hair.
Tip: Allow your hair to cool down for a few minutes after drying to lock in your style and avoid frizz.
Conclusion
Successfully blow-drying thick hair doesn’t have to be a struggle. By following these tips and using the right tools, you can achieve a smooth, shiny, and frizz-free blowout every time. Remember to prep your hair properly, invest in high-quality blow-dryers and brushes, and take your time with each section. With a little practice and the right techniques, your thick hair will look perfectly styled without all the frizz and frustration.