Is Towel Dried Hair Damp?
Towel-drying your hair is a common practice, but have you ever wondered if towel-dried hair is considered damp?
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of towel-dried hair, how to towel dry your hair properly, and whether it’s considered damp.
We’ll also discuss the potential drawbacks of towel drying and the best towels for drying your hair without causing damage.
Towel-dried hair: What does this mean
The term “towel-dried hair” refers to the state of your hair after it has been blotted or lightly dried with a towel following a wash.
This doesn’t mean the hair is completely dry. Rather, it’s in a damp state, with the excess water removed.
It’s often the recommended state for applying certain hair treatments or styling products since damp hair can absorb products more effectively than completely dry or heavily saturated, wet hair.
How to towel dry hair
To towel dry your hair, start by gently squeezing out the excess water from your hair after washing it.
Then, take a towel and blot your hair using a pressing motion.
Avoid rubbing vigorously as it can cause friction, leading to frizz and potential damage. It’s about being gentle and patient.
You can also wrap your hair in a towel for a few minutes to absorb more moisture.
Is Towel Dried Hair Damp
Yes, towel-dried hair is typically damp.
The goal of towel-drying is not to fully dry your hair but to remove excess water, making the hair merely damp. This allows for easier detangling, faster drying, and better absorption of hair care products.
Is towel drying hair bad for your hair
Towel drying can be harmful to your hair if done incorrectly.
Traditional terrycloth towels can be rough on the hair cuticle, especially if you’re rubbing the towel aggressively against your hair.
This can cause frizz, split ends, and overall damage. It’s best to blot and press rather than rub when towel drying. Alternatively, consider using a microfiber towel or a soft t-shirt to dry your hair, as they are more gentle and cause less friction and frizz.
How to towel dry hair properly without damaging it
To towel dry your hair without damaging it, follow these steps:
Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water: After washing, gently squeeze the water from your hair with your hands. Be sure not to wring or twist it, which can cause breakage.
Blot and Press, Don’t Rub: Take your towel and gently blot your hair. Avoid the urge to rub, which can cause friction and damage.
Use the Right Towel: Consider investing in a microfiber towel, which is gentler on the hair. Some people also use an old, soft t-shirt to minimize frizz and damage.
Apply a Leave-in Conditioner: Once your hair is towel-dried and still damp, consider applying a leave-in conditioner to hydrate and protect your hair.
Dry Naturally or Use a Heat Protectant: If possible, allow your hair to dry naturally. If you need to blow-dry, apply a heat protectant to minimize heat damage.
How damp should towel-dried hair be
Towel-dried hair should be damp but not dripping wet.
The exact level of dampness will depend on your hair type and how easily it dries.
In general, aim for hair that feels slightly moist to the touch, but not so wet that it soaks through clothing or styling products.
Best towels for drying hair
The best towels for drying hair are those made from soft, absorbent materials that won’t cause damage. Some popular options include:
- Microfiber towels: These towels are highly absorbent, lightweight, and gentle on hair. They can quickly remove excess moisture without causing friction or damage.
- Cotton towels: Choose a towel made from 100% cotton, as it’s a natural and absorbent material that is gentle on hair.
- Turkish towels: These towels are made from a unique cotton weave that is both soft and highly absorbent, making them an excellent choice for drying hair.
Towel dry vs Air dry hair
Towel drying and air drying are both methods that avoid heat and can be gentler on your hair compared to blow-drying. However, each has its own pros and cons.
Towel Drying: When done correctly, towel drying can effectively remove excess water from your hair, making it easier and quicker to style or air dry.
It’s a good option if you want to apply a product to your hair when it’s damp, not soaking wet. However, if done too vigorously or with a rough towel, it can cause frizz, damage the hair cuticle, and potentially lead to breakage.
Air Drying: This method involves letting your hair dry naturally without the aid of towels or heat tools. It’s the most gentle method, reducing the risk of heat damage and mechanical damage from towel drying.
However, it can take a considerable amount of time, especially if you have long or thick hair. For those with naturally curly or wavy hair, air drying can help maintain the natural pattern of your curls or waves.
Towel dry vs Blow dry hair
Towel drying and blow drying also have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two often depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and styling preferences.
Towel Drying: This method involves gently pressing and blotting your hair with a towel to remove excess water after washing.
It’s a heat-free option, and if done correctly, it shouldn’t cause too much damage to your hair. It also prepares your hair for styling or for further air drying by removing excess water.
Blow Drying: Blow drying offers the advantage of speed – you can dry your hair much more quickly compared to air or towel drying. It also gives you more control over the final look of your hair, making it a preferred option if you’re going for a specific style.
However, frequent blow drying can potentially damage your hair, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. This is especially true if you’re blow-drying your hair on a high heat setting. Using a heat protectant can help reduce the risk of heat damage.
Conclusion
Towel-dried hair is considered damp, as it has been partially dried to remove excess moisture but not completely dried.
By using the proper technique and a gentle, absorbent towel, you can effectively towel dry your hair without causing damage.
Remember to be gentle with your hair, and choose the right towel to ensure your hair
