How to Blow-Dry Curly Hair

If you have curly hair, there’s a good chance you find at-home blowouts to be the bane of your existence when it comes to hairstyling. Seriously, why does it seem like you suddenly have frizzy hair when you shut your blow-dryer off? It’s so not fair! Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way. We’re here to tell you that you can blow-dry your curls beautifully, so don’t give up just yet. Keep reading to find out how to blow dry curly hair correctly, from what tools and hair styling products you’ll need to which steps you should follow for positively gorgeous strands.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BLOW-DRY CURLY HAIR?

When it comes to heat-styling really curly hair, any old blow-dryer or hair styling product won’t do. Before you blow-dry your curly hair, stock up on the right tools and hair care and styling products. Keep reading to find out which products will best suit your curly strands.

PRODUCT #1. Ceramic or tourmaline blow dryer

Not all blow-dryers are the same and different ones suit different hair types. A ceramic or tourmaline blow-dryer will be best for your curly hair, as they tend to result in less frizz and a shinier finish.

PRODUCT #2. Diffuser

You know that large round attachment that came with your blow-dryer? You may have tossed it in the back of your closet, but it can come in handy when you’re blow-drying curly hair. In fact, a diffuser can help give your curls shape and definition and also lessen frizz—so pop it onto your blow-dryer pronto!

PRODUCT #3. Shampoo, conditioner, and hair mask formulated for curly hair

You wouldn’t use a moisturizer formulated for dry skin if you had oily skin, would you? The same goes for your hair. Pick a shampoo, conditioner, and hair mask that are specifically formulated for curly hair.

PRODUCT #4. Leave-in conditioner

Oftentimes, curly hair can be on the dry side, so keeping your curls adequately moisturized is key. Keep your shower stocked with a leave-in conditioner so that you can apply some for added hydration after shampooing your hair as per usual.

PRODUCT #5. Hair mousse or hair gel

When it comes to curly hair, you likely want to help your curls stay in shape, retaining the beautiful spirals that define your hair type. Try using a hair mousse or hair gel on wet hair to make that happen.

PRODUCT #6. Hair serum

Of course, when you blow-dry your curly hair, you want it to look smooth and shiny. Once your hair is dry, make sure you have a hair serum within reach to finish off your look.

HOW DO YOU BLOW-DRY CURLY HAIR?

Ready to go? Follow these steps to blow-dry your curly hair to perfection.

Step 1: Start with clean hair

To make the most of your blowout, hop in the shower and cleanse your curly hair with the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Curls Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Curls Conditioner. Wash your hair with lukewarm water as opposed to hot water, since hot H2O can be drying. Once or twice a week, before your blowout, swap the conditioner for the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Curls Re-Nourish Mask.

Step 2: Drain the excess water

Blot your hair with a cotton T-shirt, which will be gentler than a towel. You don’t want to disturb your curl pattern, so being gentle with your wet hair is really important.

Step 3: Use a leave-in conditioner

Making sure to focus the product on the lengths and ends of your hair, apply a quarter-sized amount of leave-in conditioner to help keep your curls moisturized.

Step 4: Add hair gel or hair mousse

After a few minutes have passed and you’ve given your leave-in conditioner time to be absorbed, apply a hair gel or hair mousse, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse, from roots to ends to help define your curls and manage frizzy hair. After working the mousse or gel through your hair, shake your mane out to help your curls regain their natural shape before blow-drying. This will help ensure you don’t end up with overly stiff curls!

Step 5: Diffuse your roots

Pop your diffuser attachment onto your blow-dryer before you begin drying your hair. On a low to medium temperature setting, flip your head over and start diffusing your roots at the nape of your neck until you feel the little prongs against your scalp. In order to get maximum lift, move your diffuser in circular motions. Be sure to keep your ends out of the diffuser, as they’re more likely to become over-dried and frizzy as a result. Repeat this process in small, manageable sections until your hair is 80 percent dry. Let your curls dry on their own the rest of the way.

Step 6: Finish it off with hair serum

Once your hair is completely dry, apply a bit of hair serum, such as the L'Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Treatment, onto your lengths and ends. 

Voila! Now you know how to achieve your most beautiful curly hair yet! Next up, here’s How to Straighten Curly Hair—The Right Way.