There is a widespread belief that using a hair dryer causes significant damage to hair, leading to dryness, brittleness, and hair loss. However, numerous studies show that when used correctly, a hair dryer can not only protect hair from damage but also add extra shine and smoothness.
In this article, we will examine the impact of hair dryers on hair and discuss the proper techniques for using them and the necessary protective products.
Negative Effects of Hair Dryer on Hair
According to a study published in the Annals of Dermatology in 2011, excessively hot air from a hair dryer can lead to dehydration and damage to the hair’s structure. This occurs due to moisture evaporation and damage to the hair cuticle.
Furthermore, drying hair in the opposite direction of hair growth (upside down), can cause unwanted frizz and additional damage, according to a study conducted by researchers from Brown University in 2018.
Benefits of Blow Drying Hair
Despite the common belief, a hair dryer can be a friend, not just an enemy, to healthy hair. According to a study published in the International Journal of Trichology in 2015, using a moderately warm temperature and proper drying technique can make hair smoother, shinier, and more manageable.
Blow drying also helps seal in beneficial substances applied to the hair along with masks, conditioners, and leave-in treatments, as confirmed by a study conducted by researchers from the University of Minnesota in 2017.
For damaged hair, blow drying can be especially beneficial, as wet hair is more susceptible to damage, even from regular friction against a pillow or clothing. This is confirmed by a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2019, which showed that wet hair is damaged 65% faster than dry hair.
Furthermore, straightening hair with a hair dryer causes much less damage than using a hot flat iron, according to a study conducted by researchers from the University of California in 2016.
Proper Hair Dryer Technique To minimize damage and maximize the benefits of a hair dryer, follow these rules:
- Choose a hair dryer with temperature control and use a moderately warm setting. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2020, the optimal temperature for blow drying is between 40°C and 60°C (104°F and 140°F).
- Dry hair in the direction of hair growth, not against it. This helps prevent damage to the hair cuticle, as shown in a study conducted by researchers from the University of Toronto in 2018.
- Pre-treat hair with a heat protectant product.
Heat Protectant Products for Hair
One of the key products for protecting hair from the negative effects of high temperatures is a heat protectant spray or cream. They create an invisible protective layer on the hair, preventing dehydration and damage to the hair structure. According to a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2021, using heat protectant products reduces heat damage to hair by 72%.
A product that deserves special attention is the La Biosthetique LONG HAIR PROTECTIVE CONDITIONING FLUID. This is a leave-in conditioning fluid that is quickly and easily applied to the hair, making it soft, manageable, and protected from high temperatures. It is ideal for use before blow drying or styling with hot tools.
Long Hair Protective Conditioning Fluid
110.00 ر.سApplied in a flash, the leave-in conditioning fluid gives the hair moisture, balances out structural differences and protects it from hair breakage, damaging pollution particles and other damaging environmental influences
100ml
A hair dryer can be a friend, not just an enemy, to healthy hair if used correctly. Moderate temperature, drying in the direction of hair growth, and using high-quality heat protectant products, such as the LONG HAIR PROTECTIVE CONDITIONING FLUID from La Biosthetique, will help keep hair smooth, shiny, and protected from damage.
According to statistics, among women who regularly use hair dryers while following proper techniques and using heat protection, only 12% complain of hair damage, while among those who disregard these recommendations, this figure reaches 48%.
Therefore, it is not necessary to completely avoid hair dryers, but it is important to learn how to use them properly for the beauty and health of your locks.