Is cold or hot air better for your hair?

Author: Benjamin McCullough III  |  Last update: Friday, August 22, 2025

Heat is damaging to hair, so blow drying with cold air is a healthier choice for your mane. It would take a long time to dry and style damp hair using only cold air, but cold air is great for touching up dry hair or setting a heat style.

Does cold air still damage your hair?

Reduced Heat Damage: Cold air minimizes the risk of heat damage, which can lead to dryness, split ends, and breakage. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with fine or damaged hair. Frizz Control: Cold air can help to seal the hair cuticle, which reduces frizz and enhances shine.

Does hair dry faster with cold or hot air?

Both heat and cold air modes have their benefits. Heat mode can quickly dry your hair, but it may cause damage and frizz over time if used excessively. Investing in a dryer with a cold air mode can be a fantastic choice, as it helps to seal the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and add shine without the risk of heat damage.

What is the healthiest way to air dry your hair?

When you air dry, make sure to start styling on damp—not drenched—strands. Staying wet for long stretches isn't the greatest thing for your hair's health, will only drag out your dry time. Most experts recommend using a towel to dry your hair at least 30 percent before letting the good old air do the rest.

Does hot air damage hair?

At high temperatures of 392 degrees Fahrenheit, expect wholly damaged hair. That's because when you blast hot air onto wet hair, small bubbles form inside the shafts. This weakens your mane, making it more prone to dryness and brittleness. In other words, hello frizz, tangles, and breakage.

What's Less Damaging To Hair? Blow Drying Or Air Drying | Tips To Safely Dry Your Hair

Is sleeping with wet hair bad?

“Wet hair is more fragile and prone to damage. Sleeping with wet hair can lead to increased friction against the pillow, causing breakage and weakening of the hair shaft. Moreover, a moist scalp can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, potentially leading to scalp issues.”

Why is heat not good for hair?

The high temperatures cause the water to dry up quickly, which affects the structure of each strand and can crack the cuticles, the outer layer of hair, making hair more vulnerable to further damage. Hair cuticles have shingles that overlap, like a roof. On healthy hair, these shingles lie closed and flat.

Should I let my hair air dry without brushing it?

While it may be hard to do, the final step in perfect air-dried hair is to leave your hair alone. This means you shouldn't scrunch, twirl, run your fingers through, or brush your hair once you've set it and left it to dry.

How often should you wash your hair?

Generally, he says, the range is somewhere between once a day and once a week. “If you have very fine or thin hair, you may need to wash more often, while those with thick or curly hair may need to wash less often,” says Dr Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, a double board certified dermatologist and hair health expert.

Does shorter hair dry faster?

The drying time for short hair is generally shorter compared to longer hair lengths. On average, it may take around 10 to 20 minutes for short hair to air dry completely, depending on factors such as hair thickness and texture.

What does cold air do to hair?

Cold air helps to seal in your hair cuticle structure, which is the outermost layer of your hair shaft. By doing so, it protects your hair from splitting and keeps your hair looking healthy and fresh.

Will my hair look better if I let it air dry?

Air-drying, or letting your hair dry naturally, is a great way to make the most of your hair's natural texture. By minimizing damage from heat, you can retain moisture and optimize your hair's texture — all while saving time. When it comes to air-drying hair, there's no one-size fits all solution.

Does AC make hair dry?

The removal of moisture from the air can lead to our hair and skin becoming dry and damaged, which is why those who spend their time in air-conditioned rooms may notice that their skin and scalp feel dry, tight, or itchy, and may notice white flakes.

Does cold air stimulate hair growth?

Even though hair might not grow more in winter, the colder weather can present its own set of challenges for your hair's health and vitality. Dry air, indoor heating, and harsh weather conditions can strip necessary moisture from your scalp and hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and even increased shedding.

Is it bad to let hair dry naturally?

But here's a surprising fact: Air drying can actually cause more damage to your hair than blow drying it. “It may seem counterintuitive since we're all aware of heat damage. However, blow drying is actually gentler on most hair types,” explains hairdresser Dejan Garz.

Does tucking hair behind the ear cause breakage?

Tucking hair behind your ear. Tucking your hair behind your ear might seem harmless but doing it repeatedly can create tension on the strands and lead to breakage. Try to resist the urge to tuck and let your hair flow naturally instead.

Is it okay to wet your hair every day?

Product Buildup: Without proper cleansing, daily wetting can cause styling products and environmental pollutants to accumulate on the hair and scalp, leading to a dull and lifeless appearance.

How to make hair grow quicker?

9 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HAIR GROW FASTER
  1. Trim your hair. ...
  2. Eat protein-rich foods. ...
  3. Take a hair-boosting supplement. ...
  4. Use a hair growth serum. ...
  5. Use a weekly hair mask. ...
  6. Take care after washing your hair. ...
  7. Always use heat protection. ...
  8. Protect your hair from the elements.

Should you shampoo twice?

Yes! Double shampooing is great for your hair as it ensures that both your locks and scalp are fully cleansed of excess oils and impurities, rather than leaving some behind as single shampooing often does.

What is the healthiest way to dry your hair?

Allowing your hair to air dry as much as possible is the gentlest way to go. Air drying minimizes heat exposure and, subsequently, the risk of heat-induced damage.

Is it better to brush your hair after it dries?

This is one of those situations where the answer depends on your hair type, according to trichologist Angela Onuoha. She says dry brushing is better for straight and wavy hair, but “for curlier textures, brushing it wet is healthier.” Let me explain why and then we'll move on to more practical matters.

Are blowouts bad for your hair?

With constant use of heat, hair can become dehydrated and dry, which in turn creates a frizzy finish. For this reason, any time you blow dry hair you need to protect strands while also following proper techniques to cut down on damage.

Is a hair dryer good for hair?

Hair dryers are commonly used and can cause hair damage such as roughness, dryness and loss of hair color. It is important to understand the best way to dry hair without causing damage.

Will not straightening my hair help it grow?

Heat styling can break and damage hair. If you often get blow-outs or use a curling or straightening iron or hot comb, your hair may not grow as quickly as you'd like. If you must use heat: Spritz on a heat protectant first.

What should be a hair care routine?

Hair care routine steps for healthy hair
  • Step 1: Cleanse. The first step in any haircare routine is to cleanse. ...
  • Step 2: Condition & nourish. The next essential step in your washing routine is to condition. ...
  • Step 3: Detangle. ...
  • Step 4: Protect, prime & style. ...
  • Step 5: Moisturize. ...
  • Step 6: Treatment.

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