Online video suggests blow drying hair is better for your health than letting it air dry, but a dermatologist negates this claim.

A video that quickly spread online suggested that instead of allowing our hair to air dry, we might consider using a blow dryer. The video highlighted the great advantages of blow drying our hair, as mentioned in the text below. As stated in the video, using a blow dryer can decrease the exposure of our hair to moisture, by making the drying process faster, which in turn, can avoid possible harm to our hair. It also aids in minimizing hair breakage by quickly drying the hair, which reduces the moisture content. Hair that’s too damp can lead to fungal growth – using a blow dryer can lessen the chances of this happening. Additionally, the video mentioned that if done correctly, blow drying can help in getting rid of frizz. “Make sure to apply hair serum before blow drying and always keep the temperature on the cool setting to avoid overheating your hair, as high temperatures can harm your hair,” was a piece of advice shared in the video.

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Nevertheless, how much of that is accurate? During an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Vichitra Sharma, a dermatology consultant at Amrita Hospital Faridabad, stated, “That’s not accurate. High temperatures can indeed harm hair, making it prone to frizz and breakage. In the hot months, it’s best to let it air dry, but during the cooler seasons, it’s advisable to utilize the low heat or cool mode to avoid damage from heat.”

The skin doctor then went on to explain the techniques we need to adopt for maintaining healthy hair:

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Choosing to let your hair air dry is important, but it’s essential to steer clear of using tools such as bristle brushes, rough treatment of hair, or forcefully brushing it, as the extra strain can cause hair to break because it’s more fragile after being wet. The rubbing against cotton towels or other rough materials can also harm the cuticle, resulting in damage. To reduce this risk, a microfiber towel, which is softer on the hair, can be used. When drying hair naturally, using serum can also be beneficial.

Whether or not heat is utilized while the hair dries, it’s important to use a protective product. This is because a good number of these protectants also provide UV defense, a crucial feature considering the sun’s rays can be harmful to the hair.

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To properly blow dry hair, it’s crucial to begin with a heat protectant and switch to a cool or low heat mode after blotting the hair with a microfiber towel to soak up the extra water. Next, apply a product like mousse, gel, or a thickening cream, and occasionally oil, based on the hair type. Utilize the nozzle for maximum concentration from the hair’s roots to the tips. Additionally, opt for a wide-toothed comb or brush. This method flattens the hair’s cuticle, improving its durability and appearance.

Warning: This piece is provided for educational reasons only and should not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. It’s important to consult your physician regarding any health concerns.