Why Avoid Straightening Damp Hair?
Avoid straightening wet hair as it may cause long-term damage to your hair. Water boils and turns into steam at 100°C (212°F). Most hair straighteners function in the temperature range of 185-230°C (365-446°F). The temperature of the flat iron surface is greater than the boiling point of water. Naturally, the second the hot straightener touches your wet hair, the water turns into steam and evaporates rapidly out of the cortex (inner layer of the hair), causing structural damage. This damages the cortex and cuticles and leads to hair breakage, frizzy, and coarse hair (1). Therefore, you should avoid using a straightener on wet hair. Fortunately, there are ways to straighten wet tresses without using heat! Learn how to do it in the next section.
How To Straighten Wet Hair Without Heat
Alexandra, a beauty vlogger, shares her experience of straightening her curly hair with the help of a band, some bobby pins, and a scarf. She notes, “I love this so much. The first time I tried it I wanted to tell you guys it wasn’t so easy. It didn’t turn out perfect and it took a lot of trial and error (i).” In the next section, we have shared some quick hair styling tips. You can follow these when you are in a hurry to get smooth and frizz-free hair without damage.
Tips To Quickly Style Your Hair Without Damage
1. Use A Microfiber Towel
Towel dry your hair to reduce blow-drying time and avoid heat damage. Microfiber towels can absorb water quickly and make it easier to dry hair quickly. Gently squeeze your hair with a microfiber towel. Do not try to rub your hair dry.
2. Do Not Skip The Conditioner
A conditioner moisturizes your hair and makes it soft and manageable. Well-moisturized hair does not have to cling to the water for moisture, and thus, it air-dries faster.
3. Blow Dry With Cool Air
Blow dry your hair on a cool setting as it helps seal your hair cuticles and add shine. It also prevents heat damage.
4. Wash Your Hair At Night
Another option is to wash your hair the previous night. Your hair will be completely dry by the morning and in a better condition for heat styling. This will also save time during the morning rush.
5. Skip The Hair Wash
If you do not have time for any of the tips mentioned above, it is better to skip washing your hair altogether and straighten it dry. You may also use a dry shampoo and conditioner to give your hair a quick pick-me-up. Is it okay to straighten your hair every day? No, straightening your hair every day can lead to hair damage due to excessive heat exposure. Some common side effects of hair straightening include dryness, breakage, split ends, and loss of natural texture. Should you use hairspray before or after straightening? Using a heat protectant spray before straightening your hair can save it from damage and lock in the style and moisture. Use a regular hairspray afterward to set the hairstyle. Is damp hair the same as wet hair? No. Wet hair is completely soaked and drips water. However, damp hair is slightly wet but not dripping.
Illustration: Can I Straighten My Wet Hair? Is It Safe?
Straightening damp hair is not the best idea. But if you really have to do it, check out this video to learn how to straighten wet hair to dry for a sleek look.
