Should You Be Air Drying Your Hair This Spring? The Science Says... Maybe Not

As spring rolls in and the weather warms up, it’s natural to want to give your heat tools a break and let your hair air dry.

It feels lighter, easier, and let’s be honest—less effort is always appealing as the days get longer and more active. But here’s something most people don’t realize: air drying might not actually be the healthiest option for your hair.

Let’s get into the science of why—and what you can do instead to keep your hair looking and feeling its best.

Why Wet Hair Is More Vulnerable Than You Think

When hair is wet, it swells. This is a completely normal part of its structure, but it’s also when it’s in its most fragile state. The longer your hair stays water-logged, the more your inner protein bonds (a.k.a. your hair’s strength and structure) are weakened. That extended dampness can lead to:

• Friction

• Raised cuticles

• Increased breakage

• Frizz

• Dullness over time

In other words, air drying may feel gentle, but it actually leaves your hair exposed to more risk than a controlled, low-heat blow dry.

What the Science Says: Blow Drying the Right Way Is Better

Studies have shown that blow drying—when done properly—is less damaging to your hair than letting it dry naturally. That means using a low to medium heat setting, keeping the dryer moving, and always using a heat protectant to shield the cuticle.

Think of it like this: drying your hair with intention helps "set" it into place. So if you want it to lay smooth, have volume, or hold a shape, a gentle blow dry is your friend.

Real Talk: Fine, Flat, or Oily Hair? This Tip Is for You.

For my fine-haired babes or anyone who struggles with oily roots, air drying can actually make those concerns worse. Why? Because hair that air dries flat against your scalp stays in contact with your natural oils longer, which can make it look limp faster.

Blow drying at the root adds lift and separation, which helps:

• Delay that oily, day-two look

• Keep your hair fuller, longer

• Add body and movement

• Create the appearance of thicker hair (yes please!)

This one change can be a game-changer if you're trying to stretch the days between washes or add volume to finer textures.

Curly Hair? Diffuse and Conquer.

If you’ve got waves or curls, a diffuser is your best friend. Air drying can leave curls inconsistent or frizzy, especially if you're touching your hair before it’s fully dry. A diffuser helps:

• Define curl patterns

• Reduce frizz

• Add volume

• Maintain consistent shape from root to end

Bonus tip: tilt your head upside down or to the side as you diffuse for extra lift at the roots!

So, Should You Ditch Air Drying Completely?

If there’s one area you absolutely shouldn’t leave damp, it’s your scalp. Allowing your scalp to stay wet for extended periods—especially if you have dense or long hair—can create the perfect environment for scalp issues like seborrheic dermatitis, fungal infections, or irritation from trapped moisture.

Even if you prefer to air dry your lengths, make sure to gently blow dry your roots and scalp area to remove excess moisture and support a healthy scalp microbiome. This small step can make a huge difference in the long-term health of both your scalp and your strands.

My Take as a Holistic Stylist

At Haven Holistic Salon, I’m all about caring for the whole you—including the science of how your hair behaves and how your daily routines affect it. Your blow drying routine doesn’t have to be harsh or time-consuming—it just needs to be intentional.

If you’re unsure what routine or tools are right for you, or you’re in need of a clean, hydrating heat protectant that won’t weigh your hair down, let’s talk. And if this post made you think of a friend who’s team air-dry-all-the-way, forward it their way—you might just save their hair day.

Until next time, stay radiant.