How To Blow Dry Curly Hair Without A Diffuser

woman with curly hair, blow drying hair with a blow dryer

Are you tired of fighting with your blow dryer because you’ve lost your diffuser attachment again. Fear not!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to blow dry curly hair without a diffuser. Whether you want to use your blow dryer or other easy alternatives for when blow drying isn’t an option at all.

Remember, before reaching for the blow dryer or any other tool for these methods, start with freshly washed hair using a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain your natural oils and prevent excess dryness.

After washing, gently pat your hair with a soft cotton or microfiber towel to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause frizzy hair and disrupt your curl pattern.

Next, apply a leave-in conditioner or lightweight styling product to help with frizz control and protect your hair from heat damage.

Be sure to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends where they tend to be drier.

Divide your hair into small sections using clips or hair ties. This will make the drying process more manageable and ensure that each section receives equal attention.

Before blow drying, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to gently detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.

Steps to Blow Dry Curly Hair Without Diffuser

After washing your hair, adding in any of your favorite styling products, and you’re done with your wash day routine, it is time to start the drying process.

I always suggest using some kind of heat protectant when you’re using any direct heat on your hair, whether this is low heat or high heat it doesn’t matter.

When it comes to blow drying curly hair without a diffuser, opt for a hair dryer with a wide nozzle attachment to disperse the hot air evenly.

Begin by using the lowest heat setting and medium speed to prevent heat damage and minimize frizz.

Hold the hair dryer a few inches away from your wet hair to avoid direct heat. Begin by drying the roots of your hair, because they usually take the longest to dry.

Once the roots are partially dry, move to the lengths and ends of your hair.

The way you dry curly hair depends on what you’re looking for extra volume or well-defined curls.

I like to always add in extra volume so I wait for my hair to air dry before I add the blow dryer to the mix.

Then, I add some tension to the hair and stretch the hair on medium heat for some more volume and length.

This does cause the curl definition in the mids of your hair to loosen up a bit, so if you’re after well-defined curls, this method may not be for you.

If you want to focus on keeping those bouncy curls, use the scrunching method, gently scrunch the hair in the section as you dry.

This helps to maintain the natural curl pattern and gives you well-defined curls.

Avoid focusing the dryer on one spot for too long. Continuously move it around to distribute the heat evenly and prevent heat damage.

As your hair starts to dry, gradually increase the heat if needed, but always prioritize using low to medium heat to maintain the health of your hair.

Once your hair is mostly dry, switch to the cool shot setting or use the cold air button on your blow dryer to set your style and seal the hair cuticle, promoting shine and reducing frizz.

Avoid over-drying your hair, as this can lead to frizz and damage.

Best Alternatives To Dry Curly Hair Without A Blow Dryer:

Air Drying:

woman brushing curly hair with hand, then woman with dry curly hair

Air drying is perhaps the simplest and most natural way to dry curly hair.

After applying your leave-in conditioner or styling product, allow your hair to air dry completely.

To minimize frizz, avoid touching your hair too much as it dries, and resist the urge to manipulate your curls.

Go on a walk to allow some more airflow and help speed up the drying process for a faster drying time.

Plopping:

Plopping is a popular technique among curly girls for enhancing natural texture and natural curls and reducing drying time.

To plop, lay a soft cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel flat on a surface, flip your head upside down, and gently lower your hair onto the center of the towel.

Wrap the ends of the towel around your head and secure it in place, allowing your curls to set while absorbing excess moisture.

Braid Out and Twist Outs:

Braid outs and twist outs are styling techniques that not only stretch your curls for added length but also allow your hair to dry in a controlled manner.

After applying your styling product, divide your hair into sections and either braid or twist each section.

Once dry (after a few days usually), unravel the braids or twists for beautifully defined waves or curls.

Hooded Dryer:

If you prefer a hands-free drying method, a hooded dryer can be a convenient option.

Sit under the hooded dryer with your hair set in rollers or twists, allowing the warm air to evenly dry hair while you relax or attend to other tasks.