Does Using a Hair Dryer Damage Your Hair?

Hair dryers are the beauty tools we hate to love. Most of us need to use them at least on occasion. But whenever we do, there’s that lingering voice in the back of our heads that tells us we could be doing serious damage to our strands. So, what’s the truth? Should we air-dry instead?

According to Dr. Ross Kopelman, a hair restoration surgeon and hair loss expert based in New York City, both blow-drying and air-drying can have different risks. “The answer [of which is better] really depends on your hair type and your goals,” he says. “Air-drying can be less damaging since it avoids heat altogether, but it’s important to note that leaving hair wet for prolonged periods can also weaken the hair shaft, especially if it’s fragile or chemically treated.” 

Dr. Kopelman says blow-drying is perfectly safe for your hair, assuming that you take the proper precautions. You should always use “a heat protectant, keep the dryer moving, and avoid the highest heat setting,” he says. 

Using a hair dryer on the highest heat setting may be tempting because strands dry faster, but it can contribute to hair damage by stripping the scalp of moisture, eventually causing breakage. Dr. Kopelman tells his patients to use hair dryers on the lowest effective heat setting for your hair type. “Fine hair typically requires less heat, while thicker or curlier hair may need a bit more — but avoid max heat unless absolutely necessary,” he says. “I also suggest using a nozzle attachment to help direct airflow more precisely and prevent overheating the scalp or hair.” Keeping the dryer 6 to 8 inches away from the hair and constantly moving the dryer will also help maintain hair health.