Drying one's hair can become a dilemma in the case of a sensitive scalp. Easily irritated, it requires special care. Here are all our tips for drying your hair without causing itching or irritation when you have a sensitive scalp.
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Sensitive scalp: how to dry your hair?
Summary
- Air drying: why not when you have short hair
- Using a hairdryer for drying: to be used in moderation
- Towel drying: the method that requires gentleness and care
Published July 27, 2023,
updated on January 27, 2024,
by
Pauline, Chemical Engineer
—
3 min read
Air drying: why not when you have short hair.
Air drying is one of the most recommended drying methods for a sensitive scalp. Indeed, it is a technique gentle for the scalp as it requires neither heat nor friction. However, air drying one's hair can be quite time-consuming depending on the length of the hair. When one has short hair, it's convenient but it can become burdensome when the hair is longer.
Furthermore, while air-drying long hair is beneficial for an irritated scalp, it is somewhat less favoured by the hair fibres themselves. Indeed, a wet hair strand is significantly heavier than a dry one, which results in strain and tension on the fibre. Additionally, water can penetrate the cuticles, causing them to swell and crack.
Using a hairdryer for drying: to be used in moderation.
Using a hairdryer is a common method of drying hair. The hot air emitted allows for very rapid drying by evaporating water molecules. However, this method is the most likely todamage the scalp and irritate it. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for those with a sensitive scalp.
However, in winter or when time is short, it is possible to resort to this, provided that certain precautions are taken. First and foremost, adjust your hairdryer and select the lowest temperature. Also, ensure to hold your device at least 20 centimetres away from your scalp. To optimise its protection, it is also recommended to use hair care products before drying. Indeed, it is advisable to apply a moisturising serum or a protective oil before drying your hair.
Towel drying: the method that requires gentleness and care.
The towel is an essential accessory in a bathroom. Used for both skin and hair, it requires specific characteristics when dealing with a sensitive scalp. Opt for microfibre towels which are often softer, fluffier and more comfortable. Once you have your towel in hand, it is important to apply the correct techniques to avoid irritating your sensitive scalp.
Remove excess water : after shampooing, hair fibres are saturated with water, making them more fragile and vulnerable. Therefore, it is important to start by removing the excess water from your hair by gently squeezing them between your hands. However, avoid wringing them out to prevent damage.
Press-dry your hair : then dry your hair from roots to tips by applying gentle pressure on the strands using a microfibre towel. Be careful not to rub them to avoid creating frizz.
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