At Creations Hair Salon in Chichester, we understand the unique needs of curly hair. One question we often hear is whether it’s better to diffuse curly hair with hot or cold air. The truth is, both have their place in creating beautiful, bouncy curls. Let’s explore the benefits of each and how to use them effectively.
The Benefits of Hot Air Diffusing
Hot air diffusing is a popular choice for many curly-haired clients, and for good reason. Here’s why:
Faster Drying Time
Using hot air significantly reduces drying time, which is especially beneficial for those with thick or dense curls. This means less time spent with damp hair, reducing the risk of frizz and allowing you to style your hair more quickly.
Enhanced Curl Definition
Hot air helps to set the curl pattern more effectively. As you diffuse, the heat encourages the hair cuticle to close, locking in your curl shape and enhancing definition.
Volume Boost
Hot air can give your curls a lovely volume boost, especially when you focus on drying the roots. This can be particularly helpful for those with fine or limp curls.
The Advantages of Cold Air Diffusing
While hot air has its benefits, cold air diffusing shouldn’t be overlooked. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
Reduced Frizz
Cold air is excellent for minimising frizz. It helps to seal the hair cuticle, resulting in smoother, shinier curls. This is particularly beneficial for those with frizz-prone hair.
Less Heat Damage
If you’re concerned about heat damage, cold air diffusing is a gentler option. It’s ideal for those with fragile or damaged hair, or for anyone looking to reduce their heat styling.
Longer-Lasting Curls
Cold air can help set your curls in place, leading to a longer-lasting style. This is especially useful if you’re preparing for a special event or want your curls to hold up throughout the day.
Our Expert Recommendation: The Best of Both Worlds
At Creations Hair Salon, we believe the most effective approach is to combine both hot and cold air diffusing. Here’s our step-by-step guide:
- Start with damp hair and apply your favourite styling products.
- Begin diffusing with warm (not hot) air on a low speed setting. This helps to dry your hair gently without causing frizz.
- Focus on drying your roots first, as they take the longest to dry. Gently lift sections of hair into the diffuser bowl and hold for 30 seconds.
- Once your hair is about 80% dry, switch to cool air. This will help set your curls and add shine.
- Finish by using the cool shot button all over your hair to lock in your style.
Remember, every curl type is unique, so you may need to adjust this technique to suit your specific hair needs. At Creations Hair Salon, we’re always happy to provide personalised advice to help you achieve your best curls. You can book in for a consultation with one of our curly hair experts to go through your hair needs.
By combining hot and cold air diffusing, you can enjoy the benefits of both methods: the speed and volume-boosting effects of warm air, and the frizz-reducing, curl-setting advantages of cool air. This approach helps to create beautiful, defined curls that last all day.
We hope this guide helps you perfect your diffusing technique. If you have any questions or would like a personalised curly hair consultation, don’t hesitate to visit us at Creations Hair Salon in Chichester. We’re here to help you love your curls!
