By now we all know the virtues of using a hairdryer. To state the obvious, it speeds up drying time, the diffuser attachment does wonders for curls and if you're a seasoned pro at simultaneously wielding a hairbrush and a hairdryer, you can achieve that bouncy, glossy blowout.

But, let's not discount the fact that not everyone uses a hairdryer. Whether it's the warm weather making the idea of blowing hot air onto yourself unbearable, or you just don't want to use heat on your hair (or perhaps you're off travelling sans heavy hair tools), there are plenty of ways to air dry your lengths - whatever the texture - while still ensuring it stays healthy and soft.

how to air dry hair
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How To Air-Dry Your Hair

1.Invest In A Microfibre Towel

We love an extra large, fluffy cotton towel, but over-drying your hair with them is a essentially a fast track to frizz city.

'It's really common for people to over-dry their hair with a towel,' says Sam Burnett, owner and creative director of Hare & Bone, 'but this ruffles the cuticles and causes hair to become frizzy,' he adds, noting that microfibre towels are the answer - something hairstylist Brixton Cowie at Neil Moodie Studio seconds.

'The lightweight, moisture-wicking microfibre fabric creates less friction,' says Cowie. 'This helps to eliminate breakage while the hair is wet (and at its weakest) and helps to reduce frizz.'

ELLE Edit: Microfibre Towels
Microfibre Hair Towel Wrap - £19.75
Coco & Eve Microfibre Hair Towel Wrap - £19.75
Shop at Beauty Bay
Microfibre Hair Towel
Ceremonia Microfibre Hair Towel
Microfibre Hair Towel
Only Curls Microfibre Hair Towel


2. Use The Right Hairbrush

Hair pros agree that it is useful to get all the tangles and knots out (gently!) in order to evenly distribute your hair products, but it's important to do so using the right tool. Tangle Teezers and Manta hairbrushes are firm go-tos as they're kinder on fragile strands.

'Bristle brushes on wet, coarse hair disturb the placement and structure of the hair,' reveals Burnett, 'and this results in excess frizz. The best thing is to work through the hair with your fingertips or a wide tooth comb for the most natural finish and to ensure curls and waves stay in place.'

Ondine Cowley, artistic director at Gielly Green salon is a big fan of the paddle brush. To avoid tugging at the strands, she recommends slowly brushing or combing from the ends upward towards the roots, not the other way around.

ELLE Edit: Detangling Tools
The Acetate Detangling Comb
La Bonne Brosse The Acetate Detangling Comb
The Ultimate Detangler Naturally Curly Brush
Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Naturally Curly Brush
Paddle Detangler Brush
WetBrush Paddle Detangler Brush

3. Hydration Is Key

To get the best out of your air dry, you need to ensure that your strands are healthy and well-moisturised. This starts even before you step out of the shower.

'Shampoo and use a (hydrating) mask. While the mask is in, gently comb your hair through before rinsing, drying and applying product,' says Cowie. Once done, leave your hair to it and don't touch it as the friction can cause unnecessary frizz.

This technique applies to all hair textures, what differs is the type of product used.

how to air dry hair
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For Thick Hair...

It might sound counter-intuitive, but coarser hair requires a product that will give it a little more weight, and that's because it tends to be much drier and is therefore prone to frizzing up. Look for a rich, moisturising leave-in treatment (Cowie recommends Oway Smoothing Cream) to hydrate and add a little hold.

For Curls And Coils...

Those blessed with thick curls or coils will love the L’Oréal Curl Expression range as it is jam-packed with hydrating glycerin, urea H and plant extracts. 'If you want more definition from your curls, section the hair and twist the hair in cm² sections in alternate directions,' says Cowie.

For Fine, Straight Hair...

Moulding your hair while its damp is the easiest way to lock in the texture you desire. Apply a small amount of lightweight styling cream or mist before putting it up in a low bun (or two!). Just remember to use a gentle hair tie to avoid pulling delicate strands. Applying a leave-in conditioner after towel drying will also help minimise that halo of static which is caused by lack of humidity and moisture.

If you're looking for beachy texture and a mermaid wave, try spritzing in some sea salt spray and letting them dry in plaits. The bigger the plait, the looser the wave.

ELLE Edit: Hair Products For Air-Drying
Air Dry Spray
Hershesons Air Dry Spray
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The Good Habit Hybrid Oil
Arkive The Good Habit Hybrid Oil
Curl Expression Long-Lasting Leave-In Moisturiser
L'Oréal Professionnel Curl Expression Long-Lasting Leave-In Moisturiser
Superfoods Banana and Coconut Soft Wave Texture Spray
Briogeo Superfoods Banana and Coconut Soft Wave Texture Spray

4. Swap Your Shampoo For A Cleansing Conditioner

Some shampoos can actually strip your hair of its natural oils, especially if you wash it every day, and because parched strands will only lead to frizz, it pays to use a cleansing conditioner on alternating days instead.

Don't worry if they don't lather up, that doesn't mean they aren't working a treat. You'll notice a huge reduction in flyaways and fluffiness when it comes to air-drying.

Say hello to swishier, happier hair.