All the Ways You’re Drying Your Hair Wrong, According to a Pro

You may not think twice about how you dry your hair, but your hair definitely notices. Over time, rushed routines and too-hot tools add up. Here, we’ve gathered tips, along with expert advice from pro hairstylist Patty Cristobal, to break down what you’re likely doing wrong—and how to start doing it right.

RELATED: This Season’s Biggest Hair Trends Are Inspired By Pop Icons 

Mistake 1: Brushing It Wet

“The hair is in its most fragile state when it’s wet,” cautions pro hairstylist Patty Cristobal. “It is more elastic, making it more prone to breakage and snapping, and even frizz.” His advice? Stay patient. Leave your hair to air dry first, or use a microfiber towel to gently absorb excess water before brushing to avoid damage.

Mistake 2: Skipping Heat Protection

Another victim of your rushed routine? Your hair. Think twice before skipping your heat protector. “Heat causes damage to the hair, so it is important to use heat protection while drying your hair to avoid breakage,” Cristobal adds.

Mistake 3: Rubbing With a Towel

We’re no stranger to this act. And while it does dry your hair faster, all that friction only roughens up your strands, causing frizz, breakage, and long-term damage. Your hair isn’t a stain to scrub out, so it’s best to press, blot, or squeeze instead. Don’t use your bath towel for this, but a microfiber one.

Mistake 4: Not Detangling Before Drying

It’s like trying to iron your wrinkled button-down without smoothing it out first. Heat plus tangles only makes things worse, so avoid going straight into blow-drying without brushing out the knots. After air drying, quickly detangle with a wide-toothed comb or a paddle brush to avoid tugging and breakage.

Mistake 5: Overdrying

If your hair feels scorching to the touch, you’ve gone too far. Many women think they need to dry until it’s bone dry, but overdrying zaps moisture, dulls shine, and leads to brittle ends. Stop once it’s about 90-95% dry, then finish with a cool shot. Your locks will thank you.

It’s all probably common sense—until you realize how often you’re guilty of these mistakes on the daily. A few tweaks now will save your strands later.

Photos: MEGA ARCHIVES