Curly hair can often be a challenge to manage, especially when it comes to drying after a wash. Traditional terry cloth towels can cause friction and frizz, leading to dry and unruly curls. This guide will explore the best types of towels for curly hair, helping you achieve healthy, defined curls every time you step out of the shower.
The Problems with Traditional Towels
Regular towels are made of thick cotton fabric with a looped terry texture, which is excellent for absorbing water but not so great for fragile curly hair. The loops can stretch or break hair strands, causing frizz and split ends. Additionally, the rough texture increases friction, further exacerbating these problems.
Why Use Specialized Towels for Curly Hair?
Specialized towels designed for curly hair minimize friction, reduce frizz, and help maintain the natural curl pattern. These towels are generally made from materials that are gentler on the hair, ensuring that your curls stay intact and healthy.
Top Towels for Curly Hair
1. Microfiber Towels
Microfiber towels are a popular choice among people with curly hair. These towels are made from a blend of polyester and nylon fibers, which are much finer than traditional cotton fibers. This makes them super absorbent and incredibly soft, reducing the risk of frizz and damage.
Best Pick: Devacurl DevaTowel
The DevaTowel is a microfiber towel designed specifically for curly hair. It's lightweight, absorbent, and soft, making it perfect for preserving your curls.
2. Cotton T-Shirts
Believe it or not, many curly-haired people swear by using a plain cotton T-shirt for drying their hair. The smooth texture of the T-shirt reduces friction, while still absorbing excess water effectively. It's a budget-friendly option that's readily available in most homes.
Best Pick: An old, soft cotton T-shirt
Look for an old, well-worn T-shirt that's lost its roughness. It should be 100% cotton for the best results.
3. Bamboo Towels
Bamboo fibers are naturally soft and hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for sensitive and curly hair. Bamboo towels are also highly absorbent and have antimicrobial properties, helping to keep your scalp healthy.
Best Pick: Texere Bamboo Hair Towel
This towel is made from 100% bamboo fibers, offering a super-soft and sustainable option for curly hair care.
4. Cotton Muslin Cloths
Muslin is a lightweight, finely-woven cotton fabric. It offers a smooth surface that is gentle on curly hair while being highly absorbent. Muslin cloths are simple to use and can be wrapped around the head to absorb moisture without causing frizz.
Best Pick: Burt's Bees Baby Washcloths
Although designed for babies, these muslin cloths are perfect for curly-haired individuals seeking a gentle drying solution.
Tips for Using Hair Towels Effectively
Even with the right towel, using it incorrectly can still damage your curls. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your specialized hair towel:
- Blot, Don’t Rub: Press the towel gently against your hair to absorb moisture. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause frizz and breakage.
- Use the Plopping Method: Lay the towel flat, flip your head forward, and lower your hair onto the towel. Wrap the towel around your head and secure it comfortably. Leave the towel on for 10-20 minutes to help define curls.
- Squeeze Excess Water: Before using your towel, gently squeeze excess water out of your hair with your hands. This will make the towel’s job easier and more effective.
- Air Dry or Diffuse: For best results, let your hair air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Minimize the use of direct heat to avoid damaging your curls.
Conclusion
Choosing the right towel for curly hair can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your curls. Microfiber, cotton T-shirts, bamboo towels, and cotton muslin cloths are all excellent choices that help to reduce frizz and maintain curl definition. By using these specialized towels and following proper drying techniques, you can ensure that your curls remain beautiful and resilient.