Plus: What to do when you just can’t quit the heat.
We’ve heard endless debates about how often you should wash your hair—but what about blow drying it? If your post-shower routine includes grabbing your blow dryer more often than not, you may want to pause and reconsider. While sleek, voluminous hair is the ultimate goal for many, science has a more cautionary take on your blow drying habit.
Is Blow Drying Your Hair Bad?
In short: yes, but there’s nuance.
Blow drying your hair exposes it to high levels of heat, which can strip away moisture, weaken hair structure, and lead to long-term damage. According to Self Magazine, the ideal frequency to blow dry your hair is… well, never. Harsh, right?
Dr. Michael Roizen, a wellness expert, explains that the heat from blow dryers (and curling or flat irons) can cause the water beneath the hair cuticle to vaporize, forming tiny bubbles that break the hair shaft. This leads to split ends, frizz, breakage, and brittle strands.
Every time you blow dry, you risk damaging your hair. It doesn’t matter if it’s daily or weekly—the damage adds up.
So, How Often Should You Blow Dry Your Hair?
If you’re going strictly by science, the best answer is: as little as possible.
But we live in the real world—where air-drying isn’t always practical, and a good blowout can boost your confidence. So, a more realistic recommendation from hair experts is to limit blow drying to 1–2 times per week, especially if you’re using heat protectants and the right technique.
How often you can safely blow dry also depends on your hair type:
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Fine or color-treated hair: Stick to once a week or even less.
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Thick, coarse, or curly hair: May tolerate up to twice a week with minimal damage.
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Oily hair types: Wash more frequently if needed, but avoid reaching for heat each time—air dry when possible.
5 Tips to Minimize Blow Dryer Damage
If ditching the blow dryer altogether isn’t an option (no judgment here!), follow these damage-control steps:
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Use a heat protectant every single time—no exceptions.
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Keep the dryer 6 inches away from your scalp and hair.
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Use the lowest effective heat setting—cooler is kinder.
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Don’t over-dry—aim for 80% dry and let the rest air dry.
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Invest in a quality dryer with ionic or ceramic technology for gentler heat.
Blow drying your hair may be part of your beauty ritual, but if you want to keep your strands strong and healthy, it’s time to reconsider how often you’re reaching for that heat. Science says less is more, but smart blow drying can be your happy medium.
So next time you’re tempted to do a daily blowout, think twice—and maybe opt for a chic low bun instead.