Part 2 of 4
Today, I’m thrilled to kick off part 2 of the very special 4-part series that’s close to my heart and, quite literally, to our heads! This series is all about embracing micro-changes in our hair care routine. Whether you’re blessed with a luscious mane or are navigating the challenges of hair that’s a bit more finicky—think finer strands, thinning patches, or those pesky breakage areas—we’re on this journey together.
Ok, let’s get right to it! Last week we talked about the towels and how important it is to have the right towel to reduce friction and tension. It’s all about the micro changes that create macro results. If you missed it be sure to check it out here.
This week I am talking all about preserving the vitality of your hair: the art of blow-drying the underbelly. I know what you’re thinking, “Laura, what the heck is the underbelly of my hair”? Hang tight my friends.
We’ve all been schooled on the importance of using the right heat settings and the non-negotiable use of thermal protectant sprays. Yet, there remains an uncharted territory in our blow-drying technique that could be the game-changer for hair health. I’m talking about the overlooked “underbelly” of our hair.
When we blow-dry, our natural inclination is to target the top layer of our hair. It’s the most visible, the part we want to look polished and perfect. However, this approach subjects the same section of our hair to intense heat repeatedly, leading to cumulative damage. The “top” layer bears the brunt, and over time, our hair shaft suffers, showing signs of wear and tear in the form of split ends, breakage, and a dulle appearance.
But why does this happen? The science of it lies in the structure of our hair. Each strand of hair is covered by cuticles, which are like protective scales. When we apply heat directly and repeatedly to the top layer, these cutiles can lift, leading to moisture loss and vulnerability to further damage. It’s a silent battle our hair endures, one that can be mitigated with a simple yet effective technique.
Enter the transformative practice of blow-drying the underbelly. By redirecting the airflow to the underside of our hair sections, we distribute the heat more evenly, allowing the top layer to take a much-needed respite from the direct heat assault. This method not only minimizes cuticle damage but also adds volume and lift to your hair, creating a fuller, healthier appearance.
So, how do we adopt this technique?
- Start by flipping your hair over or lifting sections of your hair to expose the underbelly.
- Then, with your blow dryer set to a moderate heat, direct the airflow upwards, allowing the warm air to penetrate from underneath.
This approach encourages the cuticles to lay flat, locking in moisture and enhancing shine.
By making this minor adjustment in our blow-drying routine, we can significantly reduce the thermal stress our hair undergoes, preserving its integrity and ensuring it remains resilient against the rigors of daily styling.
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore another micro change with the potential to make a macro difference in your hair’s health and vitality.
Together, we’re building a foundation for luscious locks that not only look good but are genuinely healthier and stronger from the inside out.
Until next week my friends!
Bye for now,
Laura