I Reduced Frizz and Breakage After Learning the Right Way to Dry My Hair

Years ago, I would align my hair-washing days with laundry days, stepping out of the shower with wet hair and drying it with a warm towel straight from the dryer.

I followed this routine regularly, but I was plagued by frizz.

My hairstylist eventually pointed out that I also had significant breakage.

I listed the various hair-strengthening products I was trying—bond-repair masks, anti-frizz serums—convinced I was doing everything right. “How do you dry your hair?” she asked.

As I described my towel method, she interrupted me, suggesting I switch to microfiber towels.

What is a microfiber towel?

It may seem surprising that altering your hair-drying method could lead to significant changes, but it can truly impact the health of your hair. “A microfiber towel consists of tiny synthetic fibers that are finer than a human hair strand,” explains Rita Hazan, celebrity colourist and owner of Rita Hazan Salon in New York, in an email.

According to Hazan, regular use of these towels can minimize hair breakage and lessen the stress on damp hair.

Shab Caspara, a trichologist based in New York City and founder of the hair-care platform Leona.co, elaborates that the soft, fine texture of microfiber is gentler on hair cuticles, reducing friction, frizz, and breakage.

In contrast, traditional towels have a rougher texture that can harm the delicate cuticle layer.

Caspara also points out that air-drying isn’t an ideal alternative either: “Depending on hair thickness and porosity, air-drying can take a long time and lead to hygral fatigue, where hair absorbs too much moisture.”

Additionally, it can cause the outer layer of hair to dry faster than the inner strands, resulting in an uneven texture.

What is the end result of a microfiber hair towel?

When I first used a microfiber hair towel, I immediately noticed an improvement in both the appearance and feel of my hair.

Following my usual routine of clarifying shampoo, hydrating shampoo, and deep conditioner, my hair became smoother and sleeker simply by switching from a bath towel to a microfiber one.

The faster drying time was an added bonus; instead of dripping water down my back, the towel absorbed excess moisture quickly. Many hair towels also come with a fastener or elastic to hold the hair in place, further differentiating them from regular towels.

To use a microfiber towel, simply pat your hair dry to absorb excess water, then wrap it up before styling.

“Letting your hair rest in the towel for 5 to 10 minutes not only removes extra moisture but also helps retain hydration, enhancing your hair’s natural texture—especially for drier types,” says Caspara. “It might seem counterintuitive, but a microfiber towel can actually prevent hair from drying too quickly and losing moisture.”

While using the towel is straightforward, our experts stress the importance of proper care for them. “Learn how to maintain and wash your chosen towel effectively to keep it fresh and extend its lifespan,” advises Hazan.

Some towels, like Aquis, are made from denser polyester that absorbs more water and may need more frequent washing, while others, like Crown Affair’s, feature a lighter, waffle weave.

Choosing between them is simply a matter of personal preference; I currently prefer the latter.

With microfiber towels now an essential part of my wash-day routine, I approached my next hair appointment with newfound confidence.

My hair stylist noticed the improvements in my hair—significantly less frizz and breakage—without any prompting from me.

That felt like a definite success!