You step out of the shower, ready to embrace a day of soft, flowing hair. But as it dries, your hair seems to have other plans—it might frizz, puff up, or simply refuse to lie flat. This common frustration can make it feel impossible to achieve that smooth, ‘hair down’ look you desire. The good news is that a few simple adjustments to your routine can make all the difference.
Start With a Thorough Conditioning Routine
Healthy, hydrated hair is far more likely to behave. While your hair is still soaking wet in the shower, use a generous amount of conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends. This step replenishes moisture and helps to smooth the hair cuticle, which is the first defense against frizz and flyaways that push your hair up and out.
The Magic of Leave-In Products
Don’t rinse out all your hard work! After you gently towel-dry your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight hair serum. These products are your best friends for weightless hydration and control. They coat the hair shaft, providing slip and moisture that lasts through the entire drying process, encouraging your hair to dry smoothly and stay down.
Gentle Drying Makes All the Difference
Roughly rubbing your hair with a towel creates friction and frizz. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water with a soft, microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt. When it comes to styling, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. If you use a blow dryer, always pair it with a heat protectant spray and use a concentrator nozzle. Direct the airflow down the hair shaft, following the direction you want it to lie, to smooth the cuticle.
Setting Your Style as It Dries
For stubborn hair that likes to lift at the roots, try this simple trick. As your hair air-dries or after you’ve blown it out, gently pull the top sections of your hair down flat against your scalp and hold them in place for a moment with a small, flat clip. This helps train the hair to dry in a flatter, smoother position.
Keeping your hair down after it’s wet is all about working with its natural texture. By focusing on hydration, gentle handling, and strategic styling, you can guide your hair toward a smoother, more manageable finish that stays put all day.