Did you know the quality and look of your natural textured hair can look dramatically different depending on how you dry your hair? There are incredibly simple hacks that can help create your best looking curls and waves. I was recently interviewed by InStyle magazine about diffusing your hair and I wanted to share these amazing questions and answers with you. Let me know if you have any additional questions below and I will get back you!

1. If someone is learning how to diffuse their curly or coily hair for the first time, what are the steps they must do to diffuse their hair correctly? SR: The proper approach to diffusing your hair in order to wear it naturally begins the moment you step out the shower. Instead of rough drying or rubbing your hair between your towel, pat-dry it using a gentle microfiber towel to absorb the excess moisture and immediately wrap your hair up in your towel to allow for as much moisture retention as possible before being exposed to the air to dry. After 15-20 minutes (depending on the thickness of your hair) let your hair down and apply your curly hair concoction through your strands using your fingers for gentle and even distribution. For those with extremely thick hair I always recommend applying your cream to a large toothed comb then combing that through your hair. Once your hair is thoroughly saturated in your desired product, you can set and enhance your texture by either scrunching your hair using your hands or a diffuser attachment on your blowdryer set to low speed and medium heat. Allow for the final 10% of moisture to dry naturally for the smoothest and healthiest looking curls. 
2. Are there certain mistakes people do when they are trying to diffuse their hair? What would you recommend instead? SR: The biggest mistake when trying to enhance your natural texture in anyway is applying your product on soaking wet hair. Hair only has the ability to absorb so much therefore it’s important to remove excess water before applying any product for optimal absorption and performance.  
3. TikTok is all about teaching how to use a diffuser, but what are the must-knows of properly using a diffuser? SR: Must knows for using a diffuser include keeping the speed and heat level on low to dry the hair as slow as possible. Blasting hair with high heat or powerful air can negatively affect the finishing results by disrupting the cuticle and exposing your hair. You have to be very patient in order to properly dry your natural hair. 
4. Are there certain products or ingredients you would recommend for curly hair people to use to help with diffusing their hair? SR: A game changing product that can help with moisture retention and minimizing frizz is the Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Hair Treatment by Inkey List. It’s super light-weight and only requires a few drops to prep your hair for your favorite curling cream or nothing at all. This product helps my blowout last longer through the next day.