Why You Need To Ditch Your Hair Towel (And What To Use Instead)

Chances are, the moment you step out of the shower with soaking wet hair, you reach for a towel and either scrunch your locks dry or wrap them in a towel to sit firmly upon your head. However, more often than not you’re damaging your hair, as both drying methods will tug and twist your strands, leading to breakage. Not cute.

Instead, reach for a microfiber towel, which will show your hair the respect it deserves. They’re the ultimate solution: they cut drying time in half and they minimize hair breakage while also lessening frizz. They also look seriously cute! Here’s everything you need to know about this essential hair accessory!

Why A Microfiber Towel is Better for Your Hair

It’s a well-known fact among beauty experts that how you dry your hair can impact its overall health, and it all starts from the minute you get into the shower. When you wash your hair, the water, especially when hot, will cause the hair cuticle to enlarge and open, leaving it vulnerable to frizz and damage. Side note: this is why short, cool showers are better for your hair. This also means the quicker you dry your hair and remove the excess water, the healthier your hair will be in the longterm, as wet hair is more fragile. A microfiber towel will not only absorb excess water more efficiently than a terrycloth towel but it’s more gentle, and therefore will decrease the likelihood of breakage and frizz.

Just make sure when you’re using a microfiber towel, you’re using it correctly. First, gently press your hair with the towel to remove excess water. Do not wring or rub your locks as this will strain the hair follicle. Then, once your hair is no longer dripping wet, wrap it in the towel for 10 to 15 minutes. Trust us, you’ll be converted in just one use! Here are five cute options:

1. Aquis X Poosh Rapid Dry Leopard Print Hair Turban, $38

Source: Poosh

This limited-edition multi-tasking turban will cut drying time in half with its ultra-absorbent layered wicking fabric, while of course, helping you look seriously fierce. You can also reverse the turban for nighttime use, as the underlayer is made from charmeuse, which is another fabric that’s proven to minimize breakage and frizz.

2. Turbie Twist Microfiber Hair Towel Twin Pack, $13

   Source: Turbie Twist

If you’re looking for an affordable option, this 100% microfiber towel ticks every box. Totaling $6.50 per wrap, it’s super absorbent, machine-washable, and ultra-lightweight, so it’ll also reduce neck strain, unlike a heavy wet terry cloth.

3. Kitsch Microfiber Hair Towel – Micro Dot, $23

Source: Kitsch

This super cute microfiber towel has garnered rave reviews online, thanks to its fast-drying time. Many reviewers also commented on its capabilities to hold even the thickest, longest locks while another claimed it dried her hair 85-95% dry in less than 15 minutes!

4. Swissco Spa Body Microfiber Fast Dry Hair Turban, $6

Source: Swissco

The first thing that caught our attention about this towel is the color. Another major bonus? It has a button fastener to keep the wrap secure while your hair dries.

5.  Coco & Eve Microfibre Hair Wrap, $25

Source: Coco & Eve

The Coco & Eve Microfibre Hair Towel, $25, is another adorable option! In fact, there are two prints of the super-soft, water-absorbent towel: a leaf print and a limited edition girl print. Coco and Eve recommend using the wrap while wearing a hair mask underneath or overnight.

Disclaimer: Every product we review has been independently selected and tested without bias by our editorial team. We never take payment to review products, however, some brands allow affiliate links, so we may earn a commission if you purchase a product by clicking on one of our links.