Hair drying through rough rubbing with a towel when the hair is wet can cause damage, especially if it is already fragile.

Here are ten important hair drying tips to ensure your hair is kept in good condition despite the toll everyday wear and tear can have:

Hair Drying Tip: Naturally

1. While this may not be possible for everyone, especially if there is a rush to get out in the morning, allowing the hair to dry naturally is the best hair drying method you can adopt. This helps the hair retain moisture and allow it to curl naturally if that is its characteristic or make long straight hair sleek.

2. If your hair is curly, short or spiky, use your fingers to dry the hair which will help the hair stand up more than using a comb or brush.

3. Do not vigorously rub wet hair with a towel. Use a dabbing or patting action to absorb most of the moisture.

Hair Drying Tip: Using A Blow Dryer

4. Invest in a good quality hair dryer that has high power but a lightweight design. You will find it much easier to hold the hair dryer above your head for longer periods. Although you may not use the high power extensively, the capacity will give you a range of settings for hot, medium and cool.

5. Hair drying with the head upside down can give your hair lift and body.

6. Be sure to direct the flow of hot air in the direction of the hair to avoid disturbing the hair cuticle.

7. Do not have the blow drier on a setting higher than you really need and as the hair dries reduce the level of the setting.

8. Either keep your head moving or the hair dryer moving to avoid heat damage. Do not direct the hair dryer directly at the scalp.

9. If you have curly hair use the diffuser attachment. This will spread the air so the curls are not under a direct jet which will straighten them out.

10. Do not start to use a brush until the hair has dried sufficiently or is damp rather than wet. The pulling by a hair brush when hair is wet can really damage it.

Note on hairdryers: Ionic and Tourmaline hair dryers are now available. They produce negative ions which causes the hair to dry more quickly, thus reducing the risk of heat damage.

Additionally, these technologically advanced hair drying tools can add shine and sheen to your hair. See resource box below for a wide selection and product information.