For people with long or high-maintenance hair, washing can be a daunting task. When it comes to cleansing thick, waist-length hair, many procrastinate, dreading the labor involved in washing, drying, and styling. The most arduous part of the process—drying—is also the one that can inflict the most damage on hair. Fortunately, a reviewer-beloved microfiber hair towel not only shortens drying time but can also improve overall hair health.
Why Microfiber Towels Are Better for Hair
According to Arey founder and trichologist Jay Small, heat styling damages hair because high temperatures can structurally and chemically alter the hair fiber. When hot tools exceed 356 degrees Fahrenheit, the permanent keratin proteins inside the cortex begin to melt, causing the hair to lose its natural elasticity, strength, and ability to hold a style.
A microfiber towel offers a better alternative to heat styling. Small explains that microfiber towels are woven with incredibly fine, split fibers that create a completely smooth surface, allowing the fabric to glide over wet hair without catching or roughing up the cuticle. Because microfiber is highly absorbent, it naturally draws water out of the hair strand, reducing overall mechanical drying time and the amount of heat styling required.
Highly-Rated Microfiber Turban on Amazon
Small did not endorse a specific hair towel, so we found a readily available crowd-favorite option: a highly-rated microfiber turban available on Amazon in sets of two or three. These thoughtfully designed towels absorb a shocking amount of water quickly without requiring aggressive rubbing that could cause breakage. The fabric helps reduce frizz and breakage for all hair types. By sucking up the majority of water, the towel can also help avoid heat damage from hair dryers, and according to myriad reviewers, significantly cuts down on drying time.
Reviewers note that the towel is lightweight and easy to secure, so it does not flop around during a post-shower routine. It features an elastic loop closure and packs down small, making it travel- and gym-friendly. This small addition to a routine has the potential to make life much easier.
What Reviewers Say
- DCS7466: “These head wraps are amazing! By the time I’m ready to do my hair, they have soaked up a large percentage of the water remaining in my hair, which allows less time with the hairdryer. They definitely fit for any volume of hair.”
- Placeholder: “Works wonders. Ever since I started using these, my hair feels and looks healthier. I appreciate the quality, ease of use, and the different colors included. It fits really well.”
- Marcianna: “I love how soft these are! All the colors are really pretty and towels are super easy to use. Better quality than other microfiber ones I’ve purchased. These are like blanket quality. No odor when opening the product.”
- Kennedy: “Really happy with these! These are really soft and way lighter than I expected. The best part is they actually hold all my hair in—I have a lot of hair and it stays wrapped up no problem. Dries fast too. Definitely recommend!”
- Beaty Reader: “Perfect hair towels. They do seem to help dry my hair quicker. Gentle squeezes and my hair is damp and not soaking wet as opposed to regular towels. Highly recommend!”
- Carlie: “Easy to use and speeds up drying time for long hair. These work well for myself and my toddler—we both have very long hair. They are very comfortable and lightweight.”
- Jean Little: “I had never used a hair towel. This is a game changer for me. I haven’t used my hair dryer since using it. My hair is a chin-length bob. I leave the towel on for an hour or so then finger style my hair. Easy and the gentlest way to dry my hair.”
Additional Hair Support: Shampoos for Thinning Hair
1. Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This award-winning shampoo contains 1% ketoconazole, an antifungal ingredient suggested by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Joyce Park and Dr. Ariel Ostad. Park explains that ketoconazole is one of the better-studied ingredients for thinning hair, as it reduces scalp inflammation and treats dandruff, which can contribute to increased shedding. Reviewers say the scent is light and fresh without being harsh or medicinal. The formula is gentle enough for gray or chemically processed hair.
2. Virtue Flourish Shampoo for Thinning Hair
Dermatologist Dr. Engelman recommends this shampoo, which contains patented Alpha Keratin 60ku, a protein designed to bind to damaged areas of the hair shaft and improve strength, shine, and overall hair health. Virtue Labs’ keratin is bio-identical to human hair keratin and derived from human hair rather than animal byproducts. While it is a splurge, reviewers say they immediately noticed a difference in shedding, and a single bottle can last six months.
3. Maple Holistics Biotin Shampoo with Rosemary Oil
This biotin-infused shampoo also contains rosemary oil. Dr. Marisa Garshick notes that rosemary oil can help strengthen hair and reduce breakage for a fuller appearance. This shampoo has over 37,000 5-star ratings and remains a HuffPost reader favorite.
Note: The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.
