How to Use a Hair Towel Wrap: The Better Way to Dry Your Hair
If you've been drying your hair with a regular bath towel, you might be causing more damage than you realise. The good news? Switching to a Riva hair towel wrap — and using it correctly — can make a huge difference to your hair's health, frizz levels, and drying time.
Here's everything you need to know about how to use our hair towel wrap the right way.
Why a Hair Towel Wrap Is Better Than a Regular Towel
Standard bath towels are made from thick, looped terry cloth that's rough on your hair cuticle. When you rub or scrunch your hair with one, you're essentially roughing up the outer layer of each strand — leading to frizz, breakage, and split ends over time.
A microfibre hair towel wrap, on the other hand, is made from ultra-fine fibres that are much gentler on your hair. They absorb water faster, reduce friction, and help your hair dry more quickly — all without the damage.
Plus they are lightweight so don't strain your neck like a heavy cotton towel.
Step-by-Step: How to Use a Hair Towel Wrap
Step 1: Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water First
Before reaching for your hair towel, use your hands to gently squeeze (not wring!) excess water from your hair. This reduces the amount of work your towel needs to do and speeds up the whole process.
Step 2: Flip Your Hair Forward
Lean forward so your hair falls in front of your face. This positions your hair perfectly for wrapping and helps the towel sit securely on your head.
Step 3: Place the Towel at Your Nape
Hold your hair towel with the button or fastening end at the back of your neck. The flat, absorbent panel should be draped over your hair, covering it completely.
Step 4: Wrap and Twist
Gather your hair inside the towel and twist the towel up and over your head, bringing it to the top. Secure the loop or button at the front of your head to hold everything in place.
Step 5: Leave It On for 10–20 Minutes
Let the microfibre do its magic. Most hair types only need 10–20 minutes in a hair towel wrap to go from soaking wet to damp and ready to style. Curly or thicker hair may benefit from a little longer.
Step 6: Unwrap Gently
When you're ready, undo the fastening and let your hair fall forward. Avoid rubbing — simply scrunch lightly if needed, then proceed with your usual styling routine.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
- Don't wrap too tightly. A snug wrap is fine, but pulling your hair too taut can cause tension and breakage at the hairline.
- Use it with a leave-in conditioner. Apply your leave-in or curl cream before wrapping — the gentle heat from your head helps the product absorb beautifully.
- Wash your hair towel regularly. Microfibre can hold onto product build-up, so wash it every 3–4 uses to keep it performing at its best.
- For curly hair: Try the "plop" method — lay the towel flat, lower your curls into the centre, then wrap. This encourages curl clumping and reduces frizz.
How Often Should You Use a Hair Towel Wrap?
Every time you wash your hair! There's really no reason to go back to a regular towel once you've made the switch. Your hair will thank you for it — expect less frizz, more shine, and noticeably healthier-looking locks over time.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you haven't tried a microfibre hair towel wrap yet, now is the perfect time. Your post-shower routine is about to get a whole lot better.