Meaning ❉ Gentle Drying is the deliberate, thoughtful approach to removing moisture from textured hair, recognizing its unique capillary structure and inherent vulnerability to aggressive practices. ❉ This method, often incorporating soft materials like microfiber or the quiet contemplation of air drying, systematically reduces water content without disrupting the hair’s delicate cuticle layer. ❉ For Black and mixed-race hair, it is a foundational principle within a harmonized care system, allowing for the natural formation of coils and kinks while minimizing breakage. ❉ It’s about understanding that patience in this phase directly contributes to long-term hair vitality and growth, moving away from harsh towel friction or excessive heat. ❉ Practical application involves techniques such as careful blotting, sectioning for efficient air circulation, or utilizing a diffuser on the lowest setting, ensuring the hair’s integrity remains uncompromised. ❉ This gentle calibration of moisture removal safeguards against dryness and brittleness, setting the stage for subsequent styling and lasting hair health.