A rough dry is Timba's quick, no-fuss drying service for clients who simply need dry hair before heading out. Rather than full brush styling, stylists use a blow-dryer and their hands to remove moisture and lightly encourage your hair's natural texture, giving you a casual, touchable finish in just 15 minutes.
More information
What Happens During a Rough Dry
The process is simple and efficient:
- Hair is towel-dried first, then suitable products are applied
- A blow-dryer is used with hands and fingers rather than styling brushes
- Stylists may scrunch, lift, or lightly twist sections to bring out natural wave or curl
- The focus is on functional dryness, not precise sectioning or a sleek finish
It's a quick trip through the drying stage, without the tension and detailed brush work of a full blowout.
What to Expect Afterwards
Results follow your natural texture rather than override it:
- Straight hair tends to look light and airy, though not perfectly smooth
- Wavy or curly hair often comes out tousled with visible movement
- Hair is left dry (or mostly dry) with a bit of volume, ready for casual wear
- You can go straight home and finish with your own brushes, hot tools, or products if you want more polish
Who It Suits
A rough dry is a practical choice rather than an event-ready style:
- Clients who are time-pressed or budget-conscious and just need dry hair
- Anyone who wants to see a new cut or colour clearly without paying for full styling
- Those planning to restyle at home afterwards or wear hair up
- It's not the right pick if you need a sleek, long-lasting, or camera-ready finish, for that, ask about a full blow-dry with our stylists, including Katie Williams, Lucy Osborne, Evie Collins, or Hannah James
A Few Practical Notes
- Heat is still used, so heat protection is worth asking for, especially on fine, coloured, or chemically treated hair
- Very long or thick hair may take a little longer than the standard 15 minutes
- If you have a sensitive scalp or damaged hair, mention it so your stylist can use lower heat and airflow
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a rough dry?
It's a quick drying service where your stylist uses a blow-dryer and their hands, rather than brushes, to remove most of the moisture from your hair, leaving it dry and touchable without a polished, styled finish.
How long does a rough dry take?
It typically takes around 15 minutes, though very long or thick hair may need a little extra time.
How much does it cost?
A rough dry at Timba costs £22.
Will my hair look styled afterwards?
Not in the same way as a full blow-dry. Your natural texture will show through, straight hair looks light and airy, while wavy or curly hair often looks tousled with some volume.
Does a rough dry include brushing or hot tools?
No, it's generally a fingers-only drying service without detailed brush work or straightening irons. If you want a smoother finish, a full blow-dry is a better fit.
Is a rough dry a good option after a haircut or colour?
Yes, it's often chosen after a cut or colour to reveal the new shape or shade without the extra time and cost of full styling.
Should I ask for heat protection?
It's a good idea, especially if your hair is fine, coloured, or chemically treated, since heat is still used during drying.
Can I style my hair further at home after a rough dry?
Absolutely. A rough dry leaves hair dry and ready as a base for you to brush, use hot tools, or apply finishing products yourself.
Available Team Members
These team members perform this service
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