I totally get you when you say you don't want the "small talk and touching". I'm the same way and I LIKE my hair dresser. I just rather not talk the entire time, but it seems that this is what is expected.
I think I have been about 4 times in the last 3 years. LOL.
I do wish I could just let it air dry. I have to admit though, all I do now is blow dry my bangs, put one long curl on each side of my face, shake it out (still wet) add some spray and done. The rest dries as is. Just not in the mood to tame that beast for hours, LOL. The humidity is awful here. When I lived in a dry climate I had great hair. Now ? oy..
Like you, I have it put up almost all the time. I can't stand it blowing in my face and mouth while I'm trying to work and stuff. And my horse doesn't care what my hair looks like
However do you manage to cut such nice layers ? The best I can do is the whole "straight across and hope for the best", LOL.