Bringing back the blow-dry.
If you’ve ever gone to the salon for a blow-dry, then you know the incredible feeling brought on by all that bounce, volume and shine in your hair (first step blow dry, next step, world domination).
For those who would rather master the technique themselves, rather than relying on others, we're here for you. While recreating a professional blow-dry at home isn't easy, it's definitely possible to achieve a great finish.
With that in mind, I’m sharing my favourite tips that I’ve learned over the years that will help you succeed at blow-drying your own hair at home.
1. Patience and perseverance
If you have long or thick hair, or both like me, you should know that you won’t get the job done in 10 minutes. I blow-dry my hair in 40 minutes without a break, and its naturally curly texture means I need to polish every section well until it’s smooth and shiny. But it’s worth my time and energy because I can enjoy beautiful hair for days!
2. The hair dryer
I always recommend using a nozzle when you blow-dry, because it quickens the drying time and helps to achieve a perfectly smooth finish.
When it comes to finding a hairdryer, look for at least 1,800 watts and multiple heat and air settings. Medium heat is best for pre-drying your hair because it saves you a lot of time, while high heat manipulates the shape.
Whether you want to style loose waves, or perfectly straight locks, the heat will help you to achieve your desired look. Remember, there is also a cold setting which sets a style and gives a beautiful shine to the hair.
3. A round brush
A round brush allows you to create waves, but it also polishes the hair and even straightens it without the need for tongs. A time-saving tip: the bigger the surface area of a brush, the faster the drying time. Keep that in mind the next time you buy one!
4. Products
For every hair type and hairstyle you want to achieve when blow-drying your hair, you must use the right products to suit. Without them, you won’t get far and all your hard work will disappear within minutes. Products play a huge role in achieving the perfect blow-dry, so make use of them!
Step 1
Blow-dry the hair against the direction it lays. This will encourage the root to stand up straight, rather than fall directly against the scalp.
Step 2
Separate the hair into several sections. It will cut down the drying time, which is especially important for those of you with thick hair.
Step 3
Roll the sectioned hair around the round brush, and run the hair through it, moving from top to bottom.
Move your hair-dryer back and forth constantly over the hair, ensuring you repeat these motions over and over until the section is completely dry.
Each section should be 100% dry before you move on to the next. If you leave moisture in it, it will fall flat later on.
Once you're done, choose ONE finishing product and apply it to your hair. It could be a gloss, a serum, a cream or an oil, but you shouldn't overdo it or it'll ruin your good work. Personally, I love using a little bit of hairspray to finish off the look.
I hope these tips help you achieve the perfect blow-dry at home!
This originally appeared on Glamour UK
