Want to get bouncy, voluminous hair without shelling out big bucks at a salon? We’ve got you covered. Little did you know that your humble hair dryer can give you perfectly coiled curls, mermaid waves, and super-sleek strands. This can’t-do-without styling staple does more than just dry your mane – it is your multitasking companion to achieve the hair of your dreams.
But before you put this styling tool to the test, it’s crucial to prep your hair with a heat-protectant formula. Spritz a heat-protectant serum or spray on damp tresses before using a hot tool such as a blow dryer. The potion will seal in the moisture, smoothen the cuticle, and shield your hair shaft from irreversible damage. Comb through the hair to ensure the formulation is spread evenly across your strands.
Prepping Your Hair For An At-Home Blowout
Your pre-blowout treatment should include a shampoo, conditioner, hair mask, and heat protectant. Use a suitable sulphate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp and strands, followed by a hydrating conditioner to lock in moisture. Ensure you apply conditioner on your lengths and ends rather than the scalp to avoid greasiness. After rinsing off the shampoo and conditioner, turn to a soothing hair mask to boost hydration and eliminate frizziness. Hair masking also makes it easier to detangle knots. After leaving the hair mask on for 15-20 minutes, rinse it off and use a wide-toothed comb to go through your strands. A leave-in conditioner or detangling spray can help make the combing process more seamless. End with a cold wash to keep frizziness at bay. Wring your hair and wrap it in a microfibre or 100% cotton towel. Before you move to blow drying, apply a heat-protectant spray or serum to limit damage. When you begin blow-drying your hair, it should only be 20 per cent damp.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Blow Dry Your Hair At Home
- Section your hair into separate parts and secure them with hair clips. Begin by drying with hair dryer the underneath layers of your hair by pointing the blow dryer nozzle downwards. While medium heat is perfect for pre-drying your hair, high heat is ideal for styling your tresses.
- Grab a piece of hair from the bottom section and begin at the front of your head, moving backwards for more volume. For easier styling and extra shine, use a metal brush that’ll help manipulate your hair more effectively.
- Curl your round brush and pull it in the direction you want your hair to fall. Begin at your roots and gradually sweep the brush down to the ends. Start at a low heat setting to limit damage, and work your way up if required.
- Once you’ve finished drying with hair dryer the bottom sections of your hair, make your way to the top. If you have thin hair, you’ll be able to dry your hair by parting it in two sections. Meanwhile, if you have thick hair, separate it into three or more sections.
- If you desire a retro look, curl the ends of your hair by scooping the strands with a round brush. For a ’90s style, twirl the brush towards your face. Alternatively, for a ’60s vibe, curl the brush outward.
- Once you’ve achieved your desired look, set it in place with the help of cool air. To maintain volume, use the round brush to brush your hair up.
- For lustre, run an oil or serum through your strands with your fingertips after rubbing it along your palms. Ensure you apply the formulation along the lengths and ends of your hair and steer clear of your scalp.
- Towards the end, tame unruly strands and flyaways with a styling cream or hair gel. Spritzing a hairspray can also help increase the longevity of your blowout.
The Benefits of Blow Drying Your Hair
- Do you possess an unmanageable mane, limp locks, and poor hair texture? A blow dryer is your best friend. Blow dryers can give your hair a voluminous, fuller appeal while smoothening your strands and curbing frizziness.
- If you often air-dry your mane, bacteria could grow on the scalp in a moist environment. Regular blow drying can reduce your risk of contracting a fungal or bacterial scalp infection.
- Blow drying significantly reduces drying time when you’re in a hurry. If you are shampooing at night, blow dry your hair before hitting the bed. Sleeping with damp tresses may result in friction against the pillow, which can cause frizziness and damage.
- If you’re wary about investing in a curling iron or straightener, double up your hair dryer as a quick styling tool for gorgeous, wavy hair.
Conclusion
If you want to purchase a blow dryer, here are a few features you should consider:
- Technology: It’s a good idea to pick your blow dryer based on your hair type and texture. For example, ionic and tourmaline hair dryers expend less heat, reduce frizz, and are safe to use.
- Wattage: The more the wattage, the faster the drying time. Invest in a blow dryer that is at least 1800 watts or more.
- Heat Settings: Buy best hair dryers with multiple heat settings to adjust the heat per your hair requirements.
- Size and Cord Length: The size and weight of the tool will decide its portability, while the cord length ensures ease of use.
- Attachments: If you have curly hair, you’re looking for a diffuser attachment, whereas if you desire a blowout, you need a concentrator nozzle.
