Blow Dry At Home Like A Pro
Blow Dry At Home Like A Pro
By Falguni Verma
In the realm of self-care, few skills rival the art of home blow drying. It's a pursuit that not only translates to saved minutes and pennies, but grants you the ability to wield total authority over your hairstyle. Regardless of whether your hair is poker straight or spiralled into curls, armed with the right technique and tools, you'll have the power to craft a polished look that garners admiration.
Before we get into the details of how to blow dry your hair at home, you need to know the importance of choosing the right hair dryer. Hair types differ, demanding tailored heat and airflow levels:
- Fine or damaged hair demands a dryer equipped with adjustable heat and controlled airflow to prevent further damage.
- For robust, coarse hair, a dryer with higher wattage and multi-heat settings ensures an expedient and effective drying session.
- For curly to wavy hair, we suggest befriending the diffuser attachment of your hair dryer, it’s going to make you and your hair bouncier.
Once you’re armed with the right hair dryer, blow drying hair without any damage becomes a walk in the park.
Essential Pre-blowout Practices
Before blow drying takes centre stage, several crucial steps lay the foundation for the flawless result you're looking for. Consider these as the prelude to your hairstyling masterpiece.
Moisturising foundation: Start by prepping your hair with a moisturising shampoo and conditioner duo. This routine cleanses and saturates your hair with essential moisture, setting the stage for a sleek finish.
Gentle towel-drying: The next step involves gentle towel-drying. Ditch the rough towel-turbans; opt for a microfiber towel. Rather than vigorous rubbing, opt for a soft patting motion. This approach prevents frizz and maintains a smooth hair texture.
Heat protection: As you approach the peak of your routine, introduce a heat protectant spray or serum. This protective layer acts as a barrier against potential damage from heat styling, preserving the health and appearance of your hair.
Curl protection: If you want your freshly washed curls to stay intact and not break form, load your hair up with your trusty leave-in conditioner or cream and gel before diffuser drying. This step helps in better curl formation and definition and protects your hair from heat damage.
By following each of these steps, you're establishing a solid foundation for a blowout that not only looks impressive but also sustains the health of your hair.
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Steps for blow drying straight hair
If you have straight hair, achieving a flawless blowout is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get the perfect salon-worthy look at home:
1. Choose the right tool
Opt for a blow dryer with at least 1800W power and multiple heat/air settings. It's your backstage pass to perfectly blow-dried hair.
2. Boost from the roots
If your hair tends to fall flat, start by applying a volumizing leave-in cream or mousse when it's damp. This foundation sets the stage for added oomph.
3. Section like a pro
Divide your hair into manageable segments. Clip the crown section aside and focus on the lower layers first. This organized approach ensures even drying.
4. Round brush magic
Armed with a round styling brush, tackle the lower section first. Work in smaller segments, pointing the nozzle downward as you gently pull the brush through your hair. This ensures sustained shine and smoothness—the kind that’s worthy of a hair commercial.
5. Elevate the upper half
Secure the lower half and give your top layers some love. Start brushing from the roots in upward and outward motions while directing the nozzle in sync to create volume.
6. Crowning glory
Gather all your already blow-dried hair behind you and focus on the area at your crown. Part and dry this front section. It's the final touch that frames your face flawlessly.
7. Drying dance
Make sure each section is fully dry before you move to the next one. A little extra patience here goes a long way.
8. Cool blast
Seal the smoothening effect with a cool shot from your hair dryer. It sets the style and boosts shine.
9. Finishing flourish
Apply a dash of lightweight hair serum for a touch of gloss. It hydrates the ends and lets the shine reign supreme.
10. Seal with hairspray
Secure your masterpiece with a spritz of hairspray. Now your straight, freshly blow dried hair is a force to be reckoned with.
If you have curly hair, blow drying can be a bit more challenging, but with the right technique, you can achieve beautiful, bouncy curls. Here's how to do it:
1. Prep time
Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream and gel to infuse your hair with moisture for enhanced bounce and frizz control.
2. Towel time
Gently blot away excess moisture using a microfiber towel. Preserve your curl structure with this gentle touch.
3. Strategic sectionsDivide your hair into manageable sections to ensure each ringlet gets the attention it deserves.
4. Diffuser dynamicsThe diffuser attachment on your blow dryer gently disperses airflow, enhancing your curls' natural shape without exposing them to direct heat. Ensure that the heat and airflow settings are on low to prevent frizzing up like Hagrid.
5. Mane action
Gently cup your curls with the diffuser, moving it in an upward motion towards your scalp. Avoid touching your hair too much to avoid disrupting the curl pattern.
6. Cool shot perfection
Once your hair is about 80 percent dry, switch your hair dryer to the cool setting and continue diffusing your hair. This will help set your curls and impart a delightful bounce.
7. Scrunch out the crunch
When, and only when your hair's completely dry, use a lightweight oil to scrunch out any crunch left behind by your styling products. The oil breaks residual cast and leaves your curls looking shiny and compliments-ready.
With these meticulous steps, you're primed to embrace your curls and waves in all their glory. With this newfound wisdom, you're well on your way to unlocking the potential of your naturally stunning locks.
Post blow drying hair care
Congratulations, hair maestro, you've mastered the art of blow drying, but the journey isn't over just yet. Elevate your hair game with these vital steps for post-blow drying care:
- Revive with serums: Apply a lightweight serum or oil to styled hair for added shine and protection.
- Avoid heavy touch: Refrain from running your fingers through your hair excessively. This prevents unnecessary disruption to your styled locks.
- Sleep smart: If you're blow drying before bed, gather your hair in a loose bun or braid to minimize friction and tangling while you sleep.
- Second day saviour: Extend your blowout by using a dry shampoo at the roots to combat oiliness and to maintain volume.
- Weekly nourishment: Treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask once a week to replenish moisture and maintain its health.
- Trim timing: Regular trims every 2-3 months keep your hair ends looking fresh and prevent split ends from sabotaging your style.
Remember, the care doesn't stop once the dryer does. By following these steps, you're ensuring your hair stays smooth, glossy and strong.
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Dos and don'ts while blow drying your hair
To ensure that your blow drying experience is a success, follow these dos and don'ts.
DO:
Prep with care
Begin with clean, towel-dried hair. Apply a heat protectant to shield your strands.
Pick the right tools
Invest in a quality blow dryer with adjustable heat settings and nozzle attachments for precise styling.
Section your hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections. This ensures even drying and styling.
Maintain distance
Hold the blow dryer at least 6 inches away from your hair to prevent damage from excessive heat.
End with a cool shot
Seal the deal with a burst of cool air to set your style and minimize frizz.
DON’T:
Skip the soak
Avoid blow drying soaking wet hair. Excess moisture can lead to uneven results.
Forget heat protection
Never skip the heat protectant step; shielding your hair is non-negotiable.
Use high heat
Avoid using high heat settings excessively. Opt for medium to low settings to prevent damage.
Tug and pull
Refrain from tugging or pulling your hair too hard with the brush and dryer. This can lead to breakage and damage.
Get too touchy
Let your hair settle after the blow dry and avoid touching or running your hands through it.
With the tips and techniques shared in this ultimate guide, you are now equipped to master the art of blow drying your hair at home. Remember to choose the right hair dryer for your hair type, follow the pre- and post-blow drying care tips, and be mindful of the dos and don'ts. With practice, you'll soon be able to achieve salon-worthy hair that will leave you feeling confident and beautiful.
FAQs
Q: How often should I blow dry my hair?
A: It's best to limit blow drying to a few times a week to prevent excessive heat damage. On days when you're not blow drying, let your hair air dry or use alternative styling methods.
Q: Can I blow dry my hair if it's wet?
A: It's important to towel dry your hair before blow drying to remove excess moisture. Blow drying soaking wet hair can cause damage and lead to frizz.
Q: What should I do if my hair feels dry after blow drying?
A: Applying a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to your dry hair can help restore moisture and add shine. Additionally, make sure you're using a heat protectant before blow drying to minimize damage.
Q: How long does it take to blow dry hair?
A: The time it takes to blow dry your hair depends on its length and thickness. On average, it can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. Remember to be patient and take your time to achieve best results.
Q: Can I use a hair dryer on extensions?
A: Yes, you can use a hair dryer on extensions, but it's important to use a lower heat setting and be gentle to avoid damaging the extensions. Consult with your hairstylist for specific care instructions.
Blow drying essentials: Explore hair serums
Hair serums are the cherry on top, bestowing shine, taming frizz, and sealing in your hard work. Not only do they enhance the sleekness of your style, but they also safeguard your strands from external aggressors. Below, a list of recommended hair serums that are about to become your best friends in the pursuit of hair perfection: