Hairdressing Tips from a Pro
Achieving a salon-worthy blowout at home may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, techniques, and a little practice, you can master the art of the perfect blowout. Whether you’re preparing for a big event or simply want to add some extra polish to your daily look, learning how to blow out your hair like a pro can save you time and money. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through expert hairdressing tips that will help you create a smooth, voluminous blowout without leaving the comfort of your home.
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the blowout process, it’s essential to gather the right tools and products to set yourself up for success. Here’s a list of must-have items:
- Blow Dryer: Choose one with adjustable heat and speed settings. Ideally, it should come with a concentrator nozzle to direct the airflow where you want it.
- Round Brushes: Different sized round brushes help create volume, curl, and shape. For sleek looks, opt for a larger barrel, while smaller barrels are perfect for tighter curls or more defined volume.
- Heat Protectant: Always use a heat protectant before applying any hot tools. This prevents hair damage and helps keep your blowout looking fresh for longer.
- Hair Clips: Sectioning your hair is crucial for even drying and styling.
- Texturizing Spray: If you’re looking for added volume or texture, a light mist of texturizing spray or root lifter can work wonders.
- Finishing Spray or Serum: These will help lock in your style and add a glossy finish, minimizing frizz.
Step 1: Start with Clean, Damp Hair
The foundation of a great blowout starts with clean, damp hair. Wash your hair with a nourishing shampoo and conditioner suited to your hair type. If you have fine hair, choose lightweight formulas that won’t weigh your hair down. For thicker hair, consider moisturizing shampoos that hydrate and provide more control. Gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture without rubbing or causing breakage.
Once your hair is damp, apply a heat protectant throughout to shield your strands from heat damage. This is a crucial step in preserving the integrity of your hair.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Sectioning is one of the most important aspects of a professional-looking blowout. Start by dividing your hair into 3-4 manageable sections—top, middle, and bottom. Use clips to keep each section separate. Working with smaller sections ensures that each part of your hair gets adequate airflow and heat, helping you achieve a smooth, even finish.
If you have thick or long hair, feel free to divide your hair into even smaller sections to ensure more control and precision.
Step 3: Begin with the Bottom Section
Start blow-drying the bottom section of your hair. This part will take the longest to dry, so it’s best to tackle it first. Take a round brush and wrap a small section of hair around it, ensuring the ends are neatly aligned. Hold your blow dryer with the nozzle pointing downward, following the direction of the brush.
The key to a successful blowout is tension. Apply gentle tension with the round brush while you dry each section of hair. Aim the airflow from the dryer down the length of the hair to smooth the cuticle and prevent frizz. Slowly pull the brush through the hair as the dryer follows. This technique not only dries your hair but also helps create volume and shine.
As you move through each section, always work from the roots to the tips, ensuring each strand is dry and smooth. You may need to go over each section a few times to fully dry and smooth it out.
Step 4: Create Volume with the Round Brush
To add volume to your blowout, focus on the roots while blow-drying. For extra lift, use a smaller round brush near your roots and roll the hair back and away from your scalp. This technique lifts the hair at the root, creating that voluminous, bouncy look. Hold the dryer near the brush and keep it moving to avoid overheating and damaging your hair.
If you’re not confident in achieving the perfect blowout at home, visiting a hair salon Poole can offer professional guidance and provide a blowout that lasts for days. For even more volume, flip your head upside down while drying the roots, or use a larger round brush for bigger, fuller waves. Be sure to dry each section thoroughly before moving to the next.
Step 5: Work Through the Layers
After the bottom section is complete, move to the middle section and repeat the process. As you work your way up, the sections will become smaller and more manageable, making it easier to perfect each strand. For added control, continue using your round brush to create smooth, shiny hair with just the right amount of volume.
If you prefer soft waves or curls, you can slightly curl the ends of each section as you dry. Just wrap the hair around the brush and hold it in place for a few seconds, allowing the heat to set the shape before releasing.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once your hair is fully dry and styled to your liking, it’s time for the finishing touches. Lightly spritz your blowout with a finishing spray to lock in the style and keep flyaways at bay. If you have frizz or want an extra touch of shine, apply a lightweight serum or smoothing cream to your hair, focusing on the ends. Avoid applying too much product, as it can weigh your hair down and eliminate volume.
For added texture and volume, lightly tousle your hair with your fingers or gently backcomb the roots. You can also use a bit of texturizing spray for that extra oomph if you want more body or a lived-in look.
Step 7: Let Your Hair Cool
The final step in perfecting your blowout is to let your hair cool down. This helps set the style and ensures that the volume and shape will last longer. Avoid touching your hair too much during this time, as it can cause frizz or flatten the style.
Additional Tips for a Long-Lasting Blowout
- Use a Low Heat Setting: Excessive heat can damage hair and cause it to lose shape faster. Use medium to low heat settings to maintain the integrity of your hair.
- Blow-Dry in Sections: Don’t skip sectioning your hair. It’s essential to work in small, manageable sections to avoid over-drying and to ensure an even, polished finish.
- Don’t Rush: Achieving a great blowout takes time and patience. Rushing through the process will only lead to a less-than-perfect result.
- Consider a Cool Shot: Many blow dryers come with a “cool shot” button that blasts cold air. Use it at the end of your blowout to seal the hair cuticle and help set the style for longer-lasting results.
Conclusion
With the right tools, techniques, and a little patience, you can easily master the perfect blowout at home. By sectioning your hair, using the proper tension, and adding volume at the roots, you’ll be able to achieve smooth, bouncy hair that looks professionally styled. Whether you’re preparing for a night out or just want to feel your best, these hairdressing tips will have you looking like you just walked out of a salon—without ever leaving the house. Practice makes perfect, so keep refining your blowout technique, and soon you’ll be able to replicate salon results every time.