How to Use a Blow Dryer, According to a Stylist

Stepping out of the salon with professionally done hair is the ultimate luxury. But not everyone has the time or budget to get a blowout every day. Read on for tips on using a blow dryer at home, straight from an expert.

We asked hair and makeup stylist Eliza Romero about getting the perfect blowout without damaging hair. According to her, the first step happens even before grabbing the blow dryer. She says, “Choosing the best shampoo for your hair type helps you achieve your desired look for the perfect blowout.”

Use a shampoo like Sunsilk Damage Reconstruction Shampoo to help revive dry, brittle hair. Make sure you wet your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water to open up your hair cuticles and allow products to penetrate your hair deeper.

“Using the wrong shampoo can make your hair heavy and oily,” she adds. Make sure you select one that won’t weigh your hair down. The same goes for conditioner. If you want something light, try Dove Intense Repair Conditioner. It repairs damaged strands and makes your hair stronger while keeping it bouncy.

Exposing your hair to high temperatures will damage it, so this next piece of advice is crucial. Prep your hair for styling by spraying on some heat protection. “After cleansing and towel drying your hair, apply a good amount of heat protectant. This will keep it safe from the heat produced by styling tools,” explains Eliza.

Do you think too much styling has damaged your hair beyond repair? Treat your tresses with a deep conditioner like Cream Silk Salon Expert Treatment Keratin Damage Repair that restores brittle hair, so the only kind of heat you’ll have to worry about is from your #fire ‘do.

Between a flat iron and a curling rod, the array of styling tools available today can be overwhelming. Choosing the right tools will not only result in a beautiful blowout but also spare your hair from damage.

That said, not all styling tools are created equal. Eliza notes, “A traditional blow dryer can cause damage and frizz because they lack heat control and airflow.” It’s crucial to use the correct temperature setting depending on the look you want to achieve.

Avoid using the highest heat setting since this will only damage your hair and make it dull and frizzy. “Use an ionic or ceramic blow dryer. These are less damaging to the hair,” she adds.

You’re all locked and loaded, blow dryer and brush in hand – but don't dive in just yet! When you blow-dry your hair can also make a huge difference. Eliza advises pacing your process and not going on full blast at once. “Dry your hair at least 80 percent and set the heat to medium.”

Blow-drying wet hair will result in more frizz from sudden heat. If you’re pressed for time, gently towel-dry your hair without rubbing or squeezing since hair is most fragile when wet.

A blow dry is performed section by section, starting from the crown. Whether you want it sleek and straight or full-bodied and wavy, always use a blow dryer with care. “Don’t pull or tug through the tangles, and never press the dryer directly against the scalp or hair,” she adds.

After all that hard work, the last thing you want is for your hair to wilt midway through the event. Keep it from getting frizzy or flat by using a good leave-in serum to keep it fresh.

“After blow-drying, apply a pea-sized amount of serum to the ends of the hair to boost shine and smoothness. It will also protect your hair against damage and enhance your hair’s shape,” Eliza says. A final blast of cool air as the last step will seal in shine, so your hair stays glossy from day to night.

Achieving the perfect blowout isn’t easy, but with these insider tips, you’ll be on your way to using a blow dryer like a pro. If you don’t get it the first time, don’t be too hard on yourself. Salon-level blow-drying takes years of training. If all else fails, you can always visit your go-to stylist. We won’t judge.