How to Actually Blow-Dry Your Hair

You know that fresh from the salon feeling, when your hair’s on point…and suddenly you are, too? Imagine being able to blow out your hair at home and have it look just that good on the daily. And the best part? Blowouts not only make your hair look amazing, they help your style last. “With a good blowout, your hair can retain volume, smoothness and shine for up to five days,” shares celeb stylist Gina Rivera. “That means less time styling and less damage from heat tools.” Impossible, you say? Nope (and no, you don’t need to suddenly grow extra arms to do it). Trust: Once you get the hang of it, it’s so worth the effort. Let us be your guide…

- ERIN REIMEL

Prep Makes Perfect

The products you’re using in the shower can make a big difference in how your hair will look and feel post-blowout. “Start by shampooing and conditioning properly,” says Amy Stollmeyer, co-founder of haircare company Design. Me. Gently remove product buildup and oils by massaging your scalp with the tips of your fingers, really working in your shampoo. Then use a conditioner just from the mid-length to the ends.

Once your hair is clean, squeeze out the excess water with a microfiber towel. Then either air-dry or rough-dry until it’s barely damp. “To rough-dry, flip all of your hair to one side of the head and blow-dry the roots in an upward direction until they’re mostly dry, then flip hair over and do the other side,” says Stollmeyer. Now, add in your products (look to your right for perfect picks).

Master the Blow-Dry

“The technique of using a brush to lift the hair and pull it away from the scalp takes a lot of practice,” says Rivera. The key to success? Doing it in segments. By working methodically, section by section, you’ll have more control over your hair—and you’ll be able to reach every piece.