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When correctly used, a hair dryer can provide you with salon-quality blowouts every time. Additionally, your hair will come out more voluminous and shiny than it was before. However, improper use of a hair dryer can cause heat damage to your hair and injuries to the scalp. So, what is the best way of using a hair dryer without experiencing the just mentioned problems?
When it comes to hair dryers and other heat-styling tools, the rule of thumb is to never heat-style hair while it is still damp. Also, you should keep the heat setting at a minimum and can as well apply a heat protectant when styling your hair. This article provides you with easy-to-follow steps that will completely change how you use a hair dryer.
If your hair dryer is giving you problems, or you just want to try out something new for your hair, click here and choose a hair dryer that best suits you. Our list offers a wide range of options and will leave you spoilt for choice.
6 Steps on How to Use a Hair Dryer for Salon-quality Blowouts
Before we get to the steps, it’s good to know your hair type. This will help you choose the perfect hair dryer for your hair. According to hair experts, hair can be classified as curly, straight, and wavy, so ensure that you consider your hair type when shopping for a hair dryer. With the right hair dryer, you can avoid common problems associated with heat-styling tools
Below are simple steps that can help you style your hair like a pro:
Step 1: Wash your hair
To get the best results when using a hair dryer, ensure that you thoroughly wash your hair before styling it. This can help remove hair products, dirt, and sebum from the strands, making the hair easier to style.
Also, washing hair before blowing it out preserves shine and improves its overall quality. Be sure to use a hypoallergenic shampoo to avoid irritation. You should also use a conditioner during the cleaning process. That way, you will have an easy time when styling your hair.
Step 2: Towel dry your hair
The problem with using a hair dryer on wet hair is that you’ll have to dial up the heat and extend the drying time. Both of which can result in scalp injuries and heat damage. As such, you need to dry your hair as much as you can using a towel. Cotton towels are preferred due to their high absorption rate. They are also soft and less likely to cause split ends.
You should avoid heavy towels because they put more weight on hair strands. A microfiber towel is highly recommended since they are lightweight and can also reduce friction. Alternatively, you can go for the air drying technique. However, air drying will take more time compared to when a towel is used.
Step 3: Detangle the hair strands
You need to detangle your hair before firing up the hair dryer. The best way to go about this is by using wide-tooth combs. These types of combs can smoothly glide through strands of hair without causing any damage.
Be gentle with the first strokes to avoid pulling your hair. You can also use a detangler brush after you are done with the comb. This step can greatly assist you when using hair dryer attachments such as styling pik.
Step 4: Apply blowout products and heat protectant
As the name implies, a heat protectant will safeguard your hair against heat damage as you style your hair. This step is optional for some hair types, but mandatory for damage-prone hair. To avoid complications when using heat protectants, ensure that you choose the most ideal formula for your hair type.
The good news is that most heat protectants on the market come in aerosol cans that allow for quick and easy application. You should see to it that the heat protectant is properly applied to all parts before you start styling your hair. Depending on your styling needs, you can apply blowout creams and serums to get the desired results.
Step 5: Style your hair
Attach the hair styling attachment that you intend to use and power up your hair dryer. If you have curly hair, you should consider using a diffuser. A concentrator will ensure there is even distribution of heat during the styling process.
It is recommended that you style your hair in portions. This can help you cut down the styling time by half, thus preventing heat damage. Ensure that you style your hair with each pass that you make. In addition to this, customise the hair dryer depending on your hair type. That said, you should pick a hair dryer with multiple heat settings.
With help of a hair dryer brush, you can safely style your hair from the root to the tip. After rolling your hair, gently pull the brush as you manoeuvre the hair dryer. Never leave the hair dryer pointed in the same spot, as this can cause heat damage.
Instead, you should keep it moving to avoid scorching your hair and scalp. More to this, you should keep the hair dryer at least 15 cm away. Always start with the lowest heat setting and work your way to the top.
Step 6: Make use of the cool shot function
You can finish up by using the cold air shot function. This feature allows you to blow cold air on your hair for a shiny finish. It will also help you set the style that you want for long-lasting results. If you like, you can also apply hair serum to combat frizz.
Conclusion
Using a hair dryer is very easy. Simply follow the steps listed above, and you will be good to go. Also, ensure that you pick the right hair dryer and apply the most suitable heat setting to avoid scorching your hair. When using a hair dryer, you should never start with the highest heat setting since this can damage your hair.
