Blow Dry Hair With Brush
Achieving smooth, blow-dry hair with a brush voluminous blowout at home can feel like a complex task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s surprisingly accessible. A professional-looking blowout brings an elegant finish to the hair, giving it bounce, shine, and movement that can be challenging to replicate without guidance. Knowing how to handle a brush and dryer and choosing the right products can make all the difference in creating a style that lasts.
This article explores the essential techniques and tips for achieving a blowout that rivals salon results. From selecting the right brush to mastering the blow-drying process, these steps will help you get a smooth and polished finish at home, leaving your hair feeling light and full of life.
Choosing the Right Brush for Your Hair Type
The brush you choose can influence your blowout, as different types are suited to specific hair textures and desired results. Round brushes are the most common for blowouts as they create volume and lift at the roots of hair, making hair look fuller and bouncier. However, round brushes come in ceramic, boar bristle, and metal. Each material has its benefits, depending on your hair type and needs.
For fine hair, a smaller ceramic brush with mixed bristles can help to create volume without adding too much tension, which could cause breakage. Ceramic brushes heat up quickly with the dryer’s airflow, distributing heat more evenly and reducing drying time. For thick or coarse hair, boar-bristle brushes are often recommended. The natural bristles grip the hair better, allowing you to pull through thick strands more effectively, which results in a smoother finish. Metal brushes can work well for short hair, as the material helps create tighter curls or waves, but they can be too intense for more extended hair types.
When choosing a brush, consider the size as well. Smaller barrel brushes are ideal for shorter hair and tighter curls, while larger barrels are better suited for long hair and creating loose waves. Choosing the right size and material for your brush can make the blow-drying process much smoother and the results more refined.
Preparing Your Hair for a Blowout
Preparation is critical to a successful blowout, as it ensures that the hair is in optimal condition for styling. Start with clean, towel-dried hair and apply a lightweight styling product that aligns with your hair type and goals. Mousse is an excellent option for adding volume, especially for those with fine or thin hair, while a smoothing serum can help to tame frizz for thicker, wavier hair. Avoid applying too much product near the roots, as it can weigh down the hair and reduce volume.
A heat protectant is essential for safeguarding the hair from the high temperatures of a blow dryer. This step is crucial to maintaining hair health over time, as prolonged heat exposure can lead to damage and dryness. Once you’ve applied the necessary products, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to distribute them evenly through the hair and eliminate any knots. This will make it easier to section the hair later and ensure a smoother blow-drying process.
Another valuable step is pre-drying the hair with a towel or blow dryer on a low heat setting. Aim to remove about 80% of the moisture before you start the actual styling. This reduces the time spent blow-drying with a brush and allows you to achieve a smoother finish without overexposing your hair to heat.
Sectioning the Hair for an Even Blowout
Proper sectioning is vital for an even, consistent blowout. Divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure that each part receives enough attention and heat for a polished finish. Most stylists recommend sectioning hair into four main areas: two at the front and two at the back. For thicker hair, consider dividing each section further to ensure thorough drying.
Using clips to hold each section out of the way can help you work methodically without tangling or overlapping strands. Start with the bottom sections and work your way up, as this method allows each section to dry properly without disturbing the layers beneath. Concentrate on smaller sections within each central part, especially if your hair is thick, as this will ensure that each strand is evenly dried and styled.
Working from the roots to the ends will give you better control over the outcome. Hold the brush close to the scalp to lift the roots as you apply heat, which adds volume and keeps hair from lying flat. This systematic approach to sectioning helps you achieve a salon-quality finish with minimal frizz.
Mastering the Blow-Drying Technique
Technique is everything when achieving a blowout that looks both polished and natural. Begin by positioning your brush under a section of hair, starting at the roots and slowly moving it down towards the ends while following with the dryer. Keeping the dryer’s nozzle pointed downward helps to smooth the hair cuticle and add shine, reducing the appearance of frizz.
For volume, focus on lifting the brush at the roots before pulling down toward the ends. A round brush can help create a curl and body as you twist it at the ends, while a paddle brush is excellent for a sleeker, straighter look. Control the dryer’s heat settings based on your hair type; high heat works faster but can damage finer or fragile hair, while lower heat is better for more delicate textures.
Patience is key, as rushing through sections can lead to frizz or unevenly styled areas. Aim to dry each section completely before moving on, as damp hair will frizz once exposed to humidity. This slow and steady approach thoroughly dries each section, creating a smooth and cohesive look.
Finishing Touches for a Lasting Blowout
Once the blow-drying process is complete, finishing touches can enhance the overall look and make it last longer. For extra volume, flip your head upside down and give your roots a quick blast of cool air with the dryer. This helps set the volume at the roots, adding lift throughout the day. A fantastic air setting on the dryer is also beneficial for closing the hair cuticles, giving your hair a sleek, shiny finish.
Apply a light-hold hairspray or a texturizing spray to the roots to lock in the style. Avoid using too much product, which can make hair feel heavy or greasy. For a more relaxed look, gently finger-comb through the ends to break up any overly defined sections, giving your blowout a softer, more natural appearance.
If you’re dealing with flyaways or frizz, a few drops of serum or oil can help smooth them down. Apply sparingly to avoid weighing down the hair, focusing on the ends rather than the roots. These small steps can make a significant difference, extending the life of your blowout and keeping it looking fresh for days.
Maintaining Your Blowout for Multiple Days
A great blowout can last several days if you take steps to maintain it overnight. Before bed, consider wrapping your hair in a silk or satin scarf, which reduces friction and minimizes frizz. Alternatively, a loose bun or ponytail can help preserve the volume and shape without creating creases. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase is also beneficial, as it keeps the hair smooth and reduces tangling while you sleep.
Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver when extending the life of your blowout. Apply it at the roots on the second or third day to absorb excess oils and maintain volume. Avoid brushing the dry shampoo through immediately; let it sit for a few minutes before massaging it in to allow it to absorb oil effectively. Using a boar-bristle brush can help redistribute natural oils down the length of the hair, keeping it shiny and preventing an oily scalp.
Finally, avoid exposing your hair to excessive moisture, as humidity can lead to frizz and curl. When showering, use a shower cap, and if you need a touch-up, use a small amount of heat with a round brush or roller to revive the shape and body. With these maintenance techniques, you can enjoy your salon-quality blowout for days.
