The Secret to Salon-Worthy Blowouts at Home
The Secret to Salon-Worthy Blowouts at Home
The perfect blowout is trending everywhere, from red carpets to social media. That dreamy, bouncy hair might seem like a salon-only achievement, but here's the truth: it's totally doable at home. While the process might look daunting, with the right techniques and tools, and a professional haircut that is cut to work with your natural texture you can easily master this supermodel-worthy look. In this guide, we'll walk you through creating your own stunning, long-lasting blowout, no matter your hair type. Get ready to transform your hair game!
Preparing for Your Blowout
The secret to achieving a salon-worthy blowout at home starts long before you pick up your hair dryer. Proper preparation is key to getting that smooth, voluminous look that lasts. Let's break down the essential steps to set yourself up for blowout success.
1. Start with clean, freshly washed hair
The foundation of any great hairstyle is clean hair. But not all shampoos and conditioners are created equal. Using the right products for your hair type can make a world of difference in your blowout results.
For fine or oily hair: Look for volumizing or clarifying shampoos that won't weigh your hair down. Use a light conditioner only on the ends.
For thick or dry hair: Opt for moisturizing or smoothing shampoos and conditioners to help manage frizz and add shine.
For color-treated hair: Choose sulfate-free products designed to protect your color and keep it vibrant.
Remember, clean hair is more responsive to styling, so don't skip this crucial first step!
2. Towel-dry gently
After washing, resist the urge to vigorously rub your hair with a towel. This can rough up the hair cuticle, leading to frizz and flyaways – the enemies of a smooth blowout. Instead:
Gently squeeze out excess water with your hands
Use a microfiber towel or an old, soft t-shirt to blot your hair
If you're in a hurry, try the "ploping" method: flip your head upside down and wrap your hair in the towel, twisting it up onto your head
By treating your wet hair gently, you're preserving its natural smoothness and setting the stage for a sleeker blowout.
3. Apply heat protectant
Before any heat styling, it's crucial to shield your strands with a heat protectant. This step is non-negotiable if you want to maintain the health of your hair. Heat protectants work by:
Creating a barrier between your hair and the heat of your styling tools
Sealing in moisture to prevent drying and damage
Often providing additional benefits like smoothing or adding shine
Spray or apply the product evenly through your damp hair, making sure to coat all strands from roots to tips. Your future self (and your hair) will thank you!
4. Use leave-in products tailored to your hair type
The final step in prep is applying the right leave-in product. This can enhance your blowout and help it last longer. Choose based on your hair type and desired result:
For fine hair: A volumizing mousse can add body and lift, especially at the roots. Apply to the roots and mid-lengths, avoiding the ends to prevent weighing them down.
For frizzy or coarse hair: A smoothing cream or serum can help tame flyaways and add shine. Work a small amount through your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
For all hair types: A leave-in conditioner can provide extra moisture and detangling benefits. Just be sure to use sparingly if you have fine hair.
Remember, less is more with styling products. Start with a small amount and add more if needed – you can always add, but it's hard to take away if you've used too much!
By following these preparation steps, you're setting a strong foundation for your at-home blowout. With your hair clean, protected, and primed, you're ready to move on to the main event – the blow-drying technique itself!
Essential Tools for a Perfect Blowout
Achieving a salon-worthy blowout at home isn't just about technique—it's also about having the right tools at your disposal. Let's explore the essential items you'll need to create that perfect, bouncy blowout.
1. The Right Hair Dryer
Your hair dryer is the star of the show when it comes to blowouts. Here are the features to look for:
Ionic Technology: This helps reduce frizz and increase shine by breaking down water molecules faster.
Multiple Heat Settings: Different hair types require different heat levels. Fine hair needs less heat, while thick or coarse hair may require higher temperatures.
Cool Shot Button: This feature sets your style by sealing the hair cuticle, resulting in a smoother, longer-lasting blowout.
Nozzle Attachment: A concentrator nozzle focuses the airflow, allowing for more precise styling.
MAS Pro Tip: Investing in a good quality hair dryer can make a world of difference in your blowout results and the health of your hair.
2. Round Brushes
Round brushes are crucial for creating that smooth, voluminous look. The size of the brush affects the final result:
Small (1-1.5 inch): Ideal for short hair or creating tight curls
Medium (1.75-2 inch): Perfect for shoulder-length hair and creating bouncy waves
Large (2.25-3.5 inch): Best for long hair and creating loose waves or straight styles with volume
MAS Pro TIp: Ceramic or tourmaline-infused brushes can help distribute heat more evenly and reduce frizz.
3. Sectioning Clips
Don't underestimate the power of good sectioning clips! They help by:
Dividing your hair into manageable sections
Keeping already-styled portions separate from wet hair
Allowing you to focus on one area at a time for more efficient styling
Look for clips that have a strong grip but won't leave creases in your hair.
4. Hair Rollers
Rollers can take your blowout to the next level by enhancing volume and curl. Here's what you need to know:
Types of Rollers:
Velcro Rollers: Great for adding volume and creating soft waves
Hot Rollers: Ideal for quickly setting curls and adding shine
Foam Rollers: Perfect for overnight styling and creating heatless curls
Choosing the Right Size:
Large (1.5-2 inch): For loose waves and volume on long hair
Medium (1-1.5 inch): For bouncy curls on medium-length hair
Small (0.5-1 inch): For tight curls or adding volume to short hair
How Rollers Enhance Your Blowout:
Add lift at the roots for more volume
Create lasting curls or waves
Help set the style for longer-lasting results
MAS Pro Tip: Use a mixture of roller sizes to create a more natural, varied look in your curls or waves.
Remember, while having all these tools is great, you don't need to use every single one for each blowout. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your hair type and desired style. With practice, you'll discover which tools are your personal must-haves for achieving that perfect, bouncy blowout at home! Shop for your must have blow tools here: MAS Shop
The Blowout Technique
Now that you've prepped your hair and gathered your tools, it's time to dive into the heart of the blowout process. Follow these steps to achieve that coveted salon-worthy look at home.
1. Rough Dry Your Hair
Start by removing excess moisture from your hair:
Use your hands to tousle your hair while blow-drying
Keep the dryer moving to avoid concentrating heat in one spot
Dry your hair until it's about 80% dry
Tip: Point the nozzle downward to smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizz
2. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into manageable sections:
Create a horizontal part from ear to ear, separating the top and bottom halves
Clip the top section out of the way
Divide the bottom half into two to four sections, depending on your hair thickness
Secure each section with clips
3. Start with the Bottom Layers
Begin styling from the bottom up:
This approach ensures that all layers are smoothed and styled
It prevents disrupting already styled sections
Unclip one bottom section and begin drying, moving to the next section when complete
4. The Wrap-Drying Method
Master this technique for smooth, voluminous results:
Take a small subsection of hair and place your round brush at the roots
Lift the hair up and away from your head
Turn on your dryer and point it at the brush
Slowly move the brush down the hair shaft, following with the dryer
As you reach the ends, wrap the hair around the brush
Roll the brush back up to the roots, applying heat as you go
Hold for a few seconds, then release
Repeat this process for each subsection of hair.
5. Focus on the Roots
Create volume and lift at the crown:
When drying the top sections, lift the roots straight up
Use your round brush to pull the hair up and back
Apply heat at the roots for a few extra seconds
For maximum volume, blow dry the roots in the opposite direction of how your hair naturally falls
6. Finish with a Cool Shot
Set your style with cool air:
Once a section is dry and styled, hit it with the cool shot button
This helps close the hair cuticle, adding shine and locking in your style
Work your way around your head, cooling each section
7. Using Rollers for Added Volume and Shape
Incorporate rollers for long-lasting volume and curl:
After blow-drying a section, while the hair is still warm, wrap it around a roller
For volume at the crown, use larger rollers and roll the hair away from your face
For curl at the ends, use smaller rollers
Secure each roller with a clip if needed
Let your hair cool completely in the rollers (about 15-20 minutes)
Gently remove the rollers and finger-comb your hair into place
MAS Pro Tip: For an extra boost, mist each section lightly with hairspray before rolling.
Remember, achieving the perfect blowout takes practice. Don't get discouraged if your first few attempts aren't salon-perfect. With time and patience, you'll master these techniques and be creating gorgeous blowouts in no time!
Customizing Your Blowout for Different Hair Types
Different hair types require different approaches for the best blowout results. Here's how to adjust your technique:
Fine Hair
Use cool air at the beginning of your blowout to add volume without flattening the hair
Apply a volumizing product at the roots before drying
Use a ceramic brush to reduce static and add shine
Thick Hair
Work with smaller sections to ensure thorough drying and styling
Use a straightening balm to help manage volume and frizz
Maintain consistent tension with your brush for smoother results
Curly Hair
Start with a leave-in conditioner to reduce frizz
Spend extra time on the initial rough-drying phase to stretch out curls
Consider using a Denman brush or similar tool to smooth curls while retaining some texture
Using Rollers Effectively
For long hair: Use 2-inch rollers for loose waves and added shine
For medium-length hair: 1.5-inch rollers can create volume and bounce
For short hair: 1-inch rollers add lift at the roots and help define the overall shape
Common Blowout Mistakes to Avoid
Even pros can slip up. Here's your guide to avoiding common blowout pitfalls:
Using Excessive Heat
High heat doesn't necessarily lead to better or faster results. It can cause damage to your hair. Use medium heat settings and focus on proper technique instead.
Improper Sectioning
Failing to section your hair properly can result in uneven drying and styling. Create clear sections and work through them systematically for a polished look.
Over-drying Hair
Continuing to apply heat after your hair is fully dry doesn't improve the style. It can lead to frizz and damage. Stop drying each section once it's completely dry.
Skipping Heat Protectant
Heat protectant products are essential for preventing heat damage. Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot styling tools.
Removing Rollers Too Soon
Taking out rollers before your hair has fully cooled can compromise your style. Wait until the rollers feel cool to the touch before removing them.
Using Incorrect Roller Sizes
The size of your rollers should match your hair length and the style you want to achieve. Using rollers that are too large or too small can lead to unsatisfactory results.
Improving your blowout technique takes practice. Each time you style your hair, you'll learn more about what works best for you. With patience and these tips in mind, you'll be able to create professional-looking blowouts at home.
Maintaining Your Blowout
Creating a beautiful blowout is just the first step. With the right techniques, you can extend the life of your style for several days. Here's how to keep your blowout looking fresh:
1. How to Sleep on Your Blowout
Preserving your style overnight is crucial for a long-lasting blowout:
Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz
Gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it loosely with a soft scrunchie or hair tie
For longer hair, try the "pineapple" method: gather hair into a very high, loose ponytail on top of your head
Wrap your hair in a silk scarf or use a satin bonnet to keep everything in place
2. Refreshing Your Style in the Morning
Wake up your blowout with these quick techniques:
Remove any hair ties or wraps and shake out your hair gently
Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle, avoiding brushes which can create frizz
For added volume, flip your head upside down and massage your scalp gently
If needed, use a curling iron or flat iron to touch up any sections that have lost their shape
Apply a small amount of shine serum to the ends of your hair for a polished look
3. Dry Shampoo Tips for Extending the Life of Your Blowout
Dry shampoo is your secret weapon for maintaining a fresh-looking blowout:
Apply dry shampoo to your roots before bed to absorb oil overnight
When applying, hold the can 6-8 inches away from your head and spray in short bursts
Focus on your hairline and part, where oil tends to show first
After spraying, wait a few minutes before massaging it into your scalp
Use a boar bristle brush to distribute the product evenly through your roots
4. Using Overnight Rollers to Refresh Your Style
Revive your blowout's volume and shape with overnight rollers:
Choose foam or flexible rod rollers for comfortable sleep
Section your hair and roll it up, focusing on the top layers and around your face
Secure each roller with a clip or pin
In the morning, remove the rollers and finger-comb your hair
Use a light-hold hairspray to set the refreshed style
Remember, the key to maintaining your blowout is minimizing moisture and friction. Avoid steamy showers without a shower cap, and try not to touch your hair too much throughout the day. With these maintenance techniques, you can enjoy your beautiful blowout for days after your initial styling session.
Bottom Line
Mastering the at-home blowout is an achievable skill that gets better with practice. Armed with the techniques in this guide, you're well on your way to creating salon-quality looks from your own bathroom. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key. As you refine your technique, you'll discover what works best for your unique hair. So grab your tools and get ready to rock that head-turning, professional-looking blowout!