How to Make Your Blow Dry Last Longer

Do you love the sleek, voluminous look of a fresh blowout and want to know how to keep that salon-perfect style for days? With some easy tips, you can learn how to make a blow dry last longer and continue to flaunt gorgeous, professionally styled hair long after your salon visit.

Before You Blow Dry

Ready to transform your look with a stunning blow-dry? The secret to nailing that perfect style starts before you even pick up the blow dryer. Follow these essential steps to prep your hair, ensuring it’s perfectly primed for a longer-lasting blowout.

• Pre-blow dry. A long-lasting blow dry begins with clean hair. Wet your hair with lukewarm water to open the cuticles and remove dirt and oils.
  Select a shampoo tailored to your hair type. Gently massage it into your scalp using your fingertips, then rinse with cool water to enhance your hair’s shine and smoothness. Next, apply a moisturising conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, allowing it to deeply hydrate your strands for a few minutes, then rinse with cool water.
  Finally, gently squeeze your hair dry with a towel to remove most of the water. But do not rub your hair vigorously to prevent frizz and breakage.
• Protect your hair. The best way to blow dry your hair without damage is to protect your locks before you start styling. Begin with a heat protectant to shield your hair from damage caused by high temperatures. Use a product for your hair type—whether it’s fine, thick, or curly.
  For example, if you have naturally coarse hair prone to dryness, you’ll need a formula rich in oils like argan or jojoba to add moisture to your strands. Those with fine or thin hair may need ingredients like DMAPA acrylates copolymer, which help close the cuticle and prevent heat damage.
• Post-blow dry. After blow drying, use a light hairspray or a finishing spray to help set your style. These products reduce frizz and add a layer of protection against humidity.

Technique Matters

Mastering the art of blow drying can elevate your hairstyle to salon-level perfection. Follow these steps to perfect your blow drying technique and achieve stunning, long-lasting results every time.

• Keep it cool. When your stylist at Intaglio Hair salon blow dries your hair, they finish with a blast of cool air. This isn’t just to make you comfortable — it helps lock in your hairstyle by closing the cuticles.
• Use the right brush. During your visit, pay attention to the type of brush your stylist uses. A round brush adds volume and shape to your hair during a blow dry, while a flat or paddle-shaped brush creates sleek, smooth styles. To maintain your look at home, use a similar brush to gently restyle your hair without overworking it.
• Blow dry in the right direction. The direction you blow dry your hair influences its shape, volume, and how well the style holds. Aim the blow dryer at the roots and blow upwards for more volume while lifting the hair with a round brush. This technique adds lift right from the base of your hair.
  If you prefer a perfectly straight style, blow dry from the top of your hair downwards along the strands.

Maintenance Tips

Caring for your hair after a blow dry is essential for keeping your style looking its best. Following a few basic maintenance tips can keep your blowout looking vibrant and voluminous.

• Leave your blow dry alone. Although your bouncy blow dry may feel beautifully soft, resist the urge to touch your hair. Running your fingers through or twisting your hair transfers skin oil and dirt from your hands, leaving your blowout dull, flat, and greasy.
• Sleep smart. How you treat your hair while you sleep can affect the longevity of your blow dry. Consider swapping your cotton pillowcase for a silk or satin one. Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase causes less friction, which helps prevent frizz and won’t flatten your style. You can also sleep with your freshly styled hair inside a silk scarf or bonnet on top of your head.
• Use dry shampoo. To keep your blow dry fresh, avoid washing your hair too frequently. Instead, bathe using a shower cap and dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and add volume. Spray it onto your roots and massage it through with your fingertips. Use a professional-grade dry shampoo to avoid any residue and keep your hair feeling clean.
• Touch up strategically. If your hair starts to fall flat or looks a bit limp, touch up your roots with a blow dryer. Lift sections of your hair and focus warm air on the roots for a few seconds. This can help revive your style without redoing the entire blow dry.

Dealing with Humidity and Sweat

If you have an active lifestyle or live in a humid climate, you need to take a few extra precautions to help keep your hair smooth and styled.

• Updos and braids. On days when humidity is high, consider tying your hair up into a loose bun or braid. This can help manage frizz and keep your style looking neat without subjecting it to more heat. However, avoid styles like top knots; they can pull at your hairline and cause your baby hairs to develop frizz while also flattening your bouncy blow-dried waves.
• Sweat-proofing. Keep your hair off your neck and forehead if you plan to work out. Use a soft hair tie to avoid creasing, and wear a headband to absorb sweat before it reaches your hairline.

Keep Your Style Fresh for Longer

There is nothing like a bouncy blow dry to make you feel fabulous. You can keep your style looking salon-worthy by using a few simple tips, such as using professional-grade products, protecting your hair from heat and humidity, and touching up as needed.

The stylists at Intaglio Hair Salon can provide advice and professional services to ensure your hair stays beautiful for as long as possible. For a long-lasting blow dry that will have you looking and feeling amazing, contact Intaglio Hair Salon for a professional Blow Wave service.