Simple Blow-Out

How to: Simple Blow Out

Are you wondering how to achieve a gorgeous blow-out that looks like you've just stepped out of a salon? The good news is that it's totally possible to learn how to give yourself a blow-out with the right tools and technique. In this how-to guide, we break down how to get a salon-quality blow-out from the comfort of your own home.

Whether you're planning the ultimate night out or just love to feel the confidence that big, bouncy hair gives you, a blow-out is just a few steps away. When done well, a blow-out can last for days once you master the right technique.

The most important first step toward blow-out perfection is selecting the right tools. That means choosing a hair dryer that doesn't only give you the desired result but also doesn't damage your hair in the process. You'll also want a hair dryer that fits in your hand and doesn't make you feel like you're doing a kettlebell workout.

Tools You'll Need For a Simple Blow-Out

When it comes to learning how to blow-dry your hair, your tools are going to be your best friends. The pursuit of creating the perfect blow-out means investing in quality products that will make the process easier. The right heat-styling tools, brushes and finishing spray help to ensure a good hair day, every day.

Tools you'll need:

These tools are great everyday hair tools to have in your hair-care arsenal, and you can use them to create a multitude of textures and styles. You might also want to invest in a good volumizing shampoo to give your blow-out a head start.

Step 1: Rough-Dry Hair

Preparation is key when giving yourself the perfect blow-out, and part of that preparation is rough drying your hair. Basically, rough drying means using your fingers instead of a brush while drying your hair with a dryer.

Before you begin, be sure to wash, rinse and towel-dry your hair thoroughly. Applying the Bio Ionic High Speed Blow Dry Primer will help accelerate drying time and protect hair from heat damage. Don't add any more products at this stage as they could weigh down your hair and cause your blow-out to fall flat.

Set your dryer on the medium heat setting. Use your fingers to push your hair up to expose the roots and direct your hair-dryer onto the roots. Focus on a section at a time and continue until your hair is about 80% dry.

Step 2: Direct Heat Downward

Next, grab your Graphene MX Styling Paddle and start to brush your hair over the hairline and toward your face. Direct the airflow of the blow-dryer downward to help the cuticles lay flat, brushing as you go.

After a few passes with the hair-dryer, brush the hair back toward the back of your head. Continue with the hair-dryer until your hair is completely dry. You should notice that your hair is much more voluminous than when you dry it normally.

The great thing about paddle brushes is that they're very gentle on your hair. They won't snag on your hair as you brush or cause tangles. Look for a paddle brush with rubber or nylon bristles as this will move smoothly through your hair as you brush and dry.

Step 3: Round Brush and Direct Heat

No matter what your hair type, you need a round brush. Round brushes make curly hair smoother and give fine hair more volume.

It's important to choose the right size of round brush. The longer the hair, the bigger your round brush should be. With the Graphene MX Thermal Styling Brush for short hair, choose a 33 mm brush; for medium hair, try the 53 mm brush, and for long hair, the 63 mm works well.

Use hair clips to section your hair into four sections. Work on one section at a time, taking a 1.5-inch portion of hair and pulling it taut a quarter of a turn with the round brush. Use the hottest setting on your dryer and keep the airflow parallel to the section you're drying. Repeat this process until the hair is completely dry.

Step 4: Let Hair Cool

Your hair is likely to be very hot after all that blow-drying. Give it a blast of cool air to set your style and then run your fingers through once completely cool. If you wish, you can set your style in place further with a light spritz of flexible finishing spray. For additional shine, you might also want to finish with the 2-in-1 Style & Shine Cream, which has grapeseed oil for hydration and chamomile flower to naturally strengthen hair.

If you're wondering how long a blow-out can last, the answer lies with you. Most salon blow-outs last for 3-5 days, and there's no reason why you can't achieve the same staying power.

With the right preparation, good-quality tools and a little practice, you'll be keeping them all guessing which salon you've visited. Looking for more inspiration? We've got more great looks for you to try here.