We’ll go to great lengths to score a smooth, bouncy blowout, but that doesn’t mean we need to hire a pro: We rounded up some tricks for getting a gorgeous blowout right at home.

 

Location Matters

You know how humidity causes frizz? Well, blow-drying your hair in a muggy bathroom has the same effect. Move the operation to the bedroom.

Don’t Towel Dry

There are two things you should never do with a towel: rub your hair (it causes frizz) or wrap it on top of your head (it flattens roots).

Use a Heat Protectant

Never let a blow-dryer anywhere near your head without misting on a heat-protecting spray first. These products contain polymers that form a film on the surface of the hair that dissipates the heat. Pay particular attention to the ends, which tend to get the most abuse and are also the most damaged and delicate.

Choose Your Dryer Wisely

Infrared dryers can be great to use for blowouts since they can help tone down frizz, dry your hair faster thus cutting down on any possible heat damage to hair, so opt for a high-quality tool like our Alpha Wave Pro Infrared Blow Dryer.

Dry Your Roots First

Always dry your roots first (unless you have bangs). With your head flipped over, massage your roots while blasting them with warm air. You want to get the roots up and off your head as fast as you can.

Tame Cowlicks and Unruly Pieces

Hold them flat with a brush and blast with hot air for five seconds. Then use the cool-shot button on your blow-dryer to lock them into place.

Consider Your Cut

If your hair is all one length, a straight, sleek blowout looks great. But if you have lots of layers, do something with more bounce and movement to show them off.

Tension Is Everything

Work in two-inch sections, and wrap each one tightly around a brush as you pull it (tightly again) through your hair and follow with the nozzle. This is the difference between a glossy, glassy-looking blowout and an obvious DIY job.

Keep Your Eye on the Nozzle

Meaning, be sure it’s always pointing down the hair shaft, and that it’s at least three inches away from your hair at all times. That way you’ll smooth the cuticle and add shine without completely cooking your hair.

Move Quickly if You Have Coarse Hair

Otherwise your hair will frizz. If it does, spritz each section with water moments before drying.