That "I Just Visited The Salon" Look In 5 Steps

How come it never looks the same when I do it at home?

Products and technique play a huge role to make your hair look flawless and getting amazing blow dry results without dying in the intent!

The perfect blowout is all about bounce, shine, volume and movement. As much as we would like to have our stylist, better yet, a celebrity stylist in at home to tame our tresses, most days we have to tackle it solo. To help you achieve that “just visited the salon” look, we turned to celebrity hairdresser Albert Whitehead (who styles the cast of The Real Housewives of Atlanta as well as actresses, Ashley Tisdale and Porsha Williams), who shares his tips on how to re-create the perfect blow dry at home!

1. A Great Blow Dry Starts in the Shower

Rinse with cold water after conditioning. This helps to seal the hair cuticle and results in extra shiny tresses. When you towel dry, be sure to grab and gently squeeze hair to remove excess moisture – never rub your hair (it causes frizz) or wrap it on top of your head (it flattens roots).

 2. Use a Professional-Grade Heat Protectant

Heat styling without any protection can lead to dull, lifeless locks so be sure to use a thermal protectant to adequately shield your hair from unnecessary damage. Prep your hair with Fresh Start and embrace Be Protected thermal protectant foam, its unique delivery system enables even product distribution and consistent protection. For additional volume and body, layer it with a volumizing mousse and/or root lift spray.

3. Choose Your Dryer Wisely

Keep in mind that a high quality hair dryer is a must-have. The right hair dryer can make the difference between dry, damaged hair and soft, silky healthy locks. Choose a dryer with heat options for different hair types as fine like EPS Global Universal Digital Ceramic Dryer; fragile hair does not require the same level of heat that thick, course hair will. Additionally, opt for a hot tool that offers additional negative ions which smooth and seal the hair cuticle ensuring maximum softness and high-shine.

4. Divide and Conquer

The secret is working smarter not harder during a blow dry. Divide into small zones with FHI HEAT T-Rex Hair Clips for ease and control. Using a blow dryer and paddle brush focus on drying the root area first while brushing in different directions against the head to create body and smoothness. When the hair is 80% dry, separate the hair into four sections. The secret is to work in small zones for control. Swap out your paddle brush for a round brush and start in the two back sections working from bottom to top in approximately 1-2inch sections. Place the round brush under the roots and roll it to the ends as you blow out each section. 

5. Focus on the Nozzle

While drying, be sure to point the nozzle of your dryer down and in the direction the hair grows. Use a ‘truck and trailer’ technique following your brush with the dryer and keeping the nozzle approximately 1 inch away from the bristles. Use the ‘cool shot’ button when finished with each section to help set the style in place and ensure long-lasting styling results.