A professional blow dry can make your hair look and feel brilliant, but it's a little disappointing when it falls flat by the next morning. The good news is that a few simple habits can stretch a blow dry across several days.
Blow dry or blow wave?
The two terms are often used interchangeably. In general:
A blow dry usually means smooth, polished hair with volume and movement.
A blow wave tends to mean a bouncier, more styled finish with soft curl or wave.
If you're not sure what to ask for, bring a photo and tell your stylist how you want your hair to look and feel. They'll work out the technique.
Before your appointment
Wash your hair the way you normally would. Arriving with very clean hair is fine, and so is arriving with day-old hair. Just skip heavy products or oils, which make hair harder to style.
Bring photos of the finish you love, and mention anything you plan to do afterwards (a dinner, a wedding, a flight).
Keep it fresh for days
Sleep on silk or satin. A silk pillowcase reduces friction, frizz and flat spots.
Loosely tie it up at night. A loose, high pony or a soft braid keeps shape without leaving a dent.
Use dry shampoo early. Apply it on day two, before oil builds up. It works better as prevention than rescue.
Avoid touching it. Fingers add oil. Hands off as much as you can.
Protect it from humidity. Auckland is humid. A light anti-frizz product helps keep the finish smooth.
Shower with a cap. Steam undoes a blow dry quickly.
Re-styling at home
If your blow dry needs a refresh by day three, a quick touch-up with a hot tool on the front sections and a bit of dry shampoo at the roots usually does the job. Use a heat protectant first, every time.
Planning for an event
If you've got a wedding, work function or big night out, here's how we'd plan it:
Book 1–2 days before if you want your hair to settle, or the same day for the freshest finish.
Colour first. If you're due for colour or a toner, do it at least a few days before the event so it can settle and you can fix anything.
Think about the weather. On a humid day, ask your stylist for a smoother finish and a hair-holding product.
Talk to your stylist about the style well ahead of time, so they can be honest about what will suit your hair.
Book your blow dry
If you're in the Auckland CBD and need a blow dry that works with your hair, not against it, have a look at our services or book online. Not sure about the rest? Our guide on how to choose the best hair salon in Auckland has more.
