Moisturizing products that contain natural oils, such as coconut oil or avocado oil, are great choices to help your hair retain and restore its natural oils. [2] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Use a microfiber towel or a soft T-shirt to dry your hair if possible. Microfiber towels cause less friction and put less stress on your hair than cotton towels. This leads to less frizz and less damage to your hair over time. You can tell if your hair is dry enough by grabbing a strand of hair near the root and running your fingers along its length to the tips. If water drips from your hair, you should continue towel- or air-drying it before blow-drying. [4] X Research source
When combing your hair, always start at the ends and work your way toward the crown of your head. It’s better to comb instead of brush your hair when it’s wet because your strands are weaker when wet. Be gentle as you comb your wet hair, as you can cause significant breakage. [6] X Research source If your hair is curly, use a wide-tooth comb to gently untangle any knots. Brushing curly hair can make it frizzy and unmanageable. [7] X Research source
If your hair dryer has 3 settings, the middle setting is usually the best. If your hair is healthier, you can use a higher temperature. For fine, weak, or brittle hair, use the lowest heat setting possible. [9] X Research source
Avoid targeting any single area of hair for too long, as this can damage your hair and cause it to be flat and limp. Keep moving the blow dryer around, aiming the airflow parallel to the section of hair you’re drying. [11] X Research source Dry your hair from roots to ends, keeping the dryer behind your brush, comb or fingers, whichever you’re using to style your hair. You can also wave the hair dryer back and forth to avoid directing the heat onto a single spot for too long.
To give your hair more volume, angle the airflow upward from underneath the section of hair you want to give volume to. This will push the hair upward and help it set with more volume. It’s best to use an air flow attachment nozzle to do this, as it makes it easier to direct the air flow onto your hair. [13] X Expert Source Courtney FosterProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 9 December 2019. To give your hair less volume, angle the airflow downward from above the section of hair you want to lay flat. This will push the hair downward and help it set closer to your crown. Most blow dryers are sold with an attachable air concentrator nozzle, which can be clipped onto the end of your blow dryer for more control of the airflow.
You may have to experiment with different products until you find the right fit for your hair length, texture, and style.
For a wet, sleek look, comb gel into hair while wet. Then, allow your hair to air dry or dry it using a diffuser attachment. If you want a strong hold that looks smooth, apply your gel to wet hair, then use a brush while blow-drying it. For thicker hair, use a gel with a stronger hold. For fine or thin hair, use a lighter hold gel.
To get a “messy” look, squeeze a dime-sized amount of pomade or wax onto your fingers and rub it around. Run your fingers through your hair, starting at the roots and brushing your fingers outward toward the tips. Make sure the product is evenly layered throughout your hair. Continue to gently tousle your hair with your fingers until you achieve the desired look. [19] X Research source If your hair is naturally oily, use wax instead of pomade. Pomades contain oil that will make your hair appear even oilier. [20] X Research source If your hair is thin, try a pomade. If it’s thicker, try a wax. Don’t use too much product, as this can make your hair appear heavy and greasy.
Creams work well for men who don’t want anyone to know they have product in their hair. [21] X Research source If you need more control over your style, try a wax or pomade instead.
You should always apply mousse to wet hair. Then, you can blow-dry it. [22] X Research source
Hairsprays are sold in varying hold strengths as well. Avoid using a heavy hairspray that can weigh your hair down. Choose a lighter hold for less weight and more volume. Always keep your hand moving while applying hairspray. This prevents your hair from becoming over-saturated and heavy. [24] X Research source Wait until the hairspray dries completely before touching your hair.
