Top 5 Mistakes You’re Making When Blow-Drying Your Hair (and How to Fix Them)

A great blowout can make you feel like you just walked out of the salon — smooth, shiny, and full of body. But if your at-home blow-drying routine leaves your hair frizzy, flat, or damaged, you might be making a few common mistakes. At Cabello Salon in Langford, our stylists see it all — and we’re here to help you master the perfect blow-dry at home.

1. Skipping Heat Protection

One of the biggest mistakes people make is not using a heat protectant before styling. Blow-dryers can reach up to 450°F, and without a protective barrier, that heat breaks down your hair’s natural moisture.

💡 Fix it: Always apply a heat protection spray or leave-in to damp hair before blow-drying. We love Kevin Murphy’s EVER.SMOOTH or Bumble and Bumble’s Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer for soft, frizz-free results.

2. Starting with Soaking Wet Hair

Trying to dry your hair straight out of the shower takes twice as long and adds unnecessary heat exposure.

💡 Fix it: Gently towel-dry or let your hair air dry for 10–15 minutes first. Then, begin blow-drying when it’s about 70–80% dry. You’ll save time and prevent damage.

3. Using the Wrong Brush

Not all brushes are created equal. A flat paddle brush can make your hair look limp, while a metal round brush can overheat your strands.

💡 Fix it: Choose the right brush for your goals — a ceramic round brush for volume and bounce, or a boar bristle brush for sleekness and shine.

4. Blow-Drying in Random Directions

Pointing your dryer all over the place causes frizz and disrupts the hair cuticle.

💡 Fix it: Always blow-dry down the hair shaft, from root to tip, and use the nozzle attachment for smoother results. Work in sections and you’ll notice an instant difference in shine and polish.

5. Skipping the Cool Shot

That little “cool” button on your dryer isn’t just for show, it’s what sets your style in place!

💡 Fix it: Once you’ve dried each section, blast it with cool air to seal the cuticle and lock in shine. It also helps your style last longer between washes.

Bonus Tip from Cabello Salon

For salon-quality results, invest in a professional blow-dryer. A high-quality dryer uses advanced airflow technology that protects your hair while cutting down on drying time.

💬 Want a hands-on lesson?
Book a Blowout + Styling Session at Cabello Salon in Langford! Our stylists will show you personalized techniques for your hair type and recommend the right products to help you achieve flawless results at home.

📍 Visit us in Langford or call us to book your next appointment — your best blowout starts here.