5 Products That'll Give You A Big, Bouncy Blow-Dry At-Home
Ceryn
- Beauty expert since 2015
- Loves: glowing skin and sunkissed scents
A big, bouncy blow dry is the hairstyle of autumn/winter 2024. Whether you're channelling Hollywood glamour or simply craving some added volume, this trend delivers full-bodied, polished hair that exudes confidence and elegance. But to achieve maximum volume, movement, and hold, you need the right products in your routine. So, from prep to finish, I’ve rounded up my five favourite styling essentials that will help you create the perfect at-home blow dry - no professional stylist required.
1. Root Volumiser
Achieving a big, bouncy blowout starts with the right foundation, and that begins at the roots. A root volumiser is essential for lifting fine, flat hair and setting the stage for maximum volume. By targeting the roots it adds texture and body, so your blowout holds its shape.
I recommend the Philip Kingsley Body Building Maximiser Spray for this crucial first step. This volumising hair protectant spray is ideal for fine, limp hair, offering instant lift and texture at the roots. Not only does it create noticeable volume, but it also controls flyaways and frizz for sleek, bouncy results. Infused with conditioning agents and UV protectors, it shields your hair from sun damage and colour fade.
How to: apply to damp hair, focusing on your roots.
2. Heat Protector
Heat protection is often an overlooked step, but it’s essential for keeping your hair healthy and ensuring your blowout lasts. Hair can become weak and brittle from repeated exposure to high temperatures, leading to breakage and frizz. That’s where a good heat protector comes in. It creates a barrier that shields your hair from heat damage while also keeping frizz at bay.
Schwarzkopf Keratin Heat Protection Spray is a best-seller for good reason. It offers protection up to 230°C/450°F, making it perfect for all your styling needs, from blow-drying to straightening. Infused with Hydrolysed Keratin, it helps reduce breakage and calm frizz for smoother, healthier hair. The lightweight, non-sticky formula also gives a light hold, adding volume during blow-drying and protecting against humidity for frizz-free, sleek results.
How to: spray onto damp hair, then blow dry. You can also use onto dry hair.
3. Thickening Mousse
If there's one step I can't skip in my blow-dry routine, it's mousse. It’s the game-changer that takes your style from flat to full-bodied with ease. Mousse adds volume, texture, and structure, helping your hair hold its shape and stay bouncy all day. Without it, my blowout never feels quite as thick or long-lasting.
Bumble and bumble Thickening Full Form Mousse is one of my favourites. This cushiony-soft mousse lifts and sculpts the hair. Its boosting formula inflates the hair as you add heat, creating natural-looking volume without any crunch. The medium hold keeps your style in place, while proteins and amino acids nourish and balance moisture for a healthy, shiny finish.
How to: work it through damp hair and blow-dry your hair. You can layer it for even more oomph.
4. Round Brush
When it comes to blow-drying, using the right brush can make or break your style. It’s not just about any old brush - having the correct tool makes the process faster, easier, and gives you a better, longer-lasting result. The better the brush, the more volume, smoothness, and shine you’ll achieve with minimal effort.
That’s why I’m a huge fan of the Philip Kingsley 60mm Vented Radial Brush. Designed specifically to smooth and volumise this brush is a game-changer. The innovative vented design helps your hair dry faster while protecting it from heat damage. The combination of rounded pins and nylon bristles ensures a gentle experience, preventing any scalp irritation. The four-sided handle is comfortable, gives you full control, and puts less strain on your wrist.
How to: roll out the brush from the root of the hair to the ends.
5. Setting Spray
The final step in any blowout routine? Hairspray. Without it, even the best styles can fall flat. Hairspray is essential for locking in your look, ensuring it stays in place throughout the day or night without losing its bounce or volume. Plus, the right hairspray can give your hair a natural, brushable finish without the stiffness or crunch.
Aveda Control Force Hair Spray is one of our top-rated products. It provides a firm hold to keep your style intact while keeping frizz at bay and protecting hair from the drying effects of the sun, thanks to added antioxidants. An added bonus is it's calming lavender-vetiver scent!
How to: Hold 10-12 inches away from dry hair and spray in even strokes.
