10 Tips for A Blowout that Lasts from Celebrity Stylist David Babaii

According to celebrity hairstylist David Babaii, "Women everywhere love the treat of getting a 'blo out,' especially when [she] walks out of one of our Blo Blow Dry Bar locations looking fabulous, hair bouncing with every step. So how do you make that feeling and look last?" Babaii offers these 10 tips for a long-lasting blowout - pass them on to your clients!

1. As a stylist, start with a shampoo and conditioner that is designed for your client's specific hair type. Says Babaii, "My motto has always been that a great hair day starts with a clean canvas. If hair is oily, you do not need a hydrating shampoo, and only condition the ends."

2. Babaii also recommends that you suggest your client consider a silky pillowcase when she sleeps at night. According to Babaii, "they allow the hair to move freely while sleeping so you can prevent flattening the volume you love."

3. "For those sleek straight blowouts, take a scrunchie, [and] gently pull hair back into a low ponytail, twisting it loosely around to keep hair in place," recommends Babaii. "For longer lengths, try wrapping coated bands mid-center and  at the ends of the pony. Also, a great flat iron is a must to rid your blowout of any imperfections, humidity or daily side effects from the elements."

4. Recommend that your client freshens her scalp every morning. Says Babaii, "For my natural beauties, create a small mixture of water and lemon juice. Then, take a cotton ball moistening it slightly, making sure to squeeze any left-over juice out. Next, gently start by cleansing the hairline followed by parting small sections and cleaning the scalp area only. This will absorb and clean away any access oils while giving your hair a fresh scent. For my busy working gals, a dry shampoo is quick and easy to use."

5. Babaii adds, "In the shower, loosely wrap your hair into a soft cotton towel to keep any moisture and humidity from seeping into your do. Shower caps are great but I feel they tend to flatten your hair and cause your head to sweat; a cotton towel allows your head to breathe."

6. To refresh volume or waves, advise your client to invest in Velcro rollers (jumbo to medium sizes). Says Babaii, "Before [her] first cup of coffee or stepping into the shower, [tell your client to] simply roll [her] fringe on a jumbo, lifting the section to a 90 degree angle so [she] can maintain volume. [She should] do the same for the top, sides and back. If needed, [she] can add a few more. [She should leave] the Velcro rollers in for about 30 minutes, then remove and finger comb [her] hair into place. For beachy waves, opt for a professional grade beach spray. Then, after spritzing, twist strands in various diameters to bring life back into a Bo-ho chic look."

7. A round brush is essential to a long-lasting blowout. Here's why: "A round brush (medium for short to chin length hair and large for longer hair) can also quickly smooth any flaws from sleeping or a shower. It can also be used to retouch [the] fringe," says Babaii. "Simply use a nozzle attachment on your blow dryer to have more air concentration; then take the round brush on dry hair wrapping the fringe evenly over the brush. Follow this with a blast of hot air then a shot of cool. Roll the brush a few times if the hair has a stubborn streak to it. You can use the same technique anywhere your hair needs a quick touch-up."

8. Tell your client, "Do not overuse products in-between blowouts. This causes the hair to not only weigh itself down but the build-up soils your hair and scalp quicker."

9. Also recommend to your client that she try not to run her fingers through her hair, or play with it when bored. Says Babaii, "This increases stimulation to the scalp for unwanted oil. Also, the day-to-day soot on our hands will add some nastys."

10. If a client wishes to change her style in-between blowouts, accessories are always the easiest and fastest way to make simple alterations. A headband, decorative pins and clips plus great hair ties can do the trick. Advise your client to "try putting [her] hair to one side, in a ponytail or creating a faux bob. All these styles will still help to maintain [the] original blowout."

[Image: Thinkstock]

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