Bouncy Blow Dry
A bouncy blow dry is the glossy, full-bodied, swishy hair finish you see on red carpets and TikTok “it girl” tutorials, and yes, you can get close to that look at home with the right prep, tools and technique.
What is a bouncy blow dry?
A bouncy blow dry uses a hairdryer and round brush to smooth the hair while lifting it at the roots and beveling the ends to create volume, movement and shine.
It is ideal if your hair often looks flat, as the technique focuses on lifting the mid-lengths and ends so hair appears fuller and more polished.
Prep: products that make it last
For a long‑lasting finish, start with a lightweight volumising product on damp hair, such as a mousse or volume foam through the roots and mid‑lengths. Always apply a heat protectant spray before you start blow drying, both to guard against damage and to help the style hold for two to five days depending on your hair type.
Step‑by‑step at home
Rough‑dry your hair until it is about 70–80% dry before styling; working on soaking‑wet hair takes longer and can roughen the cuticle.
Then section your hair with clips, using a round brush to lift each section upwards from the root while directing the airflow down the hair shaft and rolling the ends under or away from the face for that signature bounce.
Pro tips for extra bounce
For big, glamorous volume, take large sections and over‑direct them (drying them forwards or upwards) before letting them fall back into place.
Pin each freshly dried section in a curl and allow it to cool before releasing; this “pin curl” trick uses residual heat to set a bigger, longer‑lasting bend.
Keeping your blow dry fresh
Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase and loosely tie hair in a soft scrunchie or very high, gentle pony (“pineapple”) to reduce friction and frizz overnight. To refresh on day two or three, use a light dry shampoo at the roots and a mist of flexible hairspray through the lengths, reshaping with a round brush and cool air.
Ready to master the bouncy blow dry without the faff? Our award‑winning stylists at Gusto Hairdressing are here to help. Book your consultation today