Blow Drying and Blow Waving are essential techniques in the hairstyling industry, widely taught in professional hairdressing courses. These techniques are fundamental for creating various styles and adding volume, shape, and texture to hair. Here’s a detailed description of each:

Blow Drying

Definition: Blow Drying is the process of drying the hair using a handheld dryer while shaping it with a brush. This technique is commonly used to remove moisture from the hair after washing and can be used to achieve a smooth, sleek finish or add volume.

Tools:

• Blow Dryer: A device that emits hot or cool air to dry the hair.
• Brushes: Round brushes, paddle brushes, and vent brushes are typically used. The type of brush affects the final look, with round brushes adding curl or volume and paddle brushes providing a smoother finish.
• Heat Protectant: A spray or cream applied to the hair before blow-drying to protect it from heat damage.

Techniques:

• Sectioning: Hair is divided into sections to ensure even drying and styling.
• Root Lift: Focusing on the roots with the blow dryer can add volume. A round brush is often used at the roots to lift the hair as it dries.
• Smoothing: For a sleek look, the hairdryer is aimed down the hair shaft while the brush guides the hair, reducing frizz and adding shine.
• Cool Shot: Most blow dryers have a cool shot button, which helps set the style and add shine after the hair is dry.

Benefits:

• Creates a smooth, polished look.
• Adds volume and bounce to the hair.
• Reduces frizz and flyaways.
• Can be used as a base for further styling, such as curling or straightening.

Blow Waving

Definition: Blow Waving, often considered an advanced blow-drying technique, involves using a blow dryer and brush to create waves or curls in the hair. This technique is particularly popular for achieving a soft, voluminous look without the use of a curling iron.

Tools:

• Blow Dryer: Used similarly as in blow-drying, but with a focus on creating movement and waves in the hair.
• Round Brush: The size of the brush determines the tightness of the waves; larger brushes create loose waves, while smaller brushes create tighter curls.
• Clips: Used to section off hair and hold curls in place while they cool.

Techniques:

• Curling with a Brush: The hair is wrapped around a round brush while being dried to create waves or curls. The hair is then allowed to cool on the brush before being released to set the wave.
• Rolling: In some cases, hair is rolled onto the brush, dried, and then pinned up to cool in a coiled position. This technique helps the waves or curls hold their shape longer.
• Directionality: The direction in which the brush is rolled affects the final look. Rolling the hair away from the face creates an open, voluminous style, while rolling towards the face creates a more controlled look.
• Layered Waving: For layered haircuts, each layer is treated individually to ensure uniform waves or curls.

Benefits:

• Adds texture and movement to the hair.
• Can create a variety of wave patterns, from loose beach waves to tight, bouncy curls.
• Provides long-lasting volume and style.
• Enhances the natural shape of the hair.

Professional Application

In professional settings, blow drying and blow waving are often customized to suit individual client needs, considering factors such as hair type, length, and desired outcome. Stylists may combine these techniques with other methods, such as flat ironing or curling, to achieve the perfect style.

Learning Outcomes

Students who learn Blow Drying and Blow Waving in courses such as those offered at GIPS will develop the following skills:

• Mastery of blow drying and blow waving techniques.
• Ability to choose the right tools and products for different hair types.
• Understanding of heat protection and its importance in hair care.
• Proficiency in creating various styles, from sleek and straight to voluminous waves.
• Knowledge of how to work efficiently to achieve professional results in a salon environment.

These skills are essential for any aspiring hairstylist and provide a strong foundation for further specialization in hairstyling.