How to Use a Blow Dry Cream for Heat Protection and Smooth Finish

Quick Answer

To use a blow dry cream for heat protection and a smooth finish, start with damp, towel-dried hair, apply a small amount from mid-length to ends, and comb through to distribute evenly. Then blow-dry using a round brush, directing heat downward to seal the cuticle and reduce frizz.

A blow dry cream is a multitasking styling product that not only protects your hair from heat damage but also helps you achieve a sleek, smooth finish. Whether you have fine hair that falls flat or thick hair that tends to frizz, the right technique makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to use a blow dry cream effectively, so you can style with confidence.

We’ll also highlight some of our favorite Bumble and bumble. styling creams, including the Repair Blow Dry Heat Protective Styling Cream and Don't Blow It Fine (H)air Styler Air Dry Cream, to help you choose the best match for your hair type.

Why Use a Blow Dry Cream?

Blow dry creams are formulated to provide heat protection while also offering styling benefits like smoothing, adding shine, and controlling frizz. Unlike a traditional heat protectant spray, a cream often includes conditioning agents that help nourish the hair while you style. This makes it a great choice for anyone who regularly blow-dries their hair and wants to minimize damage.

For example, the Repair Blow Dry Heat Protective Styling Cream is designed for medium to thick hair and helps repair and smooth split ends while keeping blow dries looking sleek for up to three days. On the other hand, Don't Blow It Fine (H)air Styler Air Dry Cream is perfect for fine to medium hair, adding texture and body without weighing it down.

• Look for a cream that suits your hair type: fine hair needs lightweight formulas, while thick hair benefits from richer creams.
• Always apply to damp hair to ensure even distribution and better absorption.

Choosing the Right Blow Dry Cream for Your Hair Type

Selecting the right blow dry cream is crucial for achieving the best results. If you have fine hair, you need a formula that won't weigh it down. The Don't Blow It Fine (H)air Styler Air Dry Cream is ideal for fine to medium hair, providing texture and body for a bouncy, air-dried look. It's also great for those who prefer to skip the blow dryer sometimes.

For medium to thick hair, the Repair Blow Dry Heat Protective Styling Cream is a better choice. It offers smoothing benefits and helps seal split ends, making it perfect for achieving a polished blowout. If you're looking for a more flexible hold with hydration, consider the Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Long Last Styling Cream, which provides 3 days of hydration and frizz reduction.

• Fine hair: opt for air-dry creams or lightweight formulas like Don't Blow It.
• Thick hair: choose richer creams like Repair Blow Dry for extra smoothing and control.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply Blow Dry Cream

Start with clean, towel-dried hair. The cream works best on damp hair because it helps distribute the product evenly and locks in moisture. Squeeze a small amount – about a quarter-size for medium-length hair – into your palms and rub them together.

Apply the cream to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair first, then work any remaining product through the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly from roots to ends. This ensures every strand is coated and protected before you apply heat.

• Don't apply too much product – you can always add more, but it's hard to remove excess.
• Focus on the ends, which are the oldest and most damaged part of your hair.

Your Blow Dry Cream Routine: 5 Steps to Smooth Hair

1. Step 1: Start with Damp Hair: After washing, gently towel-dry your hair so it's damp but not dripping. This is the ideal state for applying styling cream. Checkpoint: Your hair should be about 70% dry to ensure even product distribution.
2. Step 2: Apply the Right Amount: Squeeze a small amount of cream (about a quarter-size for medium length) into your palms. Rub your hands together to warm the product. Mistake to avoid: Using too much product can make hair greasy or heavy. Start with less and add if needed.
3. Step 3: Distribute Through Mid-Lengths and Ends: Apply the cream to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair first, then work any remaining product through the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb to ensure even coverage. Checkpoint: Comb through your hair to distribute the product evenly and prevent clumping.
4. Step 4: Blow-Dry with a Round Brush: Using a round brush, blow-dry your hair in sections. Point the nozzle downward to smooth the cuticle and reduce frizz. Use medium heat to avoid damage. Mistake to avoid: Don't use high heat, as it can damage hair even with protection. Keep the dryer moving to avoid overheating one section.
5. Step 5: Finish with a Cool Shot: Once your hair is dry, use the cool shot button on your dryer to set the style. This helps lock in the smoothness and shine. Checkpoint: Run your fingers through your hair – it should feel smooth and look shiny, not greasy.

Product Facts

• Repair Blow Dry Heat Protective Styling Cream: This heat-protective blow-dry serum cream hybrid helps repair hair and keeps blow dries looking smooth for up to 3 days. Ideal for medium to thick hair types seeking to smooth and seal split ends. If you have thick or coarse hair, this cream provides the heavy-duty smoothing you need to tame frizz and achieve a sleek finish that lasts.
• Don't Blow It Fine (H)air Styler Air Dry Cream: This styling cream for fine to medium hair enhances texture and body for a bouncy, air-dried look, all with a product-free feel. For fine hair, this cream adds volume and texture without weighing it down, making it perfect for air-drying or a quick blowout.

Using a blow dry cream is a simple way to protect your hair from heat and achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish. Remember to choose a formula that matches your hair type, apply it correctly, and use the right blow-drying technique. With these steps, you'll be able to enjoy healthy, sleek hair every time you style. For more tips, explore our range of styling creams at Bumble and bumble.