I enjoy a fresh blowout just as much as the next chica, but that won't stop me from getting my work out on. Just because I only spend $25 for my hair to get blown out at a Dominican salon, doesn't mean I don't want it to last as long as possible. Here are 6 tips to help you extend your style so you don't have to choose between nice hair and a nice workout!
1. Skip the shampoo: It's embarrassing how many times I've skipped out on a good work out for the sake of preserving my perfect professional blowout. The truth is if you're doing heavy duty cardio or taking a hot yoga class, there may be no saving you. Unfortunately, I've been there! But if you're not getting drenched in your sweat, opt for a dry shampoo. It not only absorbs sweat and oil, but creates some volume to flattened hair. The trick is to spray on a little at your roots before your work out and then some after. If your hair is dark like mine, go for one that doesn't leave white residue like Oscar Blandi's Pronto Invisible Dry Shampoo Spray. Believe me, it works wonders!
2. Just put it in a bun: As tempted as I am to just pull my strands back in a ponytail, I normally try to take the time to put it up in a high bun. What's the difference you ask? Normally if I simply put my hair back in a pony, I wind up with a nasty crease and a flat mane. Not good! So instead, I flip my head upside down, gather my locks and twist into a bun shape. I then secure with tons of bobby pins. The result? An intact, voluminous blowout!
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3. Band your head: When you're exercising no matter the workout, you're bound to sweat on your face, scalp, and neck. Try to prevent some of that moisture from reaching your hairline (especially if you have curly or wavy roots) by using a headband that will absorb the sweat from your forehead and back of your neck. Try lululemom athletica's Lucky Luon Headband. They come in a variety of fun colors and prints!
4. Take it easy with the products: One thing I always tell my stylist before and after she blows out my tresses is to minimize the amount of product she applies. Why? Because the more product you put on, the heavier and oiler your hair will get. It's a speeding ticket to a short-term blowout. Whether you blow out your locks on your own or go to an expert, make sure to go for a light-weight styling spray or cream for damp hair and a light gloss serum after your hair is blown out. I have my hairstylist spritz on a bit of Morrocanoil Frizz Control Spray on my locks before blowing out and finish with a little bit of Redken's Glass 01 Smoothing Serum. Most importantly, try to make sure that the product is only applied to the body and ends of your hair. Applying product to your roots will only weigh down your hair attracting oil and sweat, making it appear dirty.
5. Don't touch! Try to keep your hands off your hair, especially while you're working out. Generally speaking, whenever you touch your strands you're transferring dirt and oil from your hands. Imagine during a workout? Now you're just adding sweat to top it all off. That's just gross! Make sure your hair is away from your face from the beginning so you have no reason to lay your filthy hands on it!
6. Play it cool: I normally try to just pat dry my scalp with a towel after I'm done working out, but a few of my friends have suggested blow drying your scalp using the cool setting for a few seconds while having your head flipped down. I've tried it and it works. One caveat though: Try this ONLY if you've tried all of the previous steps. Otherwise expect a hot mess!
Tell us, have you used any of these tricks before? Any other tips you want to add?
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