What on Earth is that Cool Button on My Hair Dryer For???

Have you ever wondered why every hair dryer has a cool button? I'm going to explain this to you and, if you follow my advice, you'll see a noticeable difference in the quality of your at-home blowout.

To understand the reason and application of the cool button, you must first understand the structure of the hair. There are three parts to an individual hair strand:

1. Cuticle - this is the outer layer of the hair. It protects the hair and, when it lies flat, reflects light and gives the hair a shiny appearance. In contrast, if the cuticle does not lie flat, the result will be "frizz."
2. Cortex - this is the middle layer of the hair. It is responsible for the incredible strength and elasticity of the hair. It is where the amino acids (proteins) of the hair are contained and where all chemical processes take place; such as permanent hair coloring, permanent waving and chemical hair straightening.
3. Medulla - this is the innermost layer of the hair. Not everyone has a medulla and, thus far, scientists have not discovered that the medulla actually serves a purpose!

Let's talk a little bit more about the cuticle (outermost) layer of the hair. When viewed closely (under a microscope) the cuticle looks similar to the scales of a fish. This is why, when the cuticle is "raised", the hair appears frizzy and dull. When you apply the heat of the hair dryer, especially if you flip your head upside down during drying, you are basically blowing the cuticle wide open. In order to achieve salon-quality results and to ensure that your cuticle is lying flat and reflecting as much light as possible, follow these easy steps:

1. Always apply a thermal protectant when your hair is wet, prior to any heat styling. The type of product you choose depends on the type of hair you have. I've found that Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum is amazing for most fine to medium hair types. I use Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Relaxing balm for coarser hair types, as well as, on myself. You don't have to use professional products but I definitely recommend it. Just be sure that whatever you choose has the words "thermal protectant" on it somewhere. Try to avoid blow dry gels as the alcohol content in these types of products tends to dry the hair out.
2. Use a round brush for drying. This is not always easy to do and can take quite a toll on your arms but is the absolute best tool for achieving a smooth blowout. A simple, inexpensive alternative, however, is an air pick attachment which can be purchased at any Sally's store and generally fits on any hair dryer. The results will not be exactly the same but it is much easier to use and is wonderful for straightening wavy, curly and/or ethnic hair.
3. If you choose the round brush route, section your hair using butterfly clips and dry one section at a time. It is a good idea to use a concentrator (the triangular shaped attachment that came with your dryer) along with your round brush. ALWAYS point the dryer down the hair shaft (towards the ends) and NEVER flip your head upside down! This will ensure that you're going with the cuticle and not against it.
4. If you choose the air pick route, section your hair as mentioned above and dry from roots to ends always pointing the dryer towards the ends of the hair
5. Do not stop drying until your hair is 100% dry. If the hair feels hot or cold to the touch, it is not 100% dry. This can take some patience but it is definitely worth it for the amazing result you're going to get.
6. Once you're sure your hair is 100% dry, go over each section (dryer plus round brush or dryer plus air pick) with the "cool shot." Again, aim the dryer towards the ends. Finishing your blow out with the cool shot (putting the dryer on the coolest setting AND holding down the cool button) will force the cuticle to lie completely flat thus giving the appearance of super sleek, shiny hair!

One more little trick to achieve even smoother results is to use a smoothing cream after the blow out. Tigi Bed Head After Party is phenomenal for all hair types. I also like Tigi S-Factor Smoothing Lusturizer, however, it is important to note that this product contains "diamond dust" that will give darker hair a very slight glittery appearance. Also important to note, a little of these products goes a long way!

Happy blow drying!