Learning how to blow dry short hair can feel tricky—there’s less length to grip, more room for weird angles, and no hiding under long layers. But with the right technique, brush size, and a little timing trick, you can get salon-level volume and smoothness at home. Below is a step-by-step guide, plus answers to common questions, that will help you master a short-hair blowout in minutes.
Blow Dry Short Hair: Step-by-Step Guide (6 Steps)
Here’s a concise, user-friendly sequence you can refer to as you style:
- Rough-dry to about 80% damp
Use medium heat and moderate airflow to remove excess water. Too wet, and your brush won’t grip; too dry, and you risk heat damage.
- Apply heat protectant and section hair
Divide your hair into top, middle, and nape sections (for very short cuts you might just do two).
- Attach a concentrator nozzle and direct airflow downward
The nozzle keeps air focused so the cuticle lies flat, giving you a smoother, shinier finish.
- Use a small round brush (1 to 1.5-inch barrel)
For pixies or short bobs, a smaller barrel offers more control and creates subtle bends or flips.
- Over-direct and roll for root lift
Slightly direct strands past their natural fall, roll the brush under, and follow with the nozzle. Move in quick passes so the hair feels warm, not hot.
- Finish with a cool shot and lightweight serum
Lock in shape with a burst of cool air, then smooth on a pea-sized drop of serum to tame flyaways and add shine.
Pro tip: Flip your head forward mid-dry for instant volume at the crown.
The Best Tools and Settings for Short-Hair Blowouts
Brush Size and Type You Should Use
- 1-inch barrel: Ideal for ultra-short styles and pixie undercuts.
- 1.25 to 1.5-inch barrel: Best for short bobs and ear-length cuts.
- Vent or paddle brush: Great for final smoothing, not shaping.
Dryer Settings and Airflow Tips
- Use medium heat + high airflow to start, then reduce heat as hair dries.
- Always use the concentrator nozzle, aiming downward.
- Keep the dryer 6–8 inches away to avoid overheating strands.
- Use the cool shot button to “set” each section before moving on.
Blow Drying by Cut Type: Pixie, Bob, and Curly Crop
Pixie Blowout for Maximum Volume
Begin at the crown—lift sections upward and blow downward to create height. Direct side sections toward the back or forward to manage whorls. Once dry, use your fingers to define texture or sleekness.
Short Bob or Ear-Length Blowout
Section hair into front, sides, and back. Roll outward or under at the ends to frame your face, then use light tension and smooth, repeated passes for polish.
Curly or Coily Short Hair with a Diffuser
Attach a diffuser instead of a nozzle. Start when hair is about 80% dry, then switch to low heat + medium airflow. Cup sections at the roots, scrunch gently upward, and finish with a cool shot and a bit of curl cream or oil.
Quick Fixes When Your Blowout Starts to Fall
If your blow-dry starts to lose shape after a few hours:
- Use Velcro rollers at the crown or ends and blast with low heat for 15 seconds.
- Try a “faux blowout” using a flat iron only on the ends for a quick refresh.
- Apply texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots, lift with fingers, and lock with a cool shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How dry should hair be before using a round brush?
Hair should be about 80% dry—slightly damp but not dripping. This balance gives you grip and tension without risking damage or limp results.
2. What size round brush works best for short hair?
Use brushes between 1 and 1.5 inches in diameter. Very short pixies do best with a 1-inch or vent brush, while bobs can handle 1.25-inch barrels for smooth volume.
3. Can a dryer brush work instead of a round brush?
Yes—with limits. Dryer brushes save time but offer less precision on short sections and can’t easily reach the nape or hair around the ears. For polished results, a round brush and nozzle still win.
4. How do I keep volume in humid conditions?
After styling, mist roots with light hold spray or tap in a volume powder. Avoid heavy serums near the scalp. In humid weather, a quick cool-air blast under your roots can revive shape instantly.
Flip, Set, and Shine: Your Shortcut to Salon-Level Style
Mastering how to blow dry short hair isn’t about force—it’s about smart airflow, tension, and technique. Once you nail the basics, you’ll be able to adapt your blowout for a pixie, bob, or curly crop with ease.
The more you practice, the faster your routine becomes—often under eight minutes from towel-dry to polished finish. So plug in your dryer, grab your favorite brush, and give your short hair the lift and confidence it deserves.
