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Most Searched Hair Care Questions - Answered by Our Expert
We’ve done the digging so you don’t have to. From frizz to split ends, our expert’s got the answers to the hair care questions everyone’s asking.
Whether you're a styling pro or just starting, chances are you've had a few questions about your hair tools. From what you can and can’t use on wet hair to how to get the perfect curl that doesn’t drop, we’ve got you covered.
To clear up the confusion, Katie Lilywhite, AO’s haircare expert, answers your most searched haircare questions.
Safety and Heat Protection
What causes heat damage?
Heat damage happens when high temperatures break down the hair’s natural keratin structure. Using tools like straighteners or curling irons on high heat without protection or proper usage can lead to dryness, breakage, and split ends.
How hot does a hair dryer get?
Most dryers range from 80°C to 160°C, depending on the model and settings. However, if you’re conscious, you can alter temperature settings as most dryers offer low, medium and high. Make sure you use the right temperature for your hair type.
Some modern hair dryers like Dyson use intelligent heat control to help prevent overheating and protect your hair from unnecessary damage.
Remember to always keep the dryer at a safe distance from your scalp.
Is a hair dryer bad for your hair?
Not if used correctly. Make sure to use the right setting for your hair type and keep the dryer moving rather than just focusing on one spot. If necessary, use a heat protection product before putting your hair through intense heat.
Choosing the Right Tool
Hair dryers
But what is the best hair dryer? The best dryer will depend on your hair type and styling needs. There are different features to look out for when choosing a new hair dryer.
Power
The higher the power, the faster the drying time. Most hair dryers will have somewhere between 1600 and 2500 Watts of power. We wouldn’t recommend just going for the highest one you can find, as different hair types may not be able to handle as much heat as others. For example, if you’ve got thinner hair, a lower wattage model is a good choice.
Cool shot button
After drying or styling, the cool shot button provides a burst of cool air to set your look, adding shine and reducing frizz.
Multiple speed and heat settings
Most dryers have customisable settings let you control airflow and temperature based on your hair type.
Attachments
Most modern hair dryers come with multiple attachments. If you have curly hair, you might want to look for a hair dryer with a diffuser to spread airflow gently to enhance natural curl definition and minimise frizz. A concentrator nozzle directs airflow for sleek, straight styles and more precision.
If you want a hair dryer, curler and straightener all in one, look for a Hot Air Styler, letting you achieve multiple styles as one appliance with many different attachments.
For thick or frizzy hair, we recommend looking for one with ionic technology and multiple heat settings. If you have fine hair, a lightweight model with a cool shot button is ideal.
What is an ionic hair dryer?
Ionic dryers use negative ions to break down water molecules faster, speeding up drying time and reducing frizz. They’re especially beneficial for thick, curly, or frizz-prone hair.
Hair straighteners
But what are the best hair straighteners? The best hair straighteners combine effective heat styling with minimal damage. Here’s what to look for when choosing for your hair type and routine:
Heat-Up Time
If you’re always in a rush, look for straighteners with a fast heat-up time (ideally 30 seconds or less).
Plate Width
The size of the plates affects how quickly you can style your hair. Narrow plates are great for short hair, fringes, or creating curls and waves. Standard plates suit most hair types and offer styling versatility. Wide plates are best for long, thick or very curly hair, as they cover more ground quickly.
Adjustable Temperature Settings
Some hair straighteners come with easy dials or controls that let you adjust their temperature.
Auto Shut-Off
It’s a great safety feature for your straighteners to automatically turn off after a certain time.
Styling Tips and Tricks - Straightening
How to straighten hair
Unless it’s a wet-to-dry straightener, start with your hair clean and dry. Make sure to apply a styling product or heat protection. Divide your hair into sections and slowly glide the straightener from roots to ends, using a brush or comb if needed. Use lower heat for fine or damaged hair and higher for thick or coarse hair. Don’t go over the same spot too many times, once or twice is enough.
How to straighten hair with a hair dryer
To achieve a smooth blowout, use a concentrator nozzle along with a brush. Work in sections and direct the dryer downward along the hair shaft as you brush. The concentrator nozzle focuses the airflow into a powerful stream, allowing you to style your hair directly and minimize frizz for a sleek appearance.
Can you straighten wet hair?
Not unless you’re using a wet-to-dry straightener like the Dyson Airstrait. Regular straighteners shouldn’t be used on wet hair, as it can lead to severe damage. Make sure to always dry your hair first.
Styling Tips and Tricks – Drying & Diffusing
How to blow-dry hair
Start with towel-dried hair and apply a heat protectant or a styling product before sectioning your hair. Use the concentrator nozzle attachment on your hair dryer and a brush. Either a round brush for volume or a paddle brush if you want straight hair. Dry in sections from roots to ends, pointing the nozzle downwards. For volume, direct the airflow upwards at the roots. Finish with a cool shot of air to set the style and to reduce any frizz.
What does a hair diffuser do?
A hair diffuser attaches to your hair dryer. It helps to spread airflow to dry curls or wavy hair gently without disturbing their natural pattern. It’s designed to minimise frizz and keep curls defined by drying them gently and evenly. The prongs can help lift and separate the individual curls for added volume.
How to use a hair diffuser
Attach the diffuser to your hair dryer and set it on a low or medium heat. Tilt your head to the side and gently cup sections of your curls in the diffuser, holding it close to your scalp. Avoid scrunching too much or moving the dryer around too fast. Slow and steady helps reduce frizz and enhances the natural curl pattern.
How to dry curly hair without a diffuser
If you don’t have a diffuser, flip your head upside down and use the dryer on a low heat and speed setting. Cup your curls gently with your hand while drying to mimic the diffuser effect. Air-drying with a microfibre towel or cotton T-shirt can also help keep curls frizz-free.
Styling Tips and Tricks – Curling
How to curl your hair with a straightener
Clamp a small section of hair, twist the straightener 180 degrees away from your face, then glide it down slowly. For tighter curls, wrap the hair once around the straightener before pulling through. This takes practice as the right angle and speed affect the result.
How to use curling tongs
Clamp a section of hair at the end, then roll it upwards toward your roots and hold for a few seconds. Release gently and avoid brushing while the curls are warm. Tongs are great for classic, bouncy curls and work well on medium to long hair.
How to curl hair with a curling wand
Wrap small sections of hair around the wand. Make sure it’s away from your face, and hold for 5–10 seconds. Let the curls cool in your hand before releasing for a longer lasting shape.
Why do my curls fall flat after curling?
This is one of the most common issues in hair care is achieving long-lasting curls. There could be multiple reasons for the problem.
Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Make sure your hair is completely dry before using any heated curling tools.
- Apply a heat protectant or styling product to your hair before styling.
- Use the right temperature setting for your hair type.
- Allow the curls to cool in your hand before releasing them.
- Let the curls cool in place before brushing them out.
- If you have fine hair, consider using a texturising spray or dry shampoo for added grip.
- Use hairspray or a setting product to help hold your curls in place.
