Blow drying short side bangs can be a fun and effective way to style your hair, especially if you want to achieve a polished, put-together look. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, mastering the technique to blow dry your side bangs can enhance your overall hairstyle and bring out your personal characteristics. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve perfect short side bangs, offering tips and tricks tailored to different hair types and face shapes.
Understanding Your Face Shape and Hair Type
Before diving into the blow-drying process, it’s crucial to understand your face shape and hair type. This will help you determine the best way to style your side bangs to complement your features.
Face Shapes
Round Face: Short, choppy bangs can add definition and make your face look longer and more angular.
Square Face: Soft, sweeping bangs can soften the angles of your jawline.
Oval Face: You have more versatility with bangs, as most styles will complement your balanced features.
Heart-Shaped Face: Side-swept bangs can accentuate your cheekbones and balance out your wider forehead and narrower chin.
Hair Types
Straight Hair: Easy to manipulate and style, straight hair will hold a blow-dried shape well.
Wavy Hair: Natural waves can add texture and movement to your bangs, but you’ll need to control frizz.
Curly Hair: Curly bangs require careful drying to avoid frizz and maintain definition.
Coarse Hair: Thicker, coarser hair may need more heat and product to achieve a smooth finish.
Preparing Your Hair
Before you start blow-drying, there are a few essential steps to prepare your hair for styling.
Wash and Condition
Shampoo: Use a volumizing or smoothing shampoo depending on your hair type.
Conditioner: Apply conditioner to the ends of your hair, focusing on hydration and detangling.
Towel Dry
Pat Dry: Gently pat your hair with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing, which can cause frizz and breakage.
Microfiber Towel: Use a microfiber towel for better absorption and less friction.
Apply Styling Products
Heat Protectant: Always use a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage.
Styling Cream or Gel: For added control and shine, apply a styling cream or gel to damp hair. Focus on the roots and bangs area.
Blow Drying Techniques
Now, let’s dive into the blow-drying process. Follow these steps to achieve perfect short side bangs.
Step 1: Rough Dry
Section Hair: Divide your hair into sections, starting with the bangs. Clip the rest of your hair up to avoid tangling.
Blow Dry: Use a blow dryer with a medium heat setting and a round brush. Place the brush under your bangs and blow dry, lifting at the roots to add volume.
Step 2: Shape and Smooth
Angle the Brush: Continue blow-drying, angling the brush slightly toward the side you want your bangs to sweep. This will create a natural, flowing look.
Finger Comb: Once your bangs are mostly dry, use your fingers to comb through and smooth out any kinks or tangles.
Step 3: Finish and Set
Cool Down: Once your bangs are dry, run a cool shot of air over them with your blow dryer. This will help set the style and lock in the shape.
Fine-Tune: Use a small, flat brush or your fingers to adjust the shape and direction of your bangs.
Styling Tips for Different Hair Types
Here are some additional tips to help you style your short side bangs according to your hair type.
Straight Hair
Use a Round Brush: A medium-sized round brush will help you achieve a smooth, polished look.
Blow Dry Straight Down: For a sleek finish, blow dry your bangs straight down, pulling the brush through to the ends.
Wavy Hair
Diffuse Drying: Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to enhance your natural waves without causing frizz.
Light Touch: Be gentle with wavy bangs, as they can easily become frizzy. Use a light touch when styling.
Curly Hair
Define Curls: Use a styling cream or gel specifically formulated for curly hair to define your curls and reduce frizz.
Scrunch Drying: Scrunch your bangs with your fingers while blow-drying to maintain curl definition.
Coarse Hair
Extra Heat: You may need to use a higher heat setting to fully dry coarse hair. Be careful not to overheat and damage your strands.
Use a Comb: A wide-toothed comb can help detangle coarse hair without causing breakage.
Maintaining Your Style
Once you’ve achieved your perfect short side bangs, it’s important to maintain them. Here are some tips to keep your bangs looking fresh and stylish.
Regular Trims
Every 4-6 Weeks: Short bangs require frequent trimming to maintain their shape and length. Aim for a trim every 4-6 weeks.
Consult Your Stylist: Ask your stylist for advice on the best trimming schedule for your hair growth rate and style preferences.
Nightly Routine
Pineapple Method: To avoid flattening your bangs while you sleep, use the pineapple method by tying your hair up in a loose ponytail at the top of your head.
Silk Pillowcase: Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can reduce friction and keep your bangs smooth and tangle-free.
Styling Products
Dry Shampoo: Use dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and refresh your bangs between washes.
Texturizing Spray: A light texturizing spray can add volume and grip to your bangs, especially if you have finer hair.
Personalizing Your Style
Your short side bangs should reflect your personal style and characteristics. Here are some ways to make your bangs uniquely yours.
Face-Framing Layers
Soft Layers: Ask your stylist to add soft layers around your face to frame your features and enhance your bangs.
Longer Sides: Keeping the sides of your hair longer can create a balanced, effortless look.
Color Accents
Highlights or Lowlights: Adding subtle highlights or lowlights can add depth and dimension to your bangs.
Bold Color: For a bold statement, consider a vibrant color or ombré effect on your bangs.
Accessories
Headbands: A stylish headband can add a chic, polished touch to your look.
Pins and Clips: Use hairpins or clips to create unique, playful styles with your bangs.
Conclusion
Blow drying short side bangs can be a rewarding way to enhance your hairstyle and bring out your personal characteristics. By understanding your face shape and hair type, preparing your hair properly, and following the right techniques, you can achieve a polished, put-together look that complements your features. Remember to maintain your bangs with regular trims and a good nighttime routine, and don’t be afraid to personalize your style with face-framing layers, color accents, and accessories. With the right approach, your short side bangs will be a stylish, confident addition to your overall look.
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