Volume Hair Guide

By Jayme Chandler

From the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squad to Dolly Parton to Miss USA, there are few things more American than big hair. While there’s nothing better than a salon blow-dry, you don’t have to go to the Dry Bar to get that perfect balmy blow-out. As someone who has dealt with puffy and thick hair my whole life, I have learned to embrace and style my big hair, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way! Today, I have you covered on my favorite tips for achieving a little more bounce and volume. I’m giving you the rundown of my at-home hair routine, products, and hot tools to help you style that perfect all-American hair.

Start with a reset

Achieving maximum hair volume starts in the shower with a reset wash. Invest in products that promote volume. You want both your shampoo and conditioner to be light, so stay away from heavy products that are “deep moisturizing,” it will only weigh down your hair. When shampooing, it’s important to scrub your roots and use plenty of product— the cleaner your hair, the bouncier and lighter it will be. However, for conditioner it’s the opposite, you want to be conservative. Use conditioner only on your ends so they don’t dry out, but too much conditioner will weigh your hair down.

Don’t use too many products

When you get out of the shower, be strategic with your products. Minimalism is key. The biggest mistake many girls make is putting too much in their hair. Keep it light and simple, and stick to products meant for volume. The one product you must invest in is heat protectant— dull and damaged hair won’t be voluminous!

Blow your hair out

The perfect blowout is pivotal. Use a round brush and start working your blow dryer through your hair. Start at the root of your hair and work it down to ends, running your hair dryer along your brush. Shake out your hair and flip your head upside down with the blow dryer. Try and get as much movement and air through your hair while blow-drying to promote maximum volume.

Curl and brush

Next heat up your curling iron. Curling your hair will create maximum volume and the extra heat will help give your hair that glossy, salon blow-out look. The barrel size of your curling iron makes all the difference— the smaller the barrel, the tighter the curl. Personally, I like a loser, more natural curl, so I opt for a 1½ inch barrel curling iron. Split your hair up into small sections— the smaller the section the intenser the curl— and start curling. Curl away from your face and hold each curl for about 10 seconds. When you’re finished curling, finish your hair with hairspray, and get underneath your layers as well. Let your hair sit for 10 minutes and then grab your brush. Brush out all your curls and shake your hair, trust me you won’t be disappointed with the volume.

Bring your brush

If there are two things I never leave my apartment without, it’s a hairbrush and lipgloss. Your hair will naturally lose its gorgeous glossy volume throughout the day, so it’s important to always keep a small brush in your purse. Throughout the day, I’ll quickly brush my hair to regenerate my hair’s fluff and flair.

Bun it

When I’m not out and about but I am trying to preserve my hair volume, I always wear my hair in a low bun. I use a big hair clip or scrunchie and wrap my hair up. This keeps my hair protected from the natural elements and my volume and curls in place. You’ll find it will preserve your blowout longer. I always sleep with my hair wrapped up in a bun too!

Dry shampoo is your best friend

After a few days, your hair will naturally lose its volume and start to look greasy. If you have a busy schedule and need to prolong your wash and blow-dry another day, use dry shampoo. It will give your hair life again and is a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch.

Photo via @dccheerleaders