The least expensive hair dryers tent to use a metal or plastic heating element and this leads to a very intense, very uneven heat.  It essentially “cooks” the hair by boiling the water out of it.  Higher standard dryers are typically made with a ceramic drying element; similar to what is used in space heaters or other home heating technology.

You may have seen a hair drying boasting that it is an “ionic dryer.” On a cheap hair dryer (that’s not ionic), the heat will diffuse positive ions, and because hair cuticles are naturally neutral, this causes them to open and result in frizzy and poofy hair.  A high quality ionic dryer will  produce negative ions which “flatten” the neutral cuticle and trap moisture in so the hair stay sleek and shiny.

Just like in straightening irons, the settings on a hair dryer can be very beneficial.  Many come with a “high” or “low” option but it is also important to look for a “hot” or “cool” setting. Recently, dryers have been made with a “cool shot” or “cool blast” option.  This is perfect for finishing touches or to dry any finishing sprays or products.

A recent addition to hair dryers are all of the attachment options.  A person with thick, curly hair can avoid and hint of frizz with a diffuser.  This attachment diffuses hair between the ringlets to dry it faster, but more gently.  And using a nozzle or air stream tool is great for those who dry their hair with a brush.

The last important factor when buying hair dryer is the warranty.  Just like everything else, the warranty sometimes comes from the manufacturer and sometimes from the retailer.  The more expensive brands tend to have the better return, refund and repair options available so be sure to check it out before you invest in a dryer

Wash your hair with a sleek and shine inducing shampoo and condition and blow dry straight.  Hold the hair dryer above your head and dry straight down while combing your tresses straight.  Use a thermal protection spray on your hair and wait for it to dry completely.  Then straighten your hair with a tourmaline hair straightener (try the Karmin G3) for a silky straight look.  This hair style is professional enough for the office, but sexy enough to keep you stylish.

When you’re ready to go out with your girls, pull your hair back into a high pony tail at the crown of your head and secure with an elastic.  Pull a small section of hair from the bottom of the pony, twist it and wrap it around the pony tail to hide the elastic .  Add an extra sheen with a shine serum to complete the look.

Ever been this woman?  Not anymore! There are several easy and inexpensive precautions you can take to ensure that every day is a good hair day and you never again have to leave the house in a sloppy pony tail or old hat.

The first step starts long before that fateful morning when nothing works right.  Always, always wash your hair with a quality shampoo.  There are shampoos available for thick hair, thin hair, curly hair, color treated hair and many more.  You should never struggle to find a shampoo that is right for your hair.

When you dry your hair, don’t forget that this is an important step in the styling process.  The way you dry your hair can drastically affect the way your hair lays and looks during the rest of the day.  To add volume, flip your head upside down and dry your hair starting at the nape of your neck and working you way outward with a brush.

For a super sleek and straight finish, part the hair and hold the dryer above the hair pointing straight down.  Use a flat brush to pull the hair from root to tip as your follow it with the heat of the dryer.  If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, consider using a diffuser to prevent any poofiness or frizziness.

Whether you are straightening or curling the hair, work section by section, spraying each part with a styling spray before you apply the heat.  After you are finished, DO NOT brush the hair again; simply spray the hair with a setting hair spray and comb through it

The Triple Braid

This is perfect for work or going out for lunch with the girls; plus it’s super easy to do!  After washing and drying your hair, spray it with a volumizing spray.  Pull it back into a low pony tail, making sure that the top of your hair is loose and voluminous.  Split the pony into three sections and braid each individually.  Then braid each of the three together and secure with a clear plastic band.  This oversize braid will give you a fun and focused look for any day of the week.

Side Pony

To get this look, pull your hair into a low, loose side pony and spray it with a thermal protection spray.  Use a double barrel curling iron to get some tousled waves by wrapping 3-inch sections around the barrels and letting them heat just enough for a subtle wave.  To add a little extra flair, wrap a section of hair around the elastic band and pin it down or fluff up your bangs and pin them back into a little poof.

A Big Bun

This daring look is perfect for date night or going out on the town with your best girlfriends.  Spritz your dry hair with a flexible hold hairspray and tease it all over to give it some volume.  Pull your hair into a high pony on the top of you head and secure with a strong elastic band.  Wrap your whole pony tail around itself and pin the ends down to create a big, loose bun.  Pull out random sections for a bit more daring and messy-on-purpose effect.

Below are some tips to follow while trimming your own hair

It is more convenient to cut wet hair than dry hair. First shampoo your hair properly, dry it with a drier and make it tangle-free. Keep a spray bottle filled with water close by to use if your hair starts to dry. Make sure that the hair cutting shears you are using are very sharp as this will prevent hair shears from pulling your hair. If you intent to cut your hair at home often, it is worthwhile to purchase professional hair cutting shears, clippers, a razor and thinning hair shears.

Read the following to help understand how to use your hair shears and achieve your desired cut.

Normal Straight cut

There is nothing better than simple hair styles. Moreover, it is much easier to achieve a simple hair cut at home.. The easiest among all hair styles is the single-length hair cut.

Determine the length you want and cut your hair accordingly. Once you find a length that is especially flatter, it is suggested that you measure your hair for future reference. Starting small, grab a piece of hair between your index and middle finger. Measure the hair to the determined length and snip off the extra carefully using your hair shears. Repeat this process until you have trimmed all of your hair. You can use this technique with a variety of hair cutting shears and on men’s and women’s hair. Keep in mind that the length of hair may vary from very short to below the shoulders.

Professional Cut

Perhaps you would prefer a more professional or complicated hair style. If this is the case, you may want to start with a professional cut and then just snip off about the same amount of hair from all parts of your head on regular basis, using your own professional hair cutting shears and maintain the style. Generally, hair on different parts of the head grow at different rates. If you decide to follow this technique, it is recommended that you occasionally consult a hair stylist to prevent your hair from becoming uneven.

Another stylish hair-cut

Another idea for a very simple, but attractive hair-cut is to lean over and comb your damp hair straight forward. Smooth our your hair with your fingers and use very sharp hair shears to cut a line straight across. Make sure that you work in small sections and do it from one side to another. After you finish, check to be sure that the hair cut is even. Part your hair directly in the middle of your head. Measure small sections of your hair using your thumb and index finger to check for any long pieces. If there are long pieces, use your hair cutting shears to carefully cut them off.

As you get more practice cutting your own hair at home, you might want to try some complicated yet stylish hair-cuts at home. It is recommended that you purchase a hair cutting video that provides detailed instructions and allows the viewer to replay the video to help him or her learn.