How to master the XXL blow-dry that’s a big trend for back-to-school

All it took was an Apple TV series about supermodels, Pamela Anderson’s big return to the limelight, and an Amy Winehouse biopic to change the codes that had been in place for a few seasons. Has the naturalness that we loved so much finally tired of us? If we’re to believe Marc Jacobs’ spring-summer 2024 fashion show and its super-fluffy retro squares, or even Miley Cyrus’ recent revelations of her perfectly coiffed mane, the answer is clear. “By highlighting the top models of the 1990s, such as Claudia Schiffer or Cindy Crawford, we have updated this decade,” analyzes Dyson ambassador hairdresser Pierre Saint Sever. And we went back to another styling technique, blow-drying, before pushing it even further with the XXL version.”

In his eyes, this is a requirement after getting the right to play the natural card in the post-epidemic phase. “We want to take responsibility and say: Volume comes through confirmation. About sophisticated and non-commercial hairstyles. Not forgetting the ever powerful role of social networks in the great game of trends that come and go. “Naturalness doesn’t leave a wow effect on the screen, while the blow-drying results are amazing. you get a real before and after. And then it also allows us to highlight the tools,” analyzes Julie Lopez, Deputy Director of the Desange Learning Center.

Technology, advanced ally

With Covid, the hair care industry has exploded, and in particular, its devices with more effective technology. At the start of the school year, L’Oréal introduces its infrared light hair dryer (AirLight Pro) and Dyson offers a new smart and connected version of its Airwrap, regularly cited as the best blow-drying ally by hairstylists. “It is true that it has greatly helped our customers,” notes expert Dessange. “It has the advantage of doing the work for us,” confirms the ambassador of the English brand, which also launches its first range of care products at the start of the academic year. Then the good old hair dryer and round brush duo still works, but requires some extra technicality. And the time that women do not necessarily (or no longer) want to sacrifice. Another accessory to build volume is facing backlash on social media, with TikTok leading the way. The iconic Velcro roller from the 1950s is back on people’s heads.

“He’ll really bring that little thing. We put it on and apply makeup while the plug cools down before removing it. It’s very easy to use,” explains the Dyson hairdresser. “The trick is not to use too thick sections so the roller can be held easily and then create a nice movement,” adds Julie Lopez. Therefore, the volume of the 2024 version sets out to win the hair with a weighty argument; where it used to rhyme with constraint and difficulty, is now accessible without compromising the outcome. And to promote the latter, we urge the use of additional healing foams and creams.

“They are important if we want the volume to be maintained. the root should be coated with fixing materials that will be activated by the heat of drying. But be careful, it’s not just about applying the mousse and drying it with your fingers; you really have to remove the brush for it to work. It will then fix the sound and make it last longer,” explains Pierre Saint Sever. Even if it all starts with shampoo for two professionals. “For blow-drying, you especially need cleansers that aren’t filled with silicone, like the Phytodess range. This will make the hair much lighter and therefore easier to work with. We can also rely on formulas with a lush and enveloping effect to give more substance.” With the final touch, varnish. “But not the one that is a hit whose era is over. It should have a flexible hold so it can be easily processed by simply running your fingers through the hair,” warns Julie Lopez.

The temptation of a strong mind

It remains to be seen whether the volume fits all heads and all cuts. “It works really well on long hair or layers, but on the other hand, it needs to be massive. The Bardot look also remains a safe bet. we put the hair back a little and tie the strands from the front to the back of the head,” advises Pierre Saint Sever. And what about Square, the star of the last seasons?

“It’s best to avoid associating volume and short hair as it can make you look old and bourgeois, very clichéd. Or, you have to play on the contrast in a very assertive, very modern way, as Isabelle Huppert knows very well, Ambassador Dyson notes. And we forget the very smooth bangs with the bouncy hair without the double weave.” One last tip for those who have fine hair and have a hard time pulling out the roots. “Pixies and other tops have become really popular, so why deprive yourself of them if you want to add volume for a special occasion or night out?” Final proof that the rules have definitely changed and that cheating is now being done the way it’s supposed to.