There’s really nothing that boosts your confidence like a fresh salon blowout. However, achieving the same look at home can be a struggle without the right tools and products. Whether for date night, a summer soiree or an important job interview, use these tips for a coif that looks like it was handled by the professionals.

Prep with products
A good blowout starts with the shampoo. If you expose your hair to heat frequently, the Prx Reparative Shampoo by Fekkai not only helps to nourish strands, but the soy and milk protein also strengthens them to prevent future breakage. If your hair tends to fall flat, opt for the Full Blown Volume Shampoo, which amps up thin tresses for a fuller finished look. An ultra-moisturizing conditioner is also key for a shiny blowout, as excessive heat can leave hair looking like straw. Treat hair to the Fekkai – Essential Shea Pot de Creme, which hydrates brittle strands while transforming the texture for softer styles. Gregory Patterson, a hairstylist at Blow in New York City, told Women’s Health magazine that it’s important to thoroughly rise out any conditioner for a long-lasting look.

Fight frizz by spritzing in lightweight Serum de Soie Sublimateur by Leonor Greyl, which smoothes the hair shaft without weighing it down for a poof-proof appearance. If your hair is highly unmanageable, opt for Condition Naturelle by Leonor Greyl, which contains protective proteins and seaweed extracts for shine and buoyancy.

Time to dry 
Now you’re ready to pick up the hairdryer. Real Simple magazine recommended starting with the bangs when they’re still wet. For more volume, hold hair in a round brush vertically above the head, but for a sleek, pin-straight look you’ll want to pull hair downward. Next, Real Simple suggested moving to the back sections, which can be harder to perfect, and working forward toward the face. Always keep the blowdryer constantly moving – directing heat in one spot for too long can scorch your hair and cause serious damage.

Preserve and protect
After all that work, you’ll likely want to make your blowout last. In Women’s Health, Patterson recommended using dry shampoo, which can absorb oil and keep your style looking fresh. He also advised using a clip or a headband instead of an elastic because they won’t leave a pesky crimp.

Follow these steps and your hair is bound to blow everyone away.

*Feature Image Credit: Heat Blow Dry