How to Blow Dry Short Hair

Introduction

Short hair dries faster than long hair, but getting a polished, styled result still requires the right technique. Whether you have a pixie cut, bob, or any short style, here's how to blow dry it for a smooth, professional finish.

What You'll Need

• Hair dryer with concentrator nozzle
• Small to medium round brush or a vent brush
• Heat protectant
• Styling product (volumizing mousse, pomade, or light hold spray)

Step-by-Step: How to Blow Dry Short Hair

Step 1: Towel Dry and Apply Products

Gently squeeze excess water with a microfiber towel. Apply heat protectant while hair is still damp. If you want volume, add a small amount of volumizing mousse at the roots.

Step 2: Rough Dry First

Use your fingers to rough dry your hair to about 70% dry on medium heat. This removes most of the moisture quickly. For short hair, this only takes 1–2 minutes.

Step 3: Attach the Concentrator Nozzle

Attach the concentrator nozzle for more precise control. For very short pixie cuts, you may prefer to use just your fingers for styling.

Step 4: Work in Small Sections

Short hair has less length to work with, so precision matters more. Work in small sections, directing the airflow downward along each section.

Step 5: Use a Round Brush for Volume and Shape

For bobs and longer short styles, use a small round brush to add shape and volume. Roll the brush under sections at the ends and direct heat downward. For pixie cuts, use your fingers to push hair in the direction you want it to sit.

Step 6: Style the Roots for Volume

For volume at the roots, lift sections with the brush and direct heat at the root area. Hold for a few seconds, then cool with the cool shot before releasing.

Step 7: Finish and Set

Once dry, use the cool shot all over to set the style. Apply a small amount of pomade, wax, or light hold spray to define the shape and control flyaways.

Tips for Short Hair

• ✅ Work quickly — short hair dries fast and can overheat if you linger too long on one section
• ✅ Use a small round brush for more control on shorter lengths
• ✅ Lift roots with the brush for volume before cooling
• ✅ Finish with cool air to set the shape
• ❌ Don't use a large round brush on very short hair — it's hard to maneuver and can tangle

Recommended Hair Dryer

• REVLON Turbo Hair Dryer (1875W) — Powerful and lightweight with ionic technology. Fast drying time is ideal for short hair that needs quick, precise styling. Check price on Amazon →

Final Thoughts

Blow drying short hair is faster than long hair, but the technique still matters. Rough dry first, work in small sections, use a small round brush for shape, and always finish with cool air. The whole process should take 5–10 minutes once you have the routine down.