How to create the perfect blow dry

It's all in the preparation, according to Andrew Bidwell, one of the founders of the Swell range of products, available from Marks & Spencer, that create instant volume.

"Where people go wrong and end up with flat blow drys that collapse is because they don't wash the roots," he explains.

"You're only supposed to wash the root area of hair and most people will go straight for the ends or pile it all up on top of their head.

"Girls will always clean the fringe and through the parting really thoroughly and miss all that's underneath. But underneath is the whole foundation of the blow dry. So if that's oily, it's flat and therefore it doesn't last.

"Always wash the roots, never wash the ends as that just dehydrates it and leaves it really frizzy.

"And apply conditioner only through the mid-lengths and ends and leave it on for the optimum time that is recommended.

"Most styles don't last because products are full of silicones - it's a petrochemical that gives it shine and that is what makes blow drys not last because it is heavy and oily."

Andrew recommends the Swell Three-Step System: Advanced Volumising Shampoo, £23, Advanced Volumising Conditioner, £28, and Advanced Root Nutrient Complex, £32.

He also suggests rough-drying hair before using a round brush to create volume, then working gently and being careful not to stretch or damage the hair.

"Wrap hair around the brush and apply medium heat, no excessive heat. Keep the dryer at a safe distance, say four to five inches away from hair and keep it moving so that you avoid heat lines in hair which are damaging," he adds.

"Do not move the brush - your hairdresser might, but they are professionals. Once hair is dry and the gentle heat has opened the cuticles, cold blast the hair. This will shrink the cuticle down and set hair."

Be careful, he says, because the more you touch the hair the flatter it gets. If you need more volume, his last tip is to use the fragrant Swell Dry Shampoo, £20.

The got2b Mind Blowing Collection by Schwarzkopf has everything you need to style at home.

Use the Quick Shape Mousse, £4.05, if you want flexible hold and heat protection. The Xpress Dry Styling Spray, £4.05, speeds up a blow dry while detangling and conditioning hair. And the Fast Drying Hairspray, £4.05, offers an extra-dry finish with long-lasting hold.

Create a high-gloss finish with Unite Smooth and Shine Styling Cream, £18.50 from www.unitehair.co.uk. It uses argan oil to soften unruly strands, leaving locks super shiny.

Spread through clean, damp strands of hair before blow drying and styling for a sleek finish. Keep the tube handy to add to dry ends for a smoothing touch up during the day or evening.