We all want a salon worthy blow out each time we step out the door. You might think it's easier said than done unless you have Ken Paves on speed dial. Ah, but you are mistaken grasshoppa. It really is as easy as 1-2-3 to achieve what we like to call the Holy Grail – the perfect blow dry.

Step 1 Wash n' Dry

After you hop out of the shower wrap your hair in a towel or blot for 5 – 15 minutes.

Tip: Do not rub! Hair is most vulnerable when wet and this will damage cuticles and create frizz.

Step 2 Pick your poison

Listen to your hair and choose products that align with your type, texture, and condition. If your hair is fine or medium go light. If you have thick hair or want to go with a style that is opposite your normal type (curly to straight for example) you'll need heavier formulas.

You'll also want to make sure you have the right brush and attachments to go at it. A diffuser is excellent for waves and curls while a concentrator works for straight styles. Also keep in mind a straight brush makes a straight style while a round brush will bend the hair.

Tip: Less is more when it comes to product!

Step 3 Divide & Conquer

Most professionals recommend dividing hair into manageable sections that are anywhere from 1 – 3 inches in thickness.

Tip: Scrunching or finger combing add frizz. Touch it as little as possible after it's divided.

Step 4 Now blow

Set aside enough time to give each section your full focus. Aim the drier down the shaft so that the cuticle lays flat. Make sure it is completely dry before you move onto the next section.

You will also want to make sure you are using both the hot and cold button. The hot air will open up your cuticle, allowing you to style but the cold will then seal it back up and lock the style in.

Tip: Make sure you zap all moisture. If you don't, your hair will go back to its former self in no time, and all of your hard work will have been for nothing.

Step 4 Practice makes perfect

Keep in mind professionals do dozens of blow dries every week. Don't get discouraged if you aren't as quick. Overtime you will learn what tips and tricks work for you and will be able to shortcut to cut down your dry time.

Tip: Avoid the highest heat, fastest speed, or the quickest blow dry. These will only lead to frustration and frizz.

Step 5 TLC

Professionals often warn of over using hot products like a blow drier or iron. These can really wreck havoc and cause breakage. Fried hair was only cool in the 80's people. Limit washes to every other day to help cut back. An interview we caught with Ken Paves revealed that he even suggests limiting the use of a dryer to "only special events," meaning let your hair air dry and use a hot tool only where/when necessary.

Better yet, let your hair air dry and don't touch it at least once a week to give it a rest. And give it plenty of tender love and care with moisturizing masks and/or oils at least once a week, if not more often.

Tip: If you're worried about limiting your washes or what a second or even a third day blow out is going to look like, a powder can do wonders. It will absorb the excess oil, add volume, take away that unwashed hair smell, and prolong the life of your blow out. You can buy one that matches your hair color or even regular old baby powder will do.