Quick Hair Refresh After Workout: 5-Minute Styling Tips

Monika Roe

Step 1: Spray Gel

Spritz five squirts of spray gel, such as Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Spray Gel ($2.99, drugstores), onto the top layers of dry strands. Use a gentle water-based formula (H2O should be the first ingredient listed on the package), which leaves hair softer and more manageable, says Sarah Potempa, Aussie's celebrity stylist.

Monika Roe

Step 2: Heat Things Up

Wrap a medium-size section of hair around a round brush — a good one is the Goody Ionic Styles Styler ($5.34, Walmart stores) — rolling it to an inch away from the scalp. Hold a dryer behind the section for about 10 seconds and blow roots forward for added oomph. "The air will also help dry excess sweat on the scalp," Potempa explains.

Monika Roe

Step 3: Cool Off

Leave hair wrapped around the brush for a few seconds to cool. To preserve volume, unwind strands with your fingers rather than pulling them through the brush. Repeat steps two and three on remaining still-damp, flat sections, Potempa says.

Monika Roe

Step 4: Add Bounce

For a sleek and swingy finish, hold the dryer approximately 6 inches from the ends and flick your wrist as you blow-dry. Finally, tousle hair into position with your fingers.

No one will ever know that you were drenched in sweat just moments before!

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, February 2010.