Sometimes all you need is a good beauty refresh, and luckily London is home to a host of the world's best blow dry bars.
The salon's sole purpose is to get you washed, in and out and back to your glam self in a matter of faff-free moments.
How to achieve the perfect blow dry
Contrary to popular belief, there is actually no sorcery involved. Instead, the pros are all about pure skill when it comes to nailing a blow-dry.
Want to brush up on your own hair styling tips? According to global hairstylist Nicky Lazou, the key is to partially dry your hair before you begin.
"The secret to the perfect blowout is making sure the hair is slightly damp, not wet, before you start. I suggest that you towel dry or let your hair air dry to get about 80% of the moisture out. Starting with slightly damp hair will get the hold and a good finish that lasts," Nicky explains.
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"Another top tip for achieving a hold is to apply a holding mousse throughout your hair and let that set for a minute or two before starting the blow-drying process. This is particularly important if you’re going outside after your blow dry to prevent the weather from causing any loss of volume and bounce!
"I'd also recommend blow drying your hair in sections using a large barrel brush and high heat to create the bounce and shape, then roll up each section using a roller or secure in place using a clip and allow the hair to cool which will set the shape and prevent any frizz."
Whether it’s to get you festival ready, wedding guest chic or make sure you’re looking your best on a daily basis - these are the London blow-dry bars to have on speed dial.
How much is a blow dry in London?
The capital city is home to some of the best hair salons in the country and you can expect to pay anywhere from £30-£50 for a blow dry. Of course, prices will vary depending on the salon and any treatments included.
What is the point of a blow dry bar?
London's blow dry bars offer a little bit of luxury when you need it. A blow dry should include washing, blow drying and hair styling but don't expect a trim or colour. A salon-quality blow dry is great if you only wash your hair a few times a week or need your hair to look great for a special occasion.
How much should a blow dry cost?
The amount you pay will be determined by the experience level of your stylist. New graduates will be cheaper than an experienced stylist but it can also depend on the products used during the process. Premium products may cost more than usual but a blow dry should cost between £30-£50 in London.
How we chose:
- Performance and personal testimony: The salons we've selected are renowned among beauty editors for their world-class stylists and superlative techniques, the majority of which have been personally tested by a member of the Hello! Fashion team.
- Location: All our salon picks are situated in London, perfect if you live in or near the capital.
Hello! Fashion shares the best blow dry bars in London:
George Northwood
© George NorthwoodCelebrity stylist George Northwood's client list is the equivalent to a red carpet. Calling Alexa Chung, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Alicia Vikander, Julianne Moore and Rachel Weisz clients, George's reputation for great hair is very well deserved and he's brought these skills to two exceptional salon locations - one based in W1 on Wells Street, the other in E2 on Boundary Street. Head there for a brilliant blow dry at a surprisingly reasonable price.
GA Salon
© GA SalonTheir unique natural approach to haircare makes GA Salon a cut above the rest. Using gorgeous products steeped in botanicals, the salon's blow dry leaves your hair silky soft and full of shine. With locations in Wimbledon, Notting Hill, Kensington as well as Chelsea, it's a fantastic place to arrive dishevelled and leave feeling incredible.
Larry King
© Larry KingLarry King has worked with some of the most famous celebrities including Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss and his London-based salons are some of the most exquisite we've seen. With locations in South Kensington and Notting Hill, you can expect to escape into a tranquil oasis for a glamorous blow dry. Price for blow dries start from £65 but the stylist's attention to detail is worth every penny.
Jo Hansford
© Jo HansfordSituated just a ten minute stroll from Bond Street station is Jo Hansford's Mayfair salon. With a client list including actress Rosamund Pike, singer Fergie and European royalty, Jo and her team of specially selected stylists are familiar with creating the most beautiful blow dries. One foot inside the salon and you're immediately met with gorgeous interior, an extensive treatment list and first class service. This is a place to visit when pampering calls.
Salon64
© Salon64A luxury hairdressing destination in the centre of London, Salon64 has thought of everything. Finishing touches include a chic fire pit, premium drinks menu including a variety of cocktails and a private room for those wanting a more tucked away experience. Staff member's blow dry skills are also second to none so head here for the glossiest, bounciest blow dry imaginable.
Gielly Green
© Instagram @giellygreenHome to some of London's best hairstylists, Gielly Green is the place to go for head-to-toe pampering. The flagship location on George Street is incredibly stylish and the kind and caring staff members are quick to ensure first class service. The salon prides itself on partnering with only the best brands including Augustinus Bader and we couldn't rate the Bader blow dry highly enough.
Salon Sloane
© Instagram @salonsloaneSalon Sloane is right in the heart of Chelsea and has seen celebrity clients including Amal Clooney and Lindsay Lohan. The chic interiors are gorgeous and you can expect a perfectly executed blow dry every time. Ask about the Keratin Blow Dry which penetrates the hair to leave a sleek, glass-shine finish.
Hershesons
© HershesonsCredited with bringing the blow dry bar trend over from New York and straight into London’s open arms, Hershesons is a staple. They offer a blow dry 'menu' which allows you to pick from six options, making for a fuss free blow dry experience. There are three locations including one inside Selfridges.
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DryBy
© Instagram / @drybylondonConveniently located on Mortimer Street, DryBy’s upscale interiors remind you of anything but a salon. They also offer a ‘menu’ to pick from, meaning you can make sure your blow dry is perfectly suited to your tastes. Pop down Regent Street straight after for some retail therapy and you’re all set.
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Duck & Dry
© Instagram / @duckanddryDuck & Dry offers the perfect setting to glam up with the girls, the salon boasts it’s own Prosecco bar for the ultimate pampering experience. They also offer up-dos to make sure you are party ready. We love it for hen-dos and birthdays.
Mimi et Mina
© Instagram / @mimi_et_minaThis Notting Hill salon is a hidden gem, founded by Mimi Koné after she struggled to find a luxury salon that catered to textured and afro hair. Of course the entrepreneur set up her own and Mimi et Mina has been delighting residents ever since.
Hari’s
© Instagram / @harishairHari’s own blow dry bar has been perfecting the fast blowdry for 45 years. Before blow dry bars were even ‘a thing’ they have been tending to the locks on London’s trendiest residents. They also offer braids and updo’s for those special occasions. Heading to a festival this summer? Try their feather add-ons - which will allow you to lace your blow dry with plumes for that Glastonbury-chic look.
Clo & Flo
© Instagram / @cloandfloBased in the heart of London’s trendy South Kensington sisters Florence and Chloe jointly run Clo & Flo. Their hairstylists are tried, tested and the rumour is once you start going to Clo & Flo, you never want to try anywhere else again. Fans include manifesting expert Roxie Nafousi who has said, “I not only love their blow drys, but I love the family feel in the salon.”
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