Whether you're rushing to class, a track meet or college interviews, you still want to look like you just stepped out of the salon, right? We talked to a pro to get her best tips for fabulous DIY hair that lasts.

MariLynne Cosmillo is Director of Education at Cherry Blow Dry Bar, one of the fastest growing blow dry bar chains, with 18 operating salons and 60 more set to open soon. (So, she knows a thing or two about beautiful hair!)

First, you need the right tools in your arsenal:

Blow Dryers

There's a wide range of dryers out there. How do you get the most bang for your buck?

For Cosmillo, there are three must-haves: power, ease of use and warranty.

"When investing in a blow dryer, make sure its power is at least 1800W and it comes with a concentrator nozzel for a smoother blowout. Professional dryers will also come with a warranty."

She recommends looking for a medium to short body in the dryer, meaning the length from the back of the engine to where the air comes out shouldn’t be too long, which she says can make it more challenging to get through your styling.

And when you start styling, warns Cosmillo, take your time—don’t rush!

Create shape to your hair by using a round brush (the bigger the barrel, the straighter your hair) and work in sections to ensure each piece is fully dry before moving onto the next one.

Try: BabylissPro Nano Titanium Portofino dryer of any kind Elchim dryer

Straighteners

The kind of straightener you get, says Cosmillo, depends a lot on your hair type.

“If you have curly or unruly hair, you should use a one-pass iron, which has silicone strips on the plate to gently pull even the shortest hairs taut, making strands smooth with just one pass.”

For straight or wavy hair, Cosmillo suggests a ceramic iron, which will allow you to work quickly in bigger sections and add shine to the overall finish.

Try: BioIonic onePass straightening iron or the BabylissPro Porcelain Ceramic straightening iron

Dry Shampoo and Hairspray

Cosmillo is a fan of both products to hold your style and keep your hair looking great

When it comes to dry shampoo, Cosmillo can’t live without it.

“No one likes oily-looking hair, and unless you plan to wash and style your hair everyday (which isn’t healthy!), use a dry shampoo to make your hair look fresh each day you don’t shampoo.”

Some aerosols, she says, also have texturizing agents to add volume and body back into your style. Simply apply your favorite, massage it in, and use a wide- tooth comb through your ends to get a quick re-style.

Try: Powders like Blowpro Faux Dry are the most absorbent, but some prefer the ease of an aerosol (such as IGK First Class). Choose which version is right for you.

Cosmillo says a good hairspray can get you through your day, though it’s not for everyone.

“The level of hold you need is based on the style you’re trying to achieve and your hair spray preference. Both fine and heavy hair need help holding shape that isn’t natural to its texture, like curls or waves, and you should use a medium hold.”

FYI: If you’re not a hairspray fan, try a brushable hold like the classic elnett brand, or Blowpro Blowout spray for a soft finish with less hold factor.

Making It Last

For now, your hair looks great, but how do you make it last? If you’ve straightened your hair, Cosmillo says protect it. “Moisture will cause hair to frizz and pop back into its natural pattern. Make sure you’re using a terry-lined shower cap anytime you wash your face or shower, and make sure it’s covering all of those little baby-hairs around your hairline.”

And ask your stylist how to touch up and maintain your style. “Based on the look, says Cosmillo, “they can give you sleeping tips and products to refresh your look.”

For example, wavy styles can be coiled back loosely into a low bun for sleeping. For straight hair, pull it back into a high bun.

Use sprays for keeping frizz at bay. “And don’t forget to use a shower cap and dry shampoo!” says Cosmillo.

In a Rush?

“My favorite no-time style is the perfect messy-pony. All that’s needed is a beach spray or a similar texturizing spray, a cute elastic, and hairspray.”First, spray hair all over with the texturizing spray, focusing on your roots and where the pony will sit – this will help hold your elastic in place all day.

Next, pull your hair back, keeping your sides tight while leaving the top a bit looser for volume. Secure with your favorite spiral or fabric tie. If you have fine hair, add the look of more texture by sweeping the short hairs out around your face. Use your fingertips to push them back again, and spray into place with strong hold hair spray. Chic in less than five minutes!

College Tours and Interviews

What is the easiest way to get a sophisticated look for college tours and interviews? Avoid textured styles, like beachy looks. They can appear messy for your big day. Instead, create soft waves with a medium-sized curling iron.

“Curl each side of your head away from the face, and be sure to get the tips of each section into the iron for smooth ends. Using a drop of shine serum, run your fingers through the lengths to break up curls and finish with a light hair spray.”