He points out that the first mistake people often make is they don't rinse hair properly after washing. It's imperative to remove all the shampoo and conditioning products, otherwise the end result will be dull and lank.

Once hair is washed and rinsed, towel-dry it by patting, but avoid rubbing as this might cause tangles. Comb it through with a wide-tooth comb and if using a styling product, apply it sparingly and evenly with the fingertips.

Before you start to blowdry, section off hair into manageable portions and use clips and grips to divide it up and pin it away.

Then get to work on the first section using a round ceramic brush to avoid static.

Take the hair and start at the roots, twisting it around the brush and working from the scalp to the hair ends. Repeat until the section is dry and pay particular attention to ensuring the root is thoroughly dry . . . this will create body and movement.

Avoid over-drying hair and keep the dryer moving . . . don't let it 'rest' on any part of the hair as this may cause damage. The dryer should be about six-eight inches from the hair and moved in a 'swinging' motion to distribute heat evenly.

Follow the process section-by-section until the full head is finished. If you are going for a curly look, Gary suggests pinning each section on completion to 'set' the hair while cooling.

Once finished, allow hair to cool down before brushing into style or applying finishing products. A spritz with the cold setting on a hairdryer (if you have it) adds extra shine by closing the hair cuticle.

Peter Mark has recently launched the new Il Futuro ionic hairdryer . . . a professional gadget that not only protects the hair but is also easy to use thanks to adjustable handles as well as heat and speed settings.

A real must-have dryer and possibly the last one you'll ever need to achieve really good, noticeable results. Well worth investing in.