Best Hair Dryers for Every Hair Type
We all hope for a mood-boosting good hair day but achieving that salon-fresh look can be a bit hit and miss, especially if your blow dryer is below par. So, if your locks are more ‘oh dear’ than va-va-voom, then it might be time to upgrade your hair drying kit.
Investing in a good hairdryer will not only give you the look you want in less time, but can also help to tackle frizz, prevent heat damage and give your hair a luscious glossy finish. We take a look at some of the best hair dryer sets currently available, to suit all budgets, hair types and styling needs, both at home and on your travels.
The Best Blow Dryers
FAQ
Do hair dryers damage your hair?
If not over-used as well as used correctly, then your hair dryer should not harm your hair. But they can over time, contribute to your hair drying out so precautions can be taken to help protect your hair from heat damage. These include using a heat protection spray before blow drying your hair and always holding the dryer at least six inches away from your head. Also, avoid too high a heat setting and don’t focus heat on one area for too long.
What is the best airflow power for a hair dryer?
A high wattage indicates a more powerful hair dryer, with hair salons typically using devices which have 2000W motors, or higher, so that they can dry hair faster and efficiently. For home use, somewhere between 1500W and 1800W should be sufficient for salon-worthy results, while anything above 1000W will work well to dry your hair. You can even get dryers above 2000W, such as the high-tech Dyson hair dryer. Your hair type can influence your final choice too, as higher wattage works well to control thick or curly hair, while fine or medium hair will respond well to dryers around 1300-1500W. The location also counts, so if you are looking for a travel hair dryer or a dryer to keep in your RV, you need to go for a lower wattage.
How loud should a hair dryer be?
It is generally accepted that noises above 85 decibels can be harmful to your hearing, especially if you are exposed to prolonged use. So, when looking for a hair dryer you really want to go for the quietest model you can, with your search including models that emit less than 80dB – or lower. Many hair dryers are actually made with DC motors, which are smaller and lightweight, but give out the most noise. The quieter AC motor can be found, and can be more powerful although it is heavier, so not good if you have to hold and use your hair dryer for longer periods of time. It is also important to remember that quieter doesn’t necessarily mean quality, so always ensure that the dryer is efficient and effective for your hair needs.
Do expensive hair dryers make a difference?
Some of the more expensive hair dryers are able to dry your hair faster, have the latest tec and are lighter to use, but the spec they may have can also be found in cheaper models. Ultimately, how much you are prepared to spend on a hair dryer will depend on your hair’s own styling needs, the extras you would like and how often you intend to use it as well as your maximum budget.