Finding the perfect hairdryer can seem impossible, especially if you’ve never purchased one or looked for a replacement. Hairdryers these days come with various features and technologies, with many claiming to be the best. A quick search can easily leave you feeling stressed and overwhelmed, unsure where to turn or who to trust. That is where we come in to save the day! Today, we present the key factors and features to consider when selecting a hairdryer, enabling you to narrow down your options and find the perfect one for you.
Consider your hair type
First, consider your hair type to ensure you make the right choice. When shopping for hair dryers, the hair types are usually broken down into the following categories:
Thick or long hair
Long or thick hair requires a higher wattage dryer to ensure it dries faster. Opting for a wattage of 1800 to 2000 or higher reduces the heat exposure on your hair, reducing the chance of heat damage. It is also worth looking for a hair dryer with ionic technology, as this can provide quick and sleek drying, saving you time when working with thick or long hair.
Frizzy or damaged hair
Damaged or frizzy hair benefits from ionic or tourmaline technology. This helps to reduce frizz and retain moisture, preventing your hair from feeling dry or further damage. These technologies can also help to add shine, and you might want to consider pairing your hair dryer with frizz creams or treatments for damaged hair, providing heat protection and helping to restore your hair’s health.
Fine or delicate hair
Fine hair benefits from lower-wattage hair dryers. These offer more control, making it less likely for damage to occur. Look for those that allow you to adjust the power, opting for lower settings that will be gentle on your hair. Tourmaline and ceramic technologies are also good for gentle drying.
Curly or wavy hair
Curly and wavy hair is best dried with a diffuser attachment. This allows you to spread air gently through your waves and curls. Doing so reduces the chance of frizz and enhances the natural texture of your hair. Look for hair dryers that come with diffuser attachments or those that are compatible with them.
Consider the essential features
When choosing a hair dryer, several essential features should be considered, including wattage and the technology used. Looking at these features will allow you to find the perfect hair dryer for your hair type, so spend some time researching the following when comparing models:
The wattage
The wattage relates to the power a hair dryer has, and you will want to look for a wattage that is suitable for your hair type and drying needs. Higher wattages of 1800W or above are ideal for faster drying, especially if you have thick or long hair.
Lower wattages might be less powerful, but they offer more control, making them a good choice if you are using your hair dryer for styling and drying in one.
The heat and speed settings
Ideally, you want a hair dryer that comes with multiple heat settings, allowing you to control the temperature. This ensures you will not overheat or damage your hair from the heat while drying it. Most hairdryers will feature two or three heat settings, and often speed settings as well, allowing you to adjust the power of the hairdryer as needed.
Many adjustable settings will also feature a cool shot button, which locks in your style. These cool settings are also handy if you are sharing your hairdryer with young children who might find the heat too much, especially if they have long hair.
The attachments
Review the attachments that come with the hair dryer to ensure they are suitable for your needs. Commonly, hair dryers will come with a concentrator nozzle, which focuses the airflow. This attachment is ideal for creating a smooth and sleek style. The concentrated air is also helpful if you are drying small areas, such as your fringe, and want to concentrate the hot air.
Diffusers often come with hairdryers, which help you to dry waves and curls without disturbing them. A diffuser will spread the air out to ensure it travels throughout all curls while maintaining your hair’s texture.
The design
The design of the hairdryer should be considered, looking for one that is comfortable and isn’t too heavy in your hand. Consider the size and weight of the hairdryer to ensure you find the perfect option. You might want to head into the store to try some as well, ensuring you can handle them easily, especially if you have issues with mobility or grip.
As part of the design, consider the cord too, opting for one that is long enough to use the hair dryer comfortably, without struggling to dry all of your hair or being stuck close to a power point. Ideally, you want at least 2 meters of cord length to ensure flexibility.
The technology
Consider the technology of the hair dryer, as this will help you find the right option for your hair needs. The technology used in hairdryers is typically one of the following:
Ceramic
Ceramic is a popular option, providing an even heat distribution. This helps to gently dry your air and offers protection, so you don’t need to worry too much about heat damage. We would still recommend adding heat protection treatments, though, to keep your hair safe.
Ionic
Ionic technology releases negative ions to break down water molecules faster. This helps to speed up drying time, making the technology a good option for those with long or thick hair. This also helps to reduce frizz for a smoother finish.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is often used with ceramic to provide a smoother and shinier finish on your hair. This is achieved by sealing the hair cuticle during the drying process.
Consider the warranty
When choosing a hair dryer, consider the warranty to ensure you opt for one that offers protection and peace of mind during use. Most hairdryers come with a two-year warranty, but some offer extended warranties that cover several years. As a general rule, the longer a warranty period is, the more faith a manufacturer has in the product lasting. Some brands will also offer the chance to extend your warranty for a fee, which is worth considering.
When reviewing the warranty, consider what is covered to avoid any unpleasant surprises when it comes to repairs or replacements.
Consider your budget
Finally, consider your budget to ensure you can find the perfect hairdryer for your needs. Consider how much you are willing to spend and the features that best suit your hair type and styling goals. Use these to narrow your choice and find the perfect option. Hair dryers are available at virtually every price point, allowing you to easily find one that suits your budget and needs.
Find your salon-grade hair dryer today
By considering all of the features and factors outlined today, you can find your perfect hairdryer in no time! Many options on the market offer salon-grade quality at a more affordable price, making them ideal for most budgets. When looking for your new hair dryer, we recommend checking out GHD, who have a wide range, including air stylers that will suit your needs. Check out their salon-quality hair dryers to find your perfect one today!