When searching for a blow dryer to dry your hair in the morning or something more advanced, there are several factors to take into account. Make sure the blow dryer fits your styling needs, works effectively with your hair type, and feels comfortable in your hand.
The right hair dryer can completely transform your style and deliver salon-quality results at home. But you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to get one that’s ideal for you; with some research, you can select a model tailored towards both personal needs and budget.
When shopping for a hair dryer, look for one with multiple heat and speed settings so you can select the appropriate level for your individual needs. Avoid overheating your strands by drying them too quickly. Furthermore, look for a dryer that includes a cool shot button which sprays cold air onto its cuticle to help seal in moisture and make tresses shiny.
If your hair is fine or thin, opt for a blow dryer with low heat settings. Finer strands absorb heat more quickly than thicker ones do, making it easier for your locks to become overheated and damaged.
Another essential factor to consider is wattage. Hair dryers rated from 1800-2000 watts offer optimal speed and efficiency, so this should be taken into account when purchasing one.
GH Beauty Lab testing has demonstrated the power of these high-wattage models, providing an intense blow dry. Plus, their lower risk of burnout or damage makes them the ideal choice for those who use their dryer frequently.
Consider investing in a model with either ionic or ceramic technology. Ionic dryers emit negative ions which boost shine and bounce, but can also flatten thin hair by absorbing moisture. On the other hand, ceramic ones distribute heat more evenly for less damage and less frizzie without overheating your strands.
When styling, opt for a blow dryer with attachments that let you create various looks. These may include a straightening pic, which helps blow-dry your hair straight without burning it, and a diffuser, which helps control frizziness and make locks smoother.
Your hair dryer should be lightweight so you don’t feel like you’re working too hard to get it dry. Additionally, these models take up less space in your arsenal of styling tools and are easy to pack away for travel.
For people with thick or wavy hair, look for a model with fast drying times and adjustable temperature settings. Additionally, look for hair dryers with tourmaline-coated motors which emit negative ions to add shine and sheen.
Over eight weeks, The GH Beauty Lab conducted tests on 41 dryers, collecting 2,244 data points to identify the top performers. We evaluated weight and cord length as well as airflow and temperature to gauge each dryer’s performance.
