A good hair dryer is arguably one of the most investment-worthy tools any women can have in her beauty arsenal. However, shopping for the right one can be tricky, especially when you take into consideration some important factors like drying time, weight and ease of use etc. With a wide array of hair dryers available in the market, they can range from under $50 to over $500.
So what makes one hair dryer better than the other? Here’s a list of criteria to look out when you decide to make that investment.
1. The higher the wattage, the more powerful
High wattage means a really good motor that has strong wind power. A wattage of 1,800 to 2,000 will prevent your hair from heat damage, because it reduces the amount of time spent drying your hair. For example, the Dyson Supersonic, $599, uses the Air Multiplier™ technology to draw in air and amplify it by three times to have a controlled, high-pressure jet of air.
As a result, the powerful stream of air emitted physically repels water droplets off of each hair strands instead of using heat to eliminate moisture via evaporation. And since your hair is subjected to heat for a shorter period of time, it is less susceptible to heat damage caused from frequent styling.
2. Size matters
While attempting DIY hair styling, you want something lightweight with a ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold in both right and left hands. The GHD Air Hairdryer, $225, is just that and also has a 3 metre long power cable that gives you freedom to move about while you style your hair in front of the mirror.
Advanced ionic technology reduces frizz and flyaways while variable power and temperature controls allow you to adjust the settings according to your hair type and how much time you have on your hands.
3. Attachments are essential
If you like the option of wearing your hair in multiple ways, consider getting a hair dryer that comes with attachments like the Braun Satin-Hair 7 HB 785 Senso Dryer, $149. It comes with a nozzle attachment which helps concentrate the air flow so it blows directly on the area you want to smooth.
A diffuser spreads out the air flow of the blow dryer, simulating natural drying, adds bounce to hair and creates better definition of curls. In addition, it also has an in-built temperature sensor which ensures that airflow is distributed evenly to prevent overheating of your tresses.
4. Keep your cool
The cold shot function seals the hair cuticle, setting the final look for long-lasting hold and adds shine. When your hair is about 80 percent dry, use the cool shot button on the Drybar Buttercup Blow-Dryer, about $266, so hair is protected against overheating. Apply a nourishing serum to the ends of your hair to help smooth cuticles and keep out humidity so hair looks and feels soft and smooth for hours on end.
ALSO READ: BANISH BAD HAIR DAYS WITH THIS ONE HAIR PRODUCT