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If you are still using a blowdryer from 5-10 years ago, it may be time for an upgrade. Some significant changes have been made, technology has been enhanced and their chic appearance will make blowdrying your hair regularly something you may actually look forward to.
Below we are featuring a few great blow dryers that are made especially to give healthier, sleeker blowouts. We have included both full-size and travel-friendly versions and most of our options utilize ionic technology to not only ensure an even blowdry but help the hair dry faster with less frizz.
These dryers are also lightweight, have ergonomic handles for comfort, and are ideal for all hair types. Lastly, their multiple heat and speed settings provide customization depending on hair type and desired style.
Our Picks of the Hottest Blow Dryer
Karrong Hair Dryer — Best Overall
This ultra high-end blowdryer look-a-like is a powerful dryer with high speed and torque that allows you to dry hair quickly and efficiently. By using negative ion technology, this dryer will reduce frizz, enhance shine, and keeps a constant temperature to ensure the healthiest hair. This hair dryer is also small, lightweight, easy to carry, and is perfect for home, travel, or professional use.
Pros
- This dryer comes with one diffuser and two concentrator nozzles
- It has a double-safety removable filter so your hair does not get sucked into it
Cons
- This blowdryer may emit an odor during first use
REVLON Hair Dryer — Runner Up
If you are in the market for a less expensive version, this essential dryer is a great option. Compact and lightweight, this blow dryer is ideal for travel and home and has two heat and speed settings for drying and styling flexibility. A cool shot button helps to set the hair for long-lasting results and a removable end cap helps ensure easy cleaning and maintenance.
Pros
- This dryer features a hanging ring for easy storage
- It comes in three sleek colors
Cons
- A diffuser attachment is not included
MINT Hair Dryer — Honorable Mention
The MINT Hair Dryer is an excellent choice for those who want to achieve salon-level results without the high price tag. This sleek black dryer is equipped with a professional DC Johnson motor and 1875 watts of professional drying power, providing fast and strong air speed. For healthy hair, the dryer features a true ionic generator that emits millions of negative ions per second to help reduce frizz.
Pros
- Numerous settings for different hair types
- Extra long cord for ease and comfort
Cons
- The high heat setting may be too hot for some users
Conair Pro Hair Dryer — Contender
This full-size hairdryer is another great option featuring tourmaline ceramic technology. In addition, frizz-fighting conditioning ions provide less damage, more shine and both combined create a uniform dryer that protects the hair from damage. Ideal for all hair types, this dryer offers three heat and two-speed settings that can easily create all sorts of combinations to match specific hair texture or length or to create the desired styling goal.
Pros
- This dryer has a luxe-feeling diamond finish
- It comes with a concentration nozzle
Cons
- There are minimal color options
BaBylissPRO Hair Dryer — Also Consider
This is another intensely powerful dryer option that combines power, speed, and design for an effective and fast blowout. This dryer is lightweight, has ergonomic handling for less hand fatigue, and features nano titanium ionic technology for a speedy blowout with less frizz. This dryer also features six heat and speed settings and everyone’s favorite cool shot button to lock in your style for all-day wear.
Pros
- This dryer is great for all hair types
- The removable filter makes cleaning easy
Cons
- There is no diffuser attachment included
Buying Guide: Blow Dryer
Blow dryers are no longer only for blowing hot air: the appropriate one can help you develop new looks, eliminate split ends, and leave your hair smooth and shining. Sadly, the contrary is also true: using the incorrect blow dryer may be a major pain and result in a horrible hair day. We have got you prepared if you are looking for the finest blow dryers in 2024 or simply need one that will endure more than a year or two. Continue reading for our top tips for unraveling your blow dryer conundrum and making your purchase simple and straightforward.
What Are Some Major Benefits of Using a Blow dryer?
The majority of individuals buy a blow dryer so that they may dry their hair rapidly after washing it. Based on how dense and lengthy your hair is, you may dry it in as few as five to ten minutes with a good blow dryer.
If your hair is naturally curly, thick, or unmanageable, a blow dryer can help you straighten it. You can use it with a round brush to straighten your hair and add shine for a sleek look.
If your hair is fine and lacking volume, though, you can use a blow dryer to give volume. Turn your head facing down when drying it and concentrate the dryer on your roots to help lift and volumize your hair.
How Long Does a Blow Dryer Last?
Blow dryers and other heat styling appliances generally last 2 to 7 years. Nevertheless, the material and built quality of your dryer will determine how long it lasts.
Dryers built of poor components that are cheap may barely last a year or so. If you buy a higher-end version, you will probably get 5 to 7 years out of it, if not more. Your blow dryer will last longer if you just dry your hair a few times each week rather than each day since blow dryers have an average lifespan of eight hundred hours.
Maintenance is also necessary if you would like your blow dryer to last as long as needed. Wipe the ducts once a week to prevent lint from plunging inside and causing harm to the heat source.
Factors to Consider While Buying a Blow Dryer
Wattage and power
A blow dryer's wattage indicates how strong it is, and the stronger it is, the faster it will dry your hair. High power dryers are also less prone to wear out than smaller-motor tools. A dryer with around eighteen hundred watts is typically the optimum solution if you have thin hair. If you have strong or rough hair, a dryer with a power range of 2,000 to 3,600 watts is recommended.
Speeds
Some blow dryers include adjustable speed options in addition to different temperature settings. This gives you the most freedom over the dryer by allowing you to set the heat and flow levels individually. A dryer with at least 2 different speed levels is ideal. However, having a third speed level, medium, is beneficial for the greatest adaptability.
Temperature controls
Almost all blow dryers have 2 temperature settings. In most circumstances, a dryer with several heat settings, like lowest, moderate, and strong, will provide you with greater control over the amount of heat your hair is subjected to. When your hair is almost dry, you may change to cool air to bind the hair's cuticle for improved appearance.
What Materials Are Used to Make Blow Dryers?
A blow dryer's heating core can be covered with a number of materials, which affects its effectiveness. If you want to get rid of bad hair mornings, you need to choose the proper dryer material for your type of hair.
Ceramic
Some hair types respond favorably to ceramic dryers. The ceramic helps to preserve hydration in your hair while also distributing heat uniformly. It is particularly well-suited to thin or dry hair.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline dryers include heating components that are covered with the semi-precious stone that assists retain moisture and emits negatively-charged ions to keep positive ions from generating frizz. A tourmaline drier is an excellent solution for wavy, coarse, curly, or difficult-to-dry hair.
Titanium
Titanium dryers are faster than other alternatives because they spread heat evenly and persistently. So, it is not recommended for hair that is sensitive to damage, like thin or color-treated locks. But, if you have coarse or dense hair, it is a good alternative because it dries your hair faster.
Features to Look For in a Blow Dryer
Ergonomics and weight
If you have lengthy and heavy hair that takes forever to dry, you should pick a hairdryer that is easy to hold. Opt for a lightweight dryer with a comfortable handle to minimize the strain on your hand and wrist. Take into account that commercial dryers are often heavier, but most users feel that they are more pleasant to use since the weight is equally distributed throughout the dryer.
Extra accessories
Check what extras are included with a blow dryer before buying it for the greatest adaptability. If you have thick and curly hair, a diffuser is essential since it distributes heat over a larger area, preserving the original texture of your hair. A focus nozzle concentrates heat in certain regions, reducing frizz.
Price Range of Blow Dryers
Blow dryers usually cost between $20 and $400. If you are worried about heat damage, invest in a higher-end dryer with higher-quality components and more evenly distributed heat. At the very least, plan to pay at least $50.
Take into account that higher-end dryers often last better than less expensive models. A dryer that costs roughly $100 usually lasts 5 to 10 years, however, one that costs under $30 could barely last for 2.