How to choose a hair dryer?
Today, in almost every home, you can find a variety of devices for drying and styling hair. Nevertheless, it will be possible to choose one most suitable model from the wide variety on the market, if all important factors are taken into account.
Requirements for a hair dryer
Using a good hair dryer is one of the prerequisites for creating a beautiful styling. A modern device must necessarily be powerful, but at the same time safe, with the ability to select a temperature regime and adjust speeds. For ease of use, you should pay attention to light and compact models, ideally folding... In addition, the number and variety of attachments available are equally important. The wide ones help to create root volume, and the narrow ones allow you to polish the hair with a round brush.
The included diffuser will allow you to fix the curls.
Varieties, their pros and cons
When choosing a hairdryer, the first step is to decide for what purposes it will be used. Despite the fact that earlier this device was used only for drying hair, today more and more girls are looking for models that can help with their styling. Again, a blow dryer that works for short hair can do very poorly with long hair. In principle, all commercially available hair dryers can be divided into 5 categories. Wall mounted devices are stationary and, as a rule, are installed in public places - swimming pools, fitness clubs and other similar places.
This type of hair dryer is usually of medium power and can only be used to dry hair. No additional attachments are provided in the kit.For home use, wall-mounted devices are rarely purchased, but it still happens. The second category is made up professional hair dryers, which have the maximum cost and are most often used in beauty salons.
The devices can reach maximum power and are equipped with a large number of brushes and attachments.
The ability to use different modes allows you to choose care for a specific hair type and not cause any harm to them. Currently, an increasing number of girls are acquiring professional models specifically for home care. Hairdryers-stylers, they are hair dryers-brushes, in their appearance very much resemble a curling iron. The design looks like a cylindrical body equipped with numerous attachments. Such models are not powerful and quickly fail, so their purchase is not particularly recommended.
Household hair dryers are suitable for home use and are the most widely purchased devices. Their power is average, and in addition, there are several speed and temperature modes. The more expensive the product is, the more likely it is that additional attachments will be included in the kit. Finally, there are travel devices used in travel. They are small and foldable, which allows you to always place the structure in your luggage.
The downside of travel hair dryers is their low power and the absence of any additional settings.
Criterias of choice
A thoughtful choice of a hair dryer takes place in accordance with several important criteria.
Power
The power of the hair dryer determines at what speed the air will flow, as well as to what temperature the device can warm up. The more power, the higher the temperature gets and the faster the hair dries. This indicator is measured in watts and is always indicated directly on the body of the device. If the power is between 600 and 100 watts, then it is considered small. A hairdryer will do a good job of drying your head, but you will have to forget about styling. However, the curls will remain intact from heat exposure, which is a big plus.
If the power does not go beyond 1000-1800 watts, then it can be called average. Such a hairdryer is multifunctional, as it is suitable for regular drying, and for straightening curls, and for curling curls.
The presence of several speed and temperature modes makes it possible to cause minimal damage to the hair.
High power is considered to be one that exceeds 1800 watts.... Although some household models have this indicator, most often it is typical for professional hairdryers. For home use, a very powerful hair dryer is not recommended, as there is a high likelihood of hair damage.
In general, the optimal power indicator is between 1200-1800 watts. If the indicator does not reach the optimum, then the hair drying process becomes longer, and if it exceeds, then there is a possibility of scalp and hair burns. It is important to remember that the use of powerful hair dryers is contraindicated for fine hair. In addition, during drying, it should be remembered that the faster the hair dries, the less opportunity remains for styling, which means that sometimes it is even better to choose a device with low power.
Number of speeds
Nowadays, even many cheap models are equipped with speed regulators, but only those that have a power of more than 1200 watts. The best are those devices that have 2-3 speed modes, which can be switched using a special slider or button. At a low speed, it is recommended to simply dry the curls, especially if the strands are thin or weakened.
Medium and high speeds will already allow you to create complex styling. I must say that some devices have 4 to 6 speeds. However, a large number of relevant reviews suggest that there is no point in this at all.
The more often hairstyles and styling are created, the more speeds should be, however, if possible, also choose the appropriate temperature regime.
Temperature
An equally important indicator is the number of available temperature regimes. Household hair dryers generally allow you to dry your hair either cold or hot air. In more professional models, the number of modes increases to 3-4. You can adjust the indicator using the slider or button located on the handle of the device. The most suitable device for regular use is considered to be a device with three temperature modes.
With the help of hot air, it will turn out to create hairstyles, straighten curls or, conversely, curl hair. A medium temperature is good for drying your hair on a regular basis. Finally, cold air will make it possible to fix the finished styling by directing the flow to the twisted strands. It is better to dry weakened and thin hair, as well as children's curls with a cool stream and at low power. For strong and thick strands, hot air will be more suitable.
When testing the equipment, it is recommended to evaluate how quickly the cold air enters. Ideally, this interval should be 3 to 5 seconds.
Functions
A variety of functions allow you to make the use of the hair dryer more convenient for their owners. For example, filter availability is an obstacle to overheating and further burnout of the device. It is better to choose a removable filter that can be regularly removed and cleaned. Ionisation protects curls from hot air. Thanks to this function, the hair is saturated with water molecules, and therefore, during heat treatment, the head is additionally moisturized. All this happens because negatively charged ions break water droplets into tiny particles, and so it is much easier to penetrate into the hair.
Ionization also tightens hair scales and reduces the generation of static electricity. Tourmaline hair dryers, which produce a large amount of ions, make it possible to dry the hair very quickly. A ceramic heater, installed instead of a metal one, heats up evenly, and therefore carries out a neat drying of the hair that does not harm it.
Built-in ozonizer works in the same way as an ionizer, but in addition saturates the hairs with oxygen and tightly solders the scales. As a result of using a hair dryer with such a lamp, the hairstyle becomes smooth, shiny and elastic. A huge advantage is the presence of the "turbo" mode, which increases each speed by half a step.
Humidity control sensor allows you to keep track of how hydrated your hair is. If the amount of moisture decreases and the hair can dry out, then the power is automatically reduced. The infrared lamp makes it possible to dry your head quickly, but at a low temperature, and therefore not cause unnecessary harm to them.
Touch activation controls the operation of the hair dryer, depending on its movement. If the device rises, then it is activated, and if it is lowered, it turns off immediately.
Nozzles
The number of hair dryers may vary, but it is better not to spend money on a model with all possible accessories, and focus on actual needs. Concentrator is a basic nozzle that allows you to strengthen and set a clear direction of the air flow. The concentrator is easily dismantled and is included in the set of almost any hair dryer. This attachment is required for both drying and styling your hair. Diffuser looks like a round nozzle covered with solid "tentacles" of the same size. Its main purpose is to create volume by raising the hair at the roots, but it is also indispensable for curls.
Comb attachment allows you to straighten strands and make them smoother. The tongs are used to create curls. They can be of different diameters, which will allow for varying curly styling. The shorter the haircut, the smaller the diameter of the tongs used should be.
Brushes have either plastic or natural bristles. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are used for almost any purpose - straightening, curling, or creating volume. The comb is always made of plastic and has large and wide teeth. It is used to create various styles on long hair.
It should be added that professional devices can be equipped with hubs of different shapes and sizes, for example, narrowed, round, in the form of tubes and others. Hair dryers used for styling come with a rotating nozzle. It helps a lot in creating styling, but it breaks down pretty quickly.
Top manufacturers
In order to choose the right hair dryer manufacturer, it is better to first study the numerous reviews on the brands on the market. Quite often, the Chinese brand Redmond gets positive feedback. For example, users really like model Redmond RF-519, which has two temperature conditions and three speeds. Besides, it is also possible to fix the styling using cold drying... The power of the device is 2000 watts.
The device is equipped with a removable filter and a convenient hook that allows you to hang the hair dryer on the wall. The weight of the model is 0.48 kilograms, and the cord reaches 1.8 meters in length, which allows you to calmly move around the room during drying. The device is supplied with a concentrator attachment, and in addition, there is an additional protection against overheating. There are two designs for this model.
Of course, the hair dryers of the Dutch company Philips also have a good reputation. For example, you can consider model Philips BHD176 DryCare Pro. The device has two useful functions - ionization and cold drying. Three temperature settings and two power levels allow you to choose the optimal care for any hair. The power of the device is 2200 watts. The hair dryer is equipped with a removable filter, diffuser and concentrator. The wire length is 1.8 meters.
Interesting model Philips BHD006 Essential Care Travel. With a low power of 1,600 watts and a foldable handle, you can take your hairdryer with you on your travels. This device is also recommended for those who rarely dry their hair in this way, or have a short haircut. Despite the diminutive size of the device, it is supplied complete with a nozzle-hub, and the length of the wire is 1.8 meters. When purchasing, you can choose one of two color options.
The hair dryer is stored in a convenient case and operates on a 110 or 220 V. A convenient loop allows you to hang the tool on the wall. The Philips HPS910 DryCare Prestige Pro model has also proven itself. High power, equal to 2100 watts, and a long cord, reaching 2.5 meters, are among the main advantages of the hair dryer. Ease of use is ensured by a removable filter and a loop for hanging on the wall. The hair dryer has two speeds and three heating modes. The set includes a single nozzle - a concentrator.
Pay attention to the innovative Dyson Supersonic hair dryer.which even looks unusual. The device has a high-tech control system that measures the temperature of the air flow and, if necessary, changes it. Thus, you should not be afraid that the hair will turn out to be dry, since the device itself will control this process. The power of the device is 1600 watts. The set contains two attachments - a concentrator and a diffuser.
In addition, the hair dryer allows ionization, as well as fixing the finished styling with a stream of cold air. The motor has built-in overheating protection.
Quality equipment is produced by the Remington brand. The D5210 model has a power of 220 watts. The hair dryer has three temperature settings and two possible speeds. The set includes a removable filter and a concentrator attachment.The ionization function keeps hair intact.
Of course, one cannot fail to mention the equipment of the German brand Braun. Particularly beloved by women model Braun HD 785 Satin Hair 7, with five heating modes and two possible speeds. The power of the device is 2000 watts. In addition to a removable filter and a hanging loop, there is a special cord fastener. The model is equipped with two nozzles - a diffuser and a concentrator. A clear advantage of the hair dryer is the ability to work in a quiet mode.
Of course, one cannot fail to mention the popular manufacturer BaByliss. The BaBylissPRO BAB6350 Luminoso hair dryer has compact dimensions and several color variations. The maximum possible power is 2100 watts.
There are such useful functions as ionization and cold mode. The wire is 2.8 meters long and weighs 0.48 kilograms. The model is not only easy to use, but also quiet.
The German firm Moser is known for its hair cutting tools, but it also makes quality hair dryers. The Moser 4350-0050 model has a capacity of 2200 watts. The presence of three temperature modes and two speeds makes it possible to provide high-quality care for any type of hair. The presence of ceramic plates also contributes to the preservation of the health of the strands. The only attachment included in the kit is a hub.
The cord extends to almost 2.8 meters. Additional functions of this model are ionization and cold airflow. Finally, mention must be made of the Rowenta brand and its model. Rowenta CV 4751... The foldable handle allows you to take the device with you on trips. The presence of ionization and cold blowing provide hair protection. The power of the hair dryer is 2200 watts. He has one nozzle - a concentrator, but there are three temperature conditions and two speeds. The filter is removable.
Helpful hints
Choosing a hair dryer for home use, it is correct not only to evaluate the available characteristics, but also to "try on" it for yourself. In order to avoid any problems at home, you should pick up the device in your hands while still in the store, evaluate the weight, shape and comfort of use. It is imperative that your hand does not get tired while drying, otherwise every use of the hair dryer will create stress. It is imperative to check the presence of a concentrator nozzle that directs the water flows. If the girl has thin hair, then it is worth giving preference to models with a diffuser.
Of course, it is worth monitoring the presence of a filter that prevents dust, hair and some little things from getting inside, for example, hair bands. An additional plus is the presence of special brushes for cleaning it. The advantage is that the hair dryer has a special loop or other mount for hanging it on different surfaces.
In the event that you decide to purchase a professional hair dryer for home use, it is important to remember that the motor documents must contain the “AC” marking. The presence of the “DC” marking indicates that this is an ordinary household appliance. The weight of a professional device is always great, since only one motor equals 200 grams. In addition, for a professional hair dryer, the wire should always be thick and long, and the handle should either be rubberized or have rubber inserts.
Returning to ordinary household hair dryers, it must be said that It is better to take the case as reliable as possible, for example, made of plastic with increased heat resistance. Unfortunately, you won't be able to check the quality of the material yourself, so it's better to immediately choose trusted manufacturers. Modern hair dryers are made in the form of a pistol with a handle or a cylinder.
The first variety is more suitable for drying, but the second is the most convenient for styling.
It is extremely important to estimate the width of the nozzle. A nozzle that is too narrow creates a narrow air flow, which, in turn, can damage the hair structure.A wide nozzle promotes diffused flow, which makes it much more difficult to dry the head and create styling. Ideally, the nozzle should have a diameter of 9 centimeters. A good hair dryer cannot be lightweight, since the motor is always made with a metal winding of sufficient thickness.
A winding that is too thin will weigh less, but it will begin to melt faster. Turning on the hair dryer, you should listen to the sound that appears. Excessive or intermittent noise indicates a problem. The length of the hair dryer should be between one and a half to two meters. Ideally, it should be attached to the body using hinges or special moving parts. The most convenient weight of the device is 500 grams.
Before you start drying your hair it is recommended to use a styling product such as mousse or foam. The stiffer the hair, the stronger the hold should be. The non-allergenic product is gently spread over the entire length of the hair. If the hair dryer itself does not have a brush, then it will still have to be purchased separately. The round model helps curl straight strands and adds volume to the mop. If such a brush with a small diameter is used, then it creates small elastic curls, and if with a large diameter, then calm waves are obtained. The flat brush is more helpful in styling.
During the operation of the hair dryer, you should not always use the maximum speed and temperature, as this damages not only the hair, but also the device itself. For everyday use, it is better to activate medium or even minimum modes. Heavy, thick hair usually takes a long time to dry, so it is better to divide the whole process into several parts so that the hairdryer does not overheat. During breaks, the device should rest in the off state. By the way, you should also turn off the hairdryer in stages - first, transfer it to a lower temperature, and then disconnect it from the network.
The device should not be brought close to the head so that hairs do not fall into the device. If this does happen, then the filter should be promptly cleaned.
For information on how to choose the right hair dryer, see the next video.