Your hair dryer FAQs, answered:

How to choose a hair dryer:

“When choosing a hair dryer, your hair type is definitely one of the first things to consider,” shares celebrity hairstylist and founder of mdlondon, Michael Douglas. “Curly or wavy hair really does require a diffuser, whereas those with straighter hair would get much more use from a wide, concentrated nozzle.”

Meanwhile, Maria Sotiriou, hairstylist and founder of SILKE London, says to consider the weight, heat settings and power: “Something lightweight is very helpful as you’re usually holding it higher than shoulder height. And, as you know, the longer you hold something up in the air, the heavier it becomes. A quiet hairdryer is something I also think is important; being able to hear your phone, the doorbell go, someone calling your name and also less noise generally feels like less stress.”

Both hairstylists note the importance of looking for a travel-friendly and space-saving blow dryer. “Look out for the length of the electrical cord as sockets are not always placed in the most useful places, especially when travelling,” notes Maria.

Don’t forget to look for a cool shot if you want to set your style with a cold blast of air. It’s also worth considering ionic technology, which produces negatively charged ions that break down the positively charged ions in water – this stops water from soaking into your hair shaft and creating frizz. So, if you have an ionic hair dryer, you can dry your hair faster and at a lower temperature.

Finally, comfort is key: “When buying a hairdryer, hold it in your hand and place your fingers on the controls to see if the controls are comfortable to use,” advises Maria.

Which hair dryer is least damaging?

Maria recommends looking for a hair dryer with a range of different heat and power controls. “If your hair is chemically processed and brittle, then you’ll want to be able to modify the settings to prevent further damage,” she explains.

Many of the least damaging hair dryers are also made with advanced technologies that help speed up drying time, and protect the hair. Ionic technology produces negative ions that help break down water molecules, which reduces frizz and leaves hair sleek and shiny. Meanwhile, hair dryers that have been coated internally with ceramic are great for ensuring even head distribution – which is especially important for delicate and damaged locks.

Is it good to use a hair dryer every day, and can a hair dryer cause hair loss?

In an ideal world, you don’t want to be using heat on your hair every single day – but as hot tools go, Michael says that hair dryers aren’t too bad. “Heat damage is a real thing but hair dryers barely go over 130°C on the highest setting – which isn’t enough heat to damage the hair.”

“However, prolonged heat at this temperature (applied to the same section of hair for long periods of time) will cause damage. So, remember it’s not just about the temperature or the heat – it’s about how long that heat is on the hair for.” To limit damage, also remember to always use a heat protectant spray.

What hair dryers do professional hairdressers use?

“Professionals use a mixture of hair dryers,” explains Michael. “They need them to be more robust because instead of them being used for 20 minutes, professionals use them for 6 to 7 hours a day. Hair dryers work by sucking in air through the back, heating it up and then pushing warm air out the front. The air that gets sucked in the back carries with it dust, dirt, dead skin and more. This dust and dirt gets inside the filter and the dryer itself. Professional hairdryers therefore need to be made in a way that’s easy to clean and doesn’t allow dust to build up inside the motor. So, the big difference between a professional dryer and a consumer dryer is the amount of air that it sucks in, durability and the ease of cleaning the filters.”

If you want a tool that’s worthy of the pros, then Michael recommends opting for one that’s been designed by a hairdresser. “For me personally, I would trust a brand or hair dryer that’s been created by someone who uses them all the time, knows what it means to use one, and knows what great hair really means to the person using it! A hairstylist really understands the nuance of styling hair on different individuals.”

Whilst selecting the right hair dryer is important, many professionals will tell you that it’s not the only factor that goes into a great blow dry. Technique, brushes and products all affect the final result. Make sure you always use a heat protectant, too.

What’s the best hair dryer for my hair type?

According to Michael, thick hair generally needs more heat and power, while fine hair needs less heat and power. “Thicker hair is harder to dry with a smooth finish, so having a lightweight dryer will make it easier,” he explains. “A large, wide nozzle with a small opening creates a lot of compressed air that, when forced in a particular direction, makes blow-drying thick hair easier. Fine hair is easier and faster to style; this is more about having an appropriate brush and technique – less about the hairdryer.”

Maria, on the other hand, likes a hair dryer that can do it all. “A dryer should be able to style both fine and thick hair, not one or the other,” she says.

After more electrical styling tools and haircare content? Check out our guides for hot tools such as the best hair straighteners, best curling wands and foldable travel hair dryers. We can also help you pick the best shampoo, best hair conditioner and best hair serums.