Hair dryers are essential in any grooming routine. It is especially important for people on-the-go who need a quick fix of their hair. However, not every hair dryer is made equal. In this article, we will outline a quick guide in choosing the right one for your hair.
But first, how does a hair dryer work?
The contraption can be simplified into two important parts: the heating element and the electric fan. The heating element is typically made from nichrome wire, which is a type of power resistor. The electric fan blows air through the nichrome wire. Then, the air absorbs the heat as it passes, which is then expelled through the nozzle. The heat, along with the air, speeds up the evaporation of water on your head.
While the basics are practically the same, hair dryers vary in form and function. Here are a few options that you have:
- Ionic hair dryers – This type of dryer emits negative ions that allow water particles to divide into smaller parts. In turn, this promotes faster evaporation without the need to generate more heat. That means this variety of hair dryers prevents further hair damage from heat. Additionally, some hair products reach well to negative ions and produce better results.
- Ceramic hair dryers – It produces both positive and negative ions using ceramic heating elements. Additionally, it provides more control over heat that is directly applied to the hair. Even when not actively heated, the ceramic components retain heat, which makes it more efficient.
- Tourmaline hair dryers – This kind of hair dryer combines negative ions and infrared heat to dispel moisture from the hair. It uses with tourmaline, which is a type of precious stone that helps produce milder heat. Hence, it prevents damages from a much more harsh increase in temperature.
- Infrared hairdryers – This variety of hair dryers uses infrared exclusively, which penetrates the hair much better than using direct heat. The even distribution of temperature prevents further damage, which is usually caused by traditional dryers.
Now that you know the basic types of hair dryers that are available in the market, which one should you buy? Well, that depends on the type of your hair and the hairstyle that you want:
- For All Hair Types – Ceramic hair dryers are known to be an excellent all-around tool for grooming. It distributes heat throughout the hair to prevent burns. Additionally, the ionic technology found in most ceramic hair dryers locks in moisture while minimizing drying time.
- Coarse or Thick Hair – This type of hair is usually harder to dry as it absorbs more moisture. However, this does not mean that you need a harsh temperature to achieve the desired effect. Choose hairdryers with higher wattage as they produce better heat without the damaging effect. Also, these devices are easier to control and manoeuvre to ensure thorough drying.
- Curly Hair – This type of hair can typically withstand higher temperatures without any severe effects. You can choose hair dryers with wattage between 1600 to 2000 to achieve better drying time. Also, you should avoid products that may introduce frizziness and ruin the natural ringlets and curls of the hair.
- Fine or Thin Hair – If your hair generally lacks volume, then you may have this type of hair. That means you need less drying time as moisture is more exposed and easier to evaporate. It may also mean that your hair is easily damaged with extreme heat. Choose hair dryers with lower wattage as they produce milder drying air.
- Damaged Hair – Regardless of appearance, if you know that your hair is already damaged and sensitive due to frequent colouring or treatments, then you should choose hair dryers with the lower wattage. Heat can cause further breakage and even irritation on your scalp.
Remember that you use hair dryers on a daily basis. Even if you think your hair can handle high temperatures, constant exposure to such conditions will eventually cause irreparable damage. You can also use products that strengthen your hair and locks in moisture that can prevent any brittleness.
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