Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Read This Before Choosing a Hair Dryer


Once a basic appliance with a single on-off setting, hair dryers today include more attachments and functions than a cell phone. It is no wonder consumers find it difficult to choose a dryer suitable for their needs. Professional stylists and beauticians recommend the following criteria:

* Higher wattage dryers, 1800 and above, work best for most. This reduces drying time and overall stress to the hair.

* At least 4-6 heat/speed settings with an extra button for cool air. The blast of low temperature air helps set styles.

* Nozzle attachment to concentrate air flow

* Curly haired individuals must choose a dryer with a diffuser

Price Range

Choosing a dryer based on price is never a good idea. Shelling out $100 on a dryer for those who rarely heat style is just as bad as spending $10 on an appliance that will fry strands.

Inexpensive models range $5 - $20, but uncontrolled heat will cause severe damage if used regularly. This type is suitable for those who heat-style just a few times a year or for short hair. Shorter styles require frequent cuts, removing brittle ends caused by a cheap dryer.

A moderately priced dryer, costing $20 - $80, comes equipped with multiple heat settings and a cooling feature. Consumers who heat-style daily and have normal to oily hair should look for a dryer in this price range.

Professional dryers run $80 - $100+, but yield better results in half the time due to a more powerful motor. Usually, high-end dryers are quieter and longer lasting. Certain models infuse moisture and repair damaged tresses using ionic and ceramic technology. Those with brittle hair due to chemical processes or otherwise should invest in a professional dryer. Consumers who use any other heated appliance, such as a styling iron, in combination with a dryer must purchase a professional dryer.

Technological Considerations

Ionic dryers submit negatively charges ions to counteract the positive charged in each hair strand, sealing the cuticle and trapping moisture. The result is less frizz and more body due to static electricity reduction. Ionic technology works best for those with normal hair who use minimal styling products. Try: Helen of Troy Hot Tools Ionic A/C Motor Dryer .

Ceramic dryers provide even heating, reducing "hot spots" and hair damage. The internal ceramic heater is self-regulating and adjusts accordingly to the surrounding temperature. Multiple heat settings are usually not necessary for these dryers. Ceramic dryers are also residue and humidity resistant, so hair is left feeling silky, clean, and freshly conditioned. Try: CHI Professional Hair Dryer.

Tourmaline dryers dramatically reduce drying time by using ground crystalline silicate to boost ionic power. Tourmaline technology is sometimes combined with the ceramic heating system for truly optimum hair results. This type of dryer is used among professionals and is recommended for heavy-duty daily usage. Try: T3 Tourmaline Evolution Hair Dryer.

Choosing the correct dryer is critical to hair health and maintenance. Price alone is never a solid factor in making a wise selection. One must also consider the various technological advantages in today's heated appliances. Make sure to spend some time evaluating specific needs and expectations before purchasing a hair dryer.

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