When it comes to styling hair, few tools are as versatile as a blow dryer. No matter what sort of style you favour (from sleek, straight strands to big bouncy curls) a top-rated dryer can help make your hair dreams a reality.Whether you’re looking for the best hair dryer for thick hair to tackle dense strands, or the best hair dryer for fine hair to add volume without damage, we’ve got you covered.
There’s no denying the transformative power of investing in a great hair dryer. Even if you get the haircut of your dreams, if you can’t recreate that fresh-from-the-salon feel at home, your hair goals might fall flat in more ways than one.
However, with so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to know which hair dryer would work best with your hair. The best choice for you will depend on your hair type, your preferred style and your hair concerns, as there are a whole host of different features and functionalities that can help you achieve the best results possible.For example, the best hair dryer for curly hair will include a diffuser to define curls without frizz, while those with finer hair may want a model that offers gentle heat to prevent damage.
Scroll on to discover the best blow dryers for every hair type, texture, budget and style. We’ll also cover an overview of hair dryer technology, key features to consider when buying a hair dryer, and how to effectively use, clean and maintain your hair dryer.
What should I look for when buying a hair dryer?
There are several key features to consider when choosing a model and make, and these really elevate a good hair dryer to a great one. But don’t feel overwhelmed by the buzzwords –let’s break down the types of hair dryer tech that can really make a difference to your hair dryer experience.
Ceramic or tourmaline heating elements. Turns out, the material that the heating element is made from can really make a difference when it comes to minimising heat damage and keeping moisture in your locks. Ceramic elements help to make sure that the hair is heated evenly, instead of creating ‘hot spots’ that can unintentionally fry and damage hair.
Ionic technology. If you spot this listed on the specs of a potential new purchase, it’s a sure-fire route to smooth, flyaway-free hair. Ionic technology generates negative ions that work to break up water molecules in the hair for a smoother, frizz-free finish. Meanwhile, positive ions can boost the volume at the roots of the hair,making it a key consideration in the hunt for the best hair dryer for fine hair.
Wattage. Want a superfast dry time? Choose a model with a higher wattage, as the stronger airstream will make quick work of wet locks. However, a higher wattage can mean a heavier and more cumbersome hair dryer, which leads us on to…
Weight. If you’re a frequent dryer, you’ll probably be very familiar with the aching arms and shoulders that can accompany a fresh blow-dry… It’s a real workout! If you struggle with lifting and controlling hair dryers, check the weight of the model before you buy it.
Versatile speed and heat settings. The best hair dryers offer a variety of different heat and speed settings, so you can stay in full control while you style your hair. You might like to use a higher speed and heat for quickly drying hair, or a lower setting to keep frizz and tangles at bay and gently diffuse curls.A model that includes a wide range of settings is key when choosing the best hair dryer for curly hair.
Attachments and accessories. If you like to regularly switch up your style, choosing a model that comes with a range of attachments is a must. These can include concentrator nozzles, which help to direct airflow in a targeted, precise spot for silky-smooth locks, or diffusers, which allow heat to be evenly distributed to make the most of natural curls.
Cool Shot buttons. Yes, hair dryers are designed to heat hair in order to dry it quickly, but for sealing the cuticle and locking in shine you can’t beat a quick blast of cold air.
Hanging loops. This handy feature makes it easy to store your hair dryer in an accessible location, or keep it out of the way while it cools down.
Our hair-dryer top picks
Ready to find your hair’s new BFF? Let’s take a look at some of the top-rated hair dryers for 2024, from the cult-favourite Dyson Supersonic to the Shark SpeedStyle.
