Hot Hair: What's the Best Hair Dryer?

The way you dry your hair and the tools you use matter when it comes to your overall style. So when you're looking for a new hair dryer, there are a few things to consider. First, start with your own hair. Is it damaged? If so, it'll take less time to dry and may benefit from a lower-wattage blow dryer or one with variable temperatures. Thicker hair needs a higher wattage to get the job done quickly. But for the most part, a hair dryer with 1,800 watts is suitable for most everyone. It's helpful to have multiple speed and temperature settings on the dryer so that you're able to adjust for your hair's wetness and individual texture. Medium heat will pull the wetness out of hair, and high heat sets the style, as a general rule. Hairstylists tend to agree that the materials - whether it's ceramic, tourmaline or something else - may not matter as much as the products you use.


However, ceramic dryers may give a better result when you're trying to straighten and smooth hair, so it's worth a try. Also consider a nozzle attachment to direct the air flow if you like to straighten your hair. Point the nozzle slightly downward as you manipulate hair to prevent flyaways. And if you're a curly girl and like to stay that way, be sure to have a diffuser attachment for your dryer. The diffuser will allow curls to dry softly and naturally, preventing uneven and flat spots. Go easy on the heat - 1,400 watts should be enough - and use low or medium settings. You don't have to spend a ton on the fanciest hair dryer you can find if you just buy a dryer that has what you need...nothing more.