We also tested each hairdryer’s frizz-fighting powers, thanks to our Bossa Nova Shuffle machine, which assessed how many flyaways occurred once hair was introduced to humidity. In the ELLE Beauty Lab, we measured the temperature of the airflow, casing and nozzle, as well as assessing instructions, simplicity and design. They rigorously judged the speed of drying hair, ease of use, weight, noise level and the finished results of each appliance. Over 300 testers with a variety of hair types reviewed 20 hairdryers. We've rounded up the best hairdryers out there so you can invest your money wisely (and thank us later). Finish with a blast of cold air to close the cuticle to reduce frizz.' Damp hair equals frizz so, keep a water spray bottle handy to re-wet damp sections before thoroughly blow-drying. Multi-award-winnning Afro Hairstylist Charlotte Mensah provides her top tip to a sleek blow-out: 'My top tip is to blow dry in small sections ensuring each section is completely dry before moving onto the next. What’s the best method for blow drying hair? Due to the even airflow, it means you can dry strands quicker, which means you have less chance of frying more vulnerable ends. In general, though, ionic devices tend to be better suited to curly, thick or frizzy hair, as water is prevented from soaking into the hair shaft, which helps preserve the definition of your curls.Ĭeramic models are great for those with finer hair. It sounds complicated, but essentially it means you can use the hairdryer at a lower temperature, causing less frizz and damage.Ĭeramic hairdryers, on the other hand, focus on flawless engineering, as they work to automatically even out airflow and adjust temperatures depending on your hair needs.īoth options have become a go-to for helping to keep damage at bay. To answer this, here's a quick science lesson: ionic hairdryers work by producing negatively charged ions, to break down positively charged water molecules. When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits.įlorence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.Show more Is an ionic or ceramic hair dryer best?īoth ionic and ceramic hairdryers are known for being kinder to tresses, helping to reduce dreaded heat damage. With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE, Women’s Fitness, Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. A hanging loop is useful for storing your hair dryer out the way while it cools down.įlorence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews - from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches.A cool shot button provides a burst of cool air that seals the hair cuticle, making hair look smoother and shinier.High speed and heat is best for drying hair quickly, while a lower speed and heat provides more styling control and limits tangling and frizziness. However, higher wattage hair dryers tend to be heavier and harder to control. Higher wattage means stronger airflow and therefore a faster dry time. Tourmaline hair dryers release negative ions for a smoother finish. Ceramic hair dryers distribute heat more evenly, preventing “hot spots” and minimising heat damage. Ceramic or tourmaline heating elements are thought to be less damaging to your hair than metal ones, as they emit infrared heat and lock in moisture.Positive ions can be directed at the roots to boost volume. Ionic technology creates negative ions that break up water molecules in your hair, smoothing it and preventing flyaways.To make things easier, we’ve broken down the buzz words to look out for: Choosing the best hair dryer for you will not only be down to your hair type, but also understanding all the features and extras each model comes with.

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