Hairdryers: Features explained
Concentrator nozzle
Nozzle width varies a lot
A narrow hairdryer attachment that comes as standard, this nozzle concentrates both airflow and heat.
Direct it towards hair roots to add volume, but move it frequently to avoid damage.
Some airflows feel too hot with a concentrator nozzle, so you might need to use a lower heat.
Cool shot
Get frosty with the cool shot
Cool hair holds its shape better, so use this feature to rapidly reduce the air temperature and set your hairstyle.
Most cool-shot buttons need to be pushed continuously to operate, and some can be a bit stiff.
Diffuser
The prongs on a diffuser hold up sections of your hair in order to add volume to the roots.
A useful accessory, not an instrument of torture
They also reduce the ferocity of the airflow, which gives definition to curls.
It takes longer to dry your hair using a diffuser, which can make them too time-consuming for everyday use. Using them can also make your arm ache because they make your dryer heavier.
A ‘diffuser sock’ is a soft, foam-like bag that covers the end of the dryer.
Hanging loop
This loop at the top of the power cable is useful for hanging a dryer out of harm’s way while it cools.
Ionic function
An ionic button gives you more flexibility
This technology aims to condition hair using negatively charged ions, created by passing air particles over a high electric current.
An ionic function might be a permanent feature of your hairdryer, or switched on and off with a button.
Manufacturers’ claim that an ionic function protects hair, reduces frizz, improves shine and banishes static. In our tests we found it reduced microscopic signs of hair damage caused by drying at high temperatures and speeds.
Our testers thought that using an ionic function largely made their hair feel softer.
Power cord
Hang your dryer to cool down
Look for a long cord if you like to hold your hairdryer up to a mirror as you style. Power cords range from less than 2m to more than 3m.
Never wind the cable around your hairdryer for storage, as this can damage the internal wiring and create a fire risk.
Hairdryers have become increasingly powerful over the past few years and we were dismayed to find that some power cords didn’t use the correct thickness of wire for the wattage of the appliance. We are raising this with the manufacturers concerned.
Removable air inlet
Clean the inlet often
Most hairdryers have a removable end cap with mesh filter that catches dust and prevents your hair from getting caught in the motor.
They should be cleaned regularly to avoid a build-up of debris, which reduces airflow and can cause your hairdryer to overheat.
This is particularly important if you use a lot of styling products.
Switches
Most hairdryers have separate heat and speed controls. There are two basic types: sliding and rocker switches.
Sliding switches are set into the handle and usually move up or down the shaft of the dryer.
Rocker switches can be easier than sliders
They can be hard to use if they are stiff, lack a textured grip or don’t project out from the surface of the handle.
Rocker switches are activated when you push their raised end down. They are easy to use, but can be accidentally activated as you hold the handle, unexpectedly changing the heat and speed mid drying.
Rocker switches towards the bottom of the handle can be awkward to operate if they are too low.