The best professional hair dryers on the market

Investing in a professional-grade hair dryer is really important for hairdressers. They usually have better performance and efficiency, which can lead to quicker styling and client turnover, which means more money.

Professional hair dryers are also built to last longer and under heavy use. A pro hair dryer is designed to withstand continuous and heavy usage, lasting longer than consumer-grade dryers. They might have a higher initial cost, but they can be more cost-effective in the long run as they last longer and mean more clients. They also tend to have better technology and comfort when using them all day.

Professional dryers often come with attachments like concentrators and diffusers, offering more versatile styling options. They also have more safety and consistency than cheaper models that might let you down.

What to look for in a professional hair dryer

When choosing a professional hairdryer, consider some key factors to make sure it meets your specific needs and provides the best performance:

• Wattage and motor power—look for 1800-2000 watts for a powerful airflow that'll speed up drying time and enhance efficiency.
• Technology and attachments—ionic and ceramic technology can level up your styling, as can extra attachments to support different styles.
• Heat and speed settings—variable settings help to distribute heat evenly, preventing hot spots and damage to your client's hair.
• Weight, ergonomics and cord length—ensure it's comfortable to use as you'll be using it regularly.
• Noise level—consider models with lower noise levels for a more pleasant salon experience for clients and stylists.
• Brand reputation and reviews—research reputable brands known for quality professional tools and check user reviews for reliability and performance.
• Safety features - look for safety features like overheating protection to prevent damage to the dryer or hair.
• Warranty and customer support—a longer warranty period and good customer support ensure reliability and assistance in case of any issues.
• Price and value—consider the balance between features, quality, and your budget to ensure you get the best value for your investment.

What are the best professional hair dryers on the market?

Here are some of the most popular professional hair dryers, along with the benefits and potential drawbacks of each one:

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

For fast and gentle drying, this hair dryer's the ultimate for speeding up hair drying while minimising heat damage. It has customisable heat and speed settings along with a lightweight, innovative design that's ergonomically designed to be easy to use.

It's a higher cost compared to many other professional hair dryers on the market. However, some users find magnetic attachments less secure than traditional ones.

ghd Air Hair Dryer

This hair dryer comes with advanced technology. It also has Ionic technology for reduced frizz and a professional finish, along with powerful performance, strong airflow and great heat for efficient drying. It's also easy to use with an ergonomic design for comfortable handling.

It's considered a bit heavier than other dryers on the market and has limited attachments compared to other models in the same range.

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Dryer

This dryer has Nano Titanium Technology, providing even heat distribution for smooth and shiny results. It's lightweight and well-balanced, with variable settings and multiple heat and speed settings.

Some users reported issues with longevity and durability over time. It's also considered to be much louder when compared to certain other hair dryers.

T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer

With IonAir Technology to help reduce frizz and promote smoother hair. It also has customisable options with various heat and speed settings for tailored styling, along with a volume booster to add body to the hair.

It's at a relatively higher price point compared to some other professional dryers. For some users, the drying time might be longer than other models.

RUSK Engineering W8less Professional Dryer

This dryer comes with ceramic and tourmaline technology that helps to reduce static and produce shinier hair. It's also lightweight, easy to handle and suitable for extended use. It also comes with various heat and speed options.

Some users reported issues with durability over prolonged use. Feedback also suggests that the cool shot button might be less effective than other models.

Elchim Classic 2001 Hair Dryer

The Elchim Classic 2001 has a powerful motor with great airflow and multiple settings. It's also known for its durability and longevity, making it a great choice to withstand the day-to-day that comes with a booked and busy chair.

It's considered a bit heavier and noisier compared to other models.

Each hair dryer has its own advantages and potential drawbacks, so it's essential to consider your clients' styling needs and preferences before making a choice. Whichever dryer you have will have a big impact on your day-to-day.

Specialist hairdresser insurance through Ripe

After purchasing some new equipment, you may want to consider insuring it, just in case the worst were to happen such as your hairdryer becomes damaged or causes damage to your client.

Specialist hairdresser cover through Ripe includes public and products liability which provides up to £10m of cover protecting you against third-party claims for injury or property damage.

You can learn more about Hair and Beauty insurance through Ripe here or click to get an online quote today.