If you've ever purchased a hair dryer, you know it's almost
overwhelming with the wide selection available. Almost every home has at least
one, but when the time comes to replace or upgrade your hairdryer, how do you
know what will work best with your hair? Does the product judge by the brand?
Maybe because of his appearance? How about based on your price? There are a
number of important factors to consider before purchasing the best hairdryer
for your hair.
There are five basic types on the market today; the
traditional model of metal, ionic, ceramic, tourmaline and nano-silver coil.
Some models combine at least two of these technologies. Here is an overview of
each of the five mentioned.
Traditional
Traditional models date from the early 1920s and typically
consist of a metal motor and heating coil. As the metal coils heat up, a motor
blows intense hot air (positively charged ions) and dries the hair relatively
quickly. The problem is, they use positively charged particles (positive ions)
that open up the cuticles that cover the shaft of your hair and essentially
cook the water. The end result is usually dry, frizzy and unhealthy hair.
Although they are still on the market today, they are generally the cheapest and
most low end models.
Ionic
Unlike metal coil dryers which use positively charged ions,
ionic hair dryers use negatively charged particles. What is the difference? The
negatively charged ions break up the water droplets into smaller micro droplets
which are easily absorbed by the hair shaft, reducing drying time and improving
the health of your hair.
Ceramic
Ceramic, once used only on flat irons, is now used in hair
dryers. The traditional models use metal coils which heat intensely but which
unfortunately create "cold spots" because the heat produced is not
constant. Ceramic creates even and constant heat and is generally only
available in a low and high speed setting. Ceramic also reduces bacteria
formation, which means cleaner, healthier scalp and hair. It is common to find
some of the best models, both ceramic and ionic.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a semi-precious stone which, when heated,
naturally emits a large amount of negative ions. In tourmaline models, stone is
crushed and infused over ceramic heating elements and is capable of producing
up to 6 times more negatively charged ions than normal ceramic elements,
significantly reducing drying time. Most tourmaline dryers combine ionic,
ceramic and tourmaline components.
Nanosilver
Latest drying technology, Nanosilver kills 99% of all
bacteria and helps keep your hair looking shiny and clean longer. As this
technology is still fairly new, most companies have yet to introduce their own
models, but it's a good bet some will see in the years to come.
Depending on what your budget can afford, most hairdressing
professionals recommend buying a model with ceramic and ion technology. If you
can afford it, especially if you are usually in a rush after your shower, the
combination of ceramic, ionic and tourmaline technologies is best. The best
hair dryer will usually consume your entire budget, but no money is wasted.
Buying the best hairdryer you can afford is more of an investment than an
expense.
