Why Choosing the Best Dryer for You Is The One Skill You Really Need

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.