Emerson Salon – Capitol Hill Seattle

Want to start heat styling your hair but don’t know where to start? These days it is difficult to know what hair appliance is best for you, your hair, lifestyle and budget. As hairstylists, we realize that investing in a professional level hair dryer may not fit your budget as they can run from $120-$500.

Here, we will outline the best tips on how to find that perfect hair dryer whether in the drugstore, beauty supply, or online. This way you can compare and contrast components and price and make an informed decision!

A lot of people prioritize their needs according to the following components:

Weight: This is important for two reasons. First, the heavier it is the more difficult it is to use and hold. It could cause your arm or shoulder to cramp up depending on how long it is used in one sitting.2) If you intend to travel you might want one that folds up in addition to being lighter in weight.

Wattage: Blowdryers range in wattage from 600w to 1875-1900 watts. What is the difference? Lower wattage dryers are good for finer hair as they take longer to dry the hair but also help to maintain hair health and sheen. Higher wattage dryers are good for dense, thick, wavy or curly hair. Higher wattage can also cut down on drying time but if used on the highest setting regularly can cause heat damage. (Heat damage is when the high heat burns through the hair cuticle in inconsistent spots making it more prone to moisture loss and breakage.) Also, be aware of the wattage as some older outlets will short out a fuse if it is not capable of carrying the load.

Technology: There is some debate among the haircare industry on certain types of newer hairdryer technology. Some have more scientific credo than others. Ceramic, Tourmaline, Ionic and Far Infrared technologies are some of the most commonly discussed. All have specific benefits to them, but some aren’t 100% proven: Generally, these sciences cut down on drying time with less damage than traditional appliances.

• Ceramic: These dryers use ceramic plates or coils instead of metal and are intended to be self regulating to prevent inconsistent heat and therefore, damage.
• Ionic: Use negatively charged ions to break down the water molecule in order to hydrate from the inside out. This encourages hair health and shine.
• Tourmaline: Use a gemstone to increase the number of negative ions more than regular ionic dryers.
• Far (FIR) Infrared: Use waves of energy invisible to the eye to deeply penetrate and slowly warm from the inside out. There are many studies on the health benefits on the body as well with FIR. This can include stimulated blood flow to the capillaries, elimination of bacteria, viruses, etc, and others.
• Low EMF: this stands for lower electro-magnetic fields. These energies in large doses over time can cause,”headaches, anxiety, suicide and depression, nausea, fatigue and loss of libido. To date, scientific evidence does not support a link between these symptoms and exposure to electromagnetic fields,” says the World Health Organization. (http://www.who.int/peh-emf/about/WhatisEMF/en/index1.html) But if this sounds alarming, there are now hair dryer available in the low-emf category.

Attachments: Does the dryer include diffuser or concentration nozzle attachments? If so, you are getting more bang for your buck. If not, there are universal attachments you can purchase but are not guaranteed to fit your appliance. (A diffuser disperses the dryer flow to slowly dry wavy-curlier textures without frizz. Concentrators direct air flow to a more specific point and with a more specific direction. Example: You use the concentrator to point the air flow down the hair shaft to make the cuticle lay down for straightening.)

Pricing: Use this knowledge combined with your budget. Some dryers are great that are $25-40. Some are designed for lots of wear and tear for those who often drop or bang the appliance over its life. If you are concerned about its continued functionality, you can always get a warranty your appliance with the manufacturer in case of any problems.

Other heat tools: You can also apply this knowledge to buying a curling iron or flat iron as some of the same technologies are used in their heating elements.

Flat irons that get up to 300 to 450 degrees are best for thicker, wavier hair types and finer hair textures can use more moderate temperatures less than 300 degrees. We recommend a 1 1/2″- 2″ barrel size iron for the more versatility (it can create spiral curls, volume bumps, soft waves, etc.) Flat irons should have at least a 3-4″ length to cover the most surface and have the ability to curve or bevel the hair without too much work,. It is also possible with some technique and practice to create curl or wave with a flat iron by itself.

Another fun tool is a “wave runner” that has a triple barrel to create a consistent S shape to the hair sections. This gives the most controlled wave in less time.

Need some more help? Here are some specific recommendations:

• http://www.sallybeauty.com/Hair-Dryer/SBS-264880,default,pd.html?cgid=Hair09-03-03
• http://www.sallybeauty.com/flat-iron/JILBRE37,default,pd.html?cgid=Hair09-06

Once your appliances are bought, come here for more heat styling tips! We’ve got lots of time conserving ideas and fun tips to create your own looks at home. Have fun and play!

post by D’Arcy