Top 10 Hair Dryers Recommended by Salon Owners
When it comes to styling your hair, you might think that any old hair dryer will do the trick. But trust me, using a high-quality dryer can make all the difference in achieving that salon-worthy blowout. A powerful dryer will cut down on drying time, preventing damage from too much heat exposure. Not to mention, a good hair dryer will also have adjustable heat and speed settings to accommodate different hair types and styles. So before buying just any old drugstore brand, do your research and invest in a best-in-class hair dryer – your hair will thank you for it. Plus, who doesn’t love having their hair blown out like a celebrity? That alone is worth the splurge. Bottom line: when it comes to a hair dryer, don’t skimp on quality – it’s worth every penny. Trust me, as a long-time salon owner, I’ve tried them all. I’ve listed 10 favorites from different price points that should meet every need and budget.
We independently determine what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
4 Things to Consider When Choosing a Hair Dryer
- Wattage. The wattage of a hair dryer is important to consider as it will determine how powerful the dryer is. A higher wattage means that the dryer will be able to generate more heat, which can be helpful if you have thick or curly hair. However, it is important to make sure that the dryer does not have too high of a wattage, as this can damage your hair.
- Weight. The weight of the hair dryer is also important to consider, as you will be holding it up to your head for extended periods of time. A heavier dryer may be more difficult to hold up, but it will also be more stable and less likely to fall over.
- Features. There are a variety of features that you may want to look for in a hair dryer, such as multiple heat settings, a cool shot button, and ionic technology. These features can all be helpful in creating the perfect hairstyle.
- Warranty. Make sure you protect your investment with a manufacturer’s warranty. Most models come with one, but check to make certain your model is covered before purchasing.
The Dyson Supersonic™ is widely considered to be the best hair dryer on the market. This high-end hair dryer features a powerful motor that dries hair quickly and evenly. Additionally, the Supersonic™ comes with a variety of attachments that allow you to style your hair in any way you desire. It’s powerful motor and cutting edge heating element makes quick work of even the thickest hair.
Pros: Powerful airflow, even heat, smart design.
Cons: Very expensive. Not very durable for a product at this price point. Reports of electrical issues happening after the warranty ends.
MID-PRICED
2. The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Dryer
The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Dryer is another excellent option for those looking for a high-quality hair dryer. This professional-grade dryer features nano titanium technology that helps to reduce frizz and static. Additionally, the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Dryer comes with a concentrator attachment that helps to direct airflow and create sleek, shiny styles.
Pros: Gentle, even heat with ionic airflow, controls frizz.
Cons: No available accessories like a comb or diffuser
INEXPENSIVE
3. The Revlon 1875W Infrared Hair Dryer
The Revlon 1875W Infrared Hair Dryer is a great option for those on a budget. This affordable hair dryer features infrared technology that dries hair from the inside out, resulting in less damage and more shine. Additionally, the Revlon 1875W Infrared Hair Dryer comes with two speed settings and three heat settings, so you can customize your drying experience to suit your needs.
Pros: Lightweight, inexpensive, versatile attachments
Cons: Attachments tend to fall off after more than 3 minutes of operation. Not intended for professional use.
EXPENSIVE
4. GAMMA+ XCell Professional Ultra-Lightweight Hair Dryer
The GAMMA+ XCell Professional Ultra-Lightweight Hair Dryer is one of the best performing, lightest-weight hair dryers on the market. Dubbed “The Hairdryer of the Future,” It’s whisper-quiet brushless digital motor generates 110,000 rpm—more than enough to dry your hair, but it won’t dry it out! Ionic Technology adds shine while reducing frizz for a softer finish, and significantly reduces drying times.
Pros: Extremely lightweight, digital whisper-quiet motor, fast drying times, includes various accessories
Cons: Very expensive, reported durability issues
MID-PRICED
5. The Panasonic Nanoe™ Moisture Infusion Hair Dryer
The Panasonic Nanoe™ Moisture Infusion Hair Dryer is a great choice for those with dry or damaged hair. This unique hair dryer infuses moisture into each strand of hair as it dries, resulting in softer, shinier locks. Nanoe technology draws moisture from the air, creating super-fine moisture-rich ions that penetrate each strand of hair. Additionally, the Panasonic Nanoe™ Moisture Infusion Hair Dryer comes with three speed settings and three heat settings, so you can tailor your drying experience to your specific needs.
Pros: Fast drying, repairs damaged dry hair, includes various accessories
Cons: Loud volume and heavy
EXPENSIVE
6. ghd Helios 1875w Advanced Professional Hair Dryer
This model has a powerful 1875W brushless motor and contoured nozzle designed to speed up your styling routine for salon-quality results. Lighter than most models, its ultra-powerful brushless DC motor creates a powerful airflow of 75mph to maximize drying performance and dramatically cut down styling time.
Pros: Fast drying, repairs damaged dry hair, lightweight, durable
Cons: Comes with only one accessory
EXPENSIVE
7. GAMA Italy IQ Perfetto Professional Hair Dryer
The GAMA Italy IQ Perfecto is ultra lightweight, weighing under 1 pound, and dries significantly faster than models at the same price point. With 1700 watts of power and a variety of accessories, this is one of our favorite professional models. The self-cleaning setting is a winner—it reverse spins the motor to release any hair and dust—bravissimo!
Pros: Fast drying, ultra lightweight, self cleaning, a variety of accessories
Cons: Price, reported durability issues
EXPENSIVE
8. Solano Moda 1750W High Performance Professional Ceramic Hair Dryer
The GAMA Italy IQ Perfecto is ultra lightweight, weighing under 1 pound, and dries significantly faster than models at the same price point. With 1700 watts of power and a variety of accessories, this is one of our favorite professional models. The self-cleaning setting is a winner—it reverse spins the motor to release any hair and dust—bravissimo!
Pros: Fast drying, lightweight, durable, comes with two air flow accessories
Cons: Price
EXPENSIVE
9. Euregil Professional Ionic Hair Dryer with DiffuserSolano Moda 1750W
The GAMA Italy IQ Perfecto is ultra lightweight, weighing under 1 pound, and dries significantly faster than models at the same price point. With 1700 watts of power and a variety of accessories, this is one of our favorite professional models. The self-cleaning setting is a winner—it reverse spins the motor to release any hair and dust—bravissimo!
Pros: Fast drying, lightweight, durable, comes with two air flow accessories
Cons: Price
EXPENSIVE
10. T3 CURA LUXE Hair Dryer
The T3 CURA LUXE is a digital ionic professional hair dryer with 2 speed settings, 5 heat settings, and an auto-pause sensor to protect your hair from drying out. The powerful motor delivers strong and consistent airflow while still being gentle on your hair. This model is great for frizzy hair.
Pros: Fast drying, lightweight
Cons: Price, reported durability issues
EXPENSIVE
10. Skanwen Professional Hair Dryer
The Skanwen Professional Hair Dryer is one of the top values in the expensive class. It has many features, is lightweight, and is travel ready. The 120,000 rpm, 1300w brushless motor dries hair evenly, and is whisper quiet. It comes with a variety of accessories, including a travel case, which the hair dryer folds neatly into—great for travel!
Pros: Fast drying, lightweight, great for travel, many accessories
Cons: 1300w motor might not dry fast enough for thicker hair
We hope this list of hair dryers has helped you select the right one for your budget and needs. Remember, a professional blow out by a qualified stylist might not be affordable or practical all the time, but with the right technique and the right equipment, you can have a salon styled look from home. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and models until you find the perfect match. And when in doubt, always consult a professional stylist to get their opinion on what type of hair dryer would work best for your hair type.