Absolutely, as long as you use it correctly. This involves good timing and appropriate use of the hair dryer’s features and settings. When heat is applied to dripping wet strands, it can cause further damage, leaving you with a frizzy mane. At the same time, blow drying when your hair is too dry may turn your tresses dull and brittle. A good rule of thumb? Ensure your hair is 60-65% dry before working on it.

 

That aside, there are still plenty of factors to consider before you purchase the best hair dryer for yourself. Do you need a hair dryer with a diffuser, or you are looking for a fast-drying option? What are the ideal settings to protect your hair from the humidity of Singapore's weather? Which is better for you - ionic conditioning or the ceramic technology? Features aside, what is your preferred user experience so that you can make the best of your hair dryer?

 

We hear you. Let us take you through the details.

Essentially, the best option should dry your hair fast but more often than not, this cannot be achieved if the basic conditions are not met. These include:

• Lightweight - A dryer that is too bulky makes it difficult for prolonged use. Choosing one that is light and easy to manoeuvre is key.
  
  
• Comfortable Grip - The design of the hair dryer is pertinent here. If it does not allow you to hold the dryer comfortably, you cannot achieve the desired hairstyle quickly and effectively. Imagine the dryer slipping off your palms every other minute or your fingers nudging at the switches? The more of such snags, the longer it takes to complete your hair-do.
  
  
• Easy To Use - 2021 and beyond, hair dryers will continue to develop further, but their complex settings can delay the time taken to work on your hair too. Picking one that is easy to use despite its advanced features will be beneficial. This also includes the use of the switches itself, be they rocker or sliding ones. If it takes you less than two minutes to familiarise with the hair dryer, that machine is a potential purchase.
  
  
• Suitable For Hair Type - The best hair dryer is one that performs well on your hair. This requires a good understanding of your hair type. Different types require varied hairstyling needs, so matching the dryer’s functionalities against your requirements is imperative.

It is not uncommon to feel a little frazzled with all the features and settings of hair dryers you find listed on the packages. A quick run-through of these will be useful.

 

1. Ionic, ceramic and tourmaline technology

• Ionic: Hair dryers with ionic conditioning technology produce negatively-charged ions to break down positively-charged water molecules. This makes the drying process faster, that too at a lower temperature. These negative ions also prevent the hair shaft from opening so it retains your hair’s moisture, keeping your tresses smooth, sleek and frizz-free. Your curls are also preserved upon drying.
  
  
• Tourmaline: Like its ionic counterpart, tourmaline, when used in the inner parts of the dryer, releases negative ions when heated. Together with its infrared heat, it helps to close the cuticle layer, ensuring your hair is void of frizzes and stays smooth.

• Ceramic: Perfect for all hair types, ceramic hair dryers are notable for heating up quickly and distributing heat evenly, as opposed to the traditional alternatives that produce uneven airflow. It also regulates the heat by sensing the temperature of its surroundings. These make the dryer more gentle on the hair, leaving a good shine and sleek finish.

2. Temperature control

 

A good temperature control is essential to ensure you apply an appropriate level of heat to your hair. This will depend on your hair type. Finer or damaged hair will do best when dried under lower heat settings to avoid breakage, while thicker or coarser hair will require a higher temperature to dry faster. Going for a hair dryer with more flexible temperature control is good for regulating heat to achieve the best results.

 

Budget-friendly dryers like Philip Prestige Hair Dryer with SenseIQ comes with Infrared sensor. Detecting and adjusting to your precious hair, it controls the temperature to prevent overheating, retaining your hair's natural moisture.

 

3. Airflow control

 

Your perfect hair-do is also contingent on excellent airflow, which hair dryers with high wattage can deliver. The control settings allow you to adjust the speed of airflow according to your hair type. Tougher hair works better with high airflow. If you have finer hair, you can dry it fast by choosing a higher setting with less heat. You can also lower the airflow when styling your hair to reduce the flyaways. Top-quality hair dryers like the Dyson Supersonic™ Hair Dryer make use of a range of technologies and additional attachments to provide you with better control of the drying process, allowing you to produce stunning results.

 

4. Cold shot

 

The cold shot feature of hair dryers comes in handy when you need to set your hair after styling. It offers a burst of cold air to cool your tresses, leaving a shine finish.

 

5. Concentrator

 

Ideal for spot drying and controlled styling, the concentrator, which comes as an attachment, directs the airflow to specific sections of the hair. Those with thicker hair will find this feature useful to add more volume.

 

6. Diffuser

 

Another attachment for airflow control, a diffuser aids in dispersing air to reduce heat damage and frizz. Those with short fingers are great for drying and defining curly and wavy hair. Longer prongs, which are ideal for all hair types, add volume by reaching deeper into the hair and applying heat directly at the roots.

 

7. Infusions

 

Some hair dryers are infused with conditioning components to deliver extra nourishment and protection from damage during the drying and styling process. Some of these are made from keratin and argan oil which are known to strengthen the hair and offer a healthy shine.

Now that you understand the different features and settings of a good hair dryer and how they apply to various hair types, it is time to consider what is best for your own hair. Choosing one that leaves your hair looking prim and proper in spite of the weather -  in Singapore or overseas - is the perfect buy.

 

1. Thin or fine hair: Choose the ceramic hair dryer

 

As thin or fine hair is very prone to damage from high heat, choosing a hair dryer that allows you to effectively regulate heat settings is essential. This makes the ceramic hair dryer very suitable as it allows for even distribution of heat, encouraging better hair care. Moreover, it will help you create some lift to your fine tresses which are otherwise very limp.

 

2. Thick hair: Opt for the ionic hair dryer

 

When your hair is thicker, it takes time to dry and you will need a higher temperature to do so. The ionic hair dryer is an excellent option as it speeds up the drying process. Aside from adding volume, a concentrator can also help you improve the airflow, so you can dry your hair section by section for optimal results.

 

3. Frizzy hair: Pick between the ionic or tourmaline hair dryer

 

Both the ionic and tourmaline hair dryer helps to remove static, which effectively reduces frizz. Either will be perfect for drying and styling frizzy hair!

 

Check out Braun Satin Hair 7 airstyler with IONTEC technology that comes with 2 styling attachments. Braun IONTEC  technology allows the air styler to infuse your fizzy hair with active ions, erasing static that accompanies normal air stylers. The results: smoother, shinier hair that stands out.

 

4. Curly or wavy hair: Best choice is the hair dryer with diffuser

 

When working with curly or wavy hair, it is best to go for a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment so you can smoothen and maintain the shape of your locks while you blow dry. Choosing the ionic hair dryer here will be useful for a fast-drying and frizz-free result too.

We definitely recommend options from Dyson if you may ask. Accompanied with a re-engineered long-pronged diffuser, you can style and define your curls and waves more effectively.

 

5. Dull hair: Explore between ionic conditioning or tourmaline technology

 

The hair dryer with ionic conditioning or tourmaline technology is perfect to add some shine and lustre to your dull and lifeless tresses. Those with infused rings or grilles is an added benefit as the micro-conditioners can offer more nutrients to uplift the hair. The cold shot feature is also perfect to add a good shine while it sets the hair after styling.

 

6. Dry or damaged hair: Go for the ceramic hair dryer

 

If your hair is dry or damaged, it is advised to towel dry and add a heat protectant before using the hair dryer for styling purposes. This prevents further damage. Using a low heat setting is essential. Be sure to keep moving the dryer across your locks so no heat is concentrated at any area. Picking the ceramic hair dryer is the best in such cases for its even heat delivery. Going for those with infusions can restore your hair’s health back to normal too.

Perhaps you are not getting the desired result each time with your current hair dryer or your hair feels more damaged after each blow-dry. Maybe it is time for a replacement, one that is more suitable for your hair type. It is also good to consider getting a new one if you own a much older model. As the new varieties come with inbuilt safety features such as temperature regulators that shut off when the dryer gets too hot, it will be better to trade your old one for a new model for better protection.

The hair dryer is an electrical appliance, so proper use is essential to avoid any injury or accident. Even the best hair dryers may turn faulty when not well taken care of. Here’s what you can do to protect your hair dryer, yourself and others:

• If the power cord is damaged, do not use it. Check whether your product warranty includes a free replacement or repair. Should there be costs involved, ascertain if a new purchase is worth the buck.
  
  
• While it is convenient to use the hair dryer in the bathroom, it is advisable to avoid wet areas to prevent it from coming into contact with water. If that occurs, switch off the power supply and unplug immediately.
  
  
•  After use, always turn off the switch before unplugging from the power outlet to avoid possible electric arcs that can burn the outlet, damage the hair dryer and trip the circuit breaker.
  
  

Keep the hair dryer away from a child's reach, whether in use or not.

A good hair dryer is always an investment, but your choice should accommodate your hairstyling needs. Top-end options like Dyson are perfect if you are an avid user or need advanced features to suit your hair type, while a budget-friendly alternative like Philips and Braun, that delivers will suffice if otherwise. When considering the range of brands and models available in Singapore, think about the following:

 

1. Hairstyling needs

What is your hair type? Do you need specific features and settings necessary to protect your hair while achieving the best hairstyles? We cannot emphasise enough how important it is to choose the right product for your hair.

 

2. Frequency:

How often will you need to use the hair dryer? Investing in a high-quality and durable option will be worth it if you use it every day instead of spending on a low-end product that may need replacement every year.

 

3. Budget:

How much can you afford? Having a budget is good for narrowing down your options to find the best buy at an affordable price.

 

4. Investment:

Is the price you are paying worth the frequency of use? The price-to-use ratio is a significant consideration that may convince you to increase your budget so you bring home a quality buy that will last you for years.

Looking to purchase the best hair dryer in Singapore? We got you covered! On iShopChangi, you can find some of the best from notable brands such as Dyson, as well as options set at conservative prices for the budget-conscious. Here are our top three picks:

 

1. Dyson Supersonic™️ Hair Dryer

Engineered for different hair types, the Dyson hair dryer is indeed the top of the line. Fit with a range of features, from smoothing nozzles to precise speed settings for perfect styling, it is the ideal option if you want the best of all. Purchase the dryer as it is or go for the combo with the Fuchsia Brush Kit. Why not add a complete hairstyling set by the Dyson Airwrap™ to seal the deal?

 

 

2. Philips Dryer with SenseIQ

Simple and easy to use, the Phillips Prestige Hair Dryer with SenseIQ is great if you want something small, sleek but powerful. If you are unsure of the best temperature to dry your hair at, SenselQ takes care of that for you. Sensing and adapting to your hair type, it performs at an optimal temperature and prevents overheating.

 

 

3. PowerPac Hair Dryer

The PowerPac hair dryer is ideal for those who need a budget-friendly alternative. With three speed selectors, accompanied by wave heating and cool air features, there’s plenty you can accomplish with a simple dryer from PowerPac.

Have a hair dryer in mind you’d like to purchase? Make your purchase online via iShopChangi and enjoy tax-absorbed prices! Travellers can order and collect their packages from our collection points at several locations across Singapore Changi Airport, or opt for delivery to a local address.

 

Not travelling? Don’t worry! We make it possible for you to shop in the comforts of your home and get the best bang for your buck just like any traveller. As long as you cart out with a minimum $59 spend and provide a local address for delivery, you can enjoy tax-absorbed shopping without flying! More details are available here.

 

And if that’s not enough, keep your eyes peeled for amazing deals dropped every week - browse our promotions online to stay up to date.

 

Looking for more than just the hair dryer? Browse our electronics for sale in Singapore on iShopChangi today!