Professional Salon Blow Dryers: What Every Licensed Stylist Should Know

One of the most important tools in a professional hairstylist’s arsenal is a good hair dryer. Choosing the right professional blow dryer can make a huge difference in a cosmetologist’s entire day, especially considering the fact that faster drying speed, better styling control, and reduced fatigue can ensure faster services and more predictable results. All of which can mean increased profits for your salon. Therefore, it’s essential for every pro stylist to make this choice wisely. Professional grade hair dryers can't really be compared to the ones you find in a typical retail store. Along with the advanced technology needed to improve its power, effectiveness, and longevity, a salon hair dryer often comes with a heftier price tag. To help you make your choice, the professional stylists at Marlo Beauty have gathered some important points to consider when purchasing a new hair dryer for your salon.

Choosing Professional Hair Dryers for Your Salon

Every professional blow dryer will have advanced technology that dries hair faster, powerful AC motors to produce stronger airflow, greater attention to features and design, and a longer working life (approximately 2,000 hours). Here are all the elements that should be considered when purchasing a hair dryer:

MOTORS

There are two motor types commonly found in blow dryers: AC and DC. AC dryers are typically used in salons because their powerful airflow dries hair quickly. They tend to be heavier than DC hairdryers because of the larger, more powerful motor, but they also have a longer life.

WATTAGE

Wattage = power consumption, plain and simple. The greater the wattage, the greater the power consumption and the more power it draws to run the dryer’s motor. Due to the need for strong airflow and high heat capability, professional hair dryers are typically 1875w or more. Wattage for retail dryers tends to run lower, with these appliances often pulling only 1600w, because they do not need the same power as a salon hair dryer.

TECHNOLOGY

Aside from power, there are a number of technologies on the market that can help your hair dryer give faster results and create any style you desire.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

Ergonomics: A well-built dryer should have a comfortable handle with well placed settings, as well as good overall balance to help prevent hand fatigue. Even a lightweight dryer that’s built without ergonomics in mind can cause undo stress on a stylist’s hands and wrists.

Warranty: Read warranty coverage carefully. Some manufacturer’s warranties don't cover shipping fees, and shipping the dryer to the manufacturer and back might cost nearly as much as replacing it outright. By purchasing your dryer from a pro beauty supplier, you are often granted additional coverage by their return policy. Also keep in mind that there are other less-than-obvious ways to void your warranty, such as buying from an unauthorized dealer, failing to unplug the dryer or wrapping the cord around the dryer when storing it.