Standing in the aisle looking for a new hair dryer can be daunting. Unless you have a Consumer Reports guide in your hand, how can you tell which ones are best? Actually, all you need to remember are a few brands that are all-time favorites: Conair for inexpensive dryers and T3 Tourmaline for pricier picks. Here's the rundown on the best dryers on the market from cheap to steep.
1. Best Inexpensive Blow-Dryer: Conair Infiniti
According to InStyle Magazine's best beauty buy issue, Conair dryers are the next best thing to a professional dryer. So if you are standing in the aisle, head for Conair's Infiniti. InStyle calls it "fast, hot and durable." Sold! I've had my Conair hair dryer for several years now and it's working perfectly. You'll love the retractable cord. About $33.
2. Best Medium-Priced Blow-Dryer: Super Solano
The Super Solano is the overwhelming pick of professionals who love it because it can straighten even the thickest, curliest hair. You'll love its washable filter, multiple heat settings and power. From $70 on up.
3. Lightest Pro Blow-Dryer on the Market: T3 Bespoke Labs Featherweight
The granddaddy of hair-dryers, the T3 Bespoke Labs Featherweight was named the Best Beauty Buy in the 2009 InStyle Magazine. According to InStyle, the T3 dries hair faster and with less heat than conventional dryers thanks to negative ions and its tourmaline-infused parts. You can get them for less than $200. It will last many, many years.
4. Best Ionic Blow Dryer: Bio Ionic
We won't go into the technical reasons ionic dryers work so well, but trust us that ionic dryers work about 40 percent faster than regular dryers, leaving hair silky and glossy. But the time saved does come at a price: from $100 on up.
5. Best Inexpensive Travel Dryer: Hot Tools Ionic Dryer
Hot Tools is another great blow dryer brand on the market. This ionic dryer is small and fits perfectly in any suitcase. About $30.
6. Best High-Powered Travel Dryer: T3 Tourmaline Overnight Travel Dryer
Lightweight and efficient, this travel dryer is the choice of stylists who travel. The handle folds and it has dual voltage for traveling overseas. About $130.
