Over the years, dryers have gotten smaller, faster and more powerful. One thing that hasn’t changed is the need for good hair dryer reviews. This can help you find a hair dryer that will do the trick and last you a long time.
If you have thick hair, then you know the real struggle. Not everyone has the time or patience to dedicate half an hour to giving themselves a sleek and smooth blowout, and many hair dryers on the market just aren’t powerful enough to do the job quickly.
Ultimately, the more powerful the dryer, the more it’ll cut down on drying time, but it’s also important to look for one that protects the hair rather than damages it, as well as something that isn’t too heavy or clunky.
Choosing a hair dryer for thick hair is not easy. Here’s a guide to help you make the right choice for your hair type.
List of The Best Hair Dryers for Thick Hair You Wish You Knew Earlier
1. Drybar Buttercup Blow Dryer – Best for Blowouts
This hairdryer is a failsafe way to attain a quality blow at home—in fact, Drybar stylists use it when you visit their salons. The famous yellow gadget has a strong 1875 watt motor that allows it to dry hair 20% quicker than the typical specialist hairdryer, while ionic tech protects the cuticle to reduce frizz.
What We Like
- The long cord allows for easy styling
- A wider nozzle dries everything rapidly
- The narrow nozzle focuses focused on certain locations
What We Don’t Like
- It might be a little too noisy.
2. Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer – Best Splurge
Even for a splurge, this is a hefty price tag. The Byrdie editors and experts assert that investing in a good hair dryer is worthwhile it when you have to use it every time you wash your hair. Celebrity hairdresser and co-founder of Mark Ryan Salon Ryan Trygstad says “this is perfect for home use—strong it’s and silent.”. When it comes to curly hair, a diffuser attachment on this one is a particular standout.
With three adhesive extensions to tailor your experience, it not only provides an unprecedented drying time while preserving hair from heat damage, but it also contains a style concentrator, softening nozzle and frizz- and curl-controlling diffuser.
What We Like
- Intuitive heat management
- Provides a wide range of styling options
- Hair against the damaging effects of high temperatures
What We Don’t Like
- May make hair feel like straw
3. BaBylissPRO Porcelain Ceramic Carrera2 Dryer – Best Overall
The sophisticated dryer from BaBylissPRO will be your new best buddy if you have dense hair. Fast drying thanks to a state-of-the-art motor that produces an astounding 1900 watts of power and ion technology that removes static for lustrous and smoother hair. Additionally, it has a removable concentrator nozzle for customizing the compressed air, as well as six various heat/speed configurations.
What We Like
- Six heat/speed settings
- Dries hair fast
- Long-life motor
What We Don’t Like
- A bit heavy
4. Revlon 1875W Compact Travel Hair Dryer – Best Budget
Hair dryers may be an expensive purchase, so anything that works well and costs less than $20 piques our interest. This Revlon dryer has ionic innovation and a 3x ceramic protection to combat frizz and heat damage, as well as a soothing concentrated element to help tame even the thickest hair. It’s also rather compact, so you can simply stuff it in your gym bag or take it with you when you travel.
What We Like
- Affordable
- Design that folds
- The hinged end cap facilitates cleaning.
- Tangle-free
What We Don’t Like
- Poor temperature and flow control
5. Sedu Revolution Hair Dryer 4000i – Best Lightweight
Lightweight dryers are a *must* for thick hair, as Trygstad says below, which is why he likes this Sedu hair drier. “We use this in the salon because it’s tiny and powerful; it weighs less than 1.5 pounds and has incredible force for a quick blowout,” he explains. They’re tiny and will withstand several bounces on the floor.” Furthermore, the diffuser is fantastic for natural curls. For me, these are the best.
What We Like
- Drying time is reduced by 70%.
- Reduces frizz and static by 90%
- Six heat settings are programmable.
What We Don’t Like
- Could be more long-lasting
6. ghd Air Professional Performance Hair Dryer – Runner-Up – Best Splurge
Salon-quality results are available in half the time with this rising blow dryer, which has won several awards for its speed and efficiency. It offers several temperature settings, two speeds, and a cool shoot option to keep hairstyles in place, as well as innovative ionic innovation that locks in hydration. It also has a diffusing ring and two detachable precision nozzles.
Trygstad agrees, saying, “This is a fantastic dryer.” As a whole, he’s a huge supporter of the company. In addition to their extensive research and development, Ghd’s goods are supported by cutting-edge designs and technologies that keep the product’s temperature stable and reduce drying time.
What We Like
- Discreet style
- Long-term sturdiness
What We Don’t Like
- Insufficeint heat
7. DevaCurl DEVADRYER and DEVAFUSER – Best for Curls
Thick hair may be difficult to blow out on its own; add curls to the mix, and you’ll need something that can handle both. We recommend this drier and diffuser set, which is particularly intended for wavy and curly hair.
It not only has ionic innovation and a concentrated nozzle for quick drying (along with three heat levels and two velocities), but it also has a revolutionary hand-shaped diffuser attachment to improve curls while providing a bounce, frizz-free look. Bonus? It also has a cooling snap button for locking in gloss.
What We Like
- Airflow in all directions Innovative
- Worldwide heat distribution design
- Lifts the curls gently to avoid frizz.
What We Don’t Like
- May not fit one’s hair dryer
8. Conair InfinitiPRO SmoothWrap Hair Dryer – Best for Frizz Control
If you dislike frizz, believe that the SmoothWrap is your greatest protection. This compact drier, designed with double ionic technology, releases positive and negative ions that restore the natural charge of your hair, delivering you with shiny, silky strands. It also employs ceramic innovation to guard against potential heat damage that causes frizz.
What We Like
- The air filter is simple to clean.
- Restores hair’s natural balance and reduces heat damage
What We Don’t Like
- It takes a little longer to dry.
- Ideal for blowouts
9. Drybar Reserve Blow Dryer – Best Ergonomic Design
Even with a strong drier, fuller hair takes longer to dry and style, so selecting one that is easy to hold and move for an extended period of time is critical. If you’re tired of having aching wrists and achy arms after a blowout, go no further than this one from Drybar. It’s ultra-light, weighing about a pound, and features a revolutionary ergonomic design for comfortable and easy drying and styling. It also has an 1875 watt motor that speeds up drying time to 100mph (!) and utilizes Ionic Desiccant Advanced technologies to smooth and minimize flyaways.
What We Like
- The ultralight digital control settings allow for customized heat styling.
- Design that is comfortable
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
Final Selection
Ultimately, the splurgiest of dryers, Dyson’s Supersonic Hair Dryer, takes first place. It’s undoubtedly forceful and dries hair quickly—genuinely it’s that excellent.
However, not everyone is prepared to make such an investment in a hair tool, which is why we’re great supporters of the BaBylissPRO Porcelain Ceramic Carrera2 Dryer. It has 1900 watts of power and will swiftly dry your hair while leaving it lustrous and silky.
FAQ
What to Look for in a High Wattage Hair Dryer When You Have Thick Hair?
When you have thicker hair, drying it might take eons (or at least seem like it), so Trygstad suggests getting something with some strength behind it—aka something with high wattage—to assist get the job done quickly. “A drier with more than 1800 watts will ensure that even the thickest hair dries rapidly,” he explains. “In a nutshell, you want POWER!”
An Air Director
In addition to wattage, Trygstad emphasizes the importance of an air director, or concentrator nozzle attachment, for thicker hair.
He defines an air director as “a removable tip that slips onto the end of a blow dryer.” “The higher the air pressure, the finer the opening on the air direction noble.” More air pressure reduces drying time and is required to tame thick, unmanageable hair.”
Lightweight
Regardless of power or air pressure, thicker hair will take a longer-than-average blowout time, and Trygstad recommends going with one that’s lovely and light (unless you’re trying to squeeze in a tricep exercise at the same time). Believe us when we say that your arms will be grateful.
How to Pamper Your Thick Hair?
First Step: condition your hair.
While the appropriate dryer is important for a smooth blowout, the prep work is just as important for people with thick hair. “It’s critical to apply a nice moisturizing conditioner after cleansing,” he advises. “Well-conditioned hair will be simpler to untangle, segment, and manage.”
Second Step: brush your hair.
Aside from conditioner, having the correct tools on hand will result in a smoother blowout—both literally and metaphorically. “I like to smooth and tame thick hair using boar’s hair bristles,” he explains.
“Ibiza’s cork handle brushes are a personal favorite.” They combine natural boar bristles with a heat-resistant carbon fiber nylon. It’s also a good idea to use suitable clips for dissection and control—the cleaner the sections, the faster you’ll be able to go through the hair.”
Third Step: Apply a Towel
After you get out of the shower, twist your hair into a Turbie Twist and let the extra-absorbent microfiber do its thing. “The less damp your hair is to begin with, the less time it will take to dry completely.”
How many watts should a hair drier have when used on thick hair?
Specialists usually suggest dryers with roughly 1,800 watts since this number helps reduce overheating, but you can go higher or lower depending on your hair’s demands.
Is it true that ionic dryers are best for thick hair?
Ionic hair dryers are ideal for thick hair since they are better at sealing in humidity and giving a silky, velvety result.
Is it necessary to apply a heat protectant product before using a hair dryer?
Heat protection sprays and lotions can help prevent your hair from damage, particularly if you heat style it frequently.
