| Hot Tips: Blowdryers |
| Karen M.arie Shelton |
| Revision Date: 10/17/07 - Original
Publication Date: 10/9/2001 |
Introduction
Today's blow dryers come in a wide assortment of wild colors,
leopard prints and fancy packaging. Blow dryers also come with
a dizzying array of special features that offer you options from
folding your dryer for easy storage to keeping the volume
down. With some dryers you can retract the cord, blow on
different speeds, finish with cold shot and add different
attachments.
Are blow dryers harmful? Well besides denting your wallet
the most likely dangers include electrocution, scalp damage and
possibly an increase in our risk of cancer.
Some dryers have a "cool shot" that can be used at the
end of the drying process to help set your style. Blow dryers
designed for consumers may have a cool shot while blow dryers
designed for professionals may have cold settings.
Difference Between Pro &
Consumer Models
Is there a difference between consumer and professional blow
dryers? Yes. Authentic dryers sold to hair care
professionals are designed to survive daily extended use in the hair
studio versus a consumer oriented model that is used less
frequently. Professional dryers will often have a different nozzle
design, an AC motor and a lower wattage output that consumer models
will not have. They are designed to have a faster airflow, dry more
efficiently at lower temperatures and be kinder to the hair.
A concentrator nozzle is used to give you better control of the
dryer's airflow. It is also designed to dry the hair much
faster. Concentrator nozzles are ideal for creating smooth and
sleeker styles. They are often used in conjunction with a
styling brush.
Some hair dryers have removal filters in the front or back of the
unit. The filters keep out particles of dust and dirt as well
as hair and allow the dryer to have an optimal performance. It
also prolongs the life of the motor which then helps the dryer.
A diffuser is an attachment used by hair professionals to create
curl, body and texture. They are ideal for naturally curly, permed or wavy hair. It is not as efficient for super short
hair unless it has special fingers.
Volumizing diffusers have long fingers that help direct the heat
to the roots to create extra volume and fullness.
Straighening diffusers or
concentrators help detangle and smooth
wavy, curly or frizzy hair.
All diffuser attachments should be used on the low heat settings
unless instructions state otherwise.
Hairdryers with a 110/210V setting are designed for use in the
USA and for 230/240V settings the dryers should be used in the UK
and in Europe.
If your dryer is not rated at 230/240V you will not be able to
use it outside of the United States.
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