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Regardless of how hard I try, I can never quite seem to re-create the shiny, voluminous blowout I get at the salon on my own accord. Then there’s the issue of time. Unfortunately, I’m kind of known for procrastinating when it comes to getting ready for the day. Aside from my lack of skills and poor time management skills when it comes to getting ready, I’m also plagued by bleach-induced damage and breakage, which has led me to dodge heat styling altogether. That is, until my hair stylist suggested that I make the switch to a so-called ionic hair dryer. Despite getting to test new beauty products on the regular, I admittedly had no idea what an ionic blow dryer even was, let alone how they work.
Best Ionic Hair Dryers at a Glance
In a nutshell, ionic hair dryers can dry hair faster, promote shine, seal in moisture, reduce frizz, and retain definition for curls and waves. How so you might ask? We spoke to four hair stylists and asked them for their product recommendations.
Read on for all the answers to your ionic hair dryer questions, as told by our hair experts. And scroll even further to check out the best ionic hair dryers on the market right now. They range from super affordable to splurge-worthy, as well as ones geared towards curly hair and ones that are amazing for adding volume to your locks.
Our Experts
What is an ionic hair dryer?
“Ionic hair dryers use negative ions to break down the water molecules in the hair, drying it from the inside out,” Sullivan explains. When shopping for an ionic blow dryer, you should pay close attention to ceramic materials, multiple heat and speed settings, and an ionic generator, according to Samra. “Ionic technology uses negative ions to dry hair faster and reduce frizz by breaking down water molecules quickly. When combined with infrared heat, which dries hair from the inside out, it helps maintain moisture and minimize heat damage, leaving your hair smoother and shinier,” he adds.
What is the difference between an ionic hair dryer and a regular hair dryer?
While ionic hair dryers utilize negative ions, regular hair dryers rely on heated coils, per Sullivan. “The main difference between an ionic hair dryer and a regular one is in how they dry your hair. An ionic hair dryer releases negative ions that help break down water in your hair, making it dry faster with less heat and less frizz. Regular hair dryers just use hot air, which can cause more frizz and possible heat damage,” Samra explains.
Who should use an ionic hair dryer?
“Ionic dryers are great for someone with thick, coarse hair, as they speed up drying time and help to remove frizz. For someone with fine or fragile hair, it is easy to overdry the hair, so be careful when using an ionic hair dryer,” according to Sullivan.
The Best Ionic Hair Dryers to Shop Right Now
Shark SpeedStyle Ultimate Gift Set For All Hair Types
is a favorite. It’s perfect for anyone who loves experimenting with different styles, whether it’s a sleek blowout or voluminous, bouncy do,” says Uribe, adding, “The Quick Smooth Brush, in particular, delivers ultra-fast drying and styling, making it ideal for creating polished looks in no time.”
Bonus: Take 10% off all Shark products with code SC10 through December 31, 2024, on Shark’s site (Exclusions: Ninja: NinjaSlushi, parts and accessories, and warranties).
Best Ionic Hair Dryer For Damaged Hair
Sutra Infrared AC Blow Dryer
On Sale 14% off
for those with damaged strands because “infrared heat gently penetrates the hair shaft, reducing heat exposure time and preserving your hair’s moisture. The ionic technology further promotes hair health by minimizing frizz and locking in moisture, leaving your hair smoother and shinier. All in a lightweight, easy-to-use design!” It’s also a great option for people who are experiencing hair loss. “SUTRA’s Infrared BD Blow Dryer is perfect for hair loss, combining gentle infrared and ionic technology to reduce damage, lock in moisture, and stimulate the scalp to promote new and healthier hair growth,” Samra notes.
BIO IONIC 10X UltraLight Speed Ionic Hair Dryer
I use. It’s incredibly lightweight and easy to use. It is very powerful and blows very hot air, but the cool button works well,” says Brown.
Sam Villa Lightweight & Quiet Ionic Professional Hair Dryer
“This dryer is great for diffusing curly or wavy hair because of the multiple settings for temperature and speed,” Brown explains. “It has a powerful motor without being too loud.”
Elchim 3900 Healthy Ionic Ceramic Hair Dryer
doesn’t cause additional damage.”
Hot Tools Pro Signature Ionic Ceramic Hair Dryer
is quite affordable. It has multiple heat settings, a cool shot, and extra cord length. It’s not too heavy and easy to use for at-home blowouts.”
Best Overall Ionic Hair Dryer
AIRYOMI Hair Dryer
has Sullivan’s stamp of approval because it’s lightweight yet powerful and features a sleek design. Not to mention, it comes with magnetic attachments.
Best Affordable Ionic Hair Dryer
Dxliwky Professional Ionic Hair Dryer Blow Dryer
is lightweight, powerful, and most importantly, budget-friendly. These are the three main reasons why Sullivan recommends it to those looking for a super affordable option.
Best Splurge-Worthy Ionic Hair Dryer
TYMO Hair Dryer
On Sale 15% off
for its four temperature settings, three speed settings, and three attachments (concentrator, diffuser, and comb). If you’re in the market for a pricier blow dryer, this one typically costs $200 but is on sale for 15% off on Amazon right now.
Best Lightweight Ionic Hair Dryer
BaBylissPRO Hair Dryer
On Sale 5% off
to your Amazon cart ASAP. Sullivan is a fan and so are the nearly-5,000 other shoppers who rated it a perfect five-star rating.
Lamorena also approves of this pick, saying, “This dryer is known for its fast drying time and sleek finish, thanks to its nano titanium technology. It’s ideal for reducing frizz and smoothing out hair.”
Best Ionic Hair Dryer for Travel
LOVEPS Hair Dryer
On Sale 18% off
features a foldable handle that’s perfect for tucking the tool into your luggage without it taking up too much space. It’s small but mighty and great for travel, according to Sullivan.
Best Volumizing Ionic Hair Dryer
7MAGIC Hair Dryer Brush & 6 in 1 Hair Styler
. “The different attachments such as round brush attachment will help to achieve volume/desired style,” Sullivan notes.
Best Ionic Hair Dryer for Curly Hair
DevaCurl DevaDryer
because it’s lightweight and reduces frizz, per Sullivan. The hair stylist suggests also ordering the DevaFuser
because its shape mimicks that of a hand and lets users get even closer to the roots while diffusing.
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1875 Watt Salon Hair Dryer
On Sale 20% off
provides a customizable drying experience and helps in reducing frizz and static,” says Lamorena.
Remington Damage Protection Hair Dryer
On Sale 10% off
uses advanced coating technology to protect hair from heat damage while providing a smooth finish,” Lamorena explains. “It’s great for maintaining healthy hair and reducing frizz.”
