Who a hair dryer suits
A hair dryer suits someone who dries their hair every day and is still using a worn-out, loud or underpowered one. It is a practical present for a partner, a mum or a sister, and it fits a birthday or Christmas as an upgrade they wouldn't buy for themselves.
It also suits someone who styles their hair. A dryer with the right attachments saves them time, and a good one can leave hair smoother and less frizzy.
What to look for in a hair dryer
- Hair type. Curly and wavy hair does well with a diffuser, which spreads the airflow and keeps curls from frizzing. Straight or fine hair suits a concentrator nozzle for a smooth finish.
- Heat settings. Several heat and speed settings, plus a cool shot, give more control and are kinder to hair than a single hot setting.
- Weight. A heavy dryer tires the arm. Check the weight for someone who dries long hair.
- Motor. High-speed motors are designed to dry hair faster. A standard motor is simpler and perfectly good for everyday use.
- Attachments. Look at what is in the box, such as a diffuser, a concentrator or a brush.
- Travel size. A compact dryer with a folding handle suits someone who travels often.
When a hair dryer is the wrong gift
If they have just bought a good one, another is a duplicate. If they let their hair dry naturally, the dryer will stay in a drawer. And if they use a hot brush or a styling tool they love, a plain dryer won't replace it. When you aren't sure, ask what they use, or choose a different style of gift.