Make New York Post a Preferred Source New York Post Composite A crucial component of rendering your luscious locks to look like you just stepped out of a salon is, of course, a quality blow dryer.
After using some of the best shampoos and hair conditioners on the market — oh, and wrapping yourself up in a plush robe to ignite all of the resort hotel vibes you can muster — selecting the appropriate hair-styling tools makes a world of difference to your hair.
“Begin blow drying five minutes after stepping out of the shower,” Amy Abramite, creative director and hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, told the New York Post. “Hair is easier to manipulate when it’s wet. Hydrogen bonds, or the type used to style hair, are temporarily changed with water and heat, so letting hair air dry too much before starting the blow dry can hinder the process.”
We turned to Abramite for a full-on FAQ on blow-drying etiquette after our comprehensive review to provide in-depth hair-styling routines for your specific type and texture, too.
Victoria McDonnell Pros: Combines drying and styling Wet and Dry modes Heated ceramic plates plus airflow Tapered design helps reach roots 72-inch cord No app required Cons: Fewer styling options than a full multi-styler No travel case Not dual voltage Cord is shorter than other blow dryers tested As far as blow dryer brushes go, this one is my go-to. The Shark Glossi combines powerful airflow with heated ceramic plates to dry and style hair at the same time, and it’s one of the most versatile tools in my blow-dryer arsenal. A mix of boar bristles and heat-resistant nylon bristles gently detangles, smooths strands and boosts shine while helping distribute the hair’s natural oils.
The teardrop-shaped head makes it easier to reach close to the roots, while Wet Mode is designed for drying damp hair and Dry Mode helps refresh and restyle dry strands. It also monitors temperature 1,000 times per second and automatically adjusts the heat, making it a great option for anyone looking to reduce unnecessary heat damage.
I was surprised by how much easier this tool made my routine. I like that I can go from damp hair to smooth, styled hair without having to use several different tools, and the shape makes it easy to get close to my roots. My hair feels soft and looks noticeably smoother after using it, without the overly flat look I sometimes get from a traditional straightener. I also appreciate having the option to refresh my hair when it’s already dry, which makes it especially useful on days when I don’t want to start my entire styling routine from scratch.
Best for: All hair types, beginners, and quick everyday styling | Ionic: Yes | Wattage: 1,875 watts | Settings: 3 heat/speed settings + cool shot | Attachments: Concentrator nozzle
Holly J Coley; Dyson Pros: A must for those who want to prevent heat damage but insist on blow-drying their hair Lots of different attachments for different types of blowouts and styles Cons: Expensive Using the app takes a bit of tech-savviness Large size makes it less travel-friendly One of the latest blow dryers from Dyson is what our team is talking about, and one that’s certainly worth the splurge. And, if you’re a fan of the Airwrap or FlexStyle, this is the investment to consider.
“I flat iron my hair nearly every day, so if there’s anyone who needs a dryer that nixes heat damage, it’s me,” Holly J Coley, commerce deputy editor, shared. “Having said this, I’m the most frugal commerce editor on the planet, and the thought of spending nearly $600 on a blow dryer leaves me shook. However, the Dyson Airwrap I.D. is magical and worth the investment if you want a salon-like blowout without the ugly aftermath.”
The two major attributes that make the I.D. version of this blow dryer special is that it uses an app to customize your styling experience, plus it has a curling feature via the app to create different types of ringlets. “While I typically hate things that require me to use an app to get the full experience, I think this device may be the exception to the rule,” Coley added. “It dries my hair fast, and I didn’t see any smoke rising from the machine the way I typically do when drying my hair.”
Best for: All hair types | Ionic: Yes | Wattage: 1,300 watts | Settings: 3 heat settings, 3 speed settings | Attachments: Conical Airwrap Barrel, Dryer+Flyaway Smoother, Soft Smoothing Brush, 1.6-inch Airwrap Long Barrel, Large Round Volumizing Brush, Fast Dryer
The Chi Rocket Hair Dryer stands out as a premier styling tool if you’re looking for either a traditional blow dryer or one with a diffuser. It boasts rapid drying capabilities and sleek design. Equipped with a powerful 1800-watt motor, it dries hair up to 40% faster than standard dryers, making it ideal for those with thick or frizzy hair. Its lightweight construction ensures comfort during use, while the ergonomic handle provides excellent balance. The dryer features a cool shot button that doesn’t require continuous pressing, simplifying the styling process as well.
“I have been using the Chi Rocket since college (15 years) and have only had to rebuy once,” Michelle Moezam, senior commerce social media marketing manager, shared. “My mom was a hairdresser for over 30 years and this hair dryer was her tried and true fallback after all the new gadgety dryers had come out over the years.”
Moezam loves how the heat and power/intensity settings offer plenty of customization, so it’s easy to match to the needs of your hair texture. “Whether I am blow drying my hair with a round thermal brush with the concentrator nozzle or want my curly hair light and bouncy with the diffuser, I love that I have the options of both,” she added. “The one thing I will say you have to be careful with — and that’s with any electrical cord — is how you wrap it up and put it away. It’s important to be mindful so that you don’t pull the cord too hard and risk damaging it. I had my first hair dryer for 13 years and it never frayed, and my newest is on its third year and going strong.”
Incorporating advanced technologies, the Chi Rocket utilizes ceramic, tourmaline and ionic components to deliver even heat distribution and negative ions. This combination helps break down water molecules, reducing drying time and minimizing heat damage. Its design, along with the inclusion of far infrared heat ensures deep penetration into the hair shaft, promoting moisture retention and enhancing shine.
Best for: Curly hair | Ionic: Yes | Wattage: 1,800 watts | Settings: High speed, Low speed, Cool shot button | Attachments: Air concentrator attachment
“One haircare brand I’ve known I could depend on for my whole life? Conair,” Meaghan Seward, commerce senior strategist of audience optimization and discovery, shared. “I’ve enjoyed affordable, quality Conair hair tools as long as I can remember, ranging from this travel hair dryer I’ve had at least 10 years to my first flat iron to hair brushes and more, and I’ve never been disappointed.”
This Conair hair dryer stands out as an excellent travel companion due to its compact size, dual voltage capability and powerful performance. Its lightweight design and budget-friendly price point make it a reliable option to suit any hair type.
After a decade of regular use, Seward’s trusty Conair hair dryer remains as dependable as ever for a quick, frizz-free blowout, and even more so as a travel companion.
“As someone who is often on-the-go, I love that this dryer is compact and foldable, and the retractable cord is a huge plus,” she added. “Unlike many hair tools, I don’t have issues with it overheating, despite my thick hair requiring some serious heat and power to dry quickly. I’m admittedly a lazy beauty enthusiast, so I like to wait for my hair to be about 80% air dried before taking any tool to it, but I find that at that point that this dryer gets the job done in record time. I’ll be reaching for this hair dryer for many more years to come.”
Best for: All hair types | Ionic: No | Wattage: 1,875 watts | Settings: Heat and speed settings, Cool shot button | Attachments: Concentrator Nozzle
The Shark SpeedStyle RapidGloss Finisher and High-Velocity Dryer is a go-to option for anyone dealing with limited time, thanks to its innovative design and advanced technology. It delivers rapid drying without excessive heat, ensuring hair remains healthy and virtually frizz-free. The standout feature, the RapidGloss Finisher attachment, utilizes dual high-speed airflow streams to smooth flyaways and impart a glossy finish, outperforming traditional air-drying methods.
“With three heat and speed settings, the Shark FlexStyler makes quick work of my daily styling routine,” Hannah Southwick, Page Six commerce associate editor, shared. “The tools are so easy to use, even for a blow dryer brush novice like me. The brush attachment is my favorite for a bouncy blowout.”
Transparently, the help in the frizz department isn’t the longest-lasting, and Southwick noticed the benefits only lasted a few minutes (although she noted that using hairspray would’ve helped). “As someone living in a small space, I also love how easy it is to collapse the tool into travel mode to save precious space in my beauty drawer,” she added.
Beyond its powerful drying capabilities, the SpeedStyle incorporates intelligent features that enhance its anti-frizz performance. The dryer automatically adjusts temperature and airflow settings when different attachments are connected, optimizing styling efficiency and minimizing heat exposure. Additionally, an ionizer emits negative ions to further reduce frizz and enhance shine, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with coarse hair.
Best for: Frizzy hair | Ionic: No | Wattage: 1,700 watts | Settings: 4 heat settings, 3 airflow speeds + cool shot | Attachments: RapidGloss Finisher, QuickSmooth Brush, Turbo Concentrator
Victoria McDonnell Pros: Helps leave hair smoother, shinier, and less fluffy Dries hair quickly with strong airflow Lets you customize the amount of ionization based on your hair type and styling needs Cons: It costs more than many basic blow dryers The strong airflow may take some getting used to, especially if you have fine or delicate hair I’ve tried a lot of different hair tools to help with frizz, but the Drybar Buttercup PRO Professional Blow Dryer is by far my favorite. I used to use Drybar’s traditional blow dryer brush and really liked it, but after trying the Buttercup PRO, I completely switched over. My hair looks smoother, shinier and much less frizzy when I use this dryer.
What I love most is how well it helps control frizz. My hair can get puffy and hard to manage, especially after drying it, but the Buttercup PRO gives me a much smoother finish. I can adjust the settings depending on how my hair is behaving, and it helps me get that sleek, polished look without making my hair feel overly dry.
It also dries my hair quickly, which is a huge plus for me. I like using it with a round brush because I have more control over how my hair looks compared with a blow dryer brush. I can smooth out each section as I go and get more volume while still keeping the frizz under control. The end result looks much more like a salon blowout.
I honestly didn’t expect to stop using my Drybar blow dryer brush, but I have. I’ve completely switched to the Buttercup PRO because I prefer the way my hair looks and feels afterward. If you struggle with frizz and want smooth, shiny hair without spending forever drying and styling it, I definitely recommend giving this dryer a try.
Best for: Frizz-prone, thick, or hard-to-smooth hair | Ionic: Yes — adjustable ionic technology | Wattage: 1,875 watts | Settings: 3 heat settings + cool shot | Attachments: Concentrator nozzle
Victoria McDonnell Pros: Lightweight to hold, with an ergonomic design for gripping it at its center Negative ion technology allows it to diminish heat damage (though you’ll want to use a heat protectant as a rule of thumb, anyway) Soft bristles help create a polished finish Cons: It isn’t made from titanium, so it isn’t the most optimal for shine, compared to the Moroccanoil 4-in-1 Blow-Dryer Brush No attachments I’ve always been a fan of blow-dryer brushes because they’re easy to use and much simpler to maneuver than a traditional dryer and round brush. The amika Hair Blow Dry Brush 2.0 is one of my favorites, especially for beginners who want an easy way to get a smooth, polished blowout at home.
One of my favorite features is the three heat settings, which make it easy to find a temperature that works for your hair. I was also impressed by how quickly I could style my hair, usually getting a smooth, frizz-free finish in under 15 minutes. The soft bristles and negative-ion technology help leave my hair looking shiny and polished without requiring much effort.
At around $100, I think this is a great option for anyone who is new to blow-dryer brushes or doesn’t want to spend a fortune on a styling tool. It’s straightforward to use, has helpful heat settings and delivers the kind of smooth finish I look for in a blowout. For beginners, it’s an easy tool to recommend.
Best for: All hair types, Beginners | Ionic: No | Wattage: 1,620 watts | Settings: 3 heat/speed settings | Attachments: N/A
Erica Radol; T3 Pros: Excellent for mitigating frizz Provides salon-quality results Creates a bouncy finish Cons: Price point may be unreachable for some Learning curve “I’m not one to own high-tech appliances, but the T3 Aire IQ is futuristic,” Erica Radol, Page Six commerce writer/reporter shared. “Despite my resistance to the learning curve, I’m shocked at how well this blow dryer dries my hair without leaving it with a dried-out straw texture and frizzy ends due to heat damage — instead, it’s shiny, healthy-looking and bouncy.”
The Aire IQ comes with three attachments: A wide one for rough-drying tresses, a smaller one for styling, and a diffuser, making it one of the best blow dryers for curly hair. It recognizes which attachment is on and has smart sensors that determine heat and speed flow, so it self-adjusts.
“It’s also very lightweight and compact,” Radol added. “I have always had decent blow dryers, but this one is next level. There’s a pause when turning it, which I’m a little impatient about, but overall worth the wait considering my healthier, volumized hair. I have fine, color-damaged, naturally curly hair and the diffuser attachment is the best I’ve tried for curls, which I will appreciate come sweltering summer weather.”
Radol loves how the T3 Aire is helping her hair become healthier, providing fast, salon-quality results. “I recommend it to anyone looking to invest in a quick-drying, lightweight blow dryer that respects hair health,” she said. “I did have to play with the settings to get it to stop turning off every time it was pointed away from my hair, but again — heed my cautionary tale and read the directions before use.”
Best for: Fine to medium hair types | Ionic: No | Wattage: 1,800 watts | Settings: 5 heat settings, 3 speed settings, cool shot and ion setting | Attachments: Quick Dry Attachment, Style Attachment, Diffuse Attachment
Some of the blow dryers I tested from brands across amika, Drybar, Dyson and more from at least a month to a few years. Victoria Giardina Though I’ve been using blow dryers for years — I learned that I’ve been using mine incorrectly — Each model was tested for at least one month before writing this review. However, I’ve personally tested many of these — like the Amika Hair Blow Dryer Brush 2.0 and Dyson Airwrap — for nearly six years. Plus, more members of the Post Wanted team chimed in.
Before diving into the review criteria the New York Post Shopping set in place when testing and trying all the top models on the market, l’ll begin by detailing my hair type. I have wavy to curly hair that’s sometimes prone to frizz (though it has its oily moments at times if I go longer than two days without a wash). My hair blow dries straight when styling, too.
Simply put, my mane is a mix of different types and textures — making my hair one of the best to review a wide set of blow dryers.
Ahead, here’s what I looked for when trying out each blow dryer:
Ahead, we interviewed Amy Abramite, creative director and hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, on some key considerations when it comes to blow dryers.
“For both types of dryers, I look for a variety of air pressure and temperature choices to control the style without damaging the hair,” Abramite says.
“The nozzle is useful because it concentrates the air flow into a more focused stream of pressure to tame flyaways for shinier, smoother hair, especially when straightening frizzy texture,” she notes.
“For starters, the shape and the wattage is different,” Abramite begins. “In comparison, a blow dryer is more powerful and results in more styling options with more accessories, but requires more skill to use.”
A blow dryer brush, on the flip side, has gentler air flow, is easier to handle, but is limited to round brush styles only.
To elaborate, a blow dryer has more air pressure for more power and has a gun-like barrel shape where heated air freely passes through an opening in a stream. “It can be used to tousle dry hair with fingers or any type of brush, flat or round, which is held in the other hand to manually change texture,” she adds. “A diffuser attachment can also be connected to enhance curly textures. These options result in a variety of looks but skill is required for coordination to hold a brush and a blow dryer simultaneously.”
A blow dryer brush is a combination tool with a round brush attachment connected to a wand where heated air gently passes through holes near the bristles. Hair wraps around the brush portion of the tool to dry and shape the hair in one easy motion. It’s simple to use and requires less skill to achieve a classic blowout finish.
Abramite recommends an average of 1100 watts for a blow dryer brush and 2000 watts for a blow dryer.
According to Abramite, these blow dryers cut down on drying time by using ions to break down water molecules at lower temperatures, preventing frizz, static and damage for smoother, healthier hair.
When it comes to minimizing heat damage, the Shark Glossi is one of the better options to consider. It is designed to dry and style hair while helping to limit exposure to excessive heat, making it a good choice for anyone concerned about dryness, breakage or frizz.
The key to reducing damage is not just how quickly a hair dryer dries your hair, but also how evenly it distributes heat and how much heat your hair is exposed to. The Shark Glossi is designed with this in mind, helping you achieve a smooth, polished finish without relying solely on extremely high temperatures.
For the healthiest results, use a lower heat setting when possible, keep the dryer moving and avoid concentrating hot air on one section of hair for too long.
There isn’t one blow dryer that every professional stylist uses. My own hairdresser uses a fancy professional dryer from L’Oréal, while I’ve also seen older Chi models used just as frequently — and with equally impressive results. This is a good reminder that the most expensive or newest dryer isn’t necessarily the one that delivers the best blowout.
Professional stylists tend to prioritize powerful airflow, heat control, durability and a comfortable design because they may use a dryer for hours every day. Their technique also plays a major role. A skilled stylist can get a smooth, shiny finish from a professional dryer that might feel fairly ordinary compared with some of the newer high-tech models.
For curly, coily, wavy, and straight textures (all textures): Using a blow dryer with a nozzle for pin straight silky hair: Add an oil with heat protection from roots to ends on damp hair. In small sections, blow dry downward with the nozzle parallel to the hair to push down and control flyaways on high heat/high speed. Use a natural bristle paddle brush to grip hair and stretch out texture by gliding the brush from roots to ends with maximum tension to add shine and straighten for glossy hair.
For curly, coily and wavy textures using a blow dryer and diffuser to enhance natural texture: On damp hair, add a hydrating styling cream/balm with heat protection from roots to ends. Use a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer and circulate while orbiting the head on low heat/low speed. For a natural air-dried look, leave waves/curls/coils stationary and undisturbed to minimize frizz by not allowing the diffuser to touch the hair strands while drying. To add additional lift at the roots, tilt head forward, backward, and from side to side while diffusing. For maximum volume and bouncier waves/curls/coils, tilt head and gently place hair into the diffuser attachment while lifting upward for tighter springier texture. For all above hair types, when the hair is 80% dry, turn the dryer off and allow the remaining moisture to dry naturally. This will cut down on the frizz factor.
For curly, coily, wavy and straight hair (all hair types) with a blow dry brush for a classic blowout finish: For a frizz-free blowout using a blow dryer brush, on damp hair, add a hydrating styling cream with heat protection on curly, coily and wavy hair and a volumizing spray on straight hair from roots to ends. Securely wrap sections of hair around the bristles. Starting at the root area, use equal tension and glide brush through to the ends and roll under, flip up, or curl for style choice. For more volume at the root area, pull the brush upward, and for less volume pull downward while rolling the lengths and ends. The bristles will grip the hair with tension to tame frizz and reshape texture for a silky finish with volume, movement and bounce. For coarser thick hair, use the high setting and for fine fragile hair, use low. To lock in the shape, use the cool setting for a long-lasting style.
This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best sheet masks on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos for all hair types and budgets. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
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