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CHI Tech Travel Hair Dryer – Fairy Dust

$ 69.99

• Ceramic heater for shiny, frizz-free hair
• Rapid Clean Technology®
• Adjustable heat/speed settings for airflow control
• Sleek and lightweight design with a collapsible handle perfect for travel and storage
• Dual voltage
• Air concentrator nozzle included
• 6.5 ft (1.98m) cord length

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13 Best Travel Hair Dryers That Are Tiny But Mighty

They pack a powerful blow.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

While travel hair dryers serve the same fundamental purpose as their full-size counterparts (drying and styling hair), they're "usually more compact and lightweight, and are designed to work with a variety of voltage standards and adaptability to different outlets in ways regular dryers typically are not," says Sabina Wizemann , director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab. "Travel blow dryers usually have lower wattage to meet the voltage requirements of various countries," she adds.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Drybar baby buttercup travel blow dryer.

Conair Worldwide Travel Hair Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer With Diffuser

Stylecraft peewee dual voltage travel dryer.

Slimmest Travel Hair Dryer

L'ange le styliste luxe digital salon dryer.

Best Dual-Voltage Travel Hair Dryer

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

Most Powerful Travel Hair Dryer

Revlon fast dry travel styler.

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Damaged Hair

T3 afar lightweight travel size hair dryer.

Best Luxury Travel Hair Dryer

Dyson supersonic hair dryer.

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Thick Hair

Fhi heat innovator dryer.

Best Customizable Travel Hair Dryer

Bio ionic smart-x high efficiency hair dryer + diffuser.

Our Beauty Lab analysts regularly test hair dryers, hair dryer brushes , curling wands and other types of hair tools for performance, styling ability and ease of use. In our most recent test of travel hair dryers, we evaluated 11 models and recorded over 2,000 data points to determine which delivered the most gorgeous, salon-level blowouts. Our final list of recommendations includes the winning models from our test, as well as editor favorites, plus tips from celebrity hairstylists Clariss Rubenstein and Nick Stenson .

Our analysts were impressed by the travel-sized version of Drybar's best-selling hair dryer — in fact, it came out on top in our travel hair dryer tests.

The dual-voltage model delivers fast-drying power in a conveniently compact package that folds at the handle and offers two heat settings plus a cool shot button to lock in your style. It landed perfect scores in our Lab evaluations for its easy-to-use controls , quick drying time and strong airflow. "Wow, this is powerful," said one tester. "It's the right size and doesn't look like a travel dryer until you fold the handle."

While it is pricey for a travel dryer, Wizemann notes that it's powerful enough to pull double-duty as a home and away option. One other thing to note: Some testers commented that it was a bit heavier than other models they've tried, and the attachments weren't always easy to get on and off.

This Conair dryer scored high in our travel hair dryer test and it's a GH Beauty Award winner . It blew away the competition when it came to drying speed, drying standardized human hair samples fastest of all the travel hairdryers we tested (in just 60 seconds!).

While a little bulky for a travel dryer, we think it's a versatile and budget-friendly option, complete with three heat and two speed settings. “It has strong airflow and high heat,” one tester said, while another said they liked that it “offered the most control options.” It does have a shorter cord length than others, though, so you'll need to plug it in close to a mirror if you need one.

Impressively lightweight, this hair dryer is the quick fix you need for a weekend trip if you rely on using a hair diffuser . The Lab found it one of the most consistent models we tested across the board when it came to comfortable hold, quiet airflow and easy-to-use buttons . Plus, it comes with that diffuser, making it a great choice for those with curly hair.

Testers loved that "there is a convenient stand for hands free styling" and that it was "light yet feels substantial." According to our Lab experts, it can get hot, so it's best for quick dries that don't require a cool shot button.

In our testing, our Beauty Lab pros found the Le Styliste Luxe to be a great option for travel. Though it's not technically a travel dryer and doesn't fold, its compact size and weight are on par with other travel hair dryers we've tested.

For being so slender and petite , this 1875-watt hairdryer produced an impressively powerful airflow, drying hair quickly. It comes with two attachments and a diffuser and weighs 1.2 pounds with a cord. It was also quieter than many of the other hair dryers we evaluated.

While we haven't yet fully evaluated this model in the Lab, we had to include it on our list because it's one of the most sought-after travel hair dryers on Amazon , where reviewers say you'll be particularly impressed by how powerful it is, despite its small handheld size. We also give it bonus points for its dual voltage feature and its concentrator nozzle. That said, it may not be ideal for those with curly hair, as there is no diffuser attachment.

One Amazon reviewer, who claims to be an avid traveler, said they've relied on this dryer for 15 years. "I ALWAYS take this with me, period," the reviewer wrote. "I just got back from a 10-day trip to the northern coast of Spain, and my hotel had a blowdryer that I didn't even touch."

Revlon's Fast Dry Travel Styler checks off all the boxes of a good travel hair dryer: It's dual-voltage and offers two heat and speed settings, a cool shot button and a folding handle. Though sleek in design, our Lab testers did find it to be a bit loud and a little difficult to switch between attachments, though. But we're giving it points for being extremely powerful. In fact, it's the only dryer we tested that earned a perfect airflow score .

T3's now-discontinued Featherweight compact hair dryer was a GH favorite. While we haven't yet gotten our hands on this updated version from the brand, we trust that it will prove to be just as great. Why? It has a foldable handle for easy storage, plus it offers dual voltage, meaning you can leave your adapter at home when traveling internationally.

Celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein says she also loves T3 hair dryers for their speedy dry time and frizz-free results . The Afar offers two speeds, three heat settings and a cool shot button. Sephora reviewers say they love the multiple setting options and folding handle — though some note that it is on the noisier side.

While it's not technically a travel hair dryer, the Dyson Supersonic is lightweight and compact, making it a solid travel companion. In our tests, its one-of-a-kind design dried hair fastest and has become the overall standard in our blow dryer tests. It dried an eight-inch hair sample in only 54 seconds due to its impressively strong airflow. How? Its motor is lighter and smaller than most, and it lives in the handle rather than the end of the typical dryer head.

Although it carries a hefty price tag, Deputy Editor Jessica Teich attests that it's worth buying, especially when it comes to domestic travel (it's not dual voltage, so international travelers beware). Our Lab testers agree. "Of all of the dryers, I had the best experience with this one — largely because I felt like on the most humid of days, it got my hair smoother and straighter in less time than any other one I've ever used," shared one.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Why the Dyson Supersonic Is Worth the Money

A GH Beauty Award winner , this sleek dryer delivered the strongest airflow and dried hair fast in testing despite its slim design and compact size, making it ideal for thick hair.

While it's technically a full-size hair dryer and wasn't created for travel, our Lab pros found it to be lightweight, with one saying it was "very comfortable to hold with easy-to-reach controls." Two things to watch for: The nozzle can pop off mid-blowdry when it gets hot and we found it to be slightly more noisy than others tested.

While it is a splurge, Bio Ionic's Smart-X Dryer has a lot of unique features that help justify the price. It allows you to personalize your styling experience with an auto-memorization feature that learns your chosen settings, has a self-cleaning function and uses more air pressure and less heat for an overall healthier dry, according to the brand.

It isn't designed to be a travel dryer, but its lightweight and slim design make it a good option. In testing, Lab analysts noted its strong airflow — a feature echoed by Amazon reviewers. "The concentration of the airflow is [so] amazing that I rarely use the concentrator," wrote one Amazon reviewer. "The dryer is compact in size and perfect for traveling."

Skin Research Institute DryQ “Smart” Hair Dryer

In Lab testing, this quiet and compact hair dryer received the best score for drying hair quickly, making hair look smooth (and not frizzy) and for overall satisfaction when using it . Testers also loved the quality, durability and temperature range of the tool and found it easy to attach and detach accessories, while also folding up nicely.

"I liked how light it was to use and how quickly my hair dried even on the coolest temperature," says one tester, while another loved how smooth and shiny her hair was. "It looked like a professional blowout!" The only downside? The accessories may get hot and controls weren't the easiest to operate.

CHI LAVA PRO Hair Dryer

Lightweight and quiet, this dryer from CHI was another top contender in the Lab's testing due to its good air flow and high heat options . You can't help but notice its unique shape at first glance; it provides a straight shot of air, which reduces drying time using less electricity while producing a stronger air flow, according to the brand. Plus, it has four heat settings, three speed settings and a super quick (seven seconds!) auto-cleaning function.

Since it isn't technically a travel dryer, it doesn't fold up, but reviewers love it nonetheless. "I just started using this hair dryer and love it," shares one reviewer. "It dries my hair so fast and it's so lightweight!"

YA-MAN Spa Styler Blow Dry + Scalp Massage

Comfort is key and Ya-Man's dryer proved that point in our Lab testing. One hundred percent of testers found it ergonomic and comfortable to hold, safe to use and that it didn't cause any discomfort or burns on skin .

The comfort applies to your head and scalp as well: It has a Scalp Lift attachment, inspired by a traditional Japanese head spa, which "combines warm airflow and soothing vibrations to relax and soften the scalp and promote healthy hair," according to the brand. The tool also received the best score in our Lab tests for creating a desired style and 94% of reviewers liked the weight of dryer. While they appreciated the length of the cord, some testers found it to be heavy and also noted that the cool shot button can be easily pressed while blow drying.

"The lightweight and sturdy design makes it easy to maneuver while styling and the airflow dried my hair very quickly (more so than my previous dryer)," shares one tester. "The massage tool is a nice feature — it's very relaxing."

How we test travel hair dryers

When it comes to testing hair dryers, our Beauty Lab pros measure everything from the surface temperature to the ease of use, including the comfort of hold, its weight and its cord length.

In our most recent travel hair dryer test, we evaluated 11 top-rated travel hair dryers by measuring drying speed on standardized human hair samples, as well as airflow and the temperature they reach. We also rated noise level and ease of use, including the comfort of hold, ease of putting on and removing attachments and location of controls and buttons.

Overall, our beauty analysts recorded over 2,000 data points to determine which delivered the most gorgeous, salon-level blowouts . In this list, we included the final seven that outperformed all the others.

If you are traveling internationally, take note that every travel dryer we tested in our Lab features dual voltage, meaning these mini blow dryers can function in the United States and abroad with a compatible travel adapter unless otherwise noted — so no worries about blowing a fuse here.

What to look for when shopping for a travel hair dryer

We called on hair pros celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein and Matrix Artistic Director Nick Stenson for their best shopping advice on mini hair dryers:

✔️ Speed and efficiency: It's the top priority for a travel hair dryer, according to Rubenstein. "Look for features such as ceramic that result in frizz-free and shiny hair," she says. "There is no use in bringing one along if it doesn't make your hair look great." The hairstylist recommends the ion-charged T3 , which dries hair super fast and leaves hair shiny. "It also cuts major frizz," she says. "I would use it even when not traveling."

✔️ Size: The lighter the better! "There are so many that come in compact, lightweight sizes that still pack a major punch," she says. " T3 , Harry Josh and GHD make my favorite travel sizes." You’ll find varied weight and size options with travel dryers, but Stenson suggests keeping it under 1.5 pounds. Another bonus with purchasing a travel dryer is finding one that collapses or folds to allow for easier packing, he adds.

✔️ Wattage: Voltage and wattage should be more of a concern if you’re traveling internationally. Stenson recommends 1875 watts as the sweet spot for most hair dryers. For international travel, you’ll want to invest in a travel adapter as well, no matter the wattage.

✔️ Attachments: A great travel dryer should also come with a concentrator and diffuser attachments for versatility, says Stenson.

Is a travel hair dryer worth it?

Absolutely! Especially if you use a blowdryer daily. "For the moderate to the avid traveler, travel dryers are a fabulous investment that saves space and unnecessary weight in your luggage and keeps you looking your best on the go," says Stenson. Plus, they're likely better than what you'll find in your hotel. "Even though a hotel blowdryer will do its job, it almost never has the same features as higher quality brands," Rubenstein adds. "You won't regret it."

Do mini hair dryers work?

"Travel blow dryers work, but they may not have the same performance, so it's advisable not to have the same expectations as for full-sized hair dryers," Wizemann says. "They may be slower in drying hair and require more time for styling."

That said, the technology has certainly improved in recent years. While regular dryers used to "typically emphasize power and are known to have more advanced styling features for faster and more efficient drying," says Wizemann, many current travel hair dryers have multiple speed and heat setting options just like their bigger, bulkier counterparts.

Can you bring a travel hair dryer in a carry-on?

Yes. "As per TSA regulations, it is allowed to carry a hair dryer as a personal belonging on board ," says Wizemann. She recommends packing it in a separate plastic or Ziploc bag if you are also carrying liquids and place the hair dryer between soft clothing for additional protection.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Contributing Beauty Editor Dori Price is the most recent updater of this article. She has over 15 years of experience researching and writing haircare and hairstyling stories, combining her knowledge with the expertise of top industry professionals such as hairstylists, hair colorists and trichologists. She is an expert in all hair product categories, from shampoos , conditioners, treatments , styling products and tools to hair color, professional services and more.

To update our picks, Price worked closely with Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann , who contributed her expertise, providing information from Lab testing and about travel hair dryers generally. With a background in hair dye research and synthesis, Wizemann loves all things hair-related. Over her many years in the GH Beauty Lab, she has fashioned Lab and consumer studies on at-home hair coloring , shampoos for colored hair , hair serums , dry shampoos and more. She also tests hair styling tools like hair dryers while continuously checking for the latest innovations in hairstyling.

Commerce Editor Jacqueline Saguin wrote the original version of this article, compiling picks and interviewing experts for commentary. She covers all things home, lifestyle, style, beauty and beyond. Before GH, she worked on Insider's style and beauty reviews vertical, where she evaluated skincare, makeup, travel accessories, social media trends and more.

Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute . Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

Dori Price is a New York City-based freelance writer and editor and beauty, style and wellness expert who was the Beauty & Fashion Director at Family Circle for 13 years before she joined Good Housekeeping , Prevention and Woman’s Day as a freelance beauty editor. She has also written for WomensHealthMag.com , E lle.com and HealthCentral.com .

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The 14 Best Travel Hair Dryers for a Fabulous Blowout On the Fly

Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you have to leave a good hair behind.

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• Our top picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Brian Kopinski

Being both beauty and travel editors has taught us many important lessons. But, perhaps this is the most valuable of them all: Hotel blow dryers are not it. Fortunately, tech has only improved and nowadays, wherever we are in the world, we can give ourselves a gorgeous blowout in minutes with a hair dryer that is lighter and much smaller – but just as powerful – as the one we leave at home. And despite their compact size, these next-gen travel hair dryers don't compromise hair health and some are even designed for specific hair types, like curly, thick or damaged hair, with settings to protect delicate strands.

“While travel blow dryers are often smaller and more compact, they typically have everything regular dryers have,” explains master stylist and founder of Yvey Salon , Yvey Valcin. “Despite the size differences, they work very well and you can get nearly the same results that you would get from your regular blow dryer.”

Best Overall

Chi 1875 series advanced ionic compact hair dryer.

What We Love: This blow dryer works exceptionally well on all hair textures, including thick and coarse.

What We Don’t Love: This device does not come with a travel bag.

This small but mighty Chi blow dryer has an 1875-watt motor to dry hair in no time, but it also features a ceramic heater that offers even heat distribution, which ultimately helps minimize damage. On top of that, the innovative tool produces negative ions that smooth and seal cuticles, while still giving hair volume and body. Plus, it comes with a removable air concentrator nozzle – a wide, flat attachment that directs airflow into smaller, more concentrated areas of your hair to help you style with ease – that can be used to create ultra-sleek blowouts. As for the best part? There are three different heat settings – lukewarm, medium, and hot – which means users can customize the heat depending on their preference. Pro tip: Top off your style with the cool shot button to lock in looks and help further eliminate frizz. 

As a fun bonus, this device has a blue LED light that creates cleaner air during the styling process by decreasing bacterial buildup inside the hair dryer. With so many stellar features there’s a lot to love about this compact dryer, but we do wish it came with a travel bag to make storing it a tad easier. 

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Cold shot button, included concentrator and diffuser, blue LED light | Weight: 2 pounds 

Best Budget

Lura mini portable travel hair dryer.

What We Love: When folded, this affordable blow dryer is smaller than an iPhone.

What We Don’t Love: The diffuser attachment is very small, so it may take a long time to adequately dry curly hair.

Not only can you create various styles with  this tiny tool, which is smaller than an iPhone, using its diffuser and concentrator, but it also features two heat settings (low and high), two speeds (slow and fast), and 1200 watts to get the job done quickly. That said, the diffuser attachment is very small, too, so it may take a long time to adequately dry curly hair with it.  

Complete with a shiny silver travel bag as well as a two-pin plug adapter that works in most European countries, the dryer comes with everything you’ll need to style your hair from anywhere in the world. 

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case, adapter plug | Weight: 0.68 pounds

Best with Folding Handle

T3 afar travel dryer.

What We Love: This blow dryer has three heat settings, two speed settings, and a cool shot feature.

What We Don’t Love: While this tool quickly and efficiently dries thinner hair, it can take a while for thicker, coarser hair to get dry.

This tiny tool has a foldable handle that makes it easy to store, as well as an automatic dual voltage feature that adapts based on where you are. “It's the perfect travel companion, ready to save your hair from bad hair days no matter where in the world you find yourself,” says master stylist and founder of Gregga LA , Gregga Prothero . “It may be small, but it packs a powerful punch, delivering fast and efficient drying while reducing frizz and static.” 

Thanks to three heat settings (which include warm, hot, and an innovative cool shot feature that locks in styles) as well as two speed settings (low and high), you can easily customize the settings to fit your hair’s texture, length, and dampness. (It’s worth noting that this tool doesn’t blow out extremely hot air, so if you have thick, coarse, or very long hair, you might have to spend extra time drying it.) It also has an ion generator that infuses the air with negative ions to help reduce static and frizz while also smoothing the hair cuticle to ensure a glossy, high-shine finish. As if that wasn’t enough, it comes with a cute vegan leather travel case and a clip-on concentrator. 

Watts: 1500 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot, travel case | Weight: 0.68 pounds  

Best for Long Hair

Mane this totally blows ionic compact hair dryer.

Mane This Totally Blows

What We Love: Between its diffuser, nozzle, and wide-tooth comb attachment, thicker hair types have options whether they want a sleek blowout or to embrace their natural waves. 

What We Don’t Love: The additional attachments could hog extra space in your suitcase. 

Sure, thick hair is great in theory but, trust us, when it comes to wash and style days we’re ready to throw in the towel, especially when we’re bumping up against walls in tiny hotel bathrooms and cramped spaces while traveling. Mane understands that this hair type comes in all shapes in sizes, from big bouncy waves to long straight tresses, and the brand thoughtfully included three different attachments to help manage them all: A wide tooth comb for quick straightening, a nozzle that delivers hot hair right to the root for maximum volume, and a diffuser for days you want to rock your au-natural ringlets. 

Of course, no good deed goes unpunished and these added bells and whistles will take up a bit more space in your suitcase. On the flip side, you may be able to ditch some of your styling serums and oils since this hair dryer delivers great results all on its own. 

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Diffuser, cool shot | Weight: 0.84 pounds

Best Dual Voltage

Ghd flight+ travel hair dryer.

What We Love: This smart blow dryer automatically switches off when it’s held too close to hair, which helps protect strands from heat damage.

What We Don’t Love: This blow dryer's airflow only reaches 149 degrees, which means it’s not ideal for someone with very thick hair.

The Ghd Flight Travel Hair Dryer is the ideal beauty tool when it comes to traveling internationally for more than one reason. For starters, it has dual voltage capabilities, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world, no matter how dire the outlet situation may be. On top of that, it won’t weigh down luggage since it clocks in at a mere 0.99 ounces. And if you’re a carry-on-only type, you’ll love its foldable design so you can squeeze it into most totes and smaller luggage. 

This travel blow dryer has two heat settings, a cool shot setting, and one speed setting, allowing it to be customized to your liking (that said, the hot setting only reaches 149 degrees, so it won’t be very efficient at blow-drying very thick hair). Plus, it comes with a protective travel case that can shield the blow dryer from damage. As for the coolest feature, it’s quite literally the safety technology that automatically powers down the device to a lower temperature if it’s held too close to hair. This unique feature shields hair from heat damage and prevents the tool from overheating.

Watts: 1300 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 1 | Special Features: Cool shot, travel case | Weight: 1 pound

Best for International Travel

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

What We Love: Because it is dual voltage it can be used anywhere in the world.

What We Don’t Love: It does not offer a medium heat setting.

Looking for a convenient, reliable, and affordable hair dryer to accompany you on your next international trip? We have just what you need. This BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer has dual voltage, allowing you to use it no matter where your travels take you. It offers 1000 watts of power, meaning it won’t fry strands, but it will still dry them promptly. Plus, it has two different heat and speed settings (high and low), to best suit your hair type (use high heat if you have thick hair and low heat if you have thin hair). While these two settings work well, we do wish there was a medium setting for more customization.  

This compact dryer also features a nano titanium technology that emits negative ions to give strands a healthy, glossy finish. And, to top it all off, it has a foldable handle, a six-foot-long cord, and it comes with an ultra-thin concentrator nozzle. Need we say more?

Watts: 1000 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, long cord | Weight: 0.6 pounds

Best Lightweight

Drybar baby buttercup blow dryer.

What We Love: This hair dryer features a fine mesh filter on the back that prevents hair from getting sucked in.

What We Don’t Love: The concentrator can fall off if it is not attached tightly enough to the nozzle.

Leave it to Drybar to make a lightweight, cute, and compact travel blow dryer. Weighing less than a pound, this foldable device can fit in any suitcase or carry-on and is the perfect hot tool to bring along with you, even if you’re traveling light. (We will note that the width of the head is a bit bigger than some of the other blow dryers on this list.) Designed with three power options to accommodate a variety of electrical outlets across the world without needing to worry about causing a circuit break.

With two heat settings, and a cool shot feature to set styles, the high-quality dryer helps you create a salon-worthy blowout. Plus, the concentrator nozzle provides you with the targeted airflow you need to create the hairstyle of your dreams. If you want to take your hair game to the next level, we suggest getting a hair serum , for quicker drying time and to fight frizz and protect hair from heat damage.

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot, travel bag | Weight: 0.8 pounds  

Most Powerful

Jinri 1875w dual voltage travel hair dryer.

Complete 1875 watts, this small but powerful blow dryer can style hair in no time. In addition to a cool shot button to hold and set your final look, you can choose between a high heat setting to get your hair dried fast and a lower heat temperature if you’re going for a bouncy, salon-like blowout. Designed with a ceramic nozzle it produces airflow filled with negative ions that cling to hair and close the follicle, preventing frizzy flyways. Plus, it has two features that make it perfect to use overseas: The dryer has dual voltage capabilities and folds up, which means you can easily pack it into crowded carry-ons. Pro tip: To change the voltage, simply twist the knob at the bottom of the handle. 

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot | Weight: 1.57 lbs 

Eva NYC Mini Dryer + Bag

What We Love: This powerful little blow dryer radiates far-infrared heat and emits negative ions, which keeps hair looking healthy and shiny.

What We Don’t Love: This blow dryer does not have a cool shot feature.

Like most hot tools from Eva NYC, this portable blow dryer utilizes the power of negative ions. These negative ions are released from the tourmaline-infused ceramic nozzle into the hair, working overtime to lock in moisture and eliminate frizz and static. The result? Shiny, glossy hair, especially when you pair it with its dazzling shine spray . Plus, this innovative device radiates far-infrared heat, which is gentle on hair and ultimately reduces drying time, protecting strands from heat damage. 

On top of shielding hair from harm, this blow dryer allows for different styling options, thanks to the concentrator and diffuser attachments. (The concentrator is ideal for creating smooth blowouts while the diffuser helps ensure curls keep their shape, sans frizz.) As for the final touches, this Eva NYC favorite offers dual voltage, has a foldable handle, and comes with a cute carrying case.

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case | Weight: 1.19 pounds 

Best for Damaged Hair

Berta hair dryer.

What We Love: This travel blow dryer emits negative ions and has a cool shot feature.

What We Don’t Love: The rear vent cap is not removable, so there is no way to clean out the grate in the back of the dryer.

If you have damaged hair and don’t want to air dry it (guilty), opt for this Amazon bestseller. This Berta blow dryer has three heat settings – low, high, and a cool shot feature. The low heat setting is ideal to use if you have damaged hair because it’s warm enough to efficiently dry hair, yet cool enough to protect strands from heat damage. Additionally, it emits negative ions into the hair, which increases shine while decreasing static. If you really want to keep your hair healthy, we suggest using a heat protectant spray both before and during your blow-drying session so you can ensure your mane is safe from harm. 

As an added bonus, this foldable tool is extremely quiet, so if you’re sharing a hotel room with someone, it won’t be bothersome. Plus, it has a handy hanging ring so you can store it on the back of the bathroom door, freeing up countertop space for your other beauty essentials. 

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot | Weight: 1.53 lbs  

Best Blow Dryer Brush

Plavogue hair dryer brush.

What We Love: This lightweight tool features an anti-scalding comb that protects the scalp from heat.

What We Don’t Love: It’s loud.

This 1000-watt powered hot air brush detangles, straightens, and styles strands — and quickly. What’s better, the brand designs the brush with nylon needles and tufted bristles that won’t rip out hair, and it has anti-scalding capabilities that protect the scalp from getting burned.

In terms of traveling, this blow dry brush has a dual-voltage plug you can use anywhere and comes with a carrying case that protects it from getting scratched and damaged. It’s worth pointing out that this device is a bit loud when it’s in use, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with someone or will be in close quarters. 

Watts: 1000 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 3 | Special Features: Travel bag, two hair clips, 360-degree swivel cord | Weight: 1.83 lbs

Best for Frizzy Hair

Conair mini travel hair dryer for on-the-go styling.

What We Love: This mini blow dryer features tourmaline ceramic technology that helps protect the hair from heat while also adding shine and reducing frizz.

What We Don’t Love: The cord is less than five feet long, which means it’s shorter than most.

Complete with tourmaline ceramic technology that works hard to protect hair from heat damage, this top-rated Conair hair dryer stops frizz before it happens. This technology produces negative ions that enhance shine and provide hair with noticeable glossiness. As for its features, this blow dryer offers two heat and speed settings (high and low), which work well with all hair types, and it also comes with a concentrator and diffuser, letting you get creative with your hairstyle.

Aside from getting a blow dryer with special tourmaline ceramic technology, Prothero recommends other tips for keeping frizz at bay while styling it. “To reduce frizz when blow drying your hair, you should be using the proper anti-frizz serum that also protects your hair from heat,” she says. “Apply the lightweight formula to towel-dried hair before blow drying.” By doing this, the hair oil   will be able to provide frizz control as well as heat protection.

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case | Weight: 0.68 lbs  

Best with Diffuser

Ohjump hair dryer.

What We Love: This small tool has strong fans that produce fast wind speeds in order to dry hair quicker and reduce heat damage.

What We Don’t Love: The concentrator can get hot if it’s left on too long, so try to use it for 10 minutes or less at a time.

What do you get when you pair this blow dryer’s diffuser with curly hair? A match made in heaven. The Ohjump Mini Travel Hair Dryer comes with a top-rated diffuser attachment that keeps curly hair, well, curly. Thanks to strong fans that create high wind speeds, this tool can deliver hot gusts of wind straight through the diffuser to hair. The efficient diffuser helps define and set curls without the addition of frizz. 

Plus, this tool has two heat and speed settings – high heat with high speed, which provides a strong airflow that dries hair fast, and low heat with low speed, which creates a soft air flow that helps to smooth strands (this setting is great for wavy hair). On top of that, this foldable blow dryer is small and compact, and even features dual voltage options. It also comes with a travel bag and an EU plug adapter.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case, adapter plug | Weight: 1.23 pounds  

Best for Curly Hair

Hot tools compact hair dryer.

What We Love: This small blow dryer comes with a unique diffuser that creates gorgeous curls and waves.

What We Don’t Love: This device produces very hot air that can burn the scalp if it is placed too close to the head.

This bestselling Hot Tools dryer is one of our favorite curly hair products , thanks to its slew of thoughtful features, and accompanying finger-style diffuser – a rarity among travel hair dryers! – making it especially great for coils and curls, but if you’re going for carefree beach waves, this diffuser will help keep those bends intact, too. For starters, this device has three different heat settings. On top of that, this blow dryer comes with a unique, finger-style diffuser that’s made to lift hair, add body, and maintain curls or waves without creating frizz. It also comes with a concentrator that can create bouncy blowouts. Plus, this blow dryer emits negative ions that condition and smooth hair, making it shinier and more lustrous. 

Like any worthwhile travel hair dryer, it features dual voltage properties and the easy fold-up design lets you squeeze it into an already jam-packed suitcase.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, cool shot | Weight : 1.55 pounds

• Compact Size: The main draw for getting a travel hair dryer is its small and compact size. When shopping for a portable blow dryer, be sure that it’s foldable and under two pounds. (Luckily, all 14 devices on our list are less than two pounds!) This will ensure it can fit in tight spaces and won’t weigh down your luggage.
• Wattage/Voltage: In terms of traveling with a mini blow dryer, it’s important to keep the wattage and voltage in mind. The ideal wattage for a portable blow dryer is anywhere between 1200 and 1900 watts. Most full-size blow dryers are closer to 1800 watts. This is true in both the U.S. and overseas. However, the voltage differs. “In many countries, electrical voltage is 220/240 volts, while in the U.S., hot tools are 110/120 volts,” says Prothero. “Some travel hair dryers have dials that allow you to switch between voltage making them great for international use.” Make sure the device you have offers dual voltage (each blow dryer on this list does), and ensure you bring a travel adapter no matter what the wattage is.
• Speed: Travel blow dryers might look small, but don’t doubt their power. Most of them pack a strong punch, offering high wind speeds as well as hot heat settings. To ensure your travel blow dryer can dry your hair, be sure it has a wattage of 1200 or up. If you really want to dry your hair quickly, opt for a blow dryer with closer to 1900 watts.  The higher the watts, the speedier it’ll dry your strands.

Are travel hair dryers different from regular hair dryers?

Ultimately, the main difference between travel hair dryers and regular hair dryers is the size. Celebrity hairstylist Mario Solis adds, “Travel blow dryers may have different voltages and sometimes even plug adapters.”

When picking out a travel dryer, make sure it checks off all the boxes you want. “Look for what the dryer is made of (ceramic, titanium, etc.), its wattage, its weight, and any special features you want,” says Prothero, who adds “You also want to look for adjustable heat, a cool setting, and the ability to use attachments such as diffusers, and concentrators.”

Depending on its wattage, a smaller hair dryer might take a bit longer to dry hair than its full-size counterpart, but having a reliable travel hair dryer is worth it. As Valcin explains, hotel dryers are often terrible for your hair’s health because “The heat coming from them is not controlled, which can damage your hair.”

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry-on?

“Absolutely,” says Valcin. “There aren't any regulations for packing your dryer in your carry-on.” Plus, the best thing about packing a travel hair dryer is that they’re ultra-compact, which means they’ll barely take up any room at all.

Lauren Harano has been in the beauty industry for over seven years. For this article, Lauren interviewed three hair experts: Master stylist and founder of Gregga LA, Gregga Prothero;  master stylist and founder of Yvey Salon, Yvey Valcin; and celebrity hairstylist Mario Solis.

Related Articles

5 Best CHI Hair Dryers for 2022 Reviewed

Ever thought that all chi hair dryers are all the same? That would be an understandable assumption to make, but couldn’t be more wrong! The power and performance of a hairdryer is affected by its motor, material, in-built technology, and a multitude of other features you may not have considered.

What are those attachments that come with my hairdryer? What does a DC motor do? Why does my hairdryer produce ions?

In this guide, we focus specifically on CHI professional blow dryer models. We aim to answer all your questions and more about this selection of five products, with our detailed product reviews. To help you choose your perfect CHI dryer, we’ve created this buyer’s guide filled with everything you’d possibly need to know about the brand and its products, which each come with different functions and unique selling points.

Editor's Choice

CHI Touch 2 - Touch Screen Hair Dryer

CHI Tech Travel Ceramic Hair Dryer

CHI Rocket Hair Dryer

Inside each review, we’ll tell you the following points for each model:

• – Price rating
• – Material the product is made from
• – The drying technology it includes
• – Does it have add-ons and attachments?
• – Its heat settings and speed adjustments

Our guides let you know which choice you should opt for with your budget, and recommend models depending on hair type and style. We’ll let you know if the model features a ‘cool shot’ button great for adding a sheen to your hair, and how the dryer leaves your tresses feeling when you’re done using.

Read on to find out which CHI models we rate and which won’t work for you!

TOP 5 CHI Hair Dryers

1. CHI Touch 2 - Touch Screen Hair Dryer

• – Precise touch screen controls for speed, heat, and ions
• – Reduce drying time by 50% with 1875 watt power
• – Compact, ergonomic design
• – Clean design—no switches in the way
• – Limited 2-year warranty
• – Touch screen hard to use with damp hands

The CHI Touch 2 Touch Screen Hair Dryer is a slick and intuitive touch-controlled hairdryer. With a 4-inch touch screen panel and a speedometer to customize your settings, this hair dryer allows you to control the temperature, speed, and ionic output. You can style your hair your way, all while reducing thermal damage from heat styling. Read on for more details on this product in our CHI Touch 2 Touch Screen Hair Dryer 2020 Review.

2. CHI Tech Travel Ceramic Hair Dryer

• – Well designed for travel
• – Well sized
• – Folds easily
• – Light in weight
• – Lots of drying power
• – Usually returnable if you are not satisfied
• – Well priced
• – The chord can tend to tangle

Every girl dreams of having a travel-friendly hair dryer that still does the job like a more expensive model — the CHI Tech Travel Ceramic Hair dryer ticks this box. The product is light, folds away easily, aesthetically pleasing, and it dries your hair with a professional finish.

The hair dryer has several distinctive features, making it quite advanced for a small travel dryer. If you want a compact hair dryer for your travels, but you refuse to compromise on quality, then you’ll want to keep reading this CHI Tech Travel Ceramic Hair dryer review.

3. CHI Rocket Hair Dryer

• – Dries hair fast
• – Operates quietly
• – Ideal for frizzy locks
• – Two speeds: high and low
• – Professional quality
• – Small and not bulky
• – Comb attachments included for straightening
• – Includes a 2 Year Warranty
• – Beginners may find it hard to handle
• – Becomes hot quickly
• – Somewhat pricey

CHI has brought its flat iron expertise to this new blow dryer. This CHI Rocket dryer with comb attachments allows you to dry and straighten sections of your hair. As you can tell by our ratings, the company is highly successful at making hair softer and more beautiful.

The fast-drying component of this product makes it very appealing to those on the go. CHI has outdone itself with an item that can knock minutes off of anyone’s morning routine. 

We couldn’t praise this product enough. Here are the finer details on our 2020 CHI Rocket product review.

4. CHI 1875 Series Hair Dryer

• – Ion generator emits negative ions to tame frizz and add shine
• – Lightweight and travel-friendly
• – Antimicrobial to reduce bacteria build-up
• – Short nozzle attachments can make it hard to dry large sections of hair

When it comes to hair dryers, Houston-based brand CHI makes some of the most advanced on the market – and the 1875 Series is no exception. The name refers to its 1875 watt motor, a hugely impressive wattage for such a lightweight and compact dryer. This powerful airflow is filtered through a ceramic heater, which generates ions to smooth and add shine to your hair. 

So, does the CHI 1875 Series dryer live up to the promise of its name?

The answer is a resounding yes. CHI is renowned for its versatile carbon fiber dryers, and the 1875 Series is both an excellent gateway into the brand and a great dryer in its own right.

5. CHI Ceramic Hair Dryer

• – Lightweight and easy to transport
• – Reduces static
• – Eliminates frizz
• – Multiple speed and temperature settings
• – Suitable for all hair types
• – Good value for money
• – ‘Cool Shot’ button needs to be held down constantly for it to work

The CHI Ceramic Hair Dryer is a versatile dryer designed for all hair types, thanks to its numerous speed and temperature settings. It is 1875 Watts and has been created to effectively reduce static and eliminate frizz for smoother, sleeker locks and effortless styling. Hair is static- and frizz-free due to the presence of Far Infrared technology and the inclusion of Tourmaline Ceramic elements for more even heat distribution.

The product is manufactured by CHI HAIRCARE, which is a US-based company comprised of hairdressers – so it is obvious that they know what they are doing!

Tips for Buying a CHI Hairdryer

If you’ve read through our reviews and are still puzzled as to which CHI dryer to choose – never fear. We’ve compiled a short, simple list for you, to make clear all the materials and functions you should look for in a product based on your hair type and other needs.

Without further ado: if you have…

• – For fine hair, you should be looking for products that are made with ceramic. This material is kind on hair by kind of absorbing some of the damaging heat before it reaches your hair.
• – You should also look for models that come with concentrator attachments, so you can easily add volume to your blow dry. Otherwise, normal drying can leave hair flat and lifeless.
• – Cool shot buttons are your friend! A blast all over the hair after drying leaves hair soft and shiny, and adds and element of health and sheen.
• – Fine hair can easily become brittle with overexposure to heat, so setting your dryer on a lower temperature setting is a good option for you. Dryers with advanced heat controls (eg. More than two options) are recommended, so that you can get a cooler setting that’s also comfortable and not too cold.
• – Fine hair tends to dry quicker, so you can get away with using lower wattage. This will also help prevent unnecessary and accidental heat damage.
• – Choose a DC motor to avoid overpowering your hair.
• – A diffuser nozzle is great for curly-haired beauties. This separates the airflow, making it lighter on your locks. It won’t be harsh and flattening on your curls, leaving you with cute bouncy ringlets.
• – Curly hair tends to be thicker and takes longer to dry. If this is you, opt for a higher wattage model.
• – Go for a middle heat setting, if you can. If you have hard-to-dry hair, it’s tempting to use your dryer on full heat, but this is damaging and can turn your hair flat and lifeless.
• – Far-infrared technology will help retain your hair’s natural texture while ensuring a quick drying time.
• – Ionic technology (also known as negative ion technology, or an ionic generator) will ensure your curls stay frizz-free.
• – If you have thick, coarse curly hair, an AC motor will benefit you. Less powerful DC motors are all you need to use for fine hair.
• – As your hair likely takes a long time to dry, you should look for far-infrared technology in your dryer. This dries hair quickly by breaking down large water molecules and heating hair from within.
• – Go for at least 1800 watts, for a powerful and therefore faster dry.
• – Advanced temperature and speed controls are great for thick hair. Go for a mid-heat and a fast setting to quicken the process.
• – Use a diffuser to spread the airflow over a larger surface area.
• – Tourmaline or titanium materials heat up faster and stronger – helping thick-haired people speed up their daily routines!
• – AC motors are your friend. They pack a punch, and dramatically shorten your styling time.
• – Working on the assumption your hair takes a long time to dry, you should follow the above instructions for thick hair.
• – BUT – if you have long, fine hair, make sure you stay away from top temperatures and use mid or low heat settings to avoid damage.
• – Depending whether you have thick or fine hair, use AC or DC motors respectively.
• – Shorter hairstyles usually dry quickly, no matter what hair type you have. This means you should select a low heat. Ensuring you protect your short hair from heat damage is possibly more important than long hair – you’ll stunt your hair’s growth by inflicting too much heat damage.
• – You can vary the speed to any you like best.
• – Use a concentrator nozzle to add volume and definition to short hair.
• – Take advantage of advanced haircare technology, like ionic and far-infrared. Anything that helps protect hair from heat is good for you.
• – Choose a gentle DC motor – AC is too powerful for your needs.

RUSK Engineering W8Less Professional Dryer

Fahrenheit Double Trouble Flat Iron

Fahrenheit Sleek Pro Flat Iron

Tips and help, how many times wash hair in a week, what should i apply to my hair daily, how do koreans take care of their hair, what should i apply after hair wash, what should i put on my hair after a shower.

Best hair dryers, according to professional hair stylists

A good hair day starts with a great hair dryer. While it can be tough to replicate a professional blowout at home, the best hair dryers can help you achieve smooth, sleek and salon-worthy locks. Whether you’re looking for something quiet and quick-drying, an affordable and foldable blow dryer for traveling or a high-tech hair dryer with all the bells, whistles and attachments, we’ve got it. Read on to shop the best hair dryer in every category, tested and recommended by professional stylists.

What to consider when buying hair dryers

If you don’t want to spend a ton of time waiting for your hair to dry, or you just have really thick hair that takes forever, look for a blow dryer with high wattage. “The wattage determines the air power of the dryer, which can substantially cut blow drying time,” explains MariLynne Cosmillo, hair stylist and founder of hOURS Haircare . “For thin hair, a lower-wattage blow dryer (around 1,800 watts) will work. The thicker your hair is, the higher you’ll want to go to help cut dry time.”

Cord length

This is a factor many may not consider, but it can negatively impact your blowout experience, especially if you’re the type who likes to move around while you dry. “Salon-quality dryers will include an estimated nine-foot cord length. While you may not need this much reach, it depends on where you’re styling at home, and it’s worth checking when you purchase,” says Cosmillo. “Some low-quality dryers will have a very short cord and that will reduce your mobility at home.”

Heat settings

“The majority of dryers will come with three heat settings: high, medium and cool. These options are important,” notes Cosmillo. “High heat helps to thoroughly dry the hair in an efficient time. Medium heat is best for those with highly damaged or very porous hair, where gentle heat is required. Cool air is helpful to seal the shape of your style.”

Cosmillo finds the weight of the dryer is the most important consideration for certain people. “If you have a lot of hair, it can be a struggle to maintain stamina if the dryer is heavy — it gets exhausting, quickly.” If you’re shopping in person, she recommends holding the dryer to see if it feels comfortable. “If you’re ordering online, be sure to keep all of the box parts and only purchase if it has a good return policy.”

Attachments

Look for hair dryers that come with the attachments you want (or need), like a diffuser for curly or wavy hair and a concentrator to help direct the airflow as you style.

Our top picks for the best hair dryers

Best hair dryer for multiple uses: t3 aireluxe.

T3 Aireluxe Professional Hair Dryer

The T3 AireLuxe is Los Angeles-based hairstylist Rubyna Kim’s absolute favorite hair dryer. “It’s lightweight, gentle on the hair and has the perfect temperature settings,” she says. In fact, it has an impressive 15 digital heat and speed combinations total, for maximum flexibility and customization. “It gives you the ultimate shiny, sleek blowout if you use it with a round brush,” Kim adds. The dryer comes with both a detangling and round brush to help you achieve the perfect at-home blowout, too.

Kim also loves the Aireluxe for curly hair, noting that it works as a great diffuser. “The thick nozzle makes it easy and perfect for achieving any style, and it’s very affordable compared to the other high-quality hair dryers out there,” she says. Other standout features are the volume boost switch and RapidAire IQ Technology, which helps dry hair twice as fast and retains up to 60% more of your hair’s natural moisture.

Specifications:

• Heat settings: Five.
• Speed settings: Three.
• Wattage: 1,875.
• Attachments: Drying concentrator, styling concentrator.
• Weight: 17.1 ounces.
• Cord length: 9 feet.
• Cool shot button: Yes.
• Price on publish: $199.99.

What we like:

• Dries hair twice as fast while retaining moisture.
• Includes brushes for the perfect blowout.
• Lightweight.
• 15 temperature and speed combos.
• Well-priced for the features.

What we don’t like:

• Some reviewers don’t love the location of the cool shot button, as it can be easy to accidentally hit.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

This luxe, lightweight blow dryer dries locks twice as fast, while locking in moisture for a salon-worthy blowout.

Get it here: T3 Aireluxe

Best splurge hair dryer: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

The TikTok-famous hair dryer with a cult following lives up to the hype. “It’s quiet, dries fast and the design is sleek,” says Kim. “Its heat control technology provides fast drying power with minimal damage. It comes with many different attachments for all hair types and textures, too.” The magnetic attachments pop on and off with ease and include some rather unique ones, like a flyaway attachment to help hide flyaways beneath long locks, a gentle air attachment for fine hair and sensitive scalps, and a wide-tooth comb to help style textured and curly strands.

“Before this hair dryer it took me 60-75 minutes to dry my hair fully,” writes one verified Amazon reviewer. “With the Dyson, it takes 25-30 minutes and although blow drying your hair can never be enjoyable, this is about as close as you can get. The heat and speed settings are perfect.”

• Heat Settings: Four.
• Speed Settings: Three.
• Wattage: 1,380.
• Attachments: Flyaway attachment, styling concentrator, diffuser, gentle air attachment, wide-tooth comb.
• Weight: 28.8 ounces.
• Price on publish: $429.
• Superfast drying time.
• Intelligent heat control minimizes hair damage.
• Suitable for all hair textures and types.
• Lots of attachments for the perfect blowout.
• It’s expensive.
• It’s heavy.

Ultra-fast drying without the damage and with extra attachments for an impeccable blowout, the Dyson is absolutely worth the splurge.

Get it here: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

Best value hair dryer: Elchim Classic 2001 High Pressure Hair Dryer

Elchim Classic 2001 High Pressure Hair Dryer

At just over $100, this highly-rated hair dryer offers incredible value. “I’ve recommended this for home use for over 15 years,” says Cosmillo. “It has just the right amount of power for a self-blowout, lasts a long time and is a medium-weight blow dryer. A lot of professionals use this, too.”

With more than 1,700 five-star reviews, you really can’t go wrong. “This is a fantastic blow dryer at its price range,” writes one reviewer. Another adds, “This is a powerful hairdryer for this particular price point. It is not as powerful or fast drying as the Dyson, but it is also less than half the price.” Hundreds of dollars less, in fact!

• Speed settings: Two.
• Attachments: Concentrator.
• Weight: 18 ounces.
• Cool shot button: No.
• Price on publish: $110
• High wattage for quicker dry times.
• Long lasting and durable.
• Used and trusted by many professional hair stylists.
• Not great for fine hair.
• Diffuser sold separately.

If you have thick hair, you’ll love the price and power of this durable, long-lasting hair dryer.

Get it here: Elchim Classic 2001 High Pressure Hair Dryer

Best professional hair dryer: Parlux 3800 Eco-Friendly Dryer

Parlux 3800 Eco-Friendly Dryer

According to Cosmillo, the Parlux 3800 is a classic and popular choice with stylists. “It has everything a stylist needs for a quality blowout: 2,100 watts, lots of heat, two concentrator nozzles, a long cord, ionic and ceramic technology and it weighs around one pound,” she says. It’s also really quiet thanks to a built-in silencer, which is great for a mom like me whose kids are constantly asking questions as I try to get ready.

“This blow dryer is the bomb. It magically dries your hair in less time and less frizzing while at the same time making less noise,” raves one happy reviewer, who has had hers for more than eight years and reports that it’s still going strong.

• Heat settings: Four.
• Wattage: 2,100.
• Attachments: Two concentrator nozzles.
• Weight: 17.64 ounces.
• Cord length: 9.8 feet.
• Price on publish: $229.99.
• High wattage cuts drying time drastically.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Combines ionic and ceramic technology.
• Built-in silencer to reduce noise.
• Eco-friendly.
• Doesn’t come with a diffuser.

This lightweight, eco-friendly hair dryer is super powerful while also being quite quiet, for a more pleasant blow dry experience.

Get it here: Parlux 3800 Eco-Friendly Dryer

Best quiet hair dryer: Chi Lava Pro Hair Dryer

Chi Lava Pro Hair Dryer

"Every time I use this dryer at my salon, my clients cannot get over how quiet it is,” says Bradley Tuggle , a CHI Haircare ambassador. “Not only does it make less noise, it also weighs less than one pound. But what truly makes this dryer different is that the ceramic is infused with lava minerals so you can dry your hair at a lower temperature [ which means less damage]."

Other stylists agree: “I'm a hairstylist with sound sensitivity. I have been loving this hair dryer for almost six months now,” writes one customer, who also notes that “the lowest airflow speed is too high-pitched, so a medium or strong speed is best.” This hair dryer has a few other standout features, including an extra long cord (11 feet) so you can move around as you dry and an automatic self-cleaning function, which is awesome.

• Wattage: 1,200.
• Attachments: Diffuser, precision concentrator and smoothing nozzle.
• Weight: Less than a pound.
• Cord length: 11 feet.
• Price on publish: $337.49.
• Very quiet.
• Infused with lava minerals for a faster blow-dry even at lower temps.
• Automatic self-cleaning.
• Extra long cord.

If you want to chat while you blow dry, or you’re just super sensitive to sound, the ultra-quiet Chi Lava Pro is worth the purchase.

Get it here: Chi Lava Pro Hair Dryer

Best hair dryer for travel: BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Travel Hair Dryer

BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Travel Hair Dryer

Frequent fliers will love the lightweight and extra affordable BaBylissPro, which features dual voltage so you can take it anywhere and everywhere, even overseas. It can easily fit in a carry-on bag without taking up precious space thanks to an ultra-compact design and ingenious foldable handle. “It’s powerful for such a tiny dryer, too,” says Kim.

• Heat settings: Two.
• Wattage: 1,000.
• Weight: 9.6 ounces.
• Cord length: 6 feet.
• Price on publish: $34.99.
• Dual voltage for international travel.
• Compact with a foldable handle.
• Affordable.
• No cool shot button.
• Some reviewers complain the concentrator attachment doesn’t stay on.

This little hair dryer is small but mighty, featuring dual voltage and a foldable design perfect for traveling.

Get it here: BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Travel Hair Dryer

Best lightweight hair dryer: T3 Featherweight Stylemax

T3 Featherweight Stylemax Professional Hair Dryer In White

Blow drying your hair shouldn’t feel like an arm workout. The T3 Featherweight is a game changer when it comes to stamina, living up to its name at a mere 16.6 ounces, or just about a pound. “It’s super lightweight and quiet but very powerful,” says Kim. “The handle is the perfect size for comfortable gripping as well.” Perhaps the coolest part of this hair dryer is that it auto-customizes the speed and heat settings to your particular hair texture and goals, for a truly personalized blowout. It comes with four attachments to help rough dry, smooth, diffuse and volumize, too.

• Attachments: Drying concentrator, styling concentrator, T3 SoftTouch 3 diffuser, T3 smoothing comb.
• Weight: 16.6 ounces.
• Ultra lightweight.
• Fast drying time while retaining hair’s moisture.
• Auto customizes speed and heat to your hair texture.
• Four attachments to help achieve whatever style you’re after.
• Cool shot button is easy to accidentally press while drying.

This lightweight hair dryer weighs about a pound and can be customized to your hair type for optimum results.

Get it here: T3 Featherweight Stylemax

Best hair dryer for thick hair: GHD Helios Professional Dryer

Helios 1875W Advanced Professional Hair Dryer, White

Everyone wants thick hair until they realize how long it takes to dry and style. GHD’s Helios Professional Dryer slashes drying time to save your arms and your sanity. “It’s lightweight, making it more comfortable to hold for longer drying sessions,” says Kim. “It’s a powerful dryer but also super gentle on the hair to create less damage and frizz.” It features a salon-strength motor with a concentrated 75-mile-per-hour airflow to dry thick hair in a flash.

“My hair is dyed and very thick,” writes one reviewer. “My old hair dryer was drying my hair out/causing split ends because it took so long to dry and the hot settings were too strong. I love how smooth and sleek this hair dryer makes my hair. It's quiet, lightweight and easy to use. I'm really happy I bought it.”

• Heat settings: Three.
• Weight: 1.7 pounds.
• Price on publish: $279.
• Gets hair dried fast without damage.
• Salon-motor strength.
• Only comes with a concentrator attachment.

If you have thick hair, this powerful GHD dryer will help you dry locks faster for a smooth, sleek finish.

Get it here: GHD Helios Professional Dryer

Best hair dryer for fine hair: Sutra Beauty BD Infrared Blow Dryer

Sutra Beauty BD Infrared Blow Dryer

Celebrity hairstylist Davontaé Washington was recently introduced to this high-tech hair dryer from Sutra and is a big fan. “Its Healthy Heat FAR Infrared Technology stimulates the scalp, which in turn encourages new hair growth,” he says. “This is a really innovative feature considering the amount of time you can spend drying the root area for a blowout. Plus, it has all of the other features you want in a dryer, all while bringing shine and volume.”

• Wattage: Not listed.
• Attachments: Two concentrators.
• Weight: Not listed.
• Cord length: Not listed.
• Price on publish: $114.75.
• Healthy Heat FAR Infrared Technology stimulates the scalp to encourage new hair growth.
• Dries fine hair fast without damaging it.
• Safe for all hair types.
• No diffuser included for fine curly hair.

This celebrity hair stylist-recommended hair dryer features Healthy Heat FAR Infrared Technology to stimulate hair growth and is extra gentle on fine hair.

Get it here: Sutra Beauty BD Infrared Blow Dryer

Best hair dryer for damaged hair: Zuvi Halo

“Low heat is the best way to dry damaged, fragile hair,” says Kim, who likes the Zuvi because it dries hair with infrared light to limit heat exposure. “The highest heat settings don’t get that hot at all so it does take some time to fully dry the hair,” she explains, “but it’s worth the time if your hair is damaged.” This method of drying helps retain hair moisture while boosting shine, smoothness and color retention.

• Heat settings: Four combined.
• Speed settings: Four combined.
• Wattage: 680.
• Attachments: Diffuser, concentrator and gentle air attachment.
• Weight: 1.2 pounds.
• Cord length: 8.5 feet.
• Price on publish: $264.
• Uses infrared light to dry hair.
• Seals in moisture and boosts shine.
• Uses 60% less energy than traditional hair dryers.
• Can take a while to dry hair.

This cutting-edge dryer uses infrared light to dry the surface of hair, locking in moisture to help prevent heat damage.

Get it here: Zuvi Halo

How we selected the best hair dryers

To select the best hair dryers, we picked the brains of professional hair stylists to see which dryers they personally use and recommend in each category. We also looked at reviews, read up on features, and took into account factors like wattage, performance, dry time, weight, cord length and attachments. All of the hair dryers included on this list are from reputable beauty brands.

How to blow-dry your hair

Find a well-ventilated area.

Turns out, where you blow-dry your hair matters. Cosmillo recommends making sure you’re in a well-ventilated area to minimize humidity that will work against your style. “Open the bathroom door, a window, or style in your bedroom for the best airflow,” she suggests.

Apply your product(s)

Whether you’re looking for sleek and shiny locks or to add a bit of volume, apply your chosen products to damp hair before drying. A heat protectant spray is always a good idea to help protect against frizz and damage.

Rough-dry your hair evenly

You want to do this just to the point where your hair starts to show its natural texture, advises Cosmillo. “If you have an area that’s really difficult to control, like bangs or a tough cowlick, don’t over-dry them. Instead, be sure to style those areas first while they’re damp for the most control.”

“Sectioning is the most important step in any blowout,” says Cosmillo. “Be sure to neatly clip away any hair you’re not working on.” She suggests working in horizontal rows from ear to ear, so you can tie up the hair above the row you’re working on. “This will let you work more efficiently and get each row neatly finished before moving on.”

“Heat each section starting at the root, moving to the middle, then the ends, shaping them with your brush along the way,” instructs Cosmillo. “Roll your ends several times to make them shine.”

After each section, Cosmillo says to switch your dryer to the “cool” setting and go through it one more time. “Cooling down the section not only closes the cuticle to lock in your style and add shine, but it also allows you to check for dampness. If your roots or anywhere in the section feel cold to the touch, it’s still damp and that will compromise your style. Switch to warm air and go over the section again until fully dry.”

Use your go-to spray, be it a flexible hairspray for more bounce and shine or a shiny texture spray to add the finishing touches, advises Cosmillo. All done!

What is the difference between a ceramic and an ionic hair dryer?

According to Cosmillo, ceramic emits a gentle infrared heat to quickly, evenly and effectively dry the hair without damage. “Ionic dryers use ions to break down water molecules to help dry the hair more quickly.”

Which nozzles should you use with a hair dryer?

“The hair dryer should come with the nozzle you need, whether that’s a diffuser to create bouncy curls or a concentrator nozzle to direct the air in a downward direction, to seal the cuticle and prevent your hair from frizzing,” says Cosmillo. Some high-tech hair dryers will even come with a wide-tooth comb, flyaway attachment and smoothers.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is a good wattage for a hair dryer.

It depends on the thickness of your hair and hair type. “A salon-quality dryer needs at least 1,800 watts,” notes Cosmillo. “For more power, look for at least 1,875. If you prefer a strong dryer and feel confident using one, 2,000 watts will make a big impact.”

What hair dryer do hairdressers recommend?

Cosmillo recommends one that’s light enough for you to maneuver to get through your whole blowout. “You can’t go wrong with ceramic — it’s the most ideal and high quality,” she says. It’s also well-suited for all hair types.

What hair dryer is least damaging to hair?

In our research, we discovered hair dryers that use infrared light technology to dry hair are the least damaging. They help lock in moisture while increasing smoothness and shine.

Related article : Best dry shampoos: 10 dry shampoos for every kind of hair

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Chi Round 3-In-1 Blowout Brush Dryer

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The CHI Round 3-In-1 Blowout Brush Dryer creates professional blowout quality results with exceptional volume. Includes three attachments for unlimited styling options. Whether you're looking for a straight, wavy or curly look, CHI your way!

• Built in ion generator emits negative ions to reduce frizz and increase shine
• Ceramic technology locks in moisture and maintains shine
• The nylon and tufted bristles create tension at the root of the hair giving hair full body with just one pass
• 3 interchangeable attachments for unlimited styling options - 1" Round Brush, 1.7" Round Brush, Oval Paddle Brush
• Compact and lightweight design
• 7 ft. swivel and tangle free cord

The 13 Best Blow Dryer Brushes for Every Hair Type, Tested and Ranked by Editors

Including dyson, shark beauty and drybar.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

I will always have a close relationship with my blow dryer , but there’s something about a blow dryer brush that can make life a thousand times easier. This two-in-one brush is equipped with the same type of motor as your hair dryer, which means it effectively dries and straightens while eliminating the need to juggle a round brush and a hot tool. Whether you have fine or curly hair , there’s a blow dryer brush that can boost volume and shine—or smooth down frizz. But the key feature that sets it apart from your standard blow dryer is that it majorly reduces styling time, so you can spend less time in the bathroom and more time admiring your new ‘do. And just a quick scroll through TikTok will offer you enough proof that it's the real deal. But what’s the best blow dryer brush? I wanted to find out for myself, so I roped in a few editors and together we tested out the best blow dryer brushes on the market to see which is best for whom. 

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The Best Blow Dryer Brushes at a Glance

Best Overall

Foxybae super styler.

Best for Dry Hair

T3 airebrush one-step smoothing and volumizing hair dryer brush.

Best for Curly Hair

Shark beauty flexstyle hair blow dryer & multi styler.

Quickest to Dry

Drybar the double shot oval blow dryer.

Best for Volume

Hot tools 24k gold detachable one-step volumizer, how i tested the best blow dryer brushes.

I did some research to find the best blow dryer brushes according to internet reviewers, before tapping PureWow editors and staffers to participate in the testing process. Our hair types range from fine, straight locks to thick, curly hair, so we were able to take that into account in our reviews. We each spent a month trying out our blow dryer brush and followed a specific criteria, including how well it styled and dried hair. Ahead, the 13 best blow dryer brushes you need to check out. 

1. FoxyBae Super Styler

What we like.

• dries hair quickly
• comes with extra attachments

What We Don't Like

• hard to remove hair after you're done
• Value: 20/20
• Easy to Use: 19/20
• Quality: 19/20
• Aesthetics: 20/20
• Drying/Styling Abilities: 19/20
• Total: 97/100

Out of all the blow dryer brushes on this list, this FoxyBae Super Styler ranks the highest for quick-drying and styling. This hair tool comes with four attachments— diffuser, blowout brush, curling barrel and drying cylinder—making it a viable choice for all hair types. According to Natalie LaBarbera , assistant commerce editor at PureWow, “It dries my hair so fast! I don't like spending a lot of time getting my hair ready and this brush makes it so easy that I really don't have an excuse not to use it. Plus, it comes with extra attachments, which is great for saving space in my small apartment since I don't have to have multiple full-size devices. Overall I found the brush to be super easy and effective. What stood out to me the most about the brush itself is how fast it is at drying my hair. It's also super lightweight (not like some of the heavier hair dryers that make your arms tired just holding them up!).”

• Barrel: varies
• Watts: 1100
• Attachments: blowout brush, drying cylinder, curling barrel, diffuser

2. T3 AireBrush One-Step Smoothing and Volumizing Hair Dryer Brush

• great for dry and curly hair
• adds volume
• cuts drying time
• heavy to hold
• Easy to Use: 18/20
• Total: 96/100

This hair dryer brush is a triple threat in the styling department. Whether you want a silky-smooth blowout or voluminous locks, this tool offers even heat distribution without sacrificing moisture. “My hair is so smooth and healthy, which is a visible difference from the hair dryer I was using before that dried out my hair so much it made my ends look fried,” says Jazmine Clarke, senior account manager at PureWow. The oval barrel is also covered in a CeraGloss ceramic to improve shine, smooth strands and reduce damage. If you need more convincing, it made Clarke, who was skeptical about blow dryer brushes, change her tune. “I've been hesitant to try air brushes with two main questions holding me back: Is it really worth the price? and Would it work for curly hair? I'm so glad I tried it and genuinely don't think I could go back to hair dryers—at least not for a while. You can definitely get away with 'dry and go' using this tool.”

• Barrel: 4 inches
• Watts: 1200
• Attachments: N/A

3. Shark Beauty FlexStyle Hair Blow Dryer & Multi Styler

• great for curly hair
• easy to change attachments
• lightweight
• constantly have to change left or right barrel

Shark Beauty

• Value: 19/20
• Drying/Styling Abilities: 20/20

For the longest time, I had a love and hate relationship with hot air brushes. I always found they took way too long to dry my curly hair and never truly gave me the silk press-esque look I wanted. But when I tried this multi styler for the first time, I was shocked at how quick and effective it was on my natural hair. I spent time drying it sans an attachment and found it was very powerful, but not too hot on my delicate strands. Since I was going for a blowout, I opted for the oval brush attachment first. It was easy to attach and brush through each section without worrying about my arms getting tired. Then I used the curl barrels, something I’ve never used before at home. It took a minute to learn (I’m not a big fan of having to switch out the left and right), but once I got used to it, my hair looked very bouncy and so soft. I never thought it would take me 30 to 45 minutes to dry and style my hair. Who even needs a salon?

• Watts: varies
• Attachments: two 1.25 inch auto-wrap curlers, diffuser, styling concentrator, two oval brush attachments

4. Drybar The Double Shot Oval Blow Dryer

• lightweight tool
• fast-drying
• sturdy bristles
• not great at tackling smaller, front pieces
• Value: 17/20
• Total: 95/100

In a one-off review of the Drybar Blow Dryer, Associate Editor Sydney Meister saw firsthand how quick it was to get a salon-worthy blowout. The 360-degree oval-shaped barrel mirrors a round brush to make it easy to dry and style from root to tip. Meanwhile, the nylon and tufted bristles prevent tangles and knots as you work it through your locks. “I would say this is a great option for anyone who’s looking to replicate a classic, voluminous blowout at home,” Meister shared. “While it might not target frizz as much as I’d hoped, the lasting styling power, fast-drying vents and sturdy bristles make it one of the most effective tools I’ve tried. After just 15 minutes of styling time, I was blown away (pun intended) by how fast this thing dried my hair.” 

• Barrel: 2.44 inches

5. Hot Tools 24K Gold Detachable One-Step Volumizer

• detachable design for easy storage
• volume lasts for days
• cools down quickly
• can stop working if you wrap cord around barrel
• prone to frizz
• Value: 18/20
• Easy to Use: 20/20
• Aesthetics: 18/20
• Total: 94/100

If you’re looking for va va volume, this one-step tool should be on your radar. The small oval brush allows for bouncy blowouts and long-lasting styles. The slim handle makes it easy to hold, while the boartech bristles are great for brushing and smoothing each section. “The oval barrel is big and isn't super heavy, so I'm able to quickly style my hair,” says Sara Baksh, business operations manager at Gallery Media Group. “My voluminous hair lasted for days, which is huge for me because my scalp gets oily fast. My hair was bouncy and I received lots of compliments. The hot setting is VERY hot, so may not be suitable for everyone,” she explains, but adds that once she turned it off it cooled down way faster than expected. “The best part is that the barrel is detachable from the handle! This makes it super portable, but still lightweight [for traveling]. Other than the Dyson, this is the first blow dry brush I've seen that does this, so this has pretty much replaced all of my other tools.”

• Barrel: 2.4 inches

Best Design

6. l'ange le volume 2-in-1 volumizing brush dryer.

• great for fine hair
• strong air flow
• easy to use
• cool blast is weak
• thick barrel
• Quality: 18/20
• Drying/Styling Abilities: 17/20
• Total: 92/100

This volumizing brush dryer is a crowd favorite for its fast-drying and styling abilities. It’s designed with a unique vented barrel and mixed bristles for long-lasting looks. Dana Dickey , senior editor at PureWow, raves, “I love the hard plastic case that prevents the bristles from getting squashed. I also love how it gave body and volume to my hair that lasted for days and days—even beyond workouts (usually my blow-dried hair falls flat by then). The metal barrel did sort of over-dry some of my baby hairs, causing them to look a bit wiry, but that was a small concession for the twice-as-fast drying. I like how I didn't have to wield both a blow dryer and a brush. I could just do it all with my one tool. I’d just ask the makers to strengthen the cool blast a bit to up the shine factor of my hair, but that's about it.” 

Best for Drying

7. infinitipro by conair the knot dr. detangling hot air brush.

• comes with an attachment
• great mostly with wet hair
• doesn't offer enough volume
• Quality: 17/20

This Conair tool does a great job at quick-drying without stripping away your natural oils. It’s coated in tourmaline ceramic to boost shine and add volume, and ionic technology to minimize frizz and breakage. The flexalite nylon bristles and epoxy tips also makes it easy to detangle and smooth strands. The tool even comes with a volumizing pik, so you can pay closer attention to the roots. “I really liked that after blow drying my hair, I can use this hot air brush to give my hair a nice blow out,” says Jessica Wong, design resident at PureWow. “Usually when I blow dry my hair after showering, my hair becomes frizzy and rough, but this tool makes my hair softer and smoother.” 

• Barrel: 2.1 inches
• Watts: 1000
• Attachments: volume pik

Best for All Hair Types

8. wen brush dryer styling tool.

• comes with silicone mat, alligator hair clips and cleaning tool
• clunky design
• Aesthetics: 17/20

Made with nylon bristles and vertical airflow vents, this styling tool makes it easy to dry and style all hair types and textures. The brush dryer also comes with four attachments to create any desired look, as well as alligator clips to section your hair and a silicone mat to protect your counter space. If you’re a first timer like Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay , this one makes it less intimidating to work with. “This was my first time ever using a blow dryer brush and safe to say I'm obsessed! I was always a bit intimidated by them, but I got the hang of it after one use. I never thought a salon-esque blowout was possible at home but clearly I was living under a rock,” she says. “It left me with smooth strands with tons of volume and shine. I seriously can't get over the controlled volume (aka not randomly poofy like my air-dried hair). Plus, between drying and styling it only took 30 minutes to use—unheard of for my hair. I'll probably only break it out for special occasions since I'm wary of too much heat damage, but this tool doesn't go above 240 degrees, so I feel comfortable using it sporadically with plenty of heat protectant.”

• Watts: not listed
• Attachments: two brush heads, diffuser, cleaning tool

Best for Thick Hair

9. revlon one-step volumizer.

• great for thick hair
• barrel can cover large sections of hair
• cuts drying/styling time
• bristles may bend with continuous use
• not great for creating voluminous waves or curls
• Aesthetics: 16/20
• Drying/Styling Abilities: 18/20
• Total: 91/100

This top seller on Amazon is praised for drying and styling hair in half the time, especially for those with thick and/or long hair. Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint found the hair tool to work well for her thick, processed and dry hair. She notes, "[It was] so easy! I washed my hair, slept with it wet and then spritzed it with a little water and heat protectant in the morning. I used clips to style by section, but it was so much easier to use one hand for the tool and the other to wrap up the sections (rather than holding a brush in one hand and hair dryer in the other)." It's designed with nylon pins, natural bristles and a 2.8-inch barrel that works large sections at a time. Quint also stands by its claim of cutting her drying time, stating, "I have used this tool three times a week for five years. I've gotten my money's worth! I love that I can [style my hair] one-handed, though the wrapping technique takes a little while to master."

• Barrel: 2.8 inches

Best Multi-Tasker

10. dyson airwrap multi-styler.

• range of attachments for different hair types and styles
• holds a wave or curl really well
• comes with a storage case
• Easy to Use: 17/20
• Quality: 20/20

The price is steep, but the results are worth it —just ask our Beauty Director Jenny Jin . “The Airwrap isn’t like any other tool I’ve tried before—nor is it simply a hot air brush because there are so many attachments with different functions. I used the firm smoothing brush and the 1.2-inch barrel to dry my hair straight before adding a few curls throughout,” she shares. “Compared to a normal blow dryer and curling iron, I’d say it was an easier experience because the tool itself is pretty lightweight and the attachments do a lot of the work for you.” As mentioned, the multi-styler comes with six attachments: a smoothing dryer, a volumizing brush, two curl barrels and two smoothing brushes. Overall, the tool is made to dry, curl and smooth hair using Coanda airflow (and not extreme heat). Jin adds, “I’ll definitely use this when I’m crunched for time or want to style my hair for a special event. Like I said before, I don’t usually spend too much time on my hair, but if you’re the type of person who heat styles your hair often and struggles with it, this is a great option (though it’s certainly an investment!).” 

• Attachments: smoothing dryer, 1.2 inch long barrel, 1.6 inch long barrel, soft smoothing brush, firm smoothing brush, round volumizing brush, filter cleaning brush

Best for Fine Hair

11. amika hair blow dryer brush.

• glides through wet hair well
• not great at curling hair
• the barrel size makes it harder to get to roots
• Aesthetics: 19/20
• Total: 90/100

This 2-in-1 promises a voluminous blowout while minimizing breakage and improving shine. It’s designed with a 4-inch oval barrel for an extra root lift and a mix of short and long nylon bristles to detangle and smooth hair. The brand claims it can banish unwanted frizz and leave a glossy finish behind. While it does win brownie points for drying hair, Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak found it to be a bit difficult for styling. “I like that it's easy to use, but as far as design goes, I just wish I could access my roots better. As someone with flat, fine hair, I think a narrower tool would be more beneficial for getting long-lasting volume and curl,” she says. “However, I do love how smooth and shiny this brush makes my hair. It’s a great alternative to straighteners and I love how I can dry and straighten my hair all in one.” 

• Barrel: 4.7 inches

Best for Frizzy Hair

12. bondiboost blowout brush 3-in-1 hair dryer.

• little to no frizz
• leaves hair silky smooth
• not great with flipping ends
• difficult to do waves or curls
• bulky shape

A blow dryer brush can be great for drying hair quickly, but for some of us, it can lead to even frizzier strands. Luckily, this one by BondiBoost is tackling our biggest problem. It has 360 airflow vents for even heat distribution, maximum coverage and fast drying capabilities. And thanks to the ionic technology, it also reduces frizz and offers a silky-smooth finish instead. “If you’re in the market for a quick blowout, the Bondiboost hair dryer is for you,” says Stephanie Meraz , associate fashion commerce editor at PureWow. “Within ten to 15 minutes, I had straight hair with little-to-no frizz (and I have a TON of baby hairs that normally stick straight up after a blow out!). However, I do recommend a good heat protectant and hair serum before using the brush. I found it best to go through the sections quickly without holding the styler in one spot for too long, especially on the hot setting.”

• Barrel: 2.95 inches

Best for Smoothing

13. chi volumizer 4-in-1 blowout brush.

• comes with four attachments
• smooths hair easily
• hard to grip sometimes
• can get super hot
• Total: 89/100

This blowout brush uses a combination of ceramic and ion technology to boost shine and reduce heat damage while preserving your natural hair moisture. The bristles are also designed to work the tool easily through your strands. Whether you want a voluminous ‘do or a silky-smooth finish, the tool comes with four attachments that are great for all hair types, but does it really live up to our high standards? As Senior Food Editor Katherine Gillen shares, “This was a fine blowout brush, but nothing over-the-top amazing or life changing. As a novice, I did think it gave me better results than if I had attempted to blow dry with a round blush and a traditional dryer. It didn't give me a ton of volume at the crown, but it made my hair super smooth. As far as quality, it felt a little clunky for the price tag. I wish it came with another size round brush attachment (maybe a smaller one, just because the one it provides is huge).”

• Attachments: oval brush, paddle brush, nozzle concentrator, compact diffuser

We Tested the Dyson Airwrap Against the Shark FlexStyle—and Here's Our Review

Associate Editor, Ultimate Fangirl, Aspiring Beauty Guru

Why you should trust us.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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