Hair Dryers Top Rated for Smooth, Shiny, Healthy Hair

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

I've lost about 20 pounds, which was my goal. But, my stomach area is still flabby. I do stomach crunches, so what more can I do?

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

My hair dryer is over five years old. So, I went to the store to buy a new hair dryer, but ended up confused and not buying anything. There were too many choices and a wide variety of prices with descriptions such as tourmaline, ionic, ceramic, etc. What should I look for in a hair dryer exactly?

Signed,

Stressed about tresses

Dear Stressed about tresses,

The technology for drying hair has improved over the years to help dry hair faster with less damage. In addition, quieter hair dryers or blow dryers are best to avoid hearing loss.

IONIC TECHNOLOGY

With ionic hair dryers, static electricity is reduced and moisture is kept in the hair shaft, which produces shinier, smoother, softer, healthier looking hair. According to Conair.com, ionic hair dryers generate negative ions that neutralize positive ions. "The neutralization process seals the hair cuticle, reducing frizziness and leaving the hair shiny."

Ionic hair dryers may have ceramic and tourmaline components. Ceramic heating elements help quickly and evenly distribute and regulate the heat. "The addition of a ceramic disk in the hair dryer barrel generates far-infrared heat. Far-infrared heat penetrates the hair follicle, drying it from the inside out. This provides a faster, more gentle and efficient drying process. Ceramic heat helps to minimize heat damage and leaves hair smooth and manageable." (http://infiniti.conair.com/technology).

Tourmaline is a semi-precious stone that produces negative ions. "Crushed Tourmaline jewels emit the highest concentration of ions and also generate far-infrared heat. The additional ions seal the hair cuticle, resulting in shiny, healthy hair." (http://infiniti.conair.com/technology).

Ionic hair dryers can cost anywhere from $30 to $300. Overall positive reviews were given to ionic hair dryers such as Conair, Panasonic, Revlon, Babyliss, Chi, Sedu, T3, TIGI, and Vidal Sassoon by consumers at Totalbeauty.com and Makeupalley.com. Many consumers felt the drying time was cut in half with ionic dryers and commented that their hair was sleeker, softer, healthier, shinier, or less frizzy.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A HAIR DRYER

1. Ionic: fast drying, less damage to hair. Tourmaline maximizes negative ions, ceramic components to minimize heat damage.

2. Quietness: avoid hearing loss.

3. Heat and Speed Settings: more options for styling.

5. Cool Shot Button: sets the style.

4. Cord Length: not a concern if the electrical outlet is close.

6. Size: consider size, folding handle, retractable cord for storage or travel.

7. Dual Voltage: convenient if traveling overseas.

8. Watts: 1875 watts common, any less may not dry hair as fast.

9. Warranty: at least a two-year warranty.

10. Weight: lighter the less tiring.

To read the reviews on ionic hair dryers, go to www.makeupalley.com and www.totalbeauty.com