BaByliss Velvet Orchid 2300 Hair Dryer, Fast Drying Results, Ionic, Comfortable Blow-Dry, Purple

Product Information

The Keratin Protect is a slim, sleek-looking dryer that doesn’t weigh an awful lot, and its cable is long enough for even the largest of bedrooms. It comes with a brilliant range of features, which include two speeds, three heat settings and a cool shot button. These give it enough control for controlled round-brush styling, as well as gentle diffusing. Pair this with the diffuser and concentrator nozzle that securely clip onto the front of the dryer, and you’ve got a relatively faultless dryer that is a great option for a wide range of hair types and textures. Despite the smaller number of settings, it’s the drying power that sets the Helios apart from the rest: the 2,200W motor rivals the Dyson Supersonic in its drying time and ability to deliver a frizz-free finish, which is no easy feat for a hair dryer that costs half the price. That’s thanks to GHD’s AutoPrecis technology creating a blast of focused air that travels at 75mph, as well as the concentrator nozzle that precisely directs airflow for a smooth blow dry. Some models come with a concentrator nozzle, designed to make it easier to direct the airflow accurately onto a section of hair. These nozzles are great if you blow-dry around a round brush for a salon-style blowout.

Key specs – Heating element: Ionic; Temperature settings: 3; Power: 2,200W; Speed settings: 3; Cable length: 3 metres; Cold shot button: Yes; Accessories: Concentrator nozzle; Weight: 768Be careful not to let the nozzle touch your hair. Hold it a few millimetres away to protect your hair from damage and breakage, plus you will get a smoother result that lasts longer.'

The Supersonic creates smooth, shiny styles and dried our hair superfast. This is the ultimate combination of quietness, speed and hair-drying finesse. The lengthy cable, non-slip mat and beautifully crafted leather case help seal the deal.

When testing, we time the speed of drying from freshly washed hair to fully dry (noting the hair length and texture we test on); and evaluate the overall ease of use, noise, and the finish and feel of the hair after drying. Using equipment such as anemometers, infrared heat sensors and sound level meters allows us to directly compare the speed, heat and noise levels of different dryers. We also note how well curls, waves and straight styles last in a typical day of wear. Finally, we confirm the weight and dimensions of the tool. Wattage isn’t the only measure of power, however. The latest “digital motors” (EC or Electronically Commutated motors, if you want to be fancy) allow increased air velocity with reduced heat, for amazingly efficient results without the damage associated with higher heat. Invest in a good quality dryer, heated styling tools and the right styling products and remember hair health should be your main priority. Healthy hair is easy hair!'

Key specs – Heating element: Ionic; Temperature settings: 4; Power: 1,600W; Speed settings: 3; Cable length: 2.7m; Cold shot button: Yes; Accessories: Concentrator, diffuser and smoothing nozzles; Weight: 690g The main bit of praise I have for this dryer is that it really does help to keep excess frizz to a minimum –and I say that as someone with a naturally curly hairstyle that is very prone to frizz. When I dried my hair using the concentrated nozzle it yielded a nice smooth finish, even when I dried it somewhat roughly to then style using other tools later on.On the other hand, when I dried my hair naturally curly with the diffuser, I wouldn’t go as far as to say it’s the best combination I’ve ever used on my curls but the results were nice enough. I found that using the two together still achieved a good, frizz-free finish with a touch of added volume.It's certainly one of the best options I've tried from this price point. What's not good about it? The cold air setting can also be used to effectively spread anti-humidity, shine or hair sprays through the hair, offering different finishes, textures and results. Do you need a hair dryer with ionic technology? The 2,000W motor is powerful enough to dry hair fast and with a minimum of fuss, and the dryer comes with a concentrator nozzle to direct airflow. The long barrel also helps make it easy to direct airflow where you want it, and there are two speed and three heat settings for drying flexibility, plus a cool shot to set your finished style. If you’re on a budget, this is an excellent alternative to some of the pricier products reviewed above.