hairdryers

Hairdryers are electric appliances designed to evaporate water from hair by blowing heated or cooled air. They typically comprise a handle, a housing with a motor and heating element, a nozzle, and a switch to control speed and temperature.

They work by drawing ambient air across a heating element and directing the warmed air through a nozzle onto hair; modern models include multiple heat and speed settings and a cool shot to set styles. Filtration helps extend motor life; some have ionic technology to reduce frizz, and tourmaline/ceramic/titanium elements to distribute heat more evenly.

Types and configurations: handheld units are standard; professional salon models may have higher power motors and removable filters; attachments include concentrator nozzles for focused airflow and diffusers for curly hair. Power ratings typically range from 1000 to 2000 watts; some high-performance models exceed 2000 watts. Motors can be AC universal or DC; most professional tools use high-speed AC motors.

Safety and care: Heat can damage hair if overused; use lower heat, avoid prolonged contact; avoid water contact; features include thermal fuse, overheat protection, dual voltage, and grounding. Clean filters regularly.

History: Electric hair dryers appeared in the early 20th century; early models were bulky and expensive; the hand-held version became common in the mid-20th century with advances in motor and heating element technology, leading to the modern compact devices widely used today. Market segments include consumer and professional.