If you are going to buy a hair dryer for you for the first time, you may be wondering about AC vs. DC hair dryer- which one is the best. You know most salons use AC blow dryers because of their powerful airflow that dries hair quicker than DC hair dryers. However, compared to DC hair dryers, AC dryers are heavier, larger, and have a more powerful motor.
AC dryers have more advantages because their life span is longer (700-2000 hrs) than DC, which ranges from 400-1200 hours. The AC dryer is less noisy with a slower revolution per minute (RPMs), about 1500-2000, compared to the DC dryer, which has 5000-6000 RPMs. Besides, the DC dryer has a smaller and lighter motor, which would discredit it for salon purposes.
Let’s have a deep insight to get into more comparison.
Is a hair dryer AC or DC
You will find alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) hair dryers in the market, and of course, there’s a difference between AC and DC. The AC motor hair dryer is a professional type of dryer equipped with high performance. This hair dryer produces high air pressure; thus, it’s very effective. It’s structured to last, and thanks to its long life span, you can use it for a long period without replacing it.
On the other hand, DC motor hair dryers use direct current. They have a good performance, but they have a lower air pressure compared to AC motors. Their life span is similarly slower than AC motors. These models are ideal for home use since they are more manageable and lighter in structure.
So you can choose an AC or DC hair dryer according to your preference and purpose. With technological advancements, you can get powerful AC motors and hair dryers producing stronger airflow and are very efficient for any hair type.
Which is more beneficial- AC or DC?
Depending on your preference, you can choose an AC or DC hair dryer. If you’re looking for a hair dryer for your home, the DC motor hair dryer would be beneficial.
They are less expensive and much lighter, making them easy to hold above your head for longer. This makes styling easier without straining. The DC hair dryer is quieter, making it efficient to work with without disturbing others at home.
However, the DC motor will not give a long service since it’s less potent than the AC motor hair dryer. The reason is AC motor hair dryers are commercially more powerful and better.
The AC motor dryer dries hair faster, making it ideal for commercial purposes.
Here is a comparison table between the DC and an AC motor hair dryer:
What does the electric motor does in hair dryer?
The hair dryer motor fan and the heating element change the electric energy to convective heat. Electric current flows through after you switch on your dryer. The power is supplied first to the heating element and then to the electric motor.
Then the motor spins, which helps in turning the fan. The fans generate the airflow directed to the barrel of your hair dryer through the heating element. When the airflow passes through the heating element, it’s warmed, streams out, and the hair dryer’s barrel.
Which type of dryer is best for hair?
Additionally, when looking for a hair dryer, you should consider other factors, like the kind of hair dryer to use. Before buying, you should make a comparison and get the best.
Let’s check comparisons between the different types of hair dryers.
Tourmaline vs. ionic hair dryer
Tourmaline hair is rated as one of the best hair dryers with advanced technology. It has an infrared generator that helps break large water molecules, making the water evaporate quickly. With a tourmaline hair dryer, you don’t have to worry about losing your hair moisture since it retains it, keeping it healthy and strong.
Its infrared technology dries your hair inside out, thanks to its long energy wavelengths. It prevents your scalp from getting exposed to too much heat.
On the other hand, an ionic hair dryer breaks water molecules into smaller parts, making it easier to dry. The technology behind the ionic dryer is simply the positive and negative ions; once they meet, they form a reaction.
So the water molecules break, causing the hair to dry faster without damaging your hair cuticle. This is the best dryer to use to fight the frizz, giving your hair a shine and less breakage, a great option for maintaining sleek-looking hair.
Ceramic vs. ionic hair dryer
If you want a hair dryer with even heat distribution, then a ceramic hair dryer should be your ideal choice. The heat from the hair dryer is mild, meaning it won’t damage your hair. This hair dryer also heats up quickly and sends the air to your hair without high temp.
So if you have thin hair, you should go for ceramic hair dryers because the ionic may leave your hair looking limpish.
Which hair dryer uses the least electricity?
The amount of electricity a hair dryer uses depends on its wattage. The higher the wattage of your hair dryer, the more electricity it will consume. A hairdryer consumes low electricity varying between 1000- 1800 watts.
This kind of hair dryer has a compact design and is lightweight too. These hair dryers are ideal for traveling and home purposes. The best low-wattage hair dryers include BaByliss PRO TT Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer.
FAQ
Which hair dryer is least damaging?
In case you want a blow-dryer that will cause minor damage to your hair, you should go for ceramic hair dryers over metallic hair dryers. The ceramic dryers distribute heat evenly, minimizing heat damage.
Final verdict
You should not be still confused about AC vs. DC motor hair dryers, as you are more informed now. The DC motor hair dryers are less powerful, meaning you can easily damage your hair if not cautious.
AC motors dry hair fast and are efficient. These hair dryers are ideal for hair salons, and there are brands with lower wattage that you can use at home.
If you are looking for a fast way to make your hair with less damage, you should purchase a tourmaline or ceramic hair dryer.
Also read – Do You Wash Hair Dye Out with Shampoo or Conditioner?
