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Home / Hair Styling Tools / Hair Dryers / 6 Best Hair Dryers for Thick Hair of 2023

6 Best Hair Dryers for Thick Hair of 2023

If you ask people who have thin and sensitive hair, they would immediately change it for the thickness your hair has. However, the truth is that each hair type has its benefits and drawbacks. It is beautiful when you can show off your luscious coarse hair on dates and important events, but it is not easy to make it look that stunning.
Are you having problems with styling coarse hair? In that case, you came to the right place! We did the footwork and analyzed the market looking for the best hair dryers for thick hair. Our team made a selection of units that are suitable for all the specifics of this hair type and gathered all relevant information for you.
If you want to do something good for the health of your cuticles and boost your confidence with an amazing look, take a look at our reviews below!

Best Hair Dryers for Thick Hair

1. Turbo Power Twinturbo 3900

Turbo Power Twin Turbo 2600 Hair DryerYou shouldn’t get confused with the numbers in the name because they only mark the series of the dryer and not its wattage. It is unintentionally misleading as this dryer features 2100W of power, which should be adequate to dry your hair effectively.
Many companies fail to mention, but the high-speed setting needs to ensure optimal airflow, especially if you are quick-drying your hair. Turbo Power does that, and it also offers a low-heat adjustment, as well as 4 heat settings, and a cool shot button.
The device also offers overheating protection, and it keeps the body cool to eliminate the chance of burning your hands. The construction is durable, and the product is quite resistant to damage. However, as a result of this sturdiness, you may think that it is a bit heavy, but it was a necessary trade-off to increase durability.


2. Elchim Milano

Elchim-Milano-Ceramic-Hair-DryerThe moment you take a look at this dryer, you will see that Italian elegance and sleekness. Elchim has headquarters in the world’s fashion capital Milano, and many components of this unit, including the 2000W motor, are made in Italy.
You can tame this large power with three different heat settings plus a cool shot release. Feel free to combine the latter with the low-speed setting when adding final touches to your styling. Up until then, the high-speed setting will be the right choice for thick hair. It may take a bit more time with your specific hair type, but the appliance will get the job done.
The handle is ergonomic and slim, which may seem weird at first. However, you will notice it is what makes the dryer easy to use, although its light weight also contributes to that. The cord is nine-foot-long and comes with a hanging hook for storage.


3. BaBylissPRO Ceramix Xtreme

BaBylissPRO-Ceramix-Xtreme-DryerAllow us to let you in on a little trick – if the handle of the dryer is equally long, or longer than the blowing part, it will be easy to control the appliance. BaBylissPRO knows that, and their Ceramix dryer features an ergonomic handle that makes drying your hair effortless.
The ample amount of power (2000W) should be enough for thick and coarse hair, especially at the highest heat setting. The dryer utilizes infrared heat, and the ceramic coating assists in distributing the heat, and promoting hair volume while reducing frizz.
The cool shot button comes in handy when you need to add finishing touches to your appearance. If you want to prolong the lifespan of the device, make sure to clean the detachable filter regularly. Also, please note that the appliance is a bit louder than similar units, but then again, which dryer is not loud?


4. Conair Ionic Ceramic

Conair-1875-Watt-Ionic-Ceramic-HairMany professionals would tell you that Conair is their favorite hair drying brand. The company has a long list of amazing products, and this one is an entry-level unit for those looking for bargains.
The dryer features 1875W of power, three heat, and two-speed settings. Do not hesitate to go with the highest adjustments for coarse and thick hair. The ceramic coating will ensure that your hands don’t get hot, and hair damage should be minimized thanks to the ceramic tourmaline ionic technology.
You will receive two attachments, including a concentrator and a diffuser. It is easy to remove and clean the filter, which means the dryer only requires minimal maintenance. Although the product is quite durable overall, the switches are a bit flimsy. You will need to be careful when using the appliance, but the good news is that switches are replaceable.


5. REVLON Turbo Fast

Revlon-1875W-Volumizing-Turbo-Hair-DryerRevlon is a brand that cares about all customer types, and this dryer is perfect for those who are looking at a budget-friendly option. The price is affordable, and it is only natural that you can’t expect premium components for the money.
However, the product performs well above the expectations. The steel construction features a ceramic coating to minimize damage and frizz. The motor delivers 1875W of power, and you can set the desired adjustments depending on your hair type. The cool shot button is also there, and you will even get a diffuser for additional styling options. The silver color and black matte finish make the product look attractive, too.
If you prefer using long cords, it may take some getting used to the cable that comes with this dryer. It is a bit shorter than six inches, and you should consider that when choosing a power outlet.


6. SalonPro PowerShot RH-1836

SalonPro 1875 Watt Fast Drying Professional Hair DryerManufacturers usually go with dark colors, so the white dryer designed by SalonPro is a refreshing change. Once you grab the product in your hands, you will see that the handle is non-slipping and ergonomic.
The product utilizes ionic technology and 1875W of power to secure optimal airflow, and the combination of ceramic and tourmaline minimizes frizz and hair damage. The product comes with a concentrator attachment that you can use when needed. It also has EPL certification, which means that it complies with the latest safety standards.
The dryer comes with a minor design flaw that doesn’t affect the performance. You may have problems flipping the switches to the right directions at first because the images that should portray the settings blend in with the black background. However, there are only two speed and three heat settings, and that shouldn’t be hard to memorize.


Hair Dryer for Thick Hair Buying Guide

Best Hair Dryer For Thick HairLet’s clarify one thing at the beginning of the guide – there is no such thing as a perfect hair dryer. However, you can find appliances that are more suitable for specific hair types.
In this guide, we are focusing on thick hair. Even within this category, you can choose from many different features that could suit your hair and preference. Check out the guide to learn more about hair dryers and find out how to choose the right one.

Questions to Ask When Choosing the Best Hair Dryer for Thick Hair

Do you know how people say there are no stupid questions? Well, that is true for picking a hair dryer. You want to find out as much information as possible about the device before purchasing it. Here are the questions that may help you find the right answers.

  1. Is Aesthetics Important to You?

    Although it might not be crucial, let’s start with the most obvious thing. Do you like how the hair dryer looks?
    It is nice if you like the design of your appliance. That way, it will be more pleasant to use it, and you may even consider storing it in the open for people to see its beauty.
    Hair dryers come in different colors, but their design usually involves the main section that blows air and the handle as the other primary component. Some blow dryers are foldable, which makes them easier to store and carry when traveling.

  2. How Much Should a Hair Dryer Weigh?

    These appliances are not heavy, and they shouldn’t weigh more than a pound or so. The weight of the product shouldn’t be an issue, especially when you are using the dryer at home.
    However, if you are a professional that works for hours a day with the device, every ounce makes the difference. That is why you should go for the lightest hair dryer out there.
    When it comes to size, you should consider these two factors:

    • Is it comfortable to hold the device in your hand? – the size of the handle should allow you to grab it comfortably.
    • Do you plan on traveling with the appliance? – In that case, you may benefit from the smallest unit out there. Additionally, foldability is a welcome feature for easier transport.
  3. Turn the Heat to the Max!

    We are now through with design features, and we are moving to performance. These factors are crucial when choosing a hair dryer for thick hair, and everything starts with heat.
    Thick hair requires a lot of heat because of its density. You need to utilize high temperatures to put it under control, dry it effectively, and get the desired hairstyle.
    That is why you want to aim for hair dryers that can reach the highest heat levels. These are usually the most powerful dryers, which is why you should assess the wattage of the product.
    The wattage describes the strength of the motor. It may vary from 1300W to over 2000W, but if we are talking about thick hair, we would suggest going with at least 1875W.
    A strong motor is there to secure high heat and generous airflow to dry your hair efficiently. Apart from looking as much heat as possible, you may consider using a device with adjustable temperature settings.
    Hair dryers may come with multiple heat and speed adjustments. That increases the versatility and allows you to pick the settings that perfectly fit your hair. In case of thick hair, you will probably need high temperature and speed, but it can’t hurt to have more options at your disposal.

  4. Which Material to Use for the Heater?

    The heaters in hair dryers use one of the following materials:

    • Ceramic
    • Titanium
    • Tourmaline

    The most affordable and commonly found material is ceramic. That compound can achieve high-temperature levels required for thick hair. It also ensures optimal heat distribution, which can be important to prevent things from going wrong.
    But if your hair is particularly thick and dense, you may need the highest heat possible. That is why you should consider titanium heaters as the primary material of your hair dryer.
    Titanium is a fantastic heat conductor, and it can achieve extreme temperatures quickly. It may save time when heating up, and its maximum heat might be higher than ceramic. On top of that, titanium is very durable, and the chances are these heaters will last for a long time.
    The third option is tourmaline, but you will not find it as a stand-alone component in blow dryer heaters. Instead, it will frequently accompany ceramic.
    While ceramic ensures optimal heat, tourmaline has the task of emitting negative ions. That technology is important because it meets the positive ions from your hair strains and neutralizes them. It is how it reduces frizz, which can be crucial if you have thick hair.

  5. The Importance of a Cool Shot Function

    Apart from the regular buttons on your device, you may notice a special “Cool Shot” button. This triggers a blast of cool air, and you may be wondering how that helps the drying process.
    The cool shot function is there for finishing touches during the styling phase. Once your hair is already dry, you can use cool shot to ensure it stays in place for longer. That may positively affect the duration of your curls or straightened hair. However, how long the results will last depend on the individual and what you do during the day.

  6. Is Using the Hair Dryer Easy?

    Ultimately, comfort is extremely important when operating a hair dryer. You don’t want styling thick hair to be even more hassle than it already is.
    Several factors affect comfort, but the non-slippery handle seems to be mandatory. Now, the handle should also have an ergonomic design as it minimizes fatigue when working with the device for a long time.
    The placement of the buttons should be convenient so that you can adjust the settings as necessary. Additionally, the function of each button should be clear so that there isn’t any confusion during the process.

  7. Why Your Device Should Have a Nozzle Attachment?

    You are probably familiar with how a hair dryer looks. Apart from the handle and the blowing section, the manufacturer might include different attachments. The attachments provided depend on the brand you select, but the default one is usually the nozzle accessory.
    The nozzle’s task is to optimize airflow and enable efficient drying. Apart from that, it will create a gap between the device’s lip that emits hot air and your hair. The lip is the hottest spot on the entire product. If you accidentally touch your hair or hands with it, it may result in burns. That is why nozzles come with protective features, too.
    It is worth noting that the appliance may also come with other attachments. If the manufacturer fails to deliver them, you can purchase them separately.

How to Dry Thick Hair Correctly

The basics of using a blow dryer are the same regardless of your hair type. That is why we will start with some overall safety guidelines to follow during the process:

  • Plugin the appliance only when you’ve mounted the desired attachment.
  • Don’t leave your hair dryer unattended while it is active.
  • Unplug the device from the power socket as soon as you finish the drying process.
  • Don’t get water near the appliance while it is plugged as it may cause electrocution.

Now, let’s go through the process of using a hair dryer. We will keep in mind the specifics of thick hair, and provide tips on how to blow dry this type.

  • Step 1: Prepare Your Hair for Drying

    Professionals also call this process pre-drying. It starts immediately after washing, and your first task is to remove any excess moisture with a towel. If you have the time, it may be wise to air-dry your hair until it is at least 50% dry.
    Since you are working with thick hair, that will minimize the frizz and allow you to get the desired style easily. If you believe it is necessary, use a heat-protective spray to protect your hair from damage.

  • Step 2: Turn on the Blow Dryer

    The next step is to activate your appliance. You start by plugging it into a power socket and then turning it on by pressing a switch.
    Choose the preferred temperature for your hair. That might require some trial and error, but the general rule is to keep the heat level as low as possible. You may start with a low setting, but thick hair might require higher temperatures, so don’t hesitate to increase the heat if needed.

  • Step 3: Work in Segments

    The best way to dry and stylize your hair at the same time is to split it into segments. You want to work one section at a time and be patient with each part.
    Start blowing air from the root and toward the ends. The chances are you will need to make multiple passes at a single section to get the desired results.
    Once you finish with the first segment, move to the next one. If you notice previous segments could use improvement, don’t hesitate to return until you get the desired outcome.

  • Step 4: Cool Shot for Finishing Details

    It is not easy to shape thick hair to the desired lifestyle, which is why you should use the cool shot function as the final step of the process.
    The cool air will ensure your hair remains in the desired position for a longer time than usual. Thick hair can particularly benefit from this function as it is not easy to make it listen to your commands over a long time. Cool shots may help you to extend the results of the styling process.

  • Step 5: Turn Off Your Device Safely

    Once you finish using the blow dryer, turn it off by hitting the off switch on the device. After this, immediately unplug it from the power socket. That way, you avoid any potential electrical issues, as well as trip hazards with the cord.
    Finally, put the unit on a surface that is heat-resistant to cool down. Once it cools down, you can pack it in the box, or in the cabinet where you hold your appliances.

Drying Tips for Thick Hair

If you are open to suggestions, we prepared a list of expert tips to apply while drying thick hair. Check out these tips below:

  • Air-dry your hair as long as possible – if you have enough time, you should air-dry your hair until it is at least 50% dry. That will minimize the risk of damage, and enable you to style it better.
  • A wide-tooth comb is a right solution – forget about using brushes on thick hair and stick to a wide-tooth comb. You can use the comb on your entire hair while ensuring the frizz will remain minimal. The experts suggest going with plastic bristles with a rubber tip because metal bristles can damage the hair.
  • Adjust the position as necessary – when you go to a salon, your stylist moves around to ensure it is in perfect position each time. That is the same thing you should do when drying your hair at home. It may take a bit of effort, but don’t hesitate to bend over and turn your hair upside down if necessary. The important thing is to reach all segments.

Common Mistakes While Drying Thick Hair

If you want to perfect the process of drying thick hair, it is also important to avoid wrong moves. You can get familiar with the most frequent mistakes amateurs make during the drying process. Make sure to avoid this the next time you blow-dry your hair:

  • Trying to speed up the process – drying thick hair takes time because it is dense and strong. If you want to style it, too, patience is crucial. It is not wise to style your hair in a rush. Not only you may cause more frizz than usual, but the results may not be long-lasting.
  • You are too harsh with your towel – frizz is a common issue when blow-drying thick hair. But the process of eliminating frizz starts before the drying phase. You want to use a soft towel, and you want to be as gentle as possible.
  • Not using the nozzle attachment – if you want to speed up the process, you might not have to use in the beginning. However, the nozzle attachment is mandatory in the final phase of blow-drying your hair. Its task is to optimize airflow and maintain a safe distance between your hair and the appliance’s lip. That way, it both minimizes frizz and the risk of overheating.

You may also like: Haircuts for Thick Frizzy Hair

FAQs & Answers

  • Q: Can blow dryer cause hair damage or loss?
    A: No, these appliances cannot lead to hair damage or loss as long as you use them properly. It is vital to apply a heat-resistant spray to protect your hair from high temperatures. Additionally, you don’t want to spend too much time drying a single section of your hair.
    If you are blow-drying your hair frequently, we would also suggest using nourishing product that boosts your hair health. That way, you can ensure the strains will be more resistant to heat and other issues that may cause damage during the drying process.
  • Q: How often should I clean a hair dryer?
    A: The experts recommend cleaning it at least once a week. However, if you have thick hair and use multiple hair care products, you may consider cleaning it after every use.
    It is important to remove any fallen hair strains that got trapped inside the device or on the outside. Haircare formulas may also cause buildup on your device. You can use soft cloths with alcohol to remove them.
  • Q: Can I bring a hair dryer in my hand luggage when flying?
    A: No law prevents you from putting a hair dryer in your hand luggage. However, before you are going on a trip, you should call the airport and the airline. That way, you can check if they allow blow dryers in hand luggage. It is the best way to be sure that you can pack this appliance in your hand luggage.
  • Want to know how to buy a hair dryer? Our helpful hair dryer buying guide will tell you what to look for when it comes to selecting the best one.

Read on to find more details on choosing the right blow dryer for curly hair and reviews of hair dryers for natural hair!

Wrap Up

That rounds up our buying guide on choosing the best hair dryers for thick hair. We covered all the vital information related to these appliances, and you should now have all the knowledge necessary to choose the right appliance.
The crucial thing to consider is that thick hair is not easy to tame. It takes time and effort to dry and style it, which is why it helps to have a potent hair dryer.
You should also aim to choose an appliance that is easy to use. Since the process might last longer than usual, comfort becomes one of the critical factors besides the performance.
With all the things mentioned in the guide, you can’t go wrong with choosing a hair dryer. Give another look at our reviews and pick a device that meets your expectations. We are sure that you will be thrilled with the appearance made possible by your new hair dryer!

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