How to Shop Hair Dryers Under $20
The best hair dryers can leave your strands super smooth and frizz-free, but some of the highest-rated models come with hefty price tags. Luckily, you can get professional-level results without spending an arm and leg, thanks to the many affordable options below.
According to stylists, the key features to look for in a cheap hair dryer include high airflow, multiple heat and speed settings, a cool shot button, and attachments (like a diffuser for curly locks). Also important: Look for dual voltage or ceramic, ionic, and tourmaline technologies, which are known to help reduce damage and boost shine.
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider a dryer with a built-in foldable handle and cord that snaps into place for easy storage. Some also have a small brush on the end for taming flyaways and a concentrator nozzle to help you achieve that sleek, runway-ready blowout while at home or on the go.
Another good tip is to look for a dryer with negative ions, which can reduce static, make your hair look and feel smoother, and help it dry faster. Finally, a dryer with a streamlined design is ideal for those who have limited space in their bathrooms, as it can fit better on a vanity or in a closet.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer and Producer at WWD, where she covers shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. She drew on her expertise as a former beauty editor and extensive product testing when creating this list of the best affordable hair dryers. shop hair dryers under $20