Travelling often means relying on the amenities provided in your hotel room, including the hairdryer. Whilst convenient, these devices can be a challenge for maintaining your hair's health and style. They are often less powerful and have fewer settings than your dryer at home. However, with a few simple techniques and a bit of preparation, you can achieve a great result without compromising the condition of your hair. This guide will walk you through how to make the most of a hotel hairdryer on your next trip.
Understanding the Limitations of a Hotel Hairdryer
Before you even switch it on, it’s helpful to manage your expectations. Hotel hairdryers are typically chosen for durability and safety rather than high performance. Here's what you might encounter:
- Lower Power: Most hotel dryers have low wattage, which means they produce less airflow and heat. This can significantly increase drying time, especially for thick or long hair.
- Limited Settings: You'll often find only two options: a low and a high setting, with no separate controls for heat and speed. A 'cool shot' button, which helps to set your style and add shine, is a rare luxury.
- Fixed Nozzles: Many are wall-mounted and may not come with a concentrator nozzle, making it difficult to direct the airflow precisely for smooth styling.
- Overheating: Due to their compact design and frequent use, they can sometimes overheat and automatically shut off, forcing you to wait for them to cool down.
Preparation is Key: Steps to Take Before Drying
Proper preparation can make a huge difference in your final result and protect your hair from potential heat damage. Don't skip these essential steps.
Gently Towel-Dry First
Never start blow-drying soaking wet hair. This not only prolongs the process but also exposes your hair to heat for longer. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water with a towel. For best results, use a microfibre towel, which is more absorbent and causes less friction and frizz than standard cotton towels. Pat your hair dry; never rub it vigorously, as this can damage the hair cuticles.
Apply a Heat Protectant
A heat protectant is non-negotiable, especially when you can't control the temperature of the dryer. These products create a protective barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing moisture loss and minimising damage. Distribute a light, travel-sized heat protectant spray or cream evenly through your damp hair, from roots to ends.
Effective Drying Techniques with a Low-Power Dryer
Once your hair is prepped, it's time to work with the tool you have. These techniques will help you dry your hair more efficiently and achieve a better style.
Section Your Hair
Drying your hair all at once with a weak dryer is ineffective. Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. Working on one small section at a time allows the limited airflow to dry the hair more thoroughly and evenly. Start with the bottom layers and work your way up to the crown.
Focus on the Roots
Your roots hold the most water and take the longest to dry. Begin by directing the hairdryer at your roots, lifting them with your fingers to create volume and speed up drying. Once the roots are about 80% dry, you can then move on to the lengths and ends of your hair, which will dry much more quickly.
Keep the Dryer Moving
To prevent overheating a single spot and causing damage, always keep the hairdryer in motion. Maintain a distance of at least 15-20 centimetres between the nozzle and your hair. This ensures a more even distribution of heat and reduces the risk of burning your hair or scalp.
Finishing Touches and Alternatives
If the hotel dryer just isn't giving you the sleek finish you want, there are a few final tricks you can try. If the dryer has a cool setting, use it for a final blast of air all over your head. This helps to close the hair cuticle, which locks in your style and adds shine. If your hair is still a bit frizzy, a small amount of smoothing serum or hair oil can tame flyaways. Alternatively, consider embracing heat-free styles. A chic bun, a sleek ponytail, or natural air-dried waves can look just as polished and save your hair from the stress of a subpar hairdryer.
