Maybe you are in the market for a new tool or you want to know the latest features that are being added to the newest products hitting shelves. Regardless, this advice from experts in the industry on the latest in thermal tools is perfect for you. Read on for everything you need to know about purchasing and using thermal tools at your salon.
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After clients leave your salon, they become walking billboards for your work. You can’t have them leaving with wet, unstyled hair, making thermal tools such as your blow dryers, curling irons and styling brushes, a must.
Maybe you are in the market for a new tool or you want to know the latest features that are being added to the newest products hitting shelves. Regardless, this advice from experts in the industry on the latest in thermal tools is perfect for you. Read on for everything you need to know about purchasing and using thermal tools at your salon.
What have you seen as the latest trends/technology with thermal tools?
Dr. Farouk Shami (@faroukshamiofficial), chairman and founder of Farouk Systems, Inc. (FS): The world of thermal tools in the beauty industry is always evolving, but adding an innovative material like volcanic lava minerals is a remarkable advancement. Lava stone contains the most natural minerals. When it’s heated, it lasts longer than any stone. Also, lava stone is the only stone that holds heat longer than ceramic. Therefore, all you need is one pass versus ceramic, which needs several passes to obtain the same results. This allows for gentler, more consistent heat styling at lower temperatures. This leaves hair smoother and less damaged, no matter the clients’ hair length or texture.
Cherry Petenbrink (@hairbycherryp), artistic/education director for Olivia Garden (CP): Technology is more important now than ever in terms of tools and heat. We know excessive heat can be damaging, so having innovative technology has been critical to stylists’ success. Dual ceramic heaters allow for 360 degrees of balanced heat instead of excess heat on one side. The floating beveled plates offer protection that seals in moisture and while laying down the cuticle for a frizz free shiny long-lasting finish. The temperature controls allow a cooler temp for finer, more delicate hair or higher for tenacious coarse thick curly hair. Intelligent heat control in a blow dryer allows for consistent temperature, which prevents hair damage. It’s super lightweight, which is vital to the physical health of a stylist’s wrists and hands.
Barbara Burke (@barb.burke), artistic educator with Bio Ionic (BB): The thing about hot tools today is that they leverage technology that not only safeguards the condition of the hair but improves the stylist’s experience. New blowdryer technology is better for the hair (more air, less heat and faster drying time) AND for the stylist (featherweight, whisper quiet and smart features).
Jacob Habib Khan (@jacobhkhan), Babyliss brand ambassador (JK): Ease of life – any tool that helps a client get salon quality hair at home, like waving irons, longer barrel curling irons and wands and hot air brushes.
Kristine Benglyan, Sutra Beauty brand director (KB): The hair-tool market is a super trendy one. We’re noticing a huge push in development and interest in less damaging hair tools. People want powerful tools but are seeking ways to minimize the damage to their hair. The consumer’s awareness towards hair health in general is growing exponentially. We’ve invested a vast amount of resources towards developing our healthy heat technology. It’s a blend of elements, coupled with ground-breaking and innovative technologies that style hair without the damage! We’re also noticing an uptick in infrared technology. Although infrared tools are usually on the more expensive side, the infrared heat is far superior to conventional heat. Infrared not only maintains the desired styling results but also promotes hair health and strength.
Alan Kossof, president and CEO of Solano (AK): Over the past few years, specifically related to professional hair dryers, what has been on trend are small form factor, ultra-lightweight brushless motor dryers. While this new category of hair dryers offers sleek designs, digital technology and substantial weight reduction of the tool; it comes with some drawbacks that should be considered, especially when investing in a tool that has a premium price point. A few key factors that we’ve identified include the inability to keep internal electrical components cool. Excessive heat within the dryer stresses the circuit board and related components, which ultimately shortens the life span of these tools. The result: Inconsistent reliability issues with dryers overheating due to poor maintenance or insufficient quality of digital components. Another key factor: Lack of serviceability once dryers are out of warranty.
What key features should stylists look for in a thermal tool?
FS: When selecting thermal tools, hairdressers should prioritize temperature control, a quick heat-up time and consistent heat distribution for achieving desired results. Ergonomic design and lightweight construction are also important for minimizing hand fatigue during long styling sessions.
CP: Ionic technology is key to protection of the integrity of hair; temp control to have versatility of options for different textures, density and condition of hair; auto shut off is important; lock feature to meet the plates closed when not in use and quick heat up 30 sec from when you turn the tool on to highest heat.
BB: First and foremost: technology which protects hair! Moisturizing heat technology is a favorite for me. Clear temperature control on the device is key to using only the heat you need.
JK: Make sure that the quality and integrity of your hair is first in mind when the company is designing the tools. Lots of brands just get hot! There’s a lot more to it. Research the technology, and make sure it’s thought out.
KB: It is instrumental that you are doing proper research and using real infrared tools and not just red lights on a hair-tool. Also, rapid heat-up capabilities are vital in thermal tools. We suggest opting for a device that achieves full heating within seconds and swiftly regains and sustains a consistent temperature to keep heat balanced on the hair from root to end.
AK: Professionals should evaluate the importance of the balance of performance that will be realized with the dryer tools they are considering investing in. These factors include motor lifespan, quality of construction (manufacturing and sources of internal components) and technical expertise of the assembly. But, even more important factors are related to the post-purchase experience. These factors include ease of access to manufacturers, including customer service, warranty services and the process of handling a warranty claim and, lastly, the serviceability of the dryer tool. Look for manufacturers that offer post-warranty “repair” services.
What advice should stylists give to clients when it comes to purchasing and using thermal tools?
FS: When it comes to getting that just-stepped-out-of-the-salon hair, hairdressers should encourage clients to invest in high-quality tools that prioritize hair health. A good stylist will also help clients understand which products are best for their hair type. Also, they should encourage them to use a heat protectant. This helps create a barrier between the hair and the heat, minimizing damage.
BB: Price does not dictate quality. Research the product before making a decision. More heat is not always better. Also, heat protective styling products are a must.
JK: Look up reviews! There are so many great unboxing and how-to videos online to help you get an idea of what the tools will be like and how to use them. That way you can decide if they’re right for you before you even order.
KB: Stylists should advise clients to prioritize thermal tools equipped with advanced technologies for optimal results and hair care. You want to make sure you and your clients are buying from reputable brands and not just the inexpensive lookalikes. Those tools likely have simple heat resistors, micro chips and lack the amazing technology, like far infrared heat, that is out in the market today.
AK: Not all dryers are created equally. We often see consumers seeking out a “professional” dryer. Today, the market is saturated with many brands that position their tool as “salon professional.” Thus, trust your stylist and ask them how long the dryer lasts. What happens when the tool needs service? The quality of craftsmanship and customer service should be as equally important.
What thermal tools should stylists add to their arsenal in their salon?
FS: A must-have thermal tool for every salon is a flat iron with lava technology. This gives effortless glide, providing less damage and overall healthier hair. Look for two perfectly calibrated inner plates and two outer plates to prevent resistance and keep perfectly smooth curls intact. It’s the ultimate professional tool to achieve amazing hairstyling results while prioritizing the well-being of their clients’ hair.
CP: Multiple size curly irons offer a range of versatile styling options. Take advantage of the new technology that high performance hair dryers have to offer. It is a game changer to your blowouts. Your trusty OLD five year old dryer probably isn’t as healthy for the hair as newer more innovative model. Your clients deserve the BEST!
BB: I cannot live without my curling irons and flat irons. They are versatile with fantastic quality. I never worry about overheated hair and still get the quality I need for the perfect finish.
JK: A hot air brush and waver are my two favorite new things out there! All of my clients rave about them when I use them, and usually end up buying them right away so they can recreate the styles at home.
KB: The blowout brush is a relatively new category that has taken the industry by storm. It used to be strictly an at-home-use item, but the advancements in technology have introduced professional power to this category. If this innovative tool isn’t already in your hands, it’s time to grab one and experience the difference firsthand! Another innovative infrared tool that has changed the professional hair game is a thermal brush. Picture a round brush with infrared heat permeating from its center creating silky and glowing hair. It’s a one-of-a-kind gem, working wonders for adding volume and handling touch-ups. If you’re a stylist, this tool is a must-have!
AK: When it comes down to it, a professional stylist should invest in tools that will allow them to focus on the work they need to perform. There’s an abundance of options available in the marketplace. Tools will not always live up to their promise, so partner with a brand/manufacturer that offers exceptional service and a good warranty and service plan.
Thermal Tools To Invest In for Your Salon
If you are searching for new thermal tools to add to your salon kit, here are some favorites we recommend.
The CHI LAVA 4D 1.25” Volcanic Lava Hairstyling Iron features the power of CHI LAVA minerals and ceramic to create an effortless glide, providing less damage and overall healthier-looking hair. Lava minerals offer gentle, consistent heat, which allows styling at lower temperatures. @chihaircare
Valera, the leading Swiss manufacturer of precision hairstyling tools for professional hairdressers around the globe, has engineered the UNLIMITED PRO 5000 hair dryer to satisfy even the most discerning beauty professional. Execute the perfect blowout with extreme motor durability, unprecedented drying performance, a removable metallic filter, six airflow and temperature settings and more. @valera.usa
Moroccanoil has launched their most versatile style tool yet, the Effortless Style 4-in-1 Blow-Dryer Brush. This brush combines the capabilities of a flat iron, curling iron, blow-dryer and round brush into one easy-to-use essential. Designed using advanced ionic technology to reduce drying time and minimize static, the far-infrared light gently heats hair from the inside out to reduce thermal exposure and lock in moisture. @moroccanoil
Bio Ionic’s breakthrough Smart-X High Efficiency Dryer leverages advanced smart settings, customizable features and the brand’s proprietary Moisturizing Heat Technology for a revolutionary hair tool that helps you style like a pro. @bioionic
The Solano SuperSolano 3600 ion Hair Dryer is specially designed with three different technologies that combine to create the next generation of professional hair dryers: ion technology conditions hair and reduces static electricity; tourmaline technology promotes healthier hair with natural ions; and silver nano technology provides anti-bacterial protection. @solanousa
Sutra Beauty’s Infrared Thermal Brush features their exclusive Healthy Heat FAR Infrared (IR) and Ionic technologies and a Tourmaline-infused ceramic barrel that delivers a revolutionary, one-step styling experience. Specialized bristles eliminate frizz and ensure an even transfer of heat to impart a gorgeous shine and silky feel throughout. @sutrabeauty
Dive into the perfect waves with BabByliss Pro’s Ionic Deep Waver. Style hair for any occasion by achieving the perfect glam waves without the frizz with 5 digital temperature settings, a 60-minute auto-shut off, a comfortable, ergonomic flat iron design and plates lock switch for convenient storage. @babylisspro
Olivia Garden’s SuperHP High Performance Hair Dryer includes an ergonomic silhouette for easy all-day use and the first-ever accessible inner filter for deep cleaning. @oliviagarden_int