Hair tools have gone luxe: 4 versatile styling products from Dyson’s Airstrait and Zuvi’s Halo, to Shark’s FlexStyle – used by Kim Kardashian’s stylist to create her Met Gala look

Jun 24 , 2024

Looking for a stylish finish for your hair without damaging your locks? Style recommends these four products, from Dyson to Shark. Photos: Handout

There was a time when people would balk at spending more than US$100 on a hair dryer, but that has changed quickly as the luxury hair tool market heats up.

For years the category was dominated by trusted consumer brands like Revlon and Panasonic, but newer names are giving these stalwarts a run for their money thanks to their cutting-edge technology, chic design and high-performance products.

“Consumers have higher expectation of their hair tools. They want fast drying, efficient styling, great results and, at the same time, want to preserve their scalp and hair health. Hair tools now consider these aspects to become more intelligent,” says Ying Wang, senior engineering manager at Dyson Beauty.

Dyson, which made its name with their hi-tech vacuums, revolutionised the hair tools industry when it launched its first supersonic hairdryer in 2016. The product showcased the company’s specialised air flow technology, which promised faster hair drying times and a smoother finish, along with added protection from heat and other potential damage.

Since then, the company has rolled our multiple products, from its popular Airwrap styling tool, whose hashtag has over four billion views on TikTok, to its latest hairdryer, the Supersonic Nural, which features new sensor technology that automatically reduces temperature and air flow to protect the hair and scalp.

This has prompted a host of other companies to invest in more research and technology, giving customers a variety of options that cater to different needs.

Dyson released its first supersonic hairdryer in 2016

“Consumers are more accepting of the value of technology today and are looking for solutions using less electricity and energy. It’s about sustainability,” says Andrea Clark, a certified trichologist based between Melbourne and Hong Kong.

“The need for ease – in terms of finish and styling – as well as handling of the product is also a big trend. We have always spoken about the effect of hair tools on the hair itself, but now there’s a focus on scalp health too,” she says.

To meet these demands, the latest products to come to market balance efficiency with hair protection. Zuvi, a popular Chinese brand, offers hairdryers with light technology to preserve the condition of hair and scalp, while SharkNinja, a popular vacuum brand based in the US, has also made headlines with its airflow technology and multipurpose tools. GHD, which was the go-to brand for hair straightening tongs, is now equally popular for its hairdryers that create a powerful airflow as high as 120kmh.

Dyson’s Airstrait straightener, which straightens without damaging hair

These high performing tools also look stylish on your dressing table, making them more covetable. Dyson’s products come in matt finishings or chic colourways that speak to your inner fashionista, while Shark recently launched a black crystal embellished version of its popular FlexStyle tool. (Kim Kardashian’s stylist used the latter to create her Met Gala hair style.)

Looking ahead, there is still plenty of room for new products that are sure to make the hair styling experience that much easier and smarter.

“There’s potential for better travel options that are light or even cordless. Quieter options are another niche as we become more focused on noise pollution and a peaceful styling experience. Also interesting are the apps that come with our appliances which monitor and record hair health when drying,” says Clark.

Read on for five versatile hair tools that promise the best in technology and hair protection:

1. Airstrait straightener by Dyson

Dyson’s Airstrait means we no longer have to worry about using a hair straightener on wet hair

Part straightener, part hair dryer, this new product offers wet-to-dry hair styling without the usual damaging effects. Instead of hotplates, it features high-velocity air blades that dry the hair quickly while offering a super straight finish.

2. Halo Hairdryer by Zuvi

Zuvi’s Halo dryer makes use of its LightCare technology, which utilises infrared

Zuvi’s bestselling hair dryer, which is also available in a cordless version, is engineered with a patented LightCare technology that uses infrared light to keep hair hydrated without compromising drying speed.

3. Helios Hairdryer by GHD

For those who prefer a more traditional hairdryer shape, this lightweight hairdryer features a longer-life brushless motor designed for speed, while Aeroprecis technology delivers a concentrated temperature and airflow distribution to create the perfect blowout.

4. FlexStyle by SharkNinja

FlexStyle by SharkNinja, which is both a hairdryer and a styler

This multipurpose hair wand transforms from a hairdryer into a styler instantly. It comes with multiple attachments including two styling brushes and a rotatable nozzle to direct the air flow when blow-drying your hair to minimise heat damage.

Beauty

Dyson launched its first supersonic hairdryer in 2016 while GHD, known for its straighteners, has become popular for hairdryers – brands such as Zuvi and SharkNinja also entered the fray
Consumers now want fast drying, efficient styling and great results while also preserving their scalp and hair health – and sustainability also matters, say experts