April 24, 2025, 9:20 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Using a hairdryer is almost a matter of course, not only to dry your hair after washing, but also to style your hair. What many people don’t quite realize is why hair dryers have a cold setting. We asked an expert.
Every hairdryer actually has a cold setting, but very few people know why. We clarified the question with an expert.
Overview
What Is the Purpose of the Cold Setting on a Hairdryer?
If you have got ready in a hurry and then have to blow dry your hair, you can get quite warm. That’s when the blue button on the hairdryer comes in handy — it activates the appliance’s cold setting. But no, a cool, refreshing breeze is not the purpose of this function. It has much more to do with healthy-looking hair.
The Cold Setting on the Hairdryer Closes the Cuticle
Professionals work consistently with cold air, as this closes the hair structure. Hairdresser Patrick Ahrensdorf explains this when asked about it by STYLEBOOK. “The hair is roughened and sensitive due to the warm air. The cold air ensures that the cuticle layer settles again, the hair shines and takes on the desired shape,” says Ahrensdorf. He compares hair to wax, which can be given the desired shape with the help of heat. To ensure that the hair retains the desired shape, cold air must be used for the final styling.
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Warm Blow-Dryer Air Dries Out the Hair
Ahrensdorf confirms our assumption that hot air is harmful to the hair structure. “It becomes porous, dull, and rough.” He therefore advises pre-drying the hair after washing it and then continuing on a medium temperature setting. There is no generally applicable rule in this context. It always depends on the condition and health of the hair as to which temperature you should set.
In general, it is worth investing in a good hairdryer. A weak jet of air will only lead to your hair being exposed to the heat forever: 1600 watts of power and more will blow your mane dry in no time at all. Two to three heat and blower settings won’t do any harm.
Ahrensdorf’s special tip: To finish styling, always blow-dry in the direction of growth with cold air. This prevents split ends, frizz and an unhealthy hair look.