If you’re looking for a new hair dryer, or giving one as a present, then you’ll want to make sure that you make sure that you buy the best model that meets your needs.

There are 5 main types of hairdryer; Traditional, Ionic, Ceramic, Tourmaline and nano-silver.

Traditional hairdryers tend to be at the cheaper end of the price range, and can be bought almost anywhere, in places such as supermarkets and department stores. These hair dryers will not leave your hair in the best condition, and can make your hair frizzy.

If you can, look for a hair dryer with negative ions. Negative ions break down the water into much smaller droplets, which means that your hair is much easier and quicker to dry, and so less subject to heat damage. In addition, some of the micro droplets of water are absorbed in the hair itself, which helps to hydrate your hair, which will make it shiner and smoother, and look healthier. Ceramic, tourmaline and nano-silver hair dryers all use negative ions and so are much better for your hair than traditional "cheaper" hair dyers.

Perhaps you know what brands you like, or what features you want. This will help you when it comes to narrowing down your choices.

The length, style and condition of your hair will also be factors when choosing a new hairdryer. If your hair is short, and you don’t need to wash it too often, then your requirements will be different than if you had long hair that needs washing frequently. You might also change your hair style often, or style if differently for work during the week, and for going out at the weekend.

If you don’t know what brands to look for, then you could ask family and friends whose opinions you value (and who have nice hair!) or look at review and consumer websites online. Perhaps you could even try a friend or family member’s hair dryer to see how you get on with it.

Whether you’re often going to spend a lot of time using your hair dryer as you have long hair, or only use it a couple of times a week, you’ll want to make sure that you get good results. How long does it take to dry your hair? Is it quicker than with your existing hair dryer, or does it take longer? If it takes longer, are the results worth it? If it leaves your hair in a better condition and looking fabulous, then it probably is worth it. If it takes less time, but leaves your hair hard to manage, or not looking good, then it’s not worth it.

You’ll also need to make sure that the hair dryer is comfortable and not too heavy or unwieldy, as you’ll be less likely to use it.

Now you know what to look for in a new hairdryer, isn’t it time you asked friends, read some reviews and tried some out?