12 Best Hooded Hair Dryers For Afro-American Hair – 2024
Protect your natural curls and maintain their shape with these trendy hair tools.
Alicia Igess is an accomplished and award-winning stylist with over two decades of experience in hair design. She is the owner and founder of Urban Tangles, a hair and makeup studio focusing on makeovers. She, along with her team, has experienced tremendous success in building an exclusive “referral-only” clientele consisting of many of the who’s who of Atlanta.
Read full bio of Alicia Igess
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
Read full bio of Swathi E
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If you have been on an unending quest for the best bonnet hair dryer for natural hair, let us tell you, it’s about to end! Your days of searching under every rock for those hairdryers are over! Characteristic of the 1950s, you would have probably seen these hair dryers at your neighborhood salon. What is the hype, and why can’t hair care professionals stop using them? Well, the answer is simple. For all you lovelies who have curly or coily hair and struggle with them on a daily basis, bonnet hair dryers are the solution to your curly hair woes. Gone are those days when you struggle with those tangled cords! Convenient and fun, these hair dryers do all the magic while you catch up on some ‘me-time’ with your hair routine. Once the session is over, behold, soft, bouncy, and thick hair! If you thought you couldn’t get them at home, you’re wrong! There are at-home bonnet dryers available that save you that trip and pennies to the salon. To help you end your quest, we have made a list of the top bonnet hair dryers out there that can turn your dull and flat hair into that of a diva’s! Scroll down for more information!
In This Article
What Is A Hooded Hair Dryer
A hooded/bonnet hair dryer is a hair care tool that can be put on over your head like a hood. It is used for drying hair or for setting pins or roller curls. While they are designed to do what a blow dryer does, a hooded hair dryer functions differently. It is a hands-free tool that regulates and circulates warm air uniformly throughout your hair. However, with this device, it can take a bit longer to dry hair, so it’s best used when you have a lot of time on your hands for an elaborate hair routine. Furthermore, there are 2 types of hair dryers – soft hooded and hard hat type.
- Soft hooded hair dryer: This hair dryer offers full head coverage and can be adjusted based on your hair length. It has a hood that is connected to the central unit via the hose. The central unit transmits hot air to the hood. They are flexible, convenient, and are made for home use.
- Hard hat hair dryer: This type is quite popularly used in professional salons, primarily to set styled hair. It works much faster than a soft hooded one and is available in various versions – wall-mounted, tabletop types, and one with a stand.
How To Use A Hooded Dryer
- Firstly, wash your hair using shampoo and conditioner and rinse it thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry your hair gently with a clean cotton towel. Make sure not to be too vigorous while rubbing your wet hair as this could lead to hair breakage.
- Partition your hair into smaller sections for easier and faster drying.
- Place the hooded hair dryer on your head. You can sit or stand, depending on the type you use.
- Ensure all your hair strands are tucked inside the hood.
- Start the drying process and increase the temperature as you go.
- Once your hair is completely dried, you can begin to reduce the temperature little by little.
- For optimal results, cool your hair before ending the process.
Benefits Of Using A Hooded Dryer
- African-AmeriIt takes a short amount of time as compared to blow dryers to dry can textured hair.
- It helps keep your hair hydrated.
- It helps your hair in the better absorption of nutrients.
- It emits indirect heat to your hair, which means it cuts down frizz.
- It creates shiny, gorgeous curls.
Features To Consider Before Buying A Hooded Dryer For Natural Hair
Given below are a few factors that you should take into account while purchasing a hooded hair dryer.
Size: When buying a hooded hair dryer, the first thing you should look for is the size. If it is not big enough to fit your head, it is of no good. Moreover, the size also depends on the amount of space you have in your house.
Wattage: The wattage may vary based on your hair texture and the type of hair dryer you prefer. Soft hooded hair dryers will ideally come with a wattage range between 500 and 900 W, while the hard hat ones support a wattage ranging between 1000 and 2500 W.
Ionic technology: Pick a hair dryer that features ionic technology. When you use such a hair dryer, upon heating, it releases negative ions that break up the water molecules and dries your hair quickly. It also helps lock in your hair’s natural moisture and provides a shiny appearance.
Settings: Look for a hair dryer that has variable heat and speed settings. Thick and coarse hair requires high or medium functions. If you have fine hair, low heat and speed settings are considered ideal. Your hair dryer should also have a cool shot setting that locks in your style and prevents your hair from over-drying.
Timer: A hooded hair dryer with a timer is more convenient to use. You can just set the timer and allow the device to do its thing and give you the desired results.
12 Best Bonnet Hair Dryers For Natural Hair
1. Best Travel-Friendly:Conair Pro Style Collapsible Bonnet Hair Dryer
If you are looking for a hooded hair dryer that is compact and portable, this Collapsible Bonnet Hair Dryer by Conair is the right choice for you. However, don’t be fooled by its small size, as it features a hood that is roomy enough to accommodate a set of jumbo rollers. With 1875W of power and the ability to evenly distribute airflow, this hair styling device simplifies and reduces your hair drying time. It also features 2 heat and speed settings that can be adjusted depending on your hair texture. The best part about this hair care tool is that it can be folded down for convenient storage when not in use.
Pros
- Varying airflow settings ensures comfortable styling
- Uniform distribution of air to dry hair evenly
- Height-adjustable stand
- Built-in carry handle
- Easy to store and travel-friendly
- Includes a 6-foot long cord
Cons
- The cord tends to heat up quickly
- Tends to make too much noise
Trivia2. Best For Frizz Control:Laila Ali Ionic Soft Bonnet Dryer
One of the best soft bonnet hair dryers, this hair care tool by Laila Ali, features an ionic technology, which means it produces negative ions that dry hair faster, help retain moisture, tame flyaway hair, and prevent hair damage. It also reduces frizz and leaves you with a shiny and healthy-looking mane. This purple-white styling device includes 3 heat and speed settings that allow you to control the temperature and airflow depending on your hair type, while the cool shot feature helps you lock your hairstyle in place. Plus, the hood interior is suitable for conditioning and chemical treatments. Check out this video of the tester’s experience for a detailed understanding of the product.
Pros
- Releases ion-infused airflow
- Adjustable heat and speed settings
- The cool shot setting sets your hairstyle
- Includes a storage case to fit the entire unit
- Features a large adjustable hood
- It can be used to dry jumbo roller sets and braids
Cons
- May not distribute heat evenly
- The hose may overheat sometimes
3. Best For Even Heat Distribution:HairFlair Softhood Deluxe Hair Dryer Attachment
Did you recently buy a blow dryer only to realize that it isn’t suitable for thick natural textured hair? Well, don’t worry; you don’t have to stash it away. We bring to you a soft hood hair dryer attachment that can be used with your regular hair dryer. Simply connect the blow dryer to the hose and use it on a low heat setting for best results. It includes an adjustable chin strap and a side-fitting adjustable drawstring that keeps the hood in place, and the long nylon tube fitting makes it easy for you to move around. It features over 140 ventilation holes for more even distribution of heat and faster drying process that keeps your hair curly. If you want to know more about this product, check out this video of a tester’s experience with the product, on YouTube.
Pros
- Features a large hood capacity to fit hair curlers and rollers
- Includes a travel case for convenient portability
- Patented Non-slip Silicone Hose Collar
- Fits all standard hair dryers (up to 2.25″ nozzle)
- Hand-washable
- Suitable for conditioning treatments
- Available in 4 colors/designs
Cons
- May take longer to dry hair
- May not be durable
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 1,166 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
| Conair Pro Style Collapsible Bonnet Hair Dryer Best Travel-Friendly | Laila Ali Ionic Soft Bonnet Dryer Best For Frizz Control | HairFlair Softhood Deluxe Hair Dryer Attachment Best For Even Heat Distribution | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 1875 watts | - | - |
| Color | White | White,Purple | Pink |
| Dimensions | 15.25 x 6.5 x 17 inches | 11.25 x 4 x 13 inches | 9.1 x 5.8 x 1.7 inches |
| Weight | 9.6 Ounces | - | 4.97 Ounces |
| Weight | - | 3.36 pounds | - |
| Hair Type | - | - | Curly |
| Material | - | - | Nylon |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 14,208 | 2,689 | 1,166 |
| Price | $47.47 | $69.99 | $18.95 |
4. Best In Budget:Glow By Daye Soft Hood Bonnet Dryer Attachment
If you are looking for an affordable, compact, and easy-to-operate hooded hair dryer, this soft hood hair dryer attachment could be the best option for you. This flexible and powerful attachment is connected directly to your handheld hair dryer and is secured with a gripping silicone material that prevents any slip-off while using it. The interior of the hood features strategically placed holes that deliver even heat distribution and gentle and consistent airflow. While the bonnet hood can be adjusted to accommodate any head size and hairstyle, it comes with an optional adjustable strap and drawstring that keeps the hat in place. Go ahead and check out this reviewer’s experience video on YouTube for more details about the product.
Pros
- Can be used for drying hair and conditioning treatments
- Wide and long hose design ensures comfort
- Lightweight and waterproof
- Hand-washable material
- The hair dryer must be used on low setting
- The hood can fit hair accessories, including rollers, clips, and Flexi rods
- Includes a storage bag
Cons
- Tends to overheat
- May not reduce frizz
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 1,875 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
5. Best For Multipurpose Use:Salon Sundry Professional Bonnet Style Hood Hair Dryer
Are you looking to enjoy a salon-like experience in the comfort of your home? Look no further than this user-friendly design! Salon Sundry hooded hair dryer with a stand comes equipped with all the right functions and features that are required to dry your hair efficiently. Besides, it can also be used for hair treatments such as coloring, hot-perm, and spot-caring which gives salon-quality results. It features a dual-looped stainless steel heating element, a hood made of durable tinted acrylic, and a multi-bladed fan that provides uniform drying without making noise. It also comes with an adjustable timer and different heat and speed options, which allows you to personalize your hair drying process.
Pros
- Lends silky-smooth and frizz-free hair
- Features 1000W power and temperature that goes up to 165°F
- The timer can be set up to 60 minutes
- Height-adjustable spring-loaded pedestal base
- Includes 5 swivel wheels
- Equipped with a hinged front visor that allows cool air inside the hood
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- The hood might be heavy
Quick Tip6. Best For Hair Treatments:Beaute Seoul Hooded Hair Dryer Attachment
If you have long and naturally curly hair and don’t prefer large bulky at-home hooded dryers, then why not give Beaute Seoul Hooded Hair Dryer Attachment a try. It is an excellent hair dryer not only used to dry your hair faster (on low setting) but is also designed for deep conditioning treatments and hairstyling sessions using the wrap and roller sets. The hair heating cap has a larger capacity to accommodate any head size and hairstyle, while the side drawstring and chin strap ensures the hood doesn’t fall off while in use. It is made of high-quality nylon with PU coating, which makes this hair dryer attachment waterproof and durable.
Pros
- The hose collar features a Velcro adjustable strap that fits any standard handheld dryer
- Adjustable large hooded bonnet
- Long and flexible hose
- The hood features evenly distributed holes for even and consistent airflow
- Lightweight and portable
- Comes with a storage bag
- Hand-washable
Cons
- May take longer to dry thick hair
- The chin strap may be too tight for some
7. Best Professional-Grade Dryer:Gold ‘N Hot Professional Ionic Stand Bonnet Dryer
If you are looking for a professional hard hat hair dryer with a user-friendly design, given that you are willing to splurge a little, this bonnet hair dryer by Gold ‘N Hot Professional is an excellent choice for you. Ideal for both at-home and salon use, this ceramic technology bonnet dryer features an 1875W powered motor that dries your hair instantly. This black tool comes with an adjustable tube that allows you to choose the height you prefer, while the 5 swivel wheels make it easy to move. What we love the most is that the unit is infused with tourmaline, which helps distribute heat evenly, leaving you with a smooth and manageable mane. Additionally, the bonnet is big enough to accommodate any size rollers.
Pros
- Features a removable air intake grille and an adjustable face shield
- Equipped with an ionic generator with on and off switch
- 4 heat settings for versatile styling options
- Tourmaline-infused technology
- 10-feet long cord
- Comes with 2 lockable wheels for stability
- Removable legs at the base provide a compact storage option
Cons
- Expensive
- May not be long-lasting
8. Best For Diffused Heating:Eleganty Soft Bonnet Hood Hairdryer
Obtain natural and stylish curly hair like professional salons with Eleganty Soft Bonnet Hood Hairdryer. This hands-free device with an ergonomic design is powered with advanced technology air-flow that distributes the correct amount of heat air-flow through the internal ventilation holes and dries the hair evenly. It has a long flexible hose with adjustable velcro, and the broad hose allows you to attach any standard hairdryer. This device can be used with hair accessories like Flexi-rods, rollers,curl-formers, or clips. The drawstring and chin strap helps to position and hold the hood securely.
Pros
- Soft pouch for convenient storing
- Made of waterproof material
- Has great drying powder
- Provides comfortable fit
- One size that fits all – adjustable velcro strap
Cons
- None
9. Best For Damage-Free Drying:Revlon Ionic Hard Bonnet Hair Dryer
Revlon Ionic Hard Bonnet Hair Dryer is an ultra-modern hairstyling tool with a user-friendly design, that delivers volume and shine to naturally curly hair. This hands-free device has an ionic feature that dries hair faster, reduces frizz, and protects your hair from heat damage to give you silky-smooth hair. It comes equipped with easy-to-control temperature and speed settings for styling flexibility and an ion generator that can be switched on and off based on your preference. This is one of the best hooded hair dryers for home use.
Pros
- Gives you shiny and frizz-free hair
- 3 heat and speed settings
- Large round hood
- Dries hair quickly and evenly
- Can accommodate a set of jumbo rollers
- The collapsible design ensures convenient storage
Cons
- May overheat when used on the highest setting
- Very noisy
10. Best With Built-In Timer:Orion Motor Tech Professional Hooded Hair Bonnet Dryer
Hair drying, conditioning, cold perm heating – this Professional Hooded Hair Bonnet Dryer by Orion Motor tech can get any hair coloring, styling, or treatment done. Constructed with a heavy-duty stainless steel heating element, this hair drying/styling tool has an ergonomic design that distributes airflow evenly for a faster and damage-free hair styling experience to get smooth and voluminous curls. It delivers a healthy drying method, especially for naturally curly or textured hair. It features a swivel hood with a hinged door, which is positioned on a stand that can be adjusted based on the height you prefer (4.3′ – 5.1′). Also, it includes a built-in swivel base, which makes the device easy to move.
Pros
- Features a built-in timer (60 minutes)
- Easy to assemble
- 1000 W power
- Low noise
- Adjustable temperature setting up to 158°F
- Customizable height
Cons
- The plastic hood may be fragile
11. Best Low-Noise Operation:ZENY Professional Bonnet Hair Dryer
A good hair-do makes one feel confident! And that’s why you need this bonnet hair dryer, which will help you achieve manageable and lustrous locks. With 1300W of power, it dries your hair efficiently while the low-noise quality gives you a quiet and peaceful hair drying time. The user-friendly design allows you to take control of how you want to style your hair, making it a comfortable and convenient hair routine. It has a variable heat setting that can be adjusted by rotating a knob and choosing any temperature you prefer. The hair dryer is easy to assemble and can be disassembled for convenient storage and carrying. Many reviewers mentioned that the dryer is easy to assemble and quickly heats and styles the hair.
Pros
- Features a swivel hood with hinged door
- Quiet operation
- Includes a 60-minute timer
- Adjustable temperature from 0°F to 167°F
- The base is equipped with swivel casters for easy maneuvering
- Height-adjustable stand
- Made of durable stainless steel heating element
Cons
- Expensive
12. Best Portable: TASALON Standing Ionic Hair Dryer
The TASALON Standing Ionic Hair Dryer features tourmaline ceramic technology. It has three temperature settings that allow you to customize your drying session leading to less damage and no frizz with a reduced deep conditioning time. It is a multifunctional device and an excellent choice for hair coloring, perming, heating, drying, and setting. It has a built-in ionic generator that quickly dries your hair by minimizing the static frizz and volumizes the strands. The dryer has a 60-minutes timer knob that helps you regulate your drying time. The bonnet is adjusted on a stand with five rolling wheels, making it a portable tool. Additionally, the dryer head is adjustable and the stand comes equipped with 8.2 ft long cord and hook organizer.
Pros
- Tourmaline technology
- 3 heating temperatures
- 60 minutes timer knob
- 2-speed settings
- Adjustable dryer height
- Portable
- Convenient to use
- Noiseless
- 8.2ft long cord
Cons
- Difficult to assemble
Hooded hair dryers are a great tool to dry your hair quickly and evenly. They also offer conditioning treatments and avoid hair damage, providing the required TLC for your delicate hair. Here are a few essential things to consider before buying the best-hooded hair dryer for African-American hair.
How To Choose The Best Hooded Hair Dryers For African-American Hair
- Size and Portability
If you are a frequent traveler, it is best to go for a small-sized hooded hair dryer. Portable dryers give you the option to style your hair wherever you want. They are foldable, easy to use, convenient to carry and take up significantly less space. They also come with a portable carry bag that is easy to carry along.
- Comfortable Hood
For perfect hair drying, a comfortable and well-fitted hood is essential. The interior of the hood should hold your hair well, avoid slip-off, and ensure even heat distribution. It should also accommodate the head size and hair volume adequately. The hood should be made of good quality material such as PU or Nylon to ensure durability while making it suitable for conditioning and chemical treatment of your hair. The hood must be lightweight to make the process of hair drying comfortable.
- Multiple Heat and Speed Settings
It is best to buy hooded hair dryers with multiple heats and speed setting options. This makes the dryer multifunctional and suitable for many hair types. For people with fine hair, a low heat setting is best, while medium and high settings are required for coarse hair. The speed settings can also be adjusted depending on the desired style. Adjustable heat and speed settings help to reduce frizz and ensure hair smoothening.
- Technologically Advanced Features
Many hair dryers are equipped with tourmaline technology that ensures even heat distribution. It also helps to smooth hair, reduce split ends, and treat frizz effectively. Some hair dryers release negative ions when rolled on the strands to ensure fast drying while locking in the hair’s natural moisture. Finally, it also provides a shiny look and strengthens your hair.
- Other Features
Other essential features to look for in a hair dryer include a long cord and an adjustable timer for convenient use. The dryer must not create noise while being used and should incorporate overheating protection to ensure safety during prolonged use. The material must be hand washable and comes with all accessories, such as clips, rods, and rollers.
Infographic: Advantages Of Using Hooded Hair Dryers
Hooded hair dryers are amazing hairstyling tools as they provide an easy way to give your locks a beautiful, polished look without having to use multiple tools or spend hours at the salon. They also offer a lot more benefits than other hairstyling tools, which makes them a fan-favorite. The infographic below lists the amazing advantages that come with hooded hair dryers. Check it out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
While natural tight curls are beautiful, it can be difficult to manage them at times. “The hooded dryers are must-haves. I always suggest sitting under it after your twist or braid set your hair to lock in the moisture and seal the product into the set,” says Alicia Igess Jones, a hairstylist with over 20 years of experience. We searched high and low to put together a list of the 12 best-hooded hair dryers. Go through our list and pick the one that best suits you. The Conair Pro Style Collapsible Bonnet Hair Dryer offers a simplified, compact and adjustable styling solution. For treatments such as coloring, hot perms, and spot care, opt for the Salon Sundry Professional Bonnet Style Hood Hair Dryer, which features a multi-blade fan. If you’re looking for something a bit more spacious and luxurious, try the Gold ‘N Hot Professional Ionic Stand Bonnet Dryer.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Kirtana Divakar, the author of this article, is a haircare aficionado. After thorough research and checking user feedback on trusted sources, she prepared a comprehensive list of the best bonnet hair dryers for natural hair. These items are a must-buy as they can transform your dull hair into healthy and gorgeous-looking locks without any hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a bonnet hair dryer to dry your hair?
Bonnet hair dryers take roughly 15 to 45 minutes to dry your hair. The time depends on how wet your hair is and the thickness of the hair.
Are bonnet hair dryers safe for all hair types?
Yes, bonnet hair dryers are safe for all hair types. Whether you have curly, straight, or kinky hair, bonnet dryers add bounce and shine, if used the right way.
How high should I adjust the heat settings on my bonnet hair dryer?
There are three temperature settings on your bonnet hair dryer. Set a higher temperature if you wish to dry your hair quickly. However, a higher temperature can turn your hair brittle and dry. So, set it at medium temperature for fast yet safe results.
What is the best-hooded hair dryer for natural hair?
The Eleganty Soft Bonnet Hood Hairdryer is the best product for natural hair. It is powered with air-flow technology that distributes heat evenly. This device is also compatible with rollers, curl-formers, and clips.
What is the best soft bonnet dryer?
The Laila Ali Ionic Soft Bonnet Dryer is the best product. It features ionic technology that helps dry your hair faster. This bonnet hair dryer comes with three heat and speed settings, making it a very convenient device.
Read full bio of Alicia Igess
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Swathi E
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