# Which hair dryer brand should I buy in Japan, and how do I choose?

> If you plan to use it back home, first narrow it down to global-voltage models labeled 100–240V, then pick by need. As of October 2026, common brands in Japanese stores include Panasonic (nanoe series), Dyson, ReFa, SALONIA, and Koizumi. Thick hair calls for high airflow, damaged hair for hair-care features and temperature control, and frequent travel for light weight and a folding handle.

- Page: https://bestjapanbuy.com/en/q/hair-dryer-buying-guide/
- Updated: 2026-10-23

## Step 1: Voltage

Only consider models labeled AC100–240V or with a voltage switch (海外対応, "overseas compatible"). Domestic models labeled AC100V are made for Japan's 100V power. See [Can I use a hair dryer bought in Japan back home?](/en/q/hair-dryer-voltage/) Check whether it works in your country in our [compatibility table](/en/tools/compat/).

## Step 2: Pick features by need

| Need | What to look at | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Thick hair, fast drying | Airflow (m³/min) | Brands measure differently, so compare only within one brand |
| Damaged or frizzy hair | Ion/hair-care features, temperature control | e.g., Panasonic's nanoe (ナノイー) |
| Sensitive scalp, dislike heat | Low-temp mode, hot/cold alternating | Some models switch temperature automatically |
| Frequent travel | Weight, folding handle | High-airflow models tend to be heavier |
| Tight budget | Basic models | Budget models in Japan cost a few thousand yen, but look for global-voltage ones |

## Common brands

- **Panasonic (パナソニック)**: The nanoe series is popular with tourists. The same series comes in both domestic and overseas-compatible versions, so tell them apart.
- **Dyson (ダイソン)**: Check the box for the voltage of models sold in Japan.
- **ReFa (リファ / MTG)**: Design-focused, often sold through salon channels.
- **SALONIA (サロニア)**: Affordable, popular with younger buyers.
- **Koizumi (コイズミ)** and **TESCOM (テスコム)**: Many budget options.

For specific models, voltages, Japan prices and tax-free prices, see the [hair dryer category page](/en/c/hair-dryer/).

## Before you buy in Japan

- **Tax-free**: Spend 5,000 yen or more (before tax) at the same store on the same day and you can save about 9%. From November 1, 2026, the system switches to a refund after departure. See the [2026 tax-free guide](/en/q/tax-free-2026/).
- **Warranty**: A hair dryer bought in Japan usually has no warranty outside Japan. Popular brands are sold in many countries, so you can weigh that before deciding. See [warranty on Japanese appliances](/en/q/warranty-japan-appliance/).
- **Carrying it**: Hair dryers have no battery, so they can go in carry-on or checked baggage.

## What to ask in the store

Show the staff this: "海外で使えるドライヤーはどれですか？" (Which hair dryers can be used overseas?). For stores, see the [store map](/en/stores/).

## Sources

- [Panasonic official site: hair care appliances](https://panasonic.jp/hair/)
- [ReFa official site](https://www.refa.net/)
- [SALONIA official site](https://www.salonia.jp/)

> Data from BestJapanBuy (bestjapanbuy.com). Please credit and link to the page when using it. Prices are for reference only; check in store.
> Translated with AI; the Chinese version is authoritative.