Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography UK/Chloe Dunn
Can one tool replace a hairdryer and straightener? This is the promise of the new Babyliss Air Wand (£120). It’s an air-powered tool that promises to have the smoothing power of a hair straightener and the volumising effect of a styler – but does it really work? We decided the only way to find out was to put it to the test.
We gave the wand to three of our PS UK editors; one with straight, one wavy, and the other with coily, 4A, hair. The tool says it will work on all hair types so this is the ultimate test. But can it really produce the same results for all three? Or would it be more suitable for one type compared to the others?
Read on to find out the result and why one of us will be ditching the hair dryer for good.
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Image Source: POPSUGAR UK Photography/Lauren Ezekiel
“I’m always skeptical of wet to dry tools. Maybe it’s because I’m a child of the 90s and I can still hear the sizzle (and if I close my eyes smell the scent of singed hair) of the original Babyliss Wet to Dry Straighteners. However, on first use I was surprisingly impressed. After a decade of long hair it always surprises me just how quickly it takes me to dry my hair now, however sub 10 from wet to bone dry feels like I am cheating somewhat. I also need to personally thank the brand for making hair wash days go far smoother in my house, not only does it work for my wavy hair, but also for both of my children, who have been blessed with thick wavy hair too. I can now wash and dry in under 15 minutes which any parent will know is a bonus.
I’m not sure it will replace my straightener as I like the effect of poker straight ends or adding a slight s shape into the mid sections, but my hair dryer can go into retirement as far as I’m concerned as this is far easier, quicker and can be used with one hand.” – Lauren Ezekiel, PS UK Associate Editor (Beauty)
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography/Lauren Gordon
“I liked the Babyliss Air Wand, as it didn’t use high temperatures, or feel like it was tugging on my hair, which I’ve found can happen with this type of tool. I also didn’t feel or hear any rattling from the attachments, despite having to apply some tension to detangle my curls, which surprised me. The blow dry attachment worked well as a first-step “hot brush”, but I wasn’t able to achieve the sleek finish it promised.
If I used this I would have to go over it with a straightener tool to complete the look unfortunately. I will give it another go though as I have only tried the Air Wand on dry hair, and I’d love to see how it works wet-to-dry and with complimentary products. In comparison to the price of others on the market, I think the Babyliss Air Wand is a useful, high-tech hair tool, especially if you struggle with the traditional hair dryer and brush combination like me!” – Lauren Gordon, PS UK Editorial Co-ordinator
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography/Chloe Dunn
“When I’m trying a new hair tool, I’m looking for two things: beginner-friendly and quick. I’m not particularly skilled when it comes to hairstyles – plus I’m left-handed so the odds have always been against me – so it’s the simplicity of the Babyliss Air Wand that really won me over. My favourite feature is that it’s really lightweight which means I can hold it at the back of my head just as well as the front.
The attachments clip in and out really quickly and I loved that they actually stayed in place unlike other tools I’ve tried. It doesn’t work miracles, you can’t achieve a flowing Hollywood wave with this tool but if you’re looking for a simple tool to dry and brush your hair at the same time, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a go.” – Chloe Dunn, Senior Social Content Producer
Lauren Ezekiel is an associate editor at PS UK, where she writes about all things beauty and wellness. With a degree in journalism and 12 years’ experience as a beauty editor at a leading Sunday supplement, she is obsessed with skincare, hair and makeup, and is often found offering advice to innocent bystanders. Her work has been published in Grazia, OK, Health and Beauty, The Sun, ASDA, Dare and Metro.
Lauren Gordon is the editorial coordinator at PS UK, where she creates lifestyle and identity content. Lauren has a degree in journalism from University of the Arts London and previously worked as a showbiz and TV reporter at The Mirror US. Lauren specialises in pop culture, hair and beauty, focusing on trends, sharing in-depth tutorials, and highlighting hidden gems in the beauty industry.
Chloe Dunn is a social content producer at PS UK. With more than six years of experience in social media marketing, she is always on the lookout for the latest viral buzz. Working across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest, Chloe specialises in bringing people together virtually and building global online communities. She has previously worked in the music industry, including at a major record label and for the UK’s biggest group of music venues.
