How do I use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Sri Lanka?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Sri Lanka:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to use a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Sri Lankan power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Sri Lanka, so check that the power converter comes with the correct power adapter for Sri Lanka otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Be aware that your personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk potential damage in your luggage. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Sri Lanka please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Sri Lanka

Will my hair dryer work in Sri Lanka?

That depends on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 230 volt power outlets used in Sri Lanka. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you'll be able to use your hair dryer in Sri Lanka. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our section on will a voltage converter work with a domestic hair dryer in Sri Lanka for help deciding which option is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Will my US hair dryer work in Sri Lanka?

The guides on this page assume that you're a reader from the US travelling to Sri Lanka and provide guidance for using your American hair dryer with a Sri Lankan power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Sri Lanka

How to choose the best hair dryer for Sri Lanka

A dual voltage switch on a hair dryer

How to choose the best hair dryer for Sri Lanka

When choosing the best hair dryer for Sri Lanka look for a robust but light dual voltage dryer that will work with a 230 volt Sri Lankan power outlet power outlet, has an ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and long power cable. For drying thick hair buy one which includes a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

What should I look for when buying a travel hair dryer?

  1. Ideal hair dryers for styling give control of both speed and temperature with 2 options - hotter faster speeds will quickly dry wet hair whereas lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair.
  2. Look for lighter travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers which have a handle which folds will mean more room for packing other items.
  3. It might be cheaper and more convenient buying a hair dryer which includes both a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring shops looking for more expensive third party attachments to fit the unique dryer barrel exactly.
  4. A cool shot feature can rapidly cool down hair after drying which will hold a style but this feature lacks in more compact models.
  5. Hotel rooms in Sri Lanka could have a wall mirror installed some distance away from a outlet which could make it awkward to dry hair, so look for the unit with the longest power cord possible or use either a power extension cord or a portable mirror.
  6. A hair dryer has to be dual voltage to function in Sri Lanka.
  7. Curlier or thicker hair may need a travel hair dryer which has a more powerful motor. A high wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
  8. Buying the cheapest travel dryer might be risky; as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a flimsy construction.
  9. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the danger of the motor overloading and starting an electrical fire - you can recognise models by the 2 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
What is a good mini folding travel hair dryer for Sri Lanka?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is a good mini folding travel hair dryer for Sri Lanka?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic hairdryer available on the market, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is most suited for quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go.
  • For a folding blow dryer which is lightweight and small enough to transport in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer has features typically reserved for bulkier models.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a Sri Lankan power outlet they will work in Sri Lanka folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. They include a concentrator, have 1.5m electric power cords and have a 2 speed motor.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair can take longer to dry and could be difficult to dry without the hair turning frizzy, so the best option for thick hair is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is a good compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes cool shot which can will quickly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet meaning safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cord and also includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, include an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Sri Lanka in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Sri Lankan power outlet.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

Which is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Sri Lanka?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Sri Lanka?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it doesn't have cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82 metre electric power cord for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong motors to make them the best blow dryers suitable for thick hair. They are both lightweight and will fold up to pack into a carry-on bag, only requiring a suitable cheap power adapter for Sri Lanka to fit into a Sri Lankan power outlet.  [12] [13] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel hair dryer for Sri Lanka?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Sri Lanka Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Sri Lanka power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in Sri Lanka?

The frequency used in a Sri Lankan power outlet is 50 Hz. [16]

What mains voltage is used in Sri Lanka?

Power outlets in Sri Lanka are 230 volts.

Which plug adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka?

Type D, G and M power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka?

There are three different types of power outlets used in Sri Lanka, types G, D and M with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - This plug outlet, also known as a type D power outlet, can be recognised by three holes forming a triangular configuration.
  • Plug Type G - The power outlet, technically known as a type G power outlet, can be identified by the 3 vertical rectangular slots in a triangular configuration.
  • Plug Type M - This plug outlet, also known as a type M power outlet, can be identified by 3 round holes in a triangle pattern for live, neutral and ground.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Sri Lanka is a Type G plug adapter - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a power adapter for Sri Lanka. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do I use my dual voltage hair dryer in Sri Lanka?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it will work with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is set to the 220-240v range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Sri Lanka and then plug in the power adapter into the Sri Lankan power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low speed setting, but the speed and temperature should be sufficient enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer instructions to see if this rule is applicable for your model of hair dryer to prevent overheating.
  5. The hair dryer can now be operated in Sri Lanka.

How do I change the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which changes between two ranges of voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Sri Lanka.
  2. This switch or dial typically requires either a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on some models.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can accept dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug of the hair dryer. The location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Sri Lanka then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Sri Lankan power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in a Sri Lankan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Sri Lanka.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Sri Lanka or any other country.

Travelling to Sri Lanka with a hair dryer

Is it safer to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Sri Lanka?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing your existing blow dryer to Sri Lanka (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Sri Lankan power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Sri Lanka). Certain models of travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsing handle and will be much lighter which helps reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

Note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in Sri Lanka. The cost and inconvenience of replacing an expensive quality blow dryer in Sri Lanka might be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [18] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Sri Lanka?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Sri Lanka?

It will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hair dryers in hotel rooms are typically found attached to a bathroom wall, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer. When staying in cheaper motels, hostels and hotels a communal hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer availability you can either call ahead to the hotel in Sri Lanka or look on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but are normally basic models with no diffuser and notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene might want to remove any grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to the hotel in Sri Lanka or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can you pack a blow dryer in your carry on luggage to Sri Lanka?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you pack a blow dryer in your carry on luggage to Sri Lanka?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should check that your airline who is taking you to Sri Lanka will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Power converters for Sri Lanka

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Sri Lanka, however a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 230 volt Sri Lankan power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [9] [AD]

Do I need a power converter to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Sri Lanka. Travellers wishing to use their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, but it can be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing. [9] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka using a type D power adapter

A guide showing how to power your hair dryer in Sri Lanka by using a three pronged Type D travel charger.

  1. Please ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage blow dryers might typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Sri Lanka - please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Sri Lanka you'll need to bring a Type D plug adapter [4]. This Type D plug adapter helps convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Sri Lanka simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type D plug adapter in the power outlet. The power supply, technically known as a Type D power outlet [3], can be recognised by three holes forming a triangular configuration.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Sri Lankan power outlet. You can now switch on the blow dryer to use in Sri Lanka. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka using a type G power adapter

A guide on how to use your hair dryer in Sri Lanka by using a three pronged Type G travel charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply - if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting, consult the manufacturers instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type G plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Sri Lanka. This plug adapter helps adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Sri Lanka by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type G plug adapter into the Sri Lankan power outlet. This wall outlet, sometimes called the Type G power outlet [5], can be identified by the 3 vertical rectangular slots forming a triangular configuration.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Sri Lankan power outlet. You can now switch on the hair dryer to use in Sri Lanka. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka using a type G power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka using a type M power adapter

A guide on how to use your hair dryer in Sri Lanka with a three prong Type M power charger.

  1. Please check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply; but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting to use in Sri Lanka; please refer to the owners manual for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Sri Lanka isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to buy a Type M plug adapter [8]. The Type M plug adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Sri Lanka by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. First you'll need to insert the Type M plug adapter in the power outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by the three large holes forming a triangular configuration.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Sri Lankan power outlet. You can now switch on the hair dryer to use in Sri Lanka. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sri Lanka using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Sri Lanka wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  7. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  8. Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  9. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  10. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  11. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  12. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  13. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  14. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  15. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  16. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  17. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  18. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  19. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.