Using your hair dryer in Iran

Iranian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Iran?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Iran:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 220 volt Iranian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Iran, therefore check that your voltage transformer has an appropriate power adapter for Iran otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Please note that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk potential damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts you run the risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in Iran read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Iran

Will my hair dryer work in Iran?

This depends on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volts as used in Iran. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you can use it in Iran. If not then you will need to consider buying either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the section on will a voltage converter work with a domestic hair dryer in Iran for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Can I use my US hair dryer in Iran?

The guides on this page assume that you're an America reader travelling to Iran and will provide advice on using your US hair dryer with an Iranian power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Iran

Choosing the best hair dryer for Iran

A folding travel hair dryer

Choosing the best hair dryer for Iran

When looking for the best hair dryer for Iran choose a robust but lightweight dual-voltage model which operates with an 220 volt Iranian power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, long cord and an ALCI safety plug. If drying thick hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

9 tips for purchasing a travel hair dryer

  1. Don't risk buying the cheapest dryer on the market; as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a poor construction.
  2. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of overloading and starting a fire; models can be recognised by 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
  3. In order to operate with an 220 volt Iranian power outlet a hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
  4. Curlier or thicker hair may require a hair dryer with a stronger motor; a higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  5. A 'cool shot' option on a modern travel dryer can rapidly cool down the hair after drying which will hold a style but this feature is missing in cheaper models.
  6. Depending on your accommodation there might be a wall mirror positioned too far away from a power outlet making it hard to style hair, so find the unit with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  7. It might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a hair dryer that is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the dryer barrel size securely.
  8. Look for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with folding handles mean more space.
  9. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed with high and low options; lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair and hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair.
Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser for Iran?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser for Iran?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 1.82 metre electric power cord for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It has a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot button making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. They only require a cheap power adapter for Iran to work with an Iranian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on luggage.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blowdryer available to buy, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is compact enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a shiny finish this dryer has features which are typically found with bulkier models.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage and when used with the right power adapter for an Iranian power outlet they will work in Iran and fold conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. They are 2 speed, have a 1.5 metre power cable and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Iran?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Iran?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and features cool shot that can be used to quickly cool down hair to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet resulting in quicker and safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and comes with a concentrator.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Iran in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for an Iranian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without your hair going frizzy. The best option will be an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because 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.  [8] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer for Iran?

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 Iran 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.

Iran power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Iran?

The common residential voltage in Iran is 220 volts.

What frequency is used in an Iranian power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in an Iranian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Iran?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Iran?

There are two types of power outlets used in Iran, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the power outlet by the 2 circular holes next to each other where the twin pins go.
  • Plug Type F - This circular wall outlet (known as a Schuko plug) can be identified by the two circular adjacent holes where the twin pins go, plus two thin grounding clips above and below.

A Type F power adapter allows you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Iran, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Iran. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

Dual voltage hair dryer

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

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle. This location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Iran then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Iranian 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 220 volts used in an Iranian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Iran.
  • A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Iran or any other country.

How do I switch the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which changes between 2 voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in Iran.
  2. The dial or switch needs either a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. As well as changing this over it's worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Iran?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If your hair dryer is dual voltage please ensure it is switched to the 220-240V range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Iran, then plug in the power adapter into the Iranian power outlet.
  4. It is common on a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this temperature and speed should be adequate enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers instructions to see if this rule is relevant for your model of hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. The dryer is now ready to be used with an Iranian power outlet.

Travelling to Iran with a hair dryer

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on luggage to Iran?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on luggage to Iran?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that the airline which is flying you to Iran will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Iran?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing hair dryer to Iran as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with an Iranian power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Iran). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Please note that bringing your expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in Iran. The cost of repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Iran could outweigh the costs of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Iran?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Iran?

It will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be located in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard. In budget hostels, motels and hotels a shared hair dryer might be available at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either call ahead to the hotel in Iran or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene might want to remove the grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

For guests who aren't sure that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Iran

Can I use my hair dryer with a voltage converter for Iran?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 220 volt power outlet used in Iran. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to use their existing domestic hair dryer, but it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially heavier and bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Iran, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 220 volts from an Iranian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Iran using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Iran using a Type C travel charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply; if not then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some dual voltage blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts, consult the user guide for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Iran you'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Iran by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the Iranian power outlet. This plug supply (called the Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug) is identified by the 2 round adjacent holes where the live and neutral pins go.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Iranian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Iran. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Iran using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Iran using a type F power adapter

A guide showing how to use your hair dryer in Iran with a Type F power adapter.

  1. Ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply - if it doesn't then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts, consult the instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Iran you'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. This Type F plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Iran by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type F plug adapter and inserting it in the Iranian power outlet. This circular wall supply (known as a Schuko plug) can be identified by the two circular adjacent holes where the twin pins go, plus two thin grounding clips above and below.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Iranian power outlet. The hair dryer is ready for use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Iran using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Iranian country page on Wikipedia.org
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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..
  13. 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..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.