Dyson first launched the Supersonic hairdryer in 2016, and the high-tech hairdryer hasn't changed much since then. Just in time for New York Fashion Week, Dyson introduces the Supersonic R, a $569.99 hair dryer upgraded for professional stylists.
The Supersonic R is immediately recognizable by its R shape. Dyson hair care category manager Steve Williamson says this is to address the differences between how professionals use hair dryers and how you and I use hair dryers. This meant the Supersonic R had to be lighter and more maneuverable. Compared to the original Supersonic, the R is 30% smaller and 20% lighter, weighing 325g (11 oz).
“If you're using it at home, you'll probably do a 30-minute blow-drying session. You might use it every day, you might use it every two to three days. In the salon, You can easily use it five or six times,” Williamson says. In addition, Williamson said the stylists Dyson surveyed wanted improved visibility and an easy way to adapt to angles that didn't put stress on their wrists. The button placement is also designed with professionals in mind. Based on feedback, Dyson moved the cold shot button that kills the heat for certain hairstyles to the bottom of the curve, like a trigger, rather than behind the handle like the original.
To achieve this, Supersonic's motor had to be made smaller to fit into the device's handle. Like Dyson's other hair gadgets, it also has a glass bead thermistor that works with an embedded temperature sensor to monitor heat. They also use different heating mechanisms. Even if you don't own a fancy hair dryer, you probably know how it works. If you look inside the barrel, you will see a coil that generates heat around the fan. In the Supersonic R, Dyson replaced them with his three discs with symmetrical stacked foils that look like a lattice. The advantage of this method, Williamson says, is that there are no cold spots and more even heating.
Since professionals also work in more chaotic environments, the base of the Supersonic R also features an air filter. This also applies to the original pro version of the Supersonic, but Williamson says the r has a new sensor that makes the use of filters mandatory.
“Anything that is in the salon, such as serums, hairspray, bits of clippings, etc., should be protected from entering the salon.” [Supersonic r]” Williamson said, noting that this change is to preserve the longevity of the device.
Rounding out the new technology is an RFID attachment. As soon as you snap it on, the firepower and power settings will automatically change depending on your style. Users can also adjust these automatic settings to their liking, and the settings will be remembered the next time they snap. This is what L'Oréal has also introduced in its upcoming AirLight Pro hair dryer, which was announced at his CES. However, unlike the AirLight Pro, the Dyson doesn't have an accompanying smartphone app. Williamson says this is because speed is of the utmost importance to professionals, and the less friction when using a device, the better.
Supersonic R will be available exclusively for professionals starting in March for $569.99. I asked if some of the new features, such as RFID attachments, might end up on the latest consumer Supersonic. Williamson disputed this, saying Dyson is currently focused on determining which features are most beneficial to professionals and consumers.
Don't be too discouraged, though. Technology companies often roll out new features on their “pro” models before tailoring them for consumers. Additionally, the company has committed to developing 20 new beauty products over four years, with the company investing £500 million in 2022.
“The pipeline is there,” Williamson said. “And there are many exciting things ahead.”
