L’Oréal took advantage of CES 2024 to unveil the Airlight Pro. This new hair dryer uses infrared radiation to dry hair much more quickly without damaging it.
The majority of hair dryers use electrical resistance to generate heat and air. Without a protectant, this use can nevertheless damage the hair in the long term. Manufacturers are now developing new techniques to avoid damaging hair. The Dyson SuperSonic, for example, combines a powerful motor and ergonomic design to maximize airflow while reducing heat. The Airlight Pro is inspired by this method, and couples it with infrared radiation.
More efficient and energy saving
“ With AirLight Pro, we provide proof that technology can increase beauty performance, meet multiple hair needs and reduce environmental impact. This is the future of beauty that we want to create “, declares Nicolas Hieronimus, Managing Director of L’Oréal Group, in a press release.
To develop the device, the French giant partnered with the start-up Zuvi, founded by former DJI engineers. This uses infrared light and high-speed airflow to effectively remove water from the surface of the hair; the light helps water droplets dry, while preserving moisture inside the strands.
“ It is inspired by the way the environment dries rain. When it rains, the next day there is wind, sun, and it is the combination of wind and sun that is most effective in drying the rain », Specifies Guive Balooch, global vice-president of the L’Oréal technology incubator. After testing it on more than 500 people with different hair types, the company ensures that its hair dryer provides up to 33% hydration while reducing energy consumption by 31%.
Released this year
The Airlight Pro comes with an app that allows users to customize their heat preferences. It also comes with a set of smart accessories, including a diffuser and concentrator nozzle. The hair dryer is able to automatically recognize an accessory when it is attached, adjusting its speed and temperature accordingly. It won the Best Innovation Award at CES 2024.
Both aimed at hairdressing professionals and individuals, the device will be launched in Europe and the United States this year. L’Oréal has not yet specified its cost.
Sources: L’Oreal, The Verge
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