BaByliss Platinum Diamond Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.3/10
Best for: Fast, everyday drying with less frizz and heat damage
Not for: Anyone wanting the absolute cheapest basic dryer, or salon-only power on a budget
Bottom line: A practical hair dryer (2300W, ionic) for quicker, kinder drying at home.
Overall, the BaByliss Platinum Diamond 6490DU is a straightforward 2300W hair dryer from a well-known UK styling brand. It includes a diffuser for more controlled drying of curly or wavy styles, with 3 heat and 2 speed settings and ionic frizz-control for everyday styling.
Pros
- 2300W of drying power
- AC motor for durability
- Ionic to reduce frizz and damage
- 3 heat / 2 speed settings
- Diffuser included
Cons
- Premium models cost much more than a basic dryer
- Highest heat settings can still stress hair if overused
- Attachments included vary, so check what's in the box
Power and Motor
This hair dryer is rated at 2300W and uses an AC motor. In day-to-day use, this power level supports strong airflow, which can reduce drying time for many hair types. The AC motor also tends to deliver consistent performance through continuous operation, rather than feeling like it weakens mid-session. Results still depend on hair thickness, starting dampness, and how often the airflow is redirected using attachments. Overall, the 2300W AC motor combination is geared towards dependable airflow, though it cannot guarantee fast drying for very dense hair.
Heat and Speed Settings
Heat control and airflow control work together on the BaByliss, so the dryer's settings determine how drying power is directed across the hair. The dryer offers 3 heat settings and 2 speed settings, which makes it possible to match heat and airflow to hair thickness and desired styling time. Higher heat combined with higher speed can be used for quicker results, while lower heat with lower speed supports gentler, slower shaping, particularly after removing initial moisture. A practical approach is to begin around the middle heat and speed levels, then adjust based on how the hair responds.
Ionic, Ceramic and Hair Care
Ionic airflow is described as a feature to help manage frizz, because charged particles can reduce static during drying, which may make hair feel smoother after styling, particularly on dry or flyaway-prone strands. The dryer is also described as ionic, and it offers 3 heat settings and 2 speed settings, enabling airflow to be matched to hair thickness and moisture level. Using lower heat can suit hair that feels overly dry, while higher settings may dry faster but could increase the risk of roughness if overused.
Attachments and Cool Shot
Attachments and a cool shot make a hair dryer more adaptable across different styling routines and hair types, because they help direct airflow and allow hair to set. The hair dryer includes a diffuser, which supports drying curls or building volume by distributing air more gently than a narrow nozzle. It has 3 heat and 2 speed settings, enabling users to start at higher heat for drying, then reduce heat or speed to help prevent over-drying. The cool shot provides a cooling phase to help maintain the set style, although results vary by hair thickness.
Weight and Handling
After considering the diffuser and the cool shot for setting styles, the next part to judge is how the dryer feels in hand, because weight and balance influence comfort and steadiness of airflow direction. The BaByliss is described as a 2300 W AC motor dryer, which indicates a more substantial build. In use, a well-balanced grip helps reduce wrist strain, and steadier hand positioning supports consistent airflow aimed at the hair. It offers 3 heat and 2 speed settings for adjusting airflow pressure.
Who Is This Hair Dryer For?
Who is this hair dryer for? The hair dryer is suited to people who want a basic pro-style blow dryer with an AC motor and ionic frizz-control. With 3 heat and 2 speed settings, it fits different hair types, from fine to thick, by matching temperature and airflow. It also suits users who want styling options, as a diffuser is included for textured or curly looks. It may be less suitable for beginners who only need one simple setting, since the multiple heat and speed combinations offer more control than some basic models.
Where to Buy in the UK
In the UK, the BaByliss Platinum Diamond 6490DU is typically available via mainstream electrical retailers and beauty suppliers, which helps buyers compare prices and stock more easily than from smaller sellers. Shoppers usually find it online with home-delivery options, and availability can vary by retailer, particularly during promotions. When buying online, listings should be checked to confirm the diffuser is included and that the item is the specific The BaByliss model. It is sensible to verify the outlet's returns policy before purchase, and if a listing is unclear, customer service should be contacted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the hair dryer worth it?
For faster, more comfortable drying with less heat damage than an old basic dryer, the BaByliss (2300W) with ionic technology does the job well. Check the current Amazon UK price, as hair dryers go on deal often.
What wattage hair dryer is best?
For home use, around 1,800-2,200W dries most hair quickly; salon and thick-hair users often want 2,000W+. More watts isn't automatically better - motor quality and airflow matter too, and the hair dryer is rated at 2300W.
What does ionic/ceramic mean on this hair dryer?
The BaByliss uses ionic technology. Ionic drying helps break up water droplets to dry faster and cut frizz and static; ceramic/tourmaline give gentler, more even heat. Together they help reduce heat damage and leave hair smoother.
Is the BaByliss Platinum Diamond 6490DU good for curly or frizzy hair?
Yes - the hair dryer includes a diffuser, which spreads airflow to define curls and reduce frizz. A cool shot to set the style helps too.
Is an expensive hair dryer like Dyson worth it over a cheap one?
Premium dryers (Dyson, ghd, Shark) dry faster, run quieter, are lighter and manage heat better to reduce damage - noticeable if you dry your hair daily. For occasional use, a good mid-range or budget dryer does the basics well; spend more if drying speed, weight and hair health matter to you.