Shea Soft Hair Dryer D4740 Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.1/10
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 (2200W, ionic) for quicker, kinder drying at home.
Overall, the Other is positioned as an everyday option for drying styles that need more than one airflow and heat level. In this Other review UK, buyers get a straightforward setup with 3 heat and 2 speed settings, plus a cool shot for finishing. The Other UK outlook also notes included styling tools, including a concentrator and diffuser, which can support different hair types and looks.
Pros
- 2200W of drying power
- Ionic to reduce frizz and damage
- 3 heat / 2 speed settings
- Concentrator + diffuser included
- Cool shot to set your style
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
The Other is rated at 2200W, positioning it for strong drying performance. It features 3 heat and 2 speed settings, and includes a motor designed to move air effectively across wet hair, which can help reduce drying time for most users. High power can feel intense on some hair types when used continuously on the same section, so short passes with checks for dampness during drying give better control.
Heat and Speed Settings
With the power and motor already covered, heat and speed settings are where control over drying results comes in. The Other includes 3 heat levels and 2 speed settings, allowing temperature and airflow to be matched to hair type. For a safer start, begin on a lower heat and lower speed, then move up only if hair feels slow to dry. Fine or fragile hair may suit gentler heat, while thicker hair typically benefits from stronger heat and speed. A cool shot button pauses heat during styling.
Ionic, Ceramic and Hair Care
Ionic drying on the Shea Soft Hair Dryer (D4740) is designed to help hair feel smoother as it dries by producing ionic action rather than relying solely on heat and airflow. It also works alongside ceramic-style heat delivery. In day-to-day use, ionic drying may reduce the look of frizz, particularly when hair is pulled through the wide drying concentrator. Results can vary by hair type, and damaged strands may still need conditioner and gentle handling. The diffuser can support more even drying for curls.
Attachments and Cool Shot
Attachments and the cool shot button matter because they alter how heat and airflow are directed, which can affect how smooth or set hair looks after drying. The D4740 includes a wide drying concentrator and a diffuser, allowing focused airflow for quicker smoothing and dispersed airflow for more even styling on textured hair. The concentrator helps target sections, while the diffuser spreads air to reduce direct hot spots. The cool shot button can be pressed at the end of drying to help set the style before hair cools, although results depend on technique and hair type.
Weight and Handling
Weight and handling shape how comfortable the Other feels during use, particularly across longer drying sessions. Balance becomes more noticeable when switching between the wide drying concentrator and the included diffuser, as the attachments add a touch of bulk. The 3 heat and 2 speed settings sit within easy reach, allowing changes without stopping the blow-drying routine. The heavier feel can fatigue the wrist during prolonged drying of thick hair. A cool shot button helps pause the heat so the user can reposition more comfortably.
Who Is This Hair Dryer For?
Who is the Other for? It is suited to people who want a straightforward 2200W hair dryer for daily styling at home, with 3 heat and 2 speed settings for more control. It also suits different hair needs thanks to included styling attachments: a wide drying concentrator and a diffuser, both designed to change airflow. The ionic feature is aimed at anyone seeking a smoother, sleeker finish, though results depend on hair type and routine. A cool shot button supports those who like to finish styles with a blast of cool air.
Where to Buy in the UK
In the UK, the Other can typically be bought from UK home-appliance and beauty hair-care retailers, plus online marketplaces that list the model code (D4740). In-store, shoppers can check that the box includes the diffuser and wide drying concentrator, and that it provides 3 heat and 2 speed settings as well as a cool shot button. Online, buyers should compare listings for the exact title match, confirm that "2200W" is stated, and make sure the model number is D4740. If key details are missing or unclear, the listing should be avoided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Other worth it?
For faster, more comfortable drying with less heat damage than an old basic dryer, the Other (2200W) 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 Other is rated at 2200W.
What does ionic/ceramic mean on the Other?
The Other 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 Other good for curly or frizzy hair?
Yes - the Other includes a diffuser, which spreads airflow to define curls and reduce frizz. A cool shot to set the style helps too.
What is the cool shot button on the Other for?
The cool shot fires a blast of cool air to "set" your style once it's dry, locking in shape and adding shine. It's a small feature that makes a real difference to how long a blow-dry lasts.
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.