TRESemme Fast Dry vs TRESemme Smooth & Shine
We compare the TRESemme Fast Dry and the TRESemme Smooth & Shine across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| TRESemme Fast Dry | TRESemme Smooth & Shine | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Best for | Fast, everyday drying with less frizz and heat damage | Fast, everyday drying with less frizz and heat damage |
| Not ideal for | Anyone wanting the absolute cheapest basic dryer, or salon-only power on a budget | Anyone wanting the absolute cheapest basic dryer, or salon-only power on a budget |
| Brand | TRESemme | TRESemme |
Power and Motor
TRESemme Fast Dry
Power and motor performance start with the dryer's 2000W rating, which indicates it is designed for reasonably fast drying, especially when higher heat and speed settings are selected. In everyday use, the motor has enough output to move air through a compact housing, which is relevant for quick styling sessions. The unit's lightweight, super compact build indicates it is packaged for portability rather than heavy-duty salon work. Consistent airflow during typical blow-drying is expected. Overall, the 2000W figure supports quicker results rather than extreme performance.
TRESemme Smooth & Shine
With 2200 W output, this hair dryer is designed to support strong airflow for quick drying during everyday styling. Higher wattage generally indicates a more powerful motor drive for moving air, which can reduce drying time when used consistently across sections. The dryer is described as lightweight and compact, helping keep handling comfortable during longer sessions. Drying time still varies with hair thickness and how the hair is sectioned.
Heat and Speed Settings
TRESemme Fast Dry
With three heat settings and two speed settings, the TRESemme is built for different hair types and styling needs. Users can start on a lower heat and lower speed to help minimise flyaways, then move to higher airflow and warmth as hair dries. The three heat options allow gradual control, which supports careful drying on finer or more fragile strands. The two speed levels change how quickly air is delivered, which is useful for thick hair or for drying sections more efficiently. A cool shot button is included to help set styles once drying finishes. Overall control is practical, though performance will vary with hair thickness.
TRESemme Smooth & Shine
Heat and speed settings on the TRESemme are designed to tailor airflow to different hair types and styling aims. The dryer provides 3 temperature settings, so you can select a hotter option for quicker drying or a cooler option for a more controlled finish. It also offers multiple speed levels, which help adjust airflow for thicker hair (higher speed) or fine hair (lower speed) to reduce flyaways. Higher heat paired with higher speed dries more quickly, while lower heat and lower speed give gentler control, making careful timing relevant for delicate strands.
Ionic, Ceramic and Hair Care
TRESemme Fast Dry
Many hair dryers advertise special effects, but the hair dryer's care benefits depend on how it is used and on the user's hair needs. This model is rated at 2000W and offers 3 heat settings and 2 speed settings, which makes it easier to match the airflow and temperature to different hair types. For a more gentle approach, use lower heat, moderate speed, keep the dryer at a suitable distance and keep the airflow moving continuously.
TRESemme Smooth & Shine
The hair dryer is designed to support hair care during styling with a combination of ionic and ceramic approaches, along with anti-frizz support. The ceramic angle is intended to help distribute heat more evenly, which can reduce harsh hot spots while drying. The ionic action is intended to help manage flyaways, supporting smoother sections as the hair is directed. For best results, the airflow should be aimed downward, with lower heat used if the hair feels overly dry. On very thick hair, more passes may be required. The dryer uses 2200 W power to drive fast drying.
Attachments and Cool Shot
TRESemme Fast Dry
The TRESemme includes a cool shot button, intended to help set a style after drying. It also offers flexible control with 3 heat and 2 speed settings. The dryer is a compact, lightweight unit, which may feel easier to handle around nearby styling areas than bulkier models. In use, the dryer can be operated on a chosen heat level and airflow speed, then finished with the cool shot, which may help reduce the chance of styles loosening quickly depending on hair type.
TRESemme Smooth & Shine
Attachments and the cool shot feature can make day-to-day styling more manageable, especially when the dryer is used to help smooth hair and reduce frizz. The TRESemmé Smooth & Shine 5542DU includes attachments, which help target airflow when drying specific sections, such as the top layer or the ends. A styling routine can involve rough-drying first, then using the cool shot to help set hair in place. For very thick hair, the cool shot may need longer use. Attachments add control, but they require correct placement to avoid uneven drying.
Weight and Handling
TRESemme Fast Dry
Weight and handling are driven mainly by the dryer's compact, lightweight design, which makes it easier to move around the head during drying. With a 2000W motor and a super compact build, the unit is positioned as more manageable for quick blow-drying sessions. The dryer includes 3 heat settings and 2 speed settings, allowing airflow strength to be adjusted while maintaining control. A cool shot button is also included for finishing passes, although button placement and reach will depend on hand size. The light weight can help reduce wrist strain, although overall balance can vary with cord length and grip.
TRESemme Smooth & Shine
Because it is built for everyday drying, the TRESemme prioritises manageable weight and easy handling. It is described as lightweight and compact, which points to less arm fatigue during longer sessions. The dryer is designed for quick use, pairing lightweight handling with a 2200W motor, with actual drying performance dependent on hair thickness and section size. For best workflow, drying can be done in parts, with roots first and then smoothing through the lengths, switching between its 3 temperature settings as required. The compact design may feel tight for larger hands at certain grips.
Who Is This Hair Dryer For?
TRESemme Fast Dry
The hair dryer is best suited to people who want a practical hair dryer that stays easy to handle during styling. It fits everyday use for routine blow-drying of short to medium hair lengths, particularly for those who prefer a lightweight, compact tool. With 2000W power, it helps speed up drying, while 3 heat and 2 speed settings make it straightforward to adjust airflow for different hair needs. A cool shot button lets users set styles at key moments. People with very thick, long hair may find results vary.
TRESemme Smooth & Shine
Who should consider the hair dryer, and who might find it less suitable? This hair dryer suits people who want fast drying in a lightweight, compact design, as it is rated at 2200W and set up for everyday use. It also fits those who prefer control, because it offers 3 temperature settings. Users with thick or longer hair may appreciate the higher power for quicker sessions, especially when the goal is smoother styling. It may be less suitable for very thin hair that needs gentler temperature control, because temperature adjustment alone is limited. It is also less ideal for anyone who needs more granular airflow control.
TRESemme Fast Dry: pros
- 2000W of drying power
- 3 heat / 2 speed settings
- Cool shot to set your style
- Lightweight/compact to hold
- Faster, kinder drying than a basic old dryer
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
TRESemme Smooth & Shine: pros
- 2200W of drying power
- Lightweight/compact to hold
- Faster, kinder drying than a basic old dryer
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
Our verdict
Our pick is the TRESemme Fast Dry (our score 9.4/10) - A practical hair dryer (2000W) for quicker, kinder drying at home. The TRESemme Smooth & Shine is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.