Getting more acquainted with the Dyson Supersonic r and why its the must-have hairdryer

Nylon

20-05-2025

If there is ever a time to get a Dyson hairdryer, this is the time to get one especially with the recent launch of the Dyson Supersonic r.
For those unfamiliar with the Dyson Supersonic r, it is a professional grade hairdryer that has a new technology streamlined heater, the Dyson Hyperdymium motor, and intelligent Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors which communicate with the hair dryer, allowing for automatic adjustment of the motor and heater to deliver optimal airflow and temperature. Image courtesy of Dyson.
Even though the hairdryer was unveiled about a year ago, the Dyson Supersonic r had only been available to professional stylists and not regular consumers, until now.
Speaking to NYLON Singapore, Dyson Associate Design Manager Low Chen Nyeow shared that the Dyson Supersonic r was initially launched for professional stylists backstage at Fashion Week during the A/W24 season in 2024.
'It was upon seeing the demand and desire for salon-quality results at home in the last one year that we decided to bring the technology to consumers,' said Low Chen. Image courtesy of Dyson.
Low Chen explained that its smaller size compared with the original Supersonic hair dryers, gave Dyson the opportunity to 'fine-tune' the technology to provide optimised performance beyond what they've ever done before.
She said: 'A key component of the machine is our new heater technology and new format in the shape of an 'r'. It is 30% smaller and 20% lighter too, offering increased manoeuvrability when styling. We have also engineered the machine to unlock a new level of precision styling for a smoother finish and more shine.'
Low Chen added that the proprietary new streamlined heater technology is a 'big part' of making the machine more powerful while being lighter.
'We developed a whole new heater for this machine that was small enough to fit right in its body — a stamped Iron-Chronium-Aluminium alloy that is extremely power-dense — and engineered to streamline and heat powerful airflow evenly for precise, fast drying in less space with an improved finish.' Image courtesy of Dyson.
In addition to the advantages in size, Low Chen said that these heater foils also provide three main advantages.
With a custom design, the heater foils are able to go right across the cross section of the machine to heat the airflow very evenly so that there are no hotspots and it is possible to tune up the average temperature of the heater without risking any heat damage.
'They are ultra responsive too, as they have lower thermal mass than open wire heaters, giving you more responsive heat control and an instant cold shot,' said Low Chen, 'We can position for maximum exposure to the airflow as well, with minimum impact to the flow rate and performance, giving you the ability to streamline airflow, exactly where you need,'
This essentially results in a superior finish as the Dyson Supersonic r's heater unlocks higher temperatures with no extreme heat for reduced frizz, flyaways and smoother shinier hair. Image courtesy of Dyson.
So how exactly did the shape of the Dyson Supersonic r come about? Low Chen shared that its unique shape was an ergonomic design choice to provide users with better control, comfort and manoeuvrability when drying and styling.
'The curved 'r' shape allows for easier reach in areas that are traditionally difficult to access and helps to distribute weight for a lighter feel, reducing strain on the user's hands especially during longer styling sessions,' she said.
Low Chen also explained that the cold shot button had been repositioned on the machine for easier access with your index finger when in use.
'We know that stylists love how this dryer cools down almost instantly to lock styles in shape, and we wanted to design it in a way that makes styling even easier and more efficient for users.'