Philips BHD360 ThermoProtect DryCare Hair Dryer

Philips BHD360 ThermoProtect DryCare Hair Dryer.

This model is a direct step-up from the BHD351 we discussed previously. It shares the core philosophy of gentle drying but adds a crucial feature aimed at improving hair health and finish: ion technology.

Key Features at a Glance

• Model: Philips BHD360 ThermoProtect DryCare

• Target Audience: Those looking for an affordable dryer that reduces heat damage and fights frizz for smoother hair.

• Key Technologies:

  1. ThermoProtect: Constant, even heat to prevent damage.

  2. Ionic Technology: Releases negative ions to break down water droplets faster and reduce frizz.

• Power: 2100 Watts – strong and standard for efficient drying.

• Settings: 3 heat settings, 2 speed settings. (This is an upgrade from the BHD351).

• Cool Shot Button: Yes.

• Attachments: Concentrator nozzle included.

• Foldable Handle: Yes.

• Ion Technology: Yes. This is the key difference.

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Detailed Breakdown & Comparison to BHD351

1. The Major Upgrade: Ionic Technology

This is the single most important difference between the BHD360 and the BHD351.

• What it does: The dryer emits negative ions. These ions break down the larger water molecules on your hair into smaller droplets, allowing them to evaporate faster. More importantly, they neutralize the positive electrostatic charges that cause the hair cuticle to fray and create frizz.

• The Result: Faster drying time and smoother, shinier, less frizzy hair compared to a non-ionic dryer like the BHD351.

2. Design and Build

• Very similar to the BHD351. It maintains a simple, lightweight, and ergonomic design with a durable plastic body.

• The foldable handle is retained, making it just as portable and easy to store.

• It includes the same magnetic concentrator nozzle for focused styling.

3. Performance and Settings

• 2100W Motor: Identical power to the BHD351, so drying performance is similar in terms of airflow strength.

• ThermoProtect Technology: Same reliable, consistent heat technology to prevent damage.

• Settings (3 Heat / 2 Speed): This is an ergonomic upgrade.

  • Heat Settings: Low - Medium - High. The addition of a medium setting is significant. It provides more control, allowing you to find a perfect warm setting that is effective for drying but gentler than the full high heat. This is great for styling or for those with sensitive scalps.

  • Speed Settings: Low - High. Standard for control over airflow force.

  • Cool Shot Button: Standard for setting your style.

4. Who Is It Best For?

• Frizz-Prone Hair Types: This is the ideal user. If you have wavy, curly, or thick hair that tends to get puffy or frizzy, the ionic technology is a game-changer.

• Anyone Wanting a Smoother Finish: If you air-dry and get frizz, or if your current basic dryer leaves your hair unruly, this will provide a noticeable improvement.

• Value-Seekers Who Want More Features: For a very small price increase over the BHD351, you get both heat protection and frizz reduction.

• People who want more heat control thanks to the 3rd (Medium) setting.

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Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Excellent value with two key technologies (ThermoProtect + Ionic).

• Effectively reduces frizz and increases shine compared to non-ionic dryers.

• Helps dry hair faster due to ionic technology.

• 3 heat settings offer greater control and versatility.

• Maintains all the good points: foldable, lightweight, includes nozzle.

Cons:

• Still not the most powerful dryer on the market (though ample for most).

• It's a basic ionic dryer; it doesn't have advanced features of premium models (e.g., multiple ion generators, cold shot for volume, specific curling attachments).

• As with most dryers in this category, it can be somewhat loud.

BHD351 vs. BHD360: Which One Should You Choose?

This is the key question. Here’s a simple decision guide:

• Choose the Philips BHD351 if:

  • Your budget is absolutely minimal.

  • Your hair is naturally straight, fine, or not very frizzy.

  • Your only requirement is to dry your hair quickly and with less heat damage. You are not concerned about frizz or achieving a super-smooth blowout.

• Choose the Philips BHD360 if:

  • You can spend a little more for a significant upgrade.

  • Your hair is wavy, curly, thick, or prone to frizz and puffiness.

  • You want a smoother, shinier finish from your blow dryer.

  • You appreciate the extra control of a third (Medium) heat setting.

Verdict

The Philips BHD360 is a stellar budget-friendly hair dryer that successfully combines two of the most desired technologies: heat protection and frizz reduction.

For most people, the BHD360 is the unequivocally better choice over the BHD351. The benefits of ionic technology for smoothness and shine are tangible, and the extra heat setting adds welcome versatility. Unless you are on an extremely tight budget and have perfectly straight, non-frizzy hair, the BHD360 offers far better overall results for a very minimal price difference.