How do I use my hair dryer in Nigeria?

Nigerian power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Nigeria?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Nigeria:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Nigerian power outlet, however this is considerably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Nigeria, so check that your power converter includes an appropriate power adapter for Nigeria otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please be aware that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk potential damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Nigeria please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Nigeria

Will my hair dryer work in Nigeria?

It depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 240 volts as used in Nigeria. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 240 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you can use the hair dryer in Nigeria. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read our guide on do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Nigeria

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

Dual voltage switch on travel hair dryer

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a strong but light dual-voltage model that operates with a 240 volt Nigerian power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long cable. If drying thick hair look for a dryer with a stronger 1600+ watt dryer and bundled diffuser.

What should I look for when buying a travel hair dryer?

  1. Depending on your hotel room there might be a mirror positioned away from a convenient power outlet which makes it cumbersome to operate the blow dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer find a model with the lengthiest power cord available or use either a pocket mirror or a power extension cable.
  2. Thicker or curlier hair may require a travel hair dryer with a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  3. Rather than scouring stores looking for expensive 3rd party attachments it could be cheaper purchasing a new hair dryer that is supplied with both a diffuser and concentrator as these are designed to fit perfectly.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the danger of overloading the motor and starting electrical fires - you can recognise models by the 2 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
  5. The most suitable hair dryers for styling should let you to change both speed and temperature settings with two options - a hotter faster speed can dry wet hair faster whereas lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair.
  6. You shouldn't go for the cheapest hair dryer, as well as issues with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
  7. To function in Nigeria the travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  8. Try looking for a lighter travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more space for packing other items.
  9. The 'cool shot' button on modern travel dryers will quickly cool hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option might be lacking in smaller dryers.
Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes cool shot which can be used to quickly cool down hair to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions meaning safer drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and comes with a concentrator.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI power plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Nigeria in carry on luggage if used along with a power adapter for a Nigerian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best blow dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thick hair can take much longer to dry and might be difficult to do so without hair turning frizzy. The best option for this type of hair will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for Nigeria?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle and concentrator

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for Nigeria?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic hairdryer available on the market, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • For a blow dryer which is lightweight and small enough to transport in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer has features typically reserved for bulkier models.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a Nigerian power outlet they should work in Nigeria folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. They include a concentrator, have 1.5m electric power cords and have a two speed motor.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing a cool shot feature.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a lengthy 1.82m power cord for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean easily. It utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot feature making it suitable for styling thicker hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer features a diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit into carry-on luggage and will only require a suitable plug adapter for Nigeria to fit into a Nigerian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer to buy for Nigeria?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Nigeria Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Nigeria power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Nigeria?

The standard voltage in Nigeria is 240 volts.

What frequency is used in Nigeria?

The frequency of the current found in a Nigerian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Nigeria?

Type D and G power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Nigeria?

There are two types of power outlets used in Nigeria, these are type G and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - You can recognise the wall socket by the three circular holes in a triangular shape for live, neutral and ground pins.
  • Plug Type G - You can recognise this power socket by three holes with shutters in a triangle pattern for live, neutral and ground.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 240 volt hair dryer in Nigeria is a Type G plug adapter - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a power adapter for Nigeria. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should you switch the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which toggles between 2 types of voltages however some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Nigerian power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial will typically require a coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. As well as changing this it's worth jotting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models of travel dryer.

How do I use my dual voltage hair dryer in Nigeria?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it will work with a 240 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please make sure that it is switched to the 220-240v range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Nigeria and then plug in the power adapter into the Nigerian power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting; but the temperature and speed should be adequate enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers instructions to see if this is applicable for your model of dryer to prevent overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer can now be operated in Nigeria.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

One method to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle. This location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically but other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to operate between different voltages.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 240 volts used in Nigeria then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Nigerian power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 240 volts used in a Nigerian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Nigeria.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Nigeria or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Nigeria with a hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Nigeria have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Nigeria have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found in the bathroom or could be of a slower air hose type.

If staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer might be available at reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either look on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in Nigeria to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. For those worried about hygiene might want to check for burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Travellers who are uncertain that a suitable or sanitary hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Is a blow dryer allowed onboard a plane in Nigeria?

Folding travel hair dryer

Is a blow dryer allowed onboard a plane in Nigeria?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline who is flying you to Nigeria will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safer to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Nigeria?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing an existing domestic hair dryer to Nigeria (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Nigerian power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Nigeria). Certain models of travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsing handle and will be much lighter which helps reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

Note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your luggage by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience of repairing or replacing an expensive quality blow dryer in Nigeria might be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Nigeria

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter?

A cheap, small and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Nigeria, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will convert the voltage of 240 volts from a Nigerian power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Can I use a hair dryer with a power converter in Nigeria?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 240 volt power outlet used in Nigeria. A power converter is suitable for travellers who wish to bring along their own hair dryer, however it can be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be noticeably lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Nigeria using a type D power adapter

A guide showing how to power your hair dryer in Nigeria by using a three pronged Type D travel charger.

  1. Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 240 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some travel blow dryers might usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 240 volts for use in Nigeria - refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Nigeria you will need to bring a Type D plug adapter [4]. This Type D plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Nigeria simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type D plug adapter in the wall outlet. The power supply, technically known as a Type D power outlet [3], can be recognised by three holes forming a triangular configuration.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerian power outlet. You can now switch on the blow dryer to use in Nigeria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Nigeria using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Nigeria using a type G power adapter

Instructions showing how to use your hair dryer in Nigeria with a three prong Type G power charger.

  1. Please check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 240 volt power supply; but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to the 240 volt setting to use in Nigeria; please refer to the owners manual for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to use a Type G plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet which is used in Nigeria isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer. The power adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries into a power outlet found in Nigeria by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 240 volt supply.
  3. First you'll need to insert the Type G plug adapter into the Nigerian power outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by the 3 vertical slots containing shutters forming a triangle shape.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerian power outlet. Your hair dryer is ready for use in Nigeria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Nigeria using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Nigerian Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  9. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  10. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  11. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  12. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  13. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.