Using your hair dryer in Russia

Russian power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Russia?

First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Russia:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Russian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Russia, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the right power adapter for Russia otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please be aware your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Russia you run a risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Russia check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Russia

Will my hair dryer work in Russia?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 220 volt power outlets used in Russia. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use your hair dryer in Russia. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the section on will a power converter work with a domestic hair dryer in Russia for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Russia

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer for Russia choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer which will operate with a 220 volt Russian power outlet power outlet, has a long power cord, an ALCI safety plug and folding handle. For drying thicker hair look for a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

What should you look for when purchasing a hair dryer?

  1. Ideal travel hair dryers will give control of the temperature and speed settings with 2 options, hotter faster speeds will quickly dry wet hair and a lower temperature with a slower speed can reduce damage to your hair.
  2. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle mean more room for packing other items.
  3. It might be cheaper to purchase a new dryer which includes both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  4. Depending on your hotel room in Russia there could be a fixed mirror installed some distance away from a convenient power outlet making it hard to dry hair, therefore when buying a hair dryer shop for the unit with the lengthiest power cord available or bring either an extension cable or portable mirror.
  5. A modern blow dryer could include a 'cool shot' option for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold the style but this option could be lacking in more compact models.
  6. In order to work with a 220 volt Russian power outlet the travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  7. Thicker or curlier hair might need a travel hair dryer with a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  8. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of overloading that could start electrical fires, models can be recognised by 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  9. Buying the cheapest travel dryer on the market is risky; as well as safety concerns there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Russia?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator attachment

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Russia?

  • For quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go then a 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blow dryer available on the market.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer has features normally found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Russian power outlet they will work in Russia and fold conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both are two speed, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?

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

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • With a strong twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot that can be used to quickly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline outlet for negative ions meaning quicker and safer drying, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Russia in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Russian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Russia?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Russia?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a longer 1.82 metre electric power cable for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot feature making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer includes a diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in carry-on baggage, only requiring a suitable plug adapter for Russia to work with a Russian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Russia?

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 Russia 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.

Russia power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Russia?

The frequency used in a Russian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What mains voltage is used in Russia?

Power outlets in Russia are 220 volts.

Which power adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in Russia?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in Russia?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Russia, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - This ungrounded plug outlet, technically called the Europlug, can be recognised by 2 circular adjacent holes for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify the power socket by the two 4.8mm holes 19 mm adjacent to each other and a pair of thin grounding clips above and below.

A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Russia is a Type F plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Russia. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Russia?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will operate with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is switched to the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the correct power adapter for Russia and then plug in the power adapter into the Russian power outlet.
  4. It is normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting - however this temperature and speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers instructions to see if this rule is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used with a Russian power outlet.

How do you change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a switch which selects between two ranges of voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in Russia.
  2. This switch or dial requires either a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it is worth jotting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models of hair dryer.
How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

The method to tell if your hair dryer can accept a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to operate between different regions.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Russia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Russian 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 220 volts used in a Russian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Russia.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Russia or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Russia with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Russia?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing hair dryer to Russia (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Russian power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Russia). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by airport baggage handlers in Russia. The cost involved in repairing or replacing an expensive quality hair dryer in Russia could be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand to bring along .  [16] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Russia?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Russia?

It depends on the individual hotel and the class of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are normally found attached to a bathroom wall, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be located in a bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard. In budget hotels, motels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either check on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in Russia to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Travellers who aren't sure that a suitable or clean hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Is a blow dryer allowed on a flight to Russia?

Folding travel hair dryer

Is a blow dryer allowed on a flight to Russia?

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

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

Power converters for Russia

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Russia, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter converts the voltage of 220 volts from a Russian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Do you need a converter for Russia to use a hair dryer?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Russia. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who wish to use their existing domestic hair dryer, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be significantly smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Russia using a type C power adapter

A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Russia using a Type C travel charger.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some dual voltage blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Russia - consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Russia. The Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Russia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Insert the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. This ungrounded plug supply, sometimes called the Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug, can be recognised by 2 circular adjacent holes for live and neutral pins.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Russian power outlet. Your hair dryer should now be ready for use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Russia using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Russia using a type F power adapter

A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Russia using a Type F travel charger.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions because you might blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Some travel blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Russia, consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type F plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Russia. The Type F plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet in Russia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the power outlet. The circular wall outlet, also known as a Schuko outlet or Type F power outlet [5], can be identified by the two circular holes 19 mm apart from each other where the twin plug outlet pins slide into and a pair of thin grounding clips at the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Russian power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Russia using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Russian country entry on wikipedia
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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..
  13. 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..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.