How do I use my hair dryer in Mexico?

Mexican power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Mexico?

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

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 127 volt Mexican power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes 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 Mexico, so check that the power converter includes the correct power adapter for Mexico otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Please be aware that your own personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 127 volts used in Mexico you run the risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Before using your hair dryer in Mexico read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Mexico

Will my hair dryer work in Mexico?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 127 volt power outlets used in Mexico. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 127 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you should be able to use it in Mexico. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read the guide on do you need a power converter to use a hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Mexico

How to choose the best hair dryer

A dual voltage switch on a hair dryer

How to choose the best hair dryer

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a strong but light dual-voltage model that operates with a 127 volt Mexican power outlet power outlet with an ALCI safety plug, folding handle and long power cord. When drying thick hair buy a higher 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

Nine tips for buying a new blow dryer

  1. Ideal hair dryers for styling should let you to change both speed and temperature settings with two options, a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker hair whilst slower speeds with lower temperatures prevent damage to hair.
  2. It might be cheaper and more convenient to buy a hair dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator instead of scouring shops to look for expensive third party attachments.
  3. Depending on the accommodation in Mexico you might find a fixed mirror installed too far away from the nearest power outlet making it hard to dry hair, therefore when buying a blow dryer shop for a model with the lengthiest power cord available or pack either an extension cord or a hand mirror.
  4. Look for lighter travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have a folding handle mean more room.
  5. Curlier or thicker hair might need a travel blow dryer which has a more powerful motor - a high wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  6. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the risk of the motor overloading that could start a fire; models can be recognised by the two reset and test switches.
  7. A 'cool shot' option on a modern blow dryer will quickly cool hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option lacks in smaller dryers.
  8. Your hair dryer has to support dual voltage to work with a 127 volt Mexican power outlet.
  9. You shouldn't just go for the cheapest hair dryer available, as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes cool shot that can be used to quickly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet resulting in faster and safer styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8m power cable and also includes a concentrator.

Each model is folding, has an ALCI plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Mexico in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Mexican power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair can take longer to dry and might be difficult to do so without hair turning frizzy. The best option will be an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good mini folding dual voltage travel hair dryer for Mexico?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator and folding handle

What is a good mini folding dual voltage travel hair dryer for Mexico?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic blow dryer available on the market, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a purse because of the 10.5 ounce body with folding handle and also includes options found on larger hair dryers including a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage resulting in a glossier finish.

Both mini hair dryers have dual voltage and when used with the right plug adapter for a Mexican power outlet they will work in Mexico folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both are twin speed, have a 1.5 metre electric power cable and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is a good folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Mexico?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

Which is a good folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Mexico?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82m power cable for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean easily. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot feature making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser attachment with powerful motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. Both will only require a cheap power adapter for Mexico to plug into a Mexican power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to fit in a carry-on travel bag.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel hair dryer for Mexico?

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 Mexico 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.

Mexico power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in a Mexican power outlet?

The frequency of the current found in a Mexican power outlet is 60 Hz. [14]

What is the voltage in Mexico?

Power outlets in Mexico are 127 volts.

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Mexico?

Type A and B power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Mexico?

There are two types of power outlets used in Mexico, these are type B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:

  • Plug Type A - You can recognise this wall socket by the two thin adjacent slots. Type A electrical outlets in Mexico aren't as common but could still used in some hotels.
  • Plug Type B - You can recognise this power socket by two thin slots parallel to each other for live and neutral blades with a hole below for the grounded pin. The most frequently found sockets in Mexico are Type B power sockets.

A Type B plug adapter will allow you to use a 127 volt hair dryer in Mexico, read the step by step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Mexico using a plug adapter. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a power converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I change the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a dial or switch which selects between two voltages although some models can automatically detect the voltage from a Mexican power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch requires a small coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. As well as changing this it is worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on some models.

How can you use a dual voltage hair dryer in Mexico?

  1. First ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 127 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure it is set to operate within the 100-127V range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Mexico and then plug in the power adapter into the Mexican power outlet.
  4. The dryer is now ready to be used with a Mexican power outlet.
  5. Expect travel hair dryer models that were purchased in a country that operates with 220-240 volts to work slower than expected in a country which uses 100-127V electricity.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle. This location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to change between different regions.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 127 volts used in Mexico then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Mexican power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 127 volts used in a Mexican power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Mexico.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Mexico or any other country.

Travelling to Mexico with a hair dryer

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

Depending on the hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed in the bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe, found on a bathroom wall unit or could be a slower air hose variety. In cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer could be offered at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer availability you can either look on the hotel web site or call ahead to the hotel in Mexico to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those worried about hygiene should check for the burnt hair from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to the hotel in Mexico or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

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

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing hair dryer to Mexico as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 127 volt power outlets used with a Mexican power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Mexico). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and will be lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.

Note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic blow dryer in Mexico could outweigh the cost of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [16] [AD]

Can a hair dryer go in carry on luggage to Mexico?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can a hair dryer go in carry on luggage to Mexico?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should check that the airline that is taking you to Mexico will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the 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 intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Mexico

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter converts a 127 volt Mexican power outlet to work with a non-127 volt hair dryer, but a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Mexico. [7] [AD]

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

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 127 volt power outlet used in Mexico. A power converter is more suited for travellers who wish to bring their own domestic hair dryer, but it could 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 than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable for travelling. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Mexico using a type B power adapter

A guide on how to power your hair dryer in Mexico by using a Type B travel charger.

  1. Please ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 127 volt power outlet but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 127 volt setting, consult the manufacturers instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Mexico. The plug adapter helps adapt plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Mexico simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 127 volt supply.
  3. Firstly you'll need to plug the Type B plug adapter in the Mexican power outlet. This power outlet (called the Type B power outlet [3]) can be recognised by the 2 slots parallel to each other with a single semicircular hole below for the slightly long earth pin. Type B plug outlets are the most commonly used outlets in Mexico.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Mexican power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer can now be used in Mexico. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Mexico using a type B power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Mexico using a type A power adapter

Instructions on how to use your hair dryer in Mexico with a three pronged Type A travel charger.

  1. Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 127 volt power outlet 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 travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 127 volt setting, consult the manufacturers instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. Please check that you are not already using a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer will work with a 127 volt power outlet). You'll need to buy a Type A plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Mexico. This plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Mexico simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 127 volt supply.
  3. Firstly you'll need to insert the Type A plug adapter into the Mexican power outlet. This power outlet, sometimes called the Type A power outlet [5], can be recognised by the 2 slots next to each other where the blades go. Be aware that Type A plug sockets are less commonplace but still used by some hotels in Mexico.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Mexican power outlet. Your hair dryer is now ready for use in Mexico. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Mexico using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Visitmexico - Visit Mexico Web Site
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  5. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  6. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  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. 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.