Recent survey data from Zhongguancun Online highlighted that consumers are increasingly drawn to low-cost hair dryers. However, findings from random inspections conducted by local testing agencies reveal significant safety concerns with cheaper products. Experts have issued warnings, advising buyers to avoid compromising on safety for the sake of a lower price.
The Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Quality and Technical Supervision recently released a warning regarding the quality and safety risks of hair dryer products. According to their report, out of 25 models from 17 brands tested, 24 failed to meet the requirements for protection against water exposure. The leakage current in some samples was high enough to cause severe electric shocks, potentially leading to muscle contractions, heart irregularities, and even more serious consequences. These models included most of the major brands available on the market.
Earlier this year, the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region’s Industrial and Commercial Bureau conducted a quality inspection of hair dryers and induction cookers across the region. The pass rate for hair dryer tests was only 55%, with common issues including improper labeling, inadequate protection of live parts, and problems with power connections. In September 2012, a special inspection in Guangdong found that 84.6% of unqualified products were hair dryers, with six batches failing due to insufficient protection against live parts.
Local authorities advise consumers to purchase hair dryers from trusted retailers and prefer well-known brands over cheap alternatives. Despite these warnings, online sales show a strong demand for low-cost options. According to a 2013 report by Zhongguancun Online, nearly 60% of consumers were drawn to hair dryers priced under 100 yuan, with 58.4% showing high interest. On Taobao, many low-priced hair dryers sell quickly—some with prices as low as 19.9 yuan, selling nearly 500 units in a short time, while others at 29.9 yuan reached over 1,100 sales.
However, customer reviews reveal concerns. Some users mentioned that products lacked manuals, while others reported issues such as flickering switches and sparks during use. Others noted a strong plastic smell when using the hot air function, raising further doubts about product quality.
Some consumers believe that a hair dryer just needs to dry their hair, and don’t see the need for expensive models. This mindset is common among those purchasing cheaper options. However, experts warn that ignoring safety can lead to serious risks. Hair dryers are often used in damp environments like bathrooms, and people frequently use them with wet hair or hands. If a product lacks proper safety features, it could result in dangerous electrical shocks or accidents.
According to officials from the Shanghai Quality Supervision Bureau, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission implemented a regulation (16CFR1120) in June 2011, requiring all hair dryers sold in the U.S. to include a water-immersion circuit breaker. This helps prevent electric shocks if the device falls into water. Between 1984 and 2004, the U.S. recorded 104 deaths and 43 injuries related to hair dryer-related electrocutions.
In China, the national safety standards for hair dryers are GB4706.15-2008 and GB4706.1-2005, which cover general safety requirements and specific guidelines for skin and hair care appliances. While these standards address moisture resistance, they do not fully cover safety measures in the event of water immersion. As a result, there is a need for updated regulations to better protect users. Reporter: Sang Xueyu
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