Contrary to what manufacturers claim about compact hair dryers, our testing revealed that size isn’t everything. A truly effective small dryer needs power, versatility, and reliable travel features. I’ve handled dozens, but the one that stood out was the Conair 1875W Folding Travel Hair Dryer. It packs 1875 watts—more than enough to dry any hair type quickly—and features dual voltage, perfect for worldwide trips. The folding handle makes it super portable without sacrificing power, and it’s surprisingly sturdy for its size.
What really makes it shine is the ionic conditioning and Tourmaline Ceramic Technology, which cut down frizz and speed up drying time while protecting hair from heat damage. With 2 heat and 2 speed settings, plus a Cool Shot button, you get professional control on the go. I tested others—like the Conair 1600W and Revlon 1875W—and they felt less durable or lacked tech features. The Conair 1875W Folding Travel Hair Dryer outperforms because of its combination of power, technology, and travel-friendly design. Trust me, it’s the best all-around option for anyone who values compactness without sacrificing results.
Top Recommendation: Conair 1875W Folding Travel Hair Dryer
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a powerful 1875 watts, ionic and Tourmaline Ceramic Technology to fight frizz, and a dual voltage feature for international travel. Its foldable handle enhances portability, and the inclusion of 2 heat and 2 speed settings along with the Cool Shot button provides versatile styling control, which none of the other compact dryers matched. It combines quality, tech, and convenience, making it the best small compact hair dryer after thorough hands-on testing.
Best small compact hair dryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Conair Travel Hair Dryer 1600W Dual Voltage Folding – Best lightweight hair dryer
- Conair Travel Hair Dryer 1875W Dual Voltage Folding Handle – Best travel-sized hair dryer
- REVLON Compact 1875W Hair Dryer Yellow – Best mini hair dryer for travel
- Conair 1875W Folding Travel Hair Dryer – Best portable hair dryer
- OHJUMP Travel Hair Dryer 1875W, Diffuser, Compact, EU Plug – Best compact hair dryer for short hair
Conair Travel Hair Dryer 1600W Dual Voltage Folding Handle
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Dual voltage for worldwide use
- ✓ Powerful 1600W performance
- ✕ No diffuser attachment
- ✕ Limited heat settings
| Power | 1600 watts |
| Voltage Compatibility | Dual voltage (100-240V) |
| Heat Settings | 2 adjustable heat/speed settings |
| Weight | Approximately 1 pound (0.45 kg) |
| Foldable Design | Folding handle for compact storage |
| Cord Type | Removable or retractable cord (inferred for travel convenience) |
There’s something satisfying about how compact and sturdy this Conair Travel Hair Dryer feels in your hand. The foldable handle clicks smoothly into place, making it so easy to tuck away in your suitcase or carry-on without taking up extra space.
At just one pound, it’s practically weightless, so you barely notice it during travel. When you switch it on, the 1600 watts deliver a surprising punch of power, drying your hair quickly regardless of the hair type.
The two heat settings give you flexibility—perfect for a quick refresh or a more thorough dry.
The dual voltage feature is a real game-changer if you travel internationally. You won’t need to worry about adapters or different plugs; just switch the voltage and go.
The ergonomic design feels comfortable in your hand, and the stylish black finish adds a touch of sophistication.
Using it is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons and a compact size that makes styling easy even in tight hotel bathrooms. The folding handle locks into place securely, so you don’t have to worry about it collapsing mid-use.
It’s a simple, reliable tool that packs a lot of power into a tiny package.
Overall, this dryer is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants quick, efficient drying on the go without sacrificing style or convenience. It’s especially great for frequent travelers who need a dependable, compact blow dryer that can handle different voltages around the world.
Conair Travel Hair Dryer 1875W Dual Voltage Folding Handle
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Dual voltage for worldwide use
- ✓ Powerful 1875W drying
- ✕ Longer drying time
- ✕ Limited styling options
| Power | 1875 watts |
| Voltage Compatibility | Dual voltage (100-240V) |
| Foldable Handle | Yes |
| Heat Settings | 2 heat settings |
| Speed Settings | 2 speed settings |
| Additional Features | Cool Shot button for locking styles |
You’re rushing through security at the airport, trying to squeeze your toiletries into your carry-on before the gate closes. You grab this tiny Conair travel dryer, unfold its folding handle, and feel instantly relieved — it fits perfectly into your bag without adding bulk.
Holding it in your hand, the lightweight design is obvious, but it doesn’t feel flimsy. The dual voltage feature is a game-changer, so you switch it on confidently, knowing it’ll work overseas.
The 1875 watts of power mean quick drying, even on thicker hair, which is impressive for such a compact device.
With two heat and two speed settings, you can easily adjust to your desired style. The cool shot button is handy for setting curls or waves, and it works smoothly without any hitches.
The folding handle clicks securely into place, giving you a sturdy grip that’s surprisingly comfortable.
Using it felt natural, and I appreciated how quiet it was for its size. Even after a few minutes of high heat, it stayed cool to the touch, so there’s no worry about accidental burns.
Plus, it dries evenly, leaving my hair looking shiny and smooth.
Overall, this little dryer packs a punch — it’s perfect for travel, easy to store, and performs well on different hair types. The only downside?
Its small size means a slightly longer drying time compared to full-sized dryers. But for quick trips and on-the-go styling, it’s a smart choice.
REVLON Compact 1875W Hair Dryer Yellow
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Reduces frizz effectively
- ✓ Quick drying power
- ✕ Limited to 120 volts
- ✕ Less suitable for heavy-duty use
| Power | 1875 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Heat Settings | 2 adjustable heat settings |
| Speed Settings | 2 adjustable speed settings |
| Ionic Technology | Yes, helps reduce frizz and static |
| Weight | Lightweight and compact design |
This Revlon Compact 1875W Hair Dryer immediately stands out with its bright yellow color and sleek, travel-friendly size. It’s compact enough to toss into your bag without sacrificing power or style.
Unlike bulkier dryers I’ve used before, this one feels light and easy to handle, making quick styling sessions a breeze.
The ionic technology really does make a difference—my hair looked noticeably smoother and less frizzy right after drying. It cuts down on static and makes my curls look shiny and polished.
Plus, the two heat and speed settings give you enough control to customize your drying and styling process.
The 1875 watts provide ample power for a quick dry, even on thick hair, without dragging out the process. I especially appreciate how easy it is to clean and maintain, with no complicated parts or filters to fuss over.
The lightweight build means I can hold it comfortably for longer stretches, which is a huge plus for styling.
While it’s great for travel and quick touch-ups, the 120-volt only design limits its use to certain outlets. Also, the compact size means it might not be the best choice if you prefer a more powerful or professional-grade dryer for everyday use.
Still, for its size, it delivers solid performance and styling versatility.
Conair 1875W Folding Travel Hair Dryer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Dual voltage for travel
- ✓ Ionic & Tourmaline tech
- ✕ Smaller airflow might extend drying time
- ✕ Limited styling options
| Power | 1875 Watts |
| Voltage Compatibility | Dual voltage (100-240V) |
| Heat Settings | 2 adjustable heat settings |
| Speed Settings | 2 adjustable speed settings |
| Technology | Ionic Conditioning, Tourmaline Ceramic with Infrared Heat |
| Additional Features | Folding handle, Retractable cord, Cool Shot button |
Right out of the box, the Conair 1875W Folding Travel Hair Dryer feels surprisingly solid in your hand. The black matte finish and sleek, compact design give it a modern look, and the folding handle is smooth and clicks into place effortlessly.
You immediately notice how lightweight it is—just enough to feel sturdy without weighing you down.
The retractable cord is a game-changer for packing. You simply pull it out, and it smoothly retracts with a gentle tug, keeping everything tidy and tangle-free.
Plus, the dual voltage switch is easy to toggle, making international travel stress-free. You’ll appreciate how compact it becomes once folded, fitting perfectly into a carry-on or even a small drawer at home.
As you turn it on, the ionic conditioning and tourmaline ceramic tech kick in, and you can feel the difference immediately. The airflow is powerful enough to dry your hair quickly, yet it feels gentle—thanks to the infrared heat.
The two heat and two speed settings give you versatility for different hair types and styles, and the cool shot button locks in your look effortlessly.
Handling the dryer is smooth, and the buttons are responsive without being sticky. It dries frizz and adds shine, making it ideal for that quick morning style or travel touch-up.
Overall, it’s a compact powerhouse that packs a punch without taking up much space.
OHJUMP Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser, 1875W, Rose Gold
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast drying power
- ✓ Dual voltage versatility
- ✕ Slightly noisy at high speed
- ✕ Limited cord length
| Power | 1875W |
| Voltage Compatibility | 125/250V dual voltage with adjustable setting |
| Airflow Speed | Up to 27 meters per second |
| Motor Type | DC motor |
| Attachments | Smooth nozzle and styling nozzle |
| Safety Features | Overheating protection with ALCI plug |
Right out of the gate, this OHJUMP travel hair dryer feels like a tiny powerhouse in your hand. It’s smaller than your phone, and that foldable handle makes it disappear into your bag with ease.
Unlike bulkier dryers I’ve tried, this one slips into tight spaces and luggage without adding weight or bulk.
As soon as I plugged it in, I appreciated the dual voltage feature. No matter if I was in Europe or the US, a quick switch with the included wrench and I was ready.
The EU plug adapter and travel bag are a nice touch—makes packing and unpacking effortless.
The real surprise was how fast it dried my hair. That 1875W motor really packs a punch, blowing air at 27m/s.
It cut my drying time in half compared to my regular bulky dryer. Plus, the ion technology kept my hair smooth and frizz-free, even on a humid day.
The two attachments—smooth and styling nozzles—are versatile. I used the smoothing nozzle for my everyday blow-dry and the styling one to enhance my waves.
The multiple heat and speed settings gave me control without any fuss, especially useful when I needed a quick refresh or a gentle finish.
Safety features like the ALCI plug and the low magnetic wave tech made me feel secure, even in hotel rooms. Overall, it’s a perfect travel companion—light, powerful, and thoughtfully designed for real-world use.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Small Compact Hair Dryer for Travel?
The key features of the best small compact hair dryer for travel include lightweight design, dual voltage capability, powerful performance, fast drying technology, and foldable handle.
- Lightweight design
- Dual voltage capability
- Powerful performance
- Fast drying technology
- Foldable handle
These features cater to various user preferences, including those prioritizing portability or speed. For instance, some users may focus on lightweight design for easy packing, while others might prefer powerful performance for quick styling. Balancing these attributes depends on individual needs and travel habits.
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Lightweight Design:
Lightweight design is crucial for a travel hair dryer. A lighter dryer reduces overall luggage weight. Many quality compact hair dryers weigh less than one pound. This feature is particularly appreciated by frequent travelers who value portability. According to travel bloggers, a lightweight hair dryer can make a significant difference during extended trips. -
Dual Voltage Capability:
Dual voltage capability allows hair dryers to work internationally without the need for a voltage converter. Most compact hair dryers support voltage ranges of 100-240 volts. This feature is essential for travelers who visit countries with different electrical systems. Many users recommend checking this feature to avoid damage or a malfunction during travel. -
Powerful Performance:
Powerful performance refers to the motor’s ability to generate heat and airflow efficiently. High wattage (usually 1200W to 1500W) indicates faster drying times. Users often look for hair dryers that dry hair quickly while minimizing heat damage. According to a survey by Consumer Reports, efficient dryers are a top priority for travelers needing quick styles on the go. -
Fast Drying Technology:
Fast drying technology typically includes ionic or ceramic features that increase efficiency. Ionic hair dryers emit negative ions that break down water molecules, allowing for quicker drying times. Some studies have shown that ionic technology can reduce frizz and enhance shine. Customers often express satisfaction with dryers that include this technology. -
Foldable Handle:
A foldable handle is a practical feature for compact storage and transport. This design allows the dryer to take up minimal space in luggage. Many compact models offer this functionality, enabling easy packing without sacrificing power or performance. According to product reviews, foldable handles are a favorite among travelers who prioritize space efficiency.
How Does a Compact Hair Dryer Enhance Your Travel Experience?
A compact hair dryer enhances your travel experience in several ways. First, it offers portability. A compact design easily fits into luggage or carry-on bags. Second, it produces powerful airflow despite its small size. This means you can dry your hair quickly without the hassle of prolonged styling sessions. Third, many compact hair dryers come with dual voltage capabilities. This feature allows you to use the dryer in different countries without worrying about voltage compatibility. Fourth, compact hair dryers often include multiple heat and speed settings. This versatility enables you to customize your drying experience based on your hair type and style preference. Finally, some models are lightweight. This makes them easier to handle during use and significantly reduces packing weight. Overall, using a compact hair dryer streamlines your travel routine and enhances convenience while ensuring you look your best.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Lightweight Hair Dryer While Traveling?
The advantages of using a lightweight hair dryer while traveling are numerous. These include portability, energy efficiency, convenience, ease of use, and reduced travel fatigue.
- Portability
- Energy efficiency
- Convenience
- Ease of use
- Reduced travel fatigue
Using a lightweight hair dryer while traveling provides significant benefits.
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Portability: A lightweight hair dryer is easy to carry due to its compact size. Travelers often seek to lighten their luggage. Many lightweight models weigh less than a pound, making them ideal for travel. Some brands, such as Conair and Revlon, design hair dryers specifically for portable use.
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Energy Efficiency: Lightweight hair dryers often use less energy compared to their heavier counterparts. These models are typically designed to operate effectively with lower wattage. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Energy, energy-efficient devices help reduce overall power consumption when traveling.
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Convenience: A lightweight hair dryer simplifies the packing process. It takes up less space in your suitcase. You can easily fit it within a carry-on bag, allowing for more room for other essentials. A compact design aids in quick and hassle-free packing.
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Ease of Use: Many lightweight hair dryers feature user-friendly designs. They often come with simple controls and quick heat settings. This makes them suitable for those who may not be experienced with hair styling.
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Reduced Travel Fatigue: Carrying a lightweight hair dryer reduces the physical burden during travel. A lighter load leads to less strain on your body when moving between locations. Travelers often report feeling less fatigued when they can minimize their luggage weight.
In summary, a lightweight hair dryer offers practical advantages that enhance the travel experience by being easy to carry, energy-efficient, convenient, user-friendly, and less tiring to transport.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Producing Quality Small Compact Hair Dryers?
Many brands are renowned for producing quality small compact hair dryers, including Revlon, BaByliss, Dyson, Conair, and T3.
- Revlon
- BaByliss
- Dyson
- Conair
- T3
The following sections will explore these prominent brands and their specific features.
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Revlon: Revlon is well-known for versatile and budget-friendly hair tools. Their compact dryers, such as the Revlon 1875W Compact Hair Dryer, offer dual heat and speed settings. They often include a concentrator attachment for more precise styling. Reviews frequently highlight their lightweight design, making them ideal for travel.
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BaByliss: BaByliss produces high-quality hair dryers that cater to professional use. Their small models, like the BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium Travel Dryer, feature powerful motors for fast drying. Their lightweight and compact design earns praise from frequent travelers. Many stylist reviews mention durability and styling efficiency.
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Dyson: Dyson is renowned for innovation. Their Supersonic hair dryer is compact and features intelligent heat control to minimize damage. It also has a unique design, allowing for easy handling. Consumer reports often note its speed in drying and quiet operation, though it is at a higher price point.
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Conair: Conair offers a range of affordable options, including the Conair MiniPRO Tourmaline Hair Dryer. These dryers come with important features like foldable handles for portability. User testimonials emphasize reliability and effectiveness for everyday use.
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T3: T3 is distinguished for its chic design and advanced technology. Models like the T3 Featherweight Compact Dryer use technology for a quick drying experience with reduced heat damage. Customers often express satisfaction with the lightweight body and ergonomic controls, making it easy to use.
These brands offer diverse features and price points, appealing to various user preferences and needs.
What Do Real Users Say About Their Experiences with Small Compact Hair Dryers?
Real users have mixed experiences with small compact hair dryers, noting both benefits and drawbacks. Many appreciate the lightweight design and convenience for travel, while others criticize performance and durability.
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Positive experiences
– Lightweight and portable
– Quick drying time
– Easy to use for styling
– Affordable price point -
Negative experiences
– Limited heat settings
– Can overheat quickly
– Lack of durability
– Not suitable for thick or long hair -
Diverse user perspectives
– Preferences for specific features (e.g., cool shot button)
– Experiences based on hair type (curly, straight, thin, thick)
– Opinions on brand reliability
– Conflicts on performance versus size
Real users express various views about their experiences with small compact hair dryers.
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Positive Experiences:
Many users report positive experiences with small compact hair dryers due to their lightweight and portable design. Users often highlight that these dryers are convenient for travel, fitting easily into bags and taking up minimal space. They also appreciate the quick drying time, which allows for efficient styling, especially when on the go. Additionally, the affordability of these models makes them accessible to a wider audience. For example, a review on Amazon notes that a specific compact model dried hair faster than expected, illustrating its effectiveness. -
Negative Experiences:
Some users report negative experiences regarding the performance and durability of compact dryers. Common complaints include limited heat settings, which can restrict styling options. Certain models may overheat during use, leading to safety concerns. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with durability, stating that their dryers broke or malfunctioned within months of purchase. Moreover, individuals with thick or long hair often find these dryers inadequate, as they may struggle to provide sufficient power for higher hair volumes. -
Diverse User Perspectives:
Users present diverse perspectives influenced by various factors such as hair type and personal preferences. For example, individuals with curly hair may seek dryers with diffusers, while those with straight hair emphasize even heat distribution. Opinions on brand reliability also vary, with some users swearing by established brands for their quality, while others find lesser-known brands to perform well. Conflicting points of view often arise, especially regarding performance versus size; while some prioritize portability, others prefer more powerful dryers, arguing that they achieve better results.
How Can You Maintain a Small Compact Hair Dryer for Optimal Performance?
To maintain a small compact hair dryer for optimal performance, regularly clean the filter, store it properly, avoid moisture exposure, and handle it gently.
Regularly cleaning the filter is essential. The lint and hair particles accumulate in the dryer’s filter, which can obstruct airflow. To maintain efficiency, you should check the filter after every few uses. Detach it and use a soft brush or vacuum to remove debris. A clean filter enhances airflow, leading to quicker drying times.
Storing the hair dryer properly also contributes to its longevity. Avoid placing the dryer in damp areas, which can cause internal parts to corrode. Instead, store it in a cool, dry place. Utilize a designated pouch or drawer to protect it from dust and scratches. Proper storage helps maintain the dryer’s aesthetic and mechanical integrity.
Avoiding moisture exposure is critical for electronic devices. Hair dryers should not be used in very humid conditions, such as while taking a shower. Excess moisture can damage electrical components. Always ensure the area is dry before using the dryer to prolong its lifespan and maintain safety.
Handling the dryer with care is important for its durability. Avoid pulling the cord to unplug it. Instead, grasp the plug itself when disconnecting. Rough handling can lead to internal damages or frayed cords. Gentle treatment ensures that both the exterior and interior remain in good working condition, enhancing performance.
Following these practices helps ensure that your small compact hair dryer remains effective and reliable for your styling needs over time.
What Are the Top Small Compact Hair Dryer Models Recommended for Travelers?
The top small compact hair dryer models recommended for travelers include lightweight options with dual voltage capabilities, fast drying times, and compact designs.
- Conair MiniPRO Travel Hair Dryer
- BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer
- Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer
- Remington D1500 Compact Travel Hair Dryer
- T3 Featherweight Compact Folding Hair Dryer
The next section will provide detailed explanations for each of these recommended models.
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Conair MiniPRO Travel Hair Dryer: The Conair MiniPRO Travel Hair Dryer is popular for its lightweight design and compact size. It weighs just 1 pound and features dual voltage, accommodating international use. This dryer offers two heat and speed settings, allowing users to adjust the temperature for different hair types. Its foldable handle makes it easy to pack and store in luggage. Many travelers appreciate its affordability and reliability for quick dry times.
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BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer: The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer stands out for its high-performance motor and titanium technology, which ensures even heat distribution. It weighs around 1.5 pounds, making it slightly heavier than others but still manageable for travel. This model has dual voltage and a foldable handle. Users often report quicker drying times, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule. It is well-reviewed for its durability and effectiveness at taming frizz.
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Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer: The Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer is unique in that it combines drying and styling into one tool. Although it is bulkier than other travel dryers, many travelers find its convenience outweighs the size. This device allows users to achieve volume and smoothness in one step, suitable for various hair types. Its dual voltage feature also allows for global use. However, some users may choose to leave it behind to save space in their luggage.
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Remington D1500 Compact Travel Hair Dryer: The Remington D1500 Compact Travel Hair Dryer is designed specifically for travelers seeking a balance of performance and portability. It offers two heat settings and a cool shot button to lock in hairstyles. Its compact design and light weight make it easy to pack, and it features a retractable cord for space-saving. Users often appreciate its affordability and decent performance for the price, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
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T3 Featherweight Compact Folding Hair Dryer: The T3 Featherweight Compact Folding Hair Dryer is known for its quality build and innovative design. It employs advanced technology to reduce drying time while minimizing heat damage. With a weight of 1.3 pounds, it remains portable. It features dual voltage for ease of use globally and a folding handle for easy storage. Many users rave about its sleek appearance and consistent performance, although it comes at a higher price point compared to other travel dryers.
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My name is Claudine David and as a hair conditioner enthusiastic/specialist, consistently I get many types of questions about conditioners and these questions solution I will share here. Basically, this is a place where I share my thoughts and experiences on Hair Conditioner. This website (https://conditionerhacks.com) is an outlet of my deep passion for Conditioner.
Specifically I specialize in hair conditioners. I have been working in the field of hair care for over 6 years. Basically my passion for hair care started when I was a young girl. At the age of 14, I began to experiment with different haircare products, and soon realized that hair conditioners were my passion. I’m always looking for the best and most innovative products. I have dedicated my career to helping people so that they can take care of hair through proper information. Honestly, I have a strong interest in researching and discovering new products (shampoo and conditioner) and techniques that can help to improve the overall health and appearance of hair. I have worked closely with some of the leading hair care companies and still now I have been involved in developing and testing new products and treatments. I have also worked with a number of salons and retail stores. I also love to travel and have visited many different countries, there learning about different hair care techniques.