I've been using the hair dryer for many many years and i still got hair, hehe. It's not that damaging provided you use proper hair products and not point the dryer close to your scalp/hair. Maybe you could give parlux from Italy a try. i've used it for many years, it's about 2000 watts. Pls don't buy the china brand or the fake ones coz it will really damage your hair. Straigtening iron will help you get nicer shiny hair but try not to use it often as it can damage the hair. I have a VS iron and it works for me but i rarely use it nowadays.