Your holiday might be just around the corner, and experts say there’s one thing you shouldn’t leave behind. When you’re trying to save space in your suitcase and keep its weight down, it’s not always easy to pick which items to leave behind.

There’s one that you might not be taking that experts say should always be packed in your bag. Trichologist, Jacqui McIntosh, has recommended that all holidaymakers make sure that they pack one item in their luggage this summer. While the item might not be one you expect, Jacqui warns that you should think again.

Jacqui says a hair dryer is one item you should always take with you as the one in your hotel might be one of the grimmest items you use in your stay.

A study has revealed that hotel room hair dryers are often overlooked by cleaners, making them a breeding ground for bacteria and germs.

Jacqui, Bellissima hair ambassador and specialist in hair texture management and certified Trichologist, shares the risks involved with using a grimy hotel hair dryer: “Using a hairdryer riddled with bacteria and germs does pose health risks and can be detrimental to your hair health.”

The expert says one risk is bacterial and fungal contamination as hair dryers are often left unclean which means they become breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi. 

When these pesky microorganisms find their way onto your hair and scalp, they can spark infections and irritations, disrupting your hair follicles and slowing down healthy growth, the expert warns.

But this is not the only issue you may encounter. You could also face scalp irritation as dust, mould, and other unseen culprits may be lurking in neglected hair dryers.

Brace yourself for irritation, dandruff, and a flurry of other hair woes such as dullness, frizz and even hair loss.

Not only this but there’s also the possibility of hair breakage. 

Blocked vents mean heat distribution goes haywire. Some parts of your hair get blasted with too much heat, leading to dryness, brittleness, and split ends.

If you’re planning a holiday soon, don’t forget to pack a hair dryer to avoid falling victim to these issues.