IEC 60335-2-23:2026

Overview

IEC 60335-2-23:2026 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that addresses the safety requirements for hair care and similar electrical appliances, including those for use on persons or animals. This standard applies to appliances such as hairdryers, curling irons, straighteners, and hand dryers intended for household and similar purposes with a rated voltage not exceeding 250 V-including DC and battery-powered devices. The document is vital for manufacturers, designers, testing bodies, and regulatory authorities focused on the safe design, manufacture, and use of small electrical appliances in homes, salons, light industry, and related environments.

Key Topics

• Scope of Appliances Covered

  • Curling combs, curling irons, hairdryers, hair straighteners
  • Hand dryers for hair or face drying
  • Heaters for detachable curlers and permanent-wave appliances
  • Appliances with steam- or spray-producing functions

• Safety Considerations

  • Protection against electric shock, overheating, moisture, and mechanical hazards
  • Marking and instruction requirements, including warnings for use near water and hot surfaces
  • Special requirements for appliances used by the public in non-household locations, such as salons and light industry

• Testing and Compliance

  • Clarification of test methods, particularly for appliances with PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating elements
  • Requirements for accessible surface temperature and marking of hot surfaces
  • Moisture resistance and mechanical strength tests for detachable power supply parts

• Exclusions

  • The standard excludes industrial-only appliances, those intended for use in corrosive or explosive atmospheres, and devices like shavers, hair clippers, cosmetic appliances with lasers or intense light, or appliances intended for skin care (covered by different standards)

Applications

IEC 60335-2-23:2026 is directly applicable to:

• Manufacturers seeking market access or conformity assessment for hair care appliances in global markets
• Design Engineers responsible for product safety, development, and compliance with international regulations
• Testing Laboratories performing certification and safety evaluation for electrical appliances
• Importers and Distributors ensuring compliance with national and international safety standards
• Regulatory Agencies referencing IEC standards for ensuring public safety in consumer and commercial environments

Typical environments where the requirements of this standard must be met include:

• Private homes (household use)
• Hairdressing salons and beauty shops
• Light industrial settings and farms where the public or laypersons use appliances
• Hotel rooms and similar accommodation

By adhering to IEC 60335-2-23:2026, stakeholders help prevent common electrical hazards, minimize fire and injury risks, and assure consumers of reliable, safe products. The standard also ensures that products meet evolving safety expectations in line with updated international safety benchmarks.

Related Standards

For comprehensive safety compliance in the design and use of small electrical appliances, the following related IEC standards are relevant:

• IEC 60335-1: General requirements for safety of household and similar electrical appliances
• IEC 60335-2-8: Particular requirements for shavers, hair clippers, and similar appliances
• IEC 60335-2-113: Cosmetic and beauty care appliances incorporating lasers and intense light sources
• IEC 60335-2-115: Appliances intended for skin care
• IEC 60364: Electrical installations of buildings (for broader wiring compatibility)
• ISO 7010: Safety signs, including symbols used in appliance markings

Practical Value

By following IEC 60335-2-23:2026, businesses and organizations:

• Ensure safer products and prevent accidents related to electrical appliances
• Meet international and regional regulatory requirements, supporting market access and acceptance
• Promote customer confidence and satisfaction in hair care and similar electrical devices
• Strengthen product liability defense and lower the risk of recalls or legal challenges related to safety compliance

IEC 60335-2-23:2026 provides essential safety guidance for anyone involved in the design, sale, or regulation of household and professional hair care electrical appliances.