On Ionizers

The Ionic Breeze and other similarly functioning air purifiers are at the center of a running controversy that has stemmed nearly since the discovery of air ions themselves.

In the words of Niels Jonassen of the Technical University of Denmark, ions…

…are not charged molecules or atoms. They are clusters of mostly water molecules (say 12–14) around an oxygen or nitrogen molecule that has lost an electron (i.e., a positive ion), or 8–10 water molecules around an oxygen molecule that has gained an extra electron (i.e., a negative ion).

In Jonassen’s article, “Are Ions Good for You?”, the question is posed as to whether or not there are any actual significant health benefits behind exposure to either negatively- or positively-charged ions. While he does not discuss at any length the ionic pair purifiers, he does repeatedly discuss the behavior of ions of either charge, and the multiple myths that have surround them since the early 20th century.

I can say that ionic hair dryers seem to work beautifully in my experience. One claim as to why is that the charged ions bond with the water molecules on the hair shaft and they are broken down into 1/50 their normal size; moisture is then easily absorbed by the hair shaft, making each one plumper and fuller, as well as locking in a smooth cuticle which results in greater shine and softness. On the other hand, Dr. CRAM, of CRAM Science cannot find a scientific substantiation for this claim.

I am not a proponent of ionic air purifiers, nor a detractor—I have no experience with them and thus cannot vouch or deny their credibility or qualitative effect. I’m hoping that some of you who do have ionic air cleaners will chime in with your feedback. Do you feel like your unit actually helps clear the air of pollutants? Does your air quality smell or even ‘feel’ fresher? Have any of your allergies been affected one way or the other since you began using it?