I know your not asking my opinion here, but it seems to me that protecting your ears from a loud sound, which is created only a few cm away from your ear, is a bit of a no brainier.
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I never used to in the past cause didn't think I needed to. But I protect now with either filtered plugs(foams dont stay in my ear) or muffs flipped upside down. I only blow dry twice a week so I keep it too a minimum 
Sorry @hopefuldede that came across a bit harsh. I was having a rough day. But the message is the same … whenever there is a loud noise … protect your ears.