While curly hair is beautiful and unique, it requires special treatment to keep its natural shape and avoid frizz. A hair dryer with a diffuser is one of the most effective tools available for enhancing curly hair. This article will guide you step-by-step on how to use the best hair dryer with diffuser and techniques that can save your Rust-Oleum.
Why Use a Diffuser for Curly Hair?
A blow dryer diffuser is a tool that attaches to your dryer and was designed specifically with curlier hair in mind. It evenly distributes heat around the curls so as not to disrupt natural patterns or cause frizz. With a regular blow dryer nozzle’s concentrated stream of air, you get some parts of your head hot and dry while other parts stay cool or damp: not good for curls. With the diffuser’s wider airflow, curls can avoid serious drying at any particular point.
How to Use a Diffuser for Curly Hair: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Hydrate Your Hair and Detangle It
- When starting out in the shower, use a hydrating shampoo. This will bathe every one of those well-wrapped, serially twisting strands in life-giving moisture from root to tip.
- Curly hair tends to dry out quicker than straight hair, as the twists and turns of each strand make it difficult for natural oils to find a path. A rich, moisturizing conditioner can help maintain healthy shiny locks.
- While your hair is still wet from conditioning, untangle it carefully but thoroughly using a wide-toothed comb (never brush). Remember not to detangle after your hair has dried—this will cause frizz and disrupt the curl pattern.
- Dry Your Hair with Care
- After showering, use a soft cotton cloth or microfiber towel to gently pat your hair dry. Don’t rub vigorously as this will cause breakage and frizz. Cotton and microfiber are less abrasive than traditional terrycloth towels, which cause less friction and help keep the shape of curls intact.
- Use Heat-Protection Products and Tools
- Put a heat-protection spray on your curls before doing anything with heat tools. It might be a good idea to choose products that have ingredients like nourishing argan oil or shea butter—they help support hair’s health and stop breakage.
- Put a styling product like a curl cream or mousse on your hair to enhance definition before you start. Use your fingers to knead the product through your hair, or do “raking and shaking”: divide the product into sections of hair and then rake it through them. Finally, shake your curls out for that extra bit of volume.
- Use an Attachment
- If you’re using a hair dryer with a diffuser, keep it on a low or medium setting. High temperatures can harm your hair and lead to frizz. In the bowl of the diffuser, lay part of your hair. Put the diffuser next to your head and gently push it up toward your crown—letting your curls sit in that bowl.
- Move the entire thing around your head, starting with the ends and moving up to the roots. For more volume, hang your head down and diffuse from underneath.
- Dry your hair until it is about 80% dry. Let it finish air drying for a natural, full-bodied look.
- Once your hair is 80% dry, avoid excessive fondling. Curly hair is more fragile when wet and too much fussing can lead to frizz and loss of definition. Apply some light oil or serum for added luster and to keep any loose ends tidily put in their place.
Top 5 Diffusers for Curly Hair: Our Recommendations
- BIO IONIC Diffuser
- Description: Designed for Bio Ionic hair dryers, constructed with a lightweight design and 12 air vents for faster blow drying. The prong model is versatile, going from cupping to gathering curls.
- Pros:
- Ultra-light and comfortable, perfect for use on the go.
- Compatible with a variety of hair dryers.
- Natural hydration with volcanic materials.
- Hot Sock Diffuser
- Description: Works by using high heat with a silicone cover that fits over any hair dryer. It diffuses air evenly, reducing frizz and helping curls stay put without crushing them too tightly.
- Pros:
- Lightweight and portable, ideal for travel.
- Supports all hair types and lengths.
- Segbeauty Professional Hair Diffuser
- Description: Designed with durable, high-quality materials; features a wide cup and medium-length prongs to handle a variety of curl types and lengths.
- Pros:
- Sturdy construction for long styling sessions.
- Customizable airflow for targeted drying.
- Deep cup design enhances curl definition.
- DevaCurl DevaFuser
- Description: Famous for its unique hand-shaped design, the DevaFuser delivers 360-degree airflow to surround waves and give maximum lift and lightweight hold.
- Pros:
- Innovative design for all-around airflow.
- Helps create full, bouncy curls.
- Cuts drying time.
- Conair Volumizing Diffuser
- Description: A multi-purpose diffuser that fits most hair dryers, featuring soft airflow over curls. It can be combined with products like mousse and gel for great effect.
- Pros:
- Easy to attach and use with most dryers.
- Provides gentle, uniform heat distribution.
- Inexpensive and widely available.
More Diffusing Tips for Perfect Curls
- Do Not Overdry: Leave 20% of residual moisture in your hair to support less frizzing.
- Experiment with Methods: Try various techniques, like diffusing upside down or scrunching curls while drying.
- Pick the Right Hair Products: Use lightweight gels, mousses, or creams to help maintain your curl shape and ward off frizz.
If you’re looking to achieve the best possible results at home, having a high-quality diffuser could make all the difference. In curly hair care, remember that each individual’s needs may vary. Experiment with different products and methods to find what works best for you.
