When I was told by a stylist I needed a diffuser hair dryer for my hair I thought ‘What is she on about?’ and that was the very second I realized that even the coolest of celebs use a diffuser.
So the diffuser from that day forth became my very best friend because it changed everything. Anytime I blow dry my hair it takes ages but when using the diffuser it’s almost instant, plus it leaves zero frizz and my hair just looks voluminous and fabulous afterward so much so I can spend an inordinate amount of time staring at my own loveliness.
When it comes to styling your hair, you’ve got options. Blowdryer diffusers are one of these options. And they are surprisingly versatile, being useful for both natural curls and straight tresses.
However, when you’re looking at this piece of hair equipment and the glossy images of voluminous hair attached to the units, it can be difficult to know how to use a hairdryer diffuser effectively.
Well, you are in luck.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what diffusers are, how to use a diffuser hairdryer, and the benefits of using them.
What is a hair diffuser?
Hair diffusers are great for drying curly hair. They reduce frizz, boost your curls and add volume to your hair.
They are also great tools if you have naturally curly hair. Diffusers can tame the frizz, keep your curls in shape and help you achieve the best results from your dryer.
The hair diffuser is an attachment for a blow dryer that spreads the airflow out from the blow dryer. So that it does not concentrate in one place. The diffuser helps to prevent your curls from drying out too much because it allows you to use less heat on your hair. It also reduces frizz by allowing the hair to dry with more moisture in it.
As a result of having less concentrated heat on your hair, you will be able to achieve better curl definition and more volume as well. It also helps to reduce or eliminate frizz altogether, depending on how often you use it.
How to use a hair diffuser?
If you’re a natural curly, then you know that the struggle is real. That’s why we’re sharing how to diffuse your hair the right way.
The Diffuser Hair Dryer is the solution for anyone who has ever wished they could keep their curls in place while they blow-dry. Here’s what you need to know:
Preparing Your Hair for Diffusing: Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner before using a diffuser. Because curly hair is naturally dry, using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner can help keep your curls hydrated which will reduce frizz.
Choose the right products for your hair type. If you have fine or thin curly hair, silicone based gels and creams work well to define curls. Because they add body and shine without weighing the hair down. If you have thick or coarse curly hair, you might prefer a leave-in conditioner, oil, or lotion to define curls because these products are less likely to weigh down the hair.
Comb your hair thoroughly with a wide-toothed comb, but only in the direction of your curls. This way, you will separate each curl and give them space to bounce back into shape when they dry.
Grab your hairdryer and attach it to the diffuser by screwing it on like you would any other attachment. A diffuser is basically an attachment with so many holes in it. That will help to evenly distribute air so that your curls stay intact as they dry.
Next, decide whether you want to use hot or cold air when drying your hair. For us natural curlies, we like to go for cold air because the hot air will cause our curls to frizz up (no fun). So just flip your dryer over and switch out the nozzle for one that produces cold air.
Now you’re ready to start diffusing. Put some of your favorite styling products in your hands and rub them together to warm them up—this will help to soften up any tangles in yours.
Ensure your hair is nearly dry before using the diffuser. Otherwise, you may have to wait for ages for it to fully dry.
Use a heat protectant spray and lightly apply it to your entire head of hair. This will help protect your locks from heat damage and keep it looking healthy and shiny.
Gently massage the curly sections of your hair into the diffuser. Ensuring that the air from your hairdryer is evenly distributed through each section of curls. This will encourage them to dry into their natural shape, reducing frizz in the process.
Continue this method until all sections of curly hair have been worked into the diffuser. This may take some time, but it will be worth it when you see how defined your curls look.
This method can also be used on dry hair if you need a quick touch up or want to style more curls. Simply use the diffuser to refresh your curls and add volume with minimal frizz.
Who can use a hair diffuser?
In the world of curly hair, a diffuser is probably one of the most talked-about and useful tools. Diffusers are attachments that fit on the end of a hairdryer and allow you to dry your hair with increased volume and reduced frizz.
Curly hair can be tricky to manage because it is prone to frizz and kinks but if you get the blow drying technique right it can be transformed into glossy, bouncy locks that will make you wonder why you ever straightened your hair.
Anyone with naturally curly or afro hair can benefit from using a diffuser attachment.
Afro-textured or coarse hair tends to benefit from diffusing because it conditions and softens curls into bouncier, softer waves.
Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Solange Knowles regularly use a hair diffuser attachment to add volume, movement, and support to their hairstyles.
Some Pro Tips:
De tangling your hair when wet is the quickest way to get it ready for the big day. Be gentle whilst running a wide-tooth comb through your locks. So dry your hair free at both ends, and don’t brush too much.
I’m not a fan of rubbing my hair with a towel because I get so much frizz. It’s usually better to wrap your hair in a t-shirt, soft rag, or microfiber towel when you want to shake out the excess water.
Start with dry, clean hair and use a wide-toothed comb to pull the top layers of your hair back. Now work the diffuser so that it is large enough to cover the roots along the entire length of your hair. Flip your head upside down and allow the warm air to lift your hair up while you blow-dry it.
To achieve this hairstyle, the hair should be about 80% dry. Diffuse for a few minutes and then finish with a blowout.