You must have heard that curly hair is hard work. While that’s true, using the right products, routine, and tools can help reduce the effort and maximise results. Being prone to dullness and other challenges like heat-trapping as well as tricky detangling and retaining curl shape, even with a full head of luscious ringlets, you may feel defeated.
But not anymore – we’re spilling the ultimate secret on the best diffusers to buy – an extension you use with a blow dryer – for curly hair. We put these hair diffusers to the test on Nykaa Army curly-hair girlies right here at the Nykaa HQs – so you know we mean serious business with these recommendations. Read till the end to learn how to use a diffuser correctly!
What Is A Diffuser?
Let’s begin with the basics: usually round-ish in shape, a hair diffuser is an extension that can be mounted on a compatible hair dryer and is especially beneficial to add volume and shape to curly and wavy hair.
Essentially, it disperses airflow across a larger area compared to the flat, long nozzle that generally accompanies a hair dryer. The air concentrates through the diffuser's prongs, with controlled intensity, allowing the natural texture to be retained. Further, a diffuser has softer airflow which prevents overheating. Additionally, adding lift and volume to the hair, the diffuser's fingers or prongs give curly or wavy hair types even more definition.
Best Diffusers For Curly Hair In 2024
Now that you know exactly what a hair diffuser is, let’s get straight into the recommendations. Here are the top 4 hair diffusers for curly hair:
1. Gorgio Professional Mini Hair Dryer Diffuser (GMD 0001)
If you have shoulder-length, wavy or type 3 curly hair, we highly recommend this mini diffuser that does the job wonderfully (and without making you feel like you’re working out your arms!). Made using high-quality plastic, the diffuser is temperature-resistant so it doesn’t heat up when you’re using it. Coupled with a light heat protection spray, this is a great purchase for shoulder-length hair.
Compatible with: All DC motor hair dryers from any brand
2. Elchim Diffuser Cocoon
Next up is a diffuser from an Italian hidden-gem brand, Elchim. Lightweight and high-quality, this diffuser is perfect for those with 2c, 3a, and 3b type curly hair as the spaced-out prongs will allow for maximum curl pattern retention and quick drying. Since the brand designs tools and appliances for professional use, you can trust us when we say that this diffuser will give you salon-like curls at home.
Compatible with: 3900 Titanium, 3900 Healthy Ionic, 3900 Light, Xlite, RUN from Elchim
3. Gorgio Professional Diffuser For Hair Dryer HD1800
Another one from Gorgio, we loved this hair diffuser for curly hair for its even and damage-controlled airflow. Designed both for professional and personal use, this large-sized diffuser is a good choice for 3a to 4c types of curly hair of long length. The best part is that you can adjust the nozzle for a snug fit for your hair dryer; however, be prepared to do some heavy lifting with this one!
Compatible with: AC Motor hair dryers from any brand
4. Elchim Mini Black - Professional Travel Hair Dryer With Mini Diffuser
Our final recommendation is a travel hair dryer-plus-diffuser combo from the Elchim. This handy little tool packs a punch – it’ll tame your frizz and give you bouncy, voluminous curls to complete your vacay outfits! Suitable for most types of curly and wavy hair, this travel-friendly blow dryer with a diffuser is good to use otherwise as well if you have short to medium-length hair.
Compatible with: Travel hair dryer from Elchim
How to use a diffuser for curly hair?
Once you’re done with your curly hair routine of shampoo-condish-squish, or whichever method you follow, follow these steps to get the perfect curls with a diffuser:
- Apply a heat protection spray to your hair and section out strands for even results.
- Take a section and lift it with the diffuser – make sure the heat setting is on low.
- Starting at the ends, cup the diffuser around the hair while using your fingers to keep hair within the diffuser. Work your way up, and repeat this with the other sections.
- Continue to do this until your hair is about 80% dry (going to 100% will lead to frizz).
Once you’re done, keep your hands off and let your hair air-dry for a bit. If you have a post-diffuser product you use, that will be your final step.
FAQs
1. Can you use a diffuser on straight hair?
Yes! Contrary to common belief, you can use a diffuser on straight hair for volume.
2. Can anyone diffuse their hair?
Anyone with frizz can use a diffuser. If you have frizzy hair, chances are that your texture is wavy/curly.
3. How do I make my diffuser curls last?
When using a diffuser for curly hair, always start at the tips and work your way up. Also, stop once your hair is 80% dry. These two factors make curls last longer.
4. Does a diffuser loosen curls?
No, on the contrary, a good-quality hair diffuser can help retain your curl shape better and make hair less frizzy.
5. Can you style curly hair without a diffuser?
You can absolutely style curly hair without using a diffuser; however, this styling will not last you beyond 2–3 hours.
6. Does diffusing hair cause frizz?
Yes, if you diffuse hair on high heat and the wrong way, it can do more damage than good and you may end up with more frizz than before. It’s important to follow instructions and use the attachment properly.
