Curly hair benefits the most from a diffuser, as it brings out natural bounce and prevents frizz, but you can use a diffuser on any type of hair. Using a diffuser is an effective way to add body to straight hair, and people are often surprised at how much natural wave they have when drying their hair with a diffuser as opposed to a traditional hairdryer or air-drying.
Step 1
Wash your hair, then squeeze the excess moisture with a towel. Don't rub the hair or wrap it in the towel, as both of these can create frizz.
Step 2
Spray hair lightly with a curl-enhancing product or spray gel.
Step 3
Hold the hair dryer with diffuser over your head, with the finger attachments of the diffuser touching your scalp. Concentrate on the crown initially. Begin drying your hair, using a gentle circular motion and low to medium setting on the dryer. When you finish one section, move to the next. Make sure that you continue to circle in the same direction with the diffuser, to prevent tangles.
Step 4
Move around to the sides of the head. Start above the ears and moving toward the back. Continue the same process, moving the diffuser in gentle circles, one section at a time.
Step 5
Flip your head over and dry the ends. By the time you dry the crown and sides, most of your hair should be dry. Move the diffuser, one section at a time, through any damp strands. Once your hair is dry, flip back over.
Step 6
Finger style to finish. Running a brush or comb through your hair can create frizz or pull out any wave. Use your fingers to gently style your hair and finish with a light coating of hairspray.
Step 7
Protect hair from the elements. The low heat used by a diffuser does not hold a style as well as a flat iron, curling iron or hot rollers. Rain and humidity may be enough to wreck your style.
Tips and Warnings
- Drying hair with a diffuser takes longer than with a traditional blow dryer, so this may be a look you save for special occasions.
Things You'll Need
- Curl-enhancing spray or spray gel
- Hairdryer with diffuser
- Hairspray
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