Women's Health

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The 11 Best Hair Diffusers For Curly Hair In 2024, According To Hairstylists

 

Shiny, bouncy curls coming right up!

When you're short on time or just want to show off your natural strands, a wash n' go is a solid option. However, for myself and my fellow curly or wavy-haired gals, it's not always as simple as it sounds. To streamline the process and get straight to fabulous results, you might want to consider using a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment, which is designed to leave your curls dry, frizz-free and even more defined than if you were to just use a curl cream. "Using a diffuser is a great way to quickly dry curly or wavy hair without blowing it around too much," says hairstylist Leigh Hardges.

Diffusers evenly distribute air through a blow dryer attachment that's usually bowl-shaped, allowing you to work on big chunks of hair at a time. It applies dispersed heat directly to the hair without crazy airflow, so it sets your curls in place without adding unnecessary volume. To find which diffusers are worth the investment, editors at Women's Health personally tested diffusers and worked closely with a team of anonymous testers and two hairstylists to find the 11 best hair diffusers for curly hair in 2024. Read on to see our final picks.

What to consider

To make sure you achieve the best curls you can, there are a few things you should keep in mind when shopping for a diffuser:

Your hair's thickness

Some diffusers are capable of accommodating more hair than others or are designed to get closer to your root if you have shorter hair. The fuller your hair, the deeper the diffuser you buy should be, says Hardges. "A deep cup will hold more hair and long appendages can reach into thick, full hair."

Compatibility with your hair dryer

If you're purchasing a diffuser that doesn't come with a hair dryer, you should check its measurements to make sure it's compatible with the blow dryer you have at home. The best hair dryers for attaching diffusers are those with long nozzles, says Hardges.

Type

Diffusers come in all types of sizes and styles. Like Hardges said, the deeper the cup the more hair it will accommodate. Most diffusers come in bowl form, but there are other styles with a flatter surface that have ventilated prongs or a claw/hand-shaped design.

Special features

Having a diffuser with good ventilation can make a big difference, but every brand is a little different, so keep an eye out for those details on the brand's website. "The whole point of a diffuser is to distribute air flow across a bigger surface area, so you want to make sure your diffuser has lots of ventilation," explains celebrity hair stylist Annagjid "Kee" Taylor.

Additionally, think about whether or not you want a tool that can be taken apart, since that can be especially helpful for frequent travelers who want to bring their diffuser with them wherever they go. Finally, consider whether or not it would be helpful to have multiple heat settings that cater to your styling preferences.

How we chose

For the past year, Women’s Health associate fashion and commerce editor Lily Wohlner, and editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert have been researching the most popular, top-rated diffusers for curly hair. They tested diffusers themselves, consulted with two hairstylists, and sought feedback from a team of anonymous testers for the story. Together, they compiled a list of the best options for every budget and preference, below.

If your curly hair needs some shaping and taming, look no further than the 11 best editor- and hairstylist-tested options below.

BEST DIFFUSER FOR ADDING VOLUME

Conair InfinitiPro Hair Dryer

Pros

• Adds volume without impacting frizz
• Testers say that their curl pattern lasts a few days after using this

Cons

• Some testers say it feels inexpensive

Some dryers just accommodate curly and wavy hair and others are designed for it. This Conair dryer and diffuser is the latter. It's made with a unique circulating airflow system that is made to dry and add volume to natural hair without leading to heat damage or frizz. Plus, it uses infrared heat generated with ceramic technology for gentle, even drying.

Testers say that customization is a breeze with this dryer, thanks to its three heat settings and two-speed options. And for those with a lot of hair, rest assured—the diffuser comes equipped with a generously-sized bowl that covers all your hair. One tester calls out that the tool enhances her curls to the point where she doesn't need to give them a refresh the next day.

BEST DIFFUSER FOR PREVENTING HEAT DAMAGE

Shark HyperAir Blow Dryer

Pros

• Prevents heat damage
• Diffuser attachment has extendable prongs

Cons

• Some say this device is heavier than expected

The last thing you want is to damage your precious curls with heat. So, it's important to use tools that offer your ideal style without using suuuper high heat. Look no further than Shark's cult-favorite blow dryer (many testers say it competes with the editor-loved Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer), which taps both high velocity air and ionized air instead of extremely high heat to dry strands.

The dryer constantly checks heat output, up to 1,000 times per second, to guarantee fast and uniform heat distribution. This means when you attach the diffuser, you can trust that it will evenly cover all your coils. Many users appreciate that the dryer automatically switches to a gentle temperature and low air pressure, minimizing frizz. Additionally, it's designed with a deep bowl for even the thickest hair and extendable prongs to reach the roots. BTW, this tool sells out fast, so be sure to grab it while you can.

MOST HIGHLY-RATED DIFFUSER ON AMAZON

Hairizone Universal Hair Diffuser

Pros

• Super lightweight
• Retractable buttons allow it to fit almost any blow dryer

Cons

• Doesn’t have long enough prongs to dry your roots

With nearly 8,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, you can bet this diffuser will give you something to rave about. In addition to even heat distribution (thanks to its 211 holes) and frizz-free drying, the diffuser is also made with retractable buttons that allow it to snap onto almost any blow dryer. "The Hairizone is not only a fan favorite amongst many, but an affordable option as well," says Taylor. "It also has a wide bowl, making it easy to scoop up and effectively dry super long curls."

And if you're questioning its versatility, one tester's feedback will calm your nerves. According to them, the diffuser attachment was so stable on her hairdryer that she was able to hold it upside down. However, she says she wishes the prongs were longer so she can get closer to her roots.

Another tester chimes in, adding that she loves this diffuser because it adds unmatched volume to her hair without making it look poofy.

BEST DIFFUSER FOR DRY HAIR

Revlon Infrared Hair Dryer

Pros

• Leaves hair looking hydrated and healthy
• Super affordable

Cons

• Some reviewers say it only lasts about a year

If you have dry, brittle hair, blowdrying it can sometimes accentuate split ends or dullness. This super affordable dryer, which comes with a diffuser attachment, changes the game. It's designed to avoid over-drying your strands in order to maintain your hair's natural moisture. Plus, it features a cold shock button that helps you lock in definition after drying, per the brand.

This dryer comes with two attachments: a smoothing concentrator and a volumizing diffuser. But, no matter which one you use, you have the benefit of two heat and speed settings, a triple ceramic coating to help reduce heat damage, and infrared technology to heat the hair from the inside-out, helping to maintain its natural moisture. One user has thick, medium-length hair and it dries her hair to 90 percent in under 10 minutes. Another adds that the diffuser is super quiet and leaves her curls soft and shiny.

BEST DIFFUSER FOR TRAVEL

Ouidad Made For Curls 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser

Pros

• Snaps on to most hair dryers
• Great to travel with

Cons

• Makes your hair dryer feel heavier
• On the pricer side for a diffuser attachment, but the three different heads make it worthwhile

Own a blowdryer but not a diffuser attachment? There's no need to buy an entire new tool—just add a few attachments to your cart. For my curly girls out there, this diffuser has three customizable attachments (yup, you can pop different heads on and off the diffuser itself) that allow you to create volume, shape, and definition on all lengths and curl textures. "Because the attachments are silicone, they can stretch to fit most hair dryers," says Taylor. "The unique oval shape fits more hair than a typical diffuser, so many people say that it cuts down on dry time."

She adds that while it's on the pricer side, it's worth it, and testers agree. Users rave about the shape because of how easy it is to travel with. It goes perfectly with a travel-sized hairdryer if needed, but it also fits on your everyday dryer. The only downside some people note is that adding the attachment to your dryer can make it feel a bit heavy.

MOST EASY-TO-CLEAN DIFFUSER

Bed Head 1875W Tourmaline + Ionic Diffuser

Pros

• Diffuser is detachable
• Dries hair super fast

Cons

• Some reviewers say it's not suitable for long hair

If you have a lot of hair, you know how frustrating it is to constantly clean out your tools and combs. With this diffuser, you can skip that step. The removable head pops out of the device so easily, allowing you to easily swipe up any excess hair. Plus, testers say it's super lightweight, so it's easy to bring on-the-go if you can't live without your diffuser.

"This diffuser helps to cut down frizz while also providing texture and curl defining results without excessive heat," says Taylor. "It can also be used as a hair dryer by removing the diffuser, and it offers three different heat levels."

When you're in a pinch, it dries hair quickly, so you can spend less time styling and more time relaxing. Users with short hair say it's easy to target all the sections of their curls, and it gets the job done fast. Some also note how quiet the tool is, too.

BEST BLOWDRYER BRUSH WITH DIFFUSER ATTACHMENT

Wen by Chaz Dean Brush Dryer Styling Tool

Pros

• Certified cruelty-free
• Has three attachments
• Has a low heat setting to prevent from heat damage

Cons

• Brush attachments may be too large for some users with shorter hair

If you're not afraid of a splurge, you'll love this set from Wen. The brand created a sleek-looking blowdryer brush with a diffuser attachment that can be used on all hair types.

I personally got my hair styled by Chaz Dean himself, and let me tell you—this device, which he so kindly gave to me to take home after my blowout, has made my hair so easy to style. First of all, it's not shaped like a traditional blowdryer, so I find it easier to use all over my head. Secondly, I find that the tool itself is nice and lightweight, so whether I'm using the diffuser attachment or the other brushes, It's easy to hold and use above my head.

As far as heat damage goes—I'll be the first to admit that I walked into his West Village salon with frayed ends that he wasn't afraid to chop off—I never feel like I'm frying my strands off with this brush, as it doesn't gets super hot like a lot of the less expensive tools on the market. However, it still dries my hair just as fast as my higher-heat tools. For once in my life, my hair actually feels healthier after I use this tool than it does before. Another first? I've actually been wearing my hair curly, thanks to his line of fantastic styling products and this easy-to-use diffuser.

BEST OVERALL DIFFUSER FOR CURLY HAIR

Pattern Blow Dryer

Pros

• Made specifically for super coily hair types
• Comes with many attachments

Cons

• Some reviewers say it doesn't get hot enough

This complete system from Tracee Ellis Ross' Pattern brand is everything your curly hair needs (this entire system is made for curly hair!). It includes a blow dryer, diffuser, wide tooth comb attachment, and concentrated nozzle, all of which are made to style a wide variety of curl patterns. They can also be used to achieve any style, whether you're going for sleek and straight or full-blown 'fro. In fact, testers rave about how well it works on textured hair.

But, let's get down to the diffuser. Some users love it because it releases a controlled airflow that quickly dries the hair no matter which angle you tackle it from. Plus, the attachment (and all of the other ones!) has a dual-locking mechanism to ensure it stays firmly in place during styling. This product is made to withstand normal wear and tug, leaving your hair looking fantastic, says one tester, who adds that it's a great investment.

BEST EXPERT-APPROVED DIFFUSER

Trademark Beauty Speedy Blo

Pros

• Small and lightweight
• Super customizable with three heat settings and two speed options

Cons

• Some testers say it doesn't get hot enough

Hardges loves this hair dryer/diffuser combo from Trademark Beauty because it's small and offers high heat that's distributed evenly. "It also has long appendages that will help reach into thicker hair," she adds. Basically, it checks every box, and testers agree. With three heat settings, two speed options, two concentrator nozzles, and a diffuser, it caters to all hair types from curly to straight.

Our testers say this tool is both powerful and quick-drying. Meanwhile, the nozzles also guarantee a salon-like finish. It's incredibly lightweight, and the handle provides extra security and control.

MOST QUIET DIFFUSER

Hot Tools Quietair Power Dryer

Pros

• Reduces frizz
• Features a long cord

Cons

• Some reviewers say it's not super powerful

Testers say this blow dryer/diffuser combo has everything you could want. It comes with a wide attachment for quick drying, a cool shot button to reduce frizz, and eight speed and heat settings. Plus, it has an ultra-quiet motor, so it's perfect for diffusing hair if you have working roomies or sleeping children.

Another pro? It has an extra long cord for easy styling and a built-in illuminating light ring, which makes it look nice and sleek (not to mention easy to find in a dark room!). This normally retails for around $120 because of how well it works on a wide variety of hair types, but with the current sale, it's a deal worth jumping on.

MOST VERSATILE DIFFUSER

Curlsmith De-Frizzion Dryer

Pros

• Creates a bunch of different styles
• Makes hair look shinier and more moisturized

Cons

• Some testers say the curls don't last more than a day

The De-Frizzion Dryer is all about taking good care of your hair. It's equipped with clever technology that gently smooths your hair, making it shinier and more moisturized. Many users note that it does a great job at taming static and frizz. With the diffuser attachment, you can easily create different styles by scrunching, hovering, or stretching your hair, depending on the look you're going for.

Plus, many testers say this tool cuts their drying time in half, minus the damage from the heat. It has three speeds and four heat settings that keep you in control of the finished look the whole time. If you already love the brand's products, trust that this diffuser delivers on the quality, too.

Meet the experts

Leigh Hardges is a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago
Annagjid "Kee" Taylor is a celebrity hair stylist and founder of Deeper Than Hair

 

How do you use a diffuser?

For the best results, you should use your diffuser on high heat with low airflow, says Hardges. "Hold the diffuser at least six inches from the hair to gently dry the ends. You can also flip your head over to dry it upside down and crest volume in the crown of your head." Bouncy, shiny curls coming right up!