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How to Use a Diffuser on Curly Hair: Your Easy-To-Follow Guide
Learning how to use a diffuser on curly hair doesn't have to be a daunting task. Whether you already own a diffuser or are on the lookout for one, it's undeniable that diffusers have countless benefits for both textured and curly hair types. If you're after defined, luscious curls but aren't sure where to start, we've listed some techniques to help keep your curl pattern intact with the right diffuser attachment, as well as deliver volume and shine with next to no effort.
Step 1. Don't towel-drysqueeze or blot instead
Celebrity hairstylist, curly hair specialist, and founder of her very own Afro hair texture cutting course, Jennie Roberts knows a thing or two about the dos and don'ts of using a diffuser. It turns out that, just like when working with other hair tools like the best hair dryers, the fundamentals begin way before you've even left the shower.
It might be tempting to towel-dry hair if your curls are dripping after you've washed them, but resist the urge. Towel-drying will pull your gorgeous natural curls apart, plus hair needs to be very wet to really mold curls and retain their shape. Gently squeeze excess moisture out of your hair in the shower instead.
It's when your hair is saturated that you can truly capture the curl, according to Jennie.
2. Prep with a leave-in conditioner or curl cream
The right curl products applied to wet hair will give curls weight and definition. Without products, Jennie explains, curls are liable to dry out or get blown out. The perfect curl-defining product, however, depends on your curl type and hair texture. Jennie prescribes a few curl enhancers to consider:
You need to cast' the curls before diffusing for them to really last. Curl types 2 and 3 (wavy and curly) might need a spritz of leave-in conditioner topped with a mousse or a glaze. I love Paul Mitchell Super Sculpt for this.
Curl types 4 (tight coils) will require a heavier product, such as a coiling paste. Afro-textured curls especially need more hydration as well as glossy topcoat. I especially love Mielle Organics Twisting Souffl for creating both hold and nourishment.
Director hair stylist at Billi Currie and Evo ambassador Tom Smith also advocates nailing your moisture-to-hold ratio, depending on your hair's needs: If your hair has a very strong and resilient curl, a product with a higher moisture content but lighter styling hold will achieve the best results (Tom recommends Evo Liquid Rollers Curl Balm). If curls stretch out more easily, you need more hold from the start: Apply curl cream to soaking wet curls using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. Finally, before reaching for the diffuser, Jennie advocates a liberal spritz of heat protection spray to minimize heat damage and keep curls defined, bouncy, and healthy-looking.