travel universal hair diffuser

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Top-rated travel diffusers for smooth, defined curls whenever, wherever

If you’ve ever owned a hair dryer , there’s a good chance you’ve encountered a diffuser attachment before. Diffuser attachments are round, claw-like pieces that fit onto the nozzle of a hair dryer and, spread out any air emitted from the blow dryer. This allows for a gentler and more even airflow than what you might get from the nozzle alone.

Diffusers are especially useful for people with curly hair, since, by evenly dispersing (and slowing) the force of air, they can dry waves, curls and coils without affecting their shape and definition. Plus, depending on how you use your diffuser, this attachment can also boost volume and enhance texture.

However, diffusers’ round, thick shape can make them bulky, so they may be particularly troublesome to travel with. Some are even designed to fit only on dedicated hair dryers, which is why finding a portable option can be helpful. With that in mind, we asked hairstylists to share their picks for travel diffusers that’ll give you healthy, shiny curls wherever, whenever.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the top-rated travel diffusers | Top-rated travel diffusers to shop in 2024 | How to shop for travel diffusers | Who should use a hair diffuser? | How to use a diffuser | How to pack a diffuser

Our top picks

How we picked top-rated travel diffusers

If the size of a standard diffuser is too large for your luggage, then you have two options, according to experts we spoke with. You can either find a collapsible diffuser, which folds into a flat, round shape, or opt for a sock diffuser, which is made of a soft, foldable material. Some also prefer to use the attachments that come included when you buy a travel hair dryer. Here’s what else to consider.

• Compatibility : Diffusers aren’t always one-size-fits-all. If you’re planning to use a hotel hair dryer, opt for a diffuser attachment that comes in a universal size to ensure it fits.
• Material : The material of your appliance can determine how much space it will take up.  Soft, mesh materials will take up the least amount of space.
• Size: Diffusers can differ in their diameter, which can impact how easily they are to travel with’ as well as how they style hair.

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Top-rated travel diffusers to shop in 2024.

Below, we compiled the travel diffusers that experts use to style their clients’ hair on the road. We also include travel hair dryers that come with diffuser attachments, since these often have more bells and whistles, like cool-shot buttons and multiple heat settings, than your average hotel dryer. (Plus, there’s no guarantee that a dryer will necessarily be available wherever you’re traveling.) For that reason, we included recommendations for both.

Top-rated travel diffusers

Ys park large diffuser.

Several experts we spoke with recommended this soft sock dryer, since it’s incredibly versatile. “I use this diffuser for setting a wet look and drying men’s hair, as well as drying natural waves and curls,” says Jennifer Nast , a hairstylist at Sharon Dorram Salon at Sally Herschberger in New York City. Mia Santiago , a hairstylist in Los Angeles, also says that it’s easy to pack and use. The mesh fabric is infused with silver and titanium particles, which help it retain heat, plus it comes with an adjustable strap to fit any nozzle, according to the brand.

Compatibility: Universal | Material: Mesh | Size: N/A

Hot Sock The Ultralight Diffuser

Unlike a plastic option, this foam sock diffuser is small enough to put in a purse and is effectively weightless, according to the brand. It has a 4.3-star average rating from 2,771 reviews on Amazon, and should extend as far as four inches beyond the tip of the dryer, according to Hot Sock. 

Compatibility: Universal | Material: Foam | Size: N/A

The Curly Co. Collapsible Hair Diffuser

The stretchy, flexible silicone of this diffuser, which collapses flat to a width of 2.25 inches, can  fit on most hair dryer nozzles, according to the brand. It also has built-in grips, and works best with low heat, according to The Curly Co. It has a 4.1-star average rating from 5,410 reviews on Amazon.

Compatibility: Universal | Material: Silicone | Size: 5.25-inch diameter

Conair Volumizing Universal Hair Diffuser

When she doesn’t want to pack a hair dryer, Sandra Almanzar , a Davines Salon specialist and hairstylist, relies on this diffuser, saying that it fits comfortably in her suitcase. Plus, this has prongs, or fingers, which lift the hair while diffusing, adding volume and body to the hair, she says. It doesn’t have the smallest profile, but it does fit most hair-dryer nozzles, including many Conair models, according to the brand.

Compatibility: Conair hair dryers | Material: Plastic | Size: 5.5-inch diameter

Top-rated travel hair dryers with diffusers

Curlsmith de-frizzion travel hair dryer & diffuser.

Curlsmith De-Frizzion Travel Hair Dryer & Diffuser

While this hair dryer is relatively small as it is, the handle folds down to further shrink its footprint. It has dual voltage, multiple speed and heat settings, and comes with a 6-inch diffuser, which is smaller than the  8-inch version that Curlsmith typically offers, according to the brand. The dryer, which has a 5.0-star rating from 47 reviews at Sephora, also comes with a storage bag.

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.1 pounds | Size: 6-inch diameter

Bed Head Curls-in-Check 1875W Hair Diffuser Dryer

This diffuser, which comes recommended by NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin , is built into a compact dryer (although you can remove it for cleaning and to increase the airflow). It has three heat and two speed settings as well as a cool-shot button, according to the brand. “It honestly doesn’t take up much space in my luggage and is super reliable,” says Malin. “I’ve had mine for over a year and use it at home every day in addition to while traveling.”

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.55 pounds | Size: 8.5-inch diameter

Dyson Supersonic

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

The Dyson Supersonic has a slim profile and light weight (clocking in at 1.8 pounds) that makes it easier to pack than the typical hair dryer. It comes with a diffuser that magnetically attaches to the nozzle of the dryer. “I absolutely love the diffuser attachment with the Dyson blow dryer because of the long prongs and how it dries the hair evenly,” says Almanzar.

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.8 pounds | Size: 5.5-inch diameter 

InfinitiProBy Conair Worldwide Travel Folding Dryer

This folding travel hair dryer has two voltage levels, which automatically adjust when you plug it in, according to the brand. It also has an LED display to note the voltage, too, as well as three heat and two speed options. The diffuser attachment itself has long prongs, and the dryer has a 4.4-star average rating from more than 1,100 ratings on Amazon.

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.55 pounds | Size: 4.7-inch diameter

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How to shop for travel diffusers.

When you’re shopping for a travel diffuser, the most important thing to consider is whether you want a standalone diffuser — meaning you’ll attach it to a hotel hair dryer — or a diffuser attachment that comes with a travel hair dryer.

That said, the wattage (which measures the power of the dryer and influences the drying time) will differ between hotels, travel dryers, and your usual, at-home hair dryer. “Most travel dryers aren’t as powerful as an at-home dryer, so it may take a bit longer than normal to diffuse your hair,” says Meri Kate O’Connor , a hair colorist at Benjamin Salon in West Hollywood, CA.

Then, there’s the type of diffuser. There are generally two types to consider:

• Sock diffusers: These are essentially small, sock-like bags that cover the end of the blow-dryer. “This option can easily be packed in any carry-on or suitcase,” says Nast. This type of diffuser is very gentle on the hair, but it can take longer to fully dry waves and curls.
• Collapsible diffusers: These diffusers, which are typically made of silicone or plastic, pop out for diffusing, and then collapse down for storage. As a result, they’re helpful for saving space while traveling, says O’Connor. The drawback is that depending on the quality of the diffuser, it might not stay popped open while you’re using it.

The material of your diffuser is also important to consider when shopping. Some are made of silicone, which allow the base of the diffuser to fit over any nozzle size. Others are made of plastic; the advantage here is that these typically have prongs throughout, which grip and lift the hair while you diffuse, improving volume and texture. 

And, of course, the size matters. The larger the diffuser, the more evenly it can disperse air — and the faster your hair dries. However,  “compact or collapsible diffusers may have a smaller diffusing area,” says Almanzar. “This could slightly compromise the overall styling effect compared to standard-sized diffusers.” It’s ultimately the tradeoff for being able to easily transport a diffuser.

Who should use a hair diffuser?

If you have any bend to your hair, be it a loose 2A wave or a springy 4B coil, a diffuser can be helpful.  “A diffuser attachment is beneficial for individuals with curly or wavy hair textures , as it helps enhance natural curls and reduce frizz,” says Almanzar. “It can also be used by anyone looking to add volume and texture to their hair.”

That’s because these attachments diffuse the airflow coming from your hair dryer, making it gentler so the force of it doesn’t straighten out hair or reduce definition. (For my own 2C and 3A curls, which I typically air dry, I find that using a diffuser is a fast way to get a tousled, air-dried look without the wait.)

Using a hair dryer with a powerful airflow, can inadvertently cause frizz, so the diffuser also minimizes frizz and flyaways and delivers a smoother, shinier appearance to curls.

How to use a hair diffuser

First, it’s important to position your diffuser correctly. Start by aiming the diffuser downward, in the direction of the hair shaft, says O’Connor. By aiming the airflow in a single direction, it helps keep the cuticle of the hair — and your hair itself — smooth.

Try not to touch your hair during this step, since doing so can create frizz. (And, depending on the material of the diffuser — as with a sock diffuser — you could make your hair fuzzy.) Then, “gently check the hair periodically to see how dry the hair is,” says Nast. “When you are about 80 to 90 percent dry, lower the heat and speed level.” 

At this point, you can go in and start scrunching your hair with your hands, moving the diffuser around the hair and placing your curls in the bowl of the diffuser until they’re fully dry. You can also style your hair to get different effects. For instance, if you’re looking for volume, you can flip your head upside down or tilt it to the right or left while aiming your diffuser upwards, says Santiago. 

For the best results, “don’t drag your diffuser through your hair,” she says. “Bounce it in and out to disperse the airflow into the hair.”

How to pack a diffuser

Once you have your diffuser in hand, it’s important to pack it right. If you’re working with a sock diffuser, it’s simple: Simply fold it up and stash it with the rest of your clothes or toiletries . Meanwhile, when packing a standard-size diffuser for travel, “try placing it in the middle of your suitcase , preferably between clothes,” says Nast. (That way, it’ll be cushioned to minimize the chance of it breaking.)

But you can adjust it to whatever feels most secure. For instance, “I keep mine sideways to pack things around it so it doesn’t move or get broken,” says Santiago.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. 

• Jennifer Nast is a hairstylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York, NY, where she specializes in easy-to-maintain haircuts.
• Sandra Almanzar is a Davines Salon specialist and hairstylist based in New York, NY.
• Mia Santiago is a hairstylist who splits her time between Columbus, OH, New York City, and Los Angeles. She specializes in editorial, advertising, and red-carpet hairstyling.
• Meri Kate O’Connor is a hair colorist at Benjamin Salon in West Hollywood, CA. She focuses on blonde hair colors, as well as extensions and keratin treatments.

Why trust NBC Select?

Deanna Pai is a freelance beauty writer and editor who has been covering beauty and health for more than a decade, including recent stories on how to identify your curl type and roundups of the best brushes and combs . She uses a diffuser to dry her Types 2C and 3A curls in a pinch, and interviewed four hairstylists to learn how to take your hair diffuser on the go.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.  

Deanna Pai is a freelance writer and editor at NBC Select.

What’s the Best Hair Diffuser for Travel? Readers Answer

Hair , TOILETRIES , Travel Beauty Tips

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

A hair diffuser is an essential item for many of our curly-haired readers. This is the one item they will sacrifice room in their suitcase for. Have a look at our round up of the best hair diffusers for travel to save yourself space and weight in your luggage!

Best Hair Diffuser List

Table of contents.

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

I have curly hair and always use a diffuser. Any advice for my upcoming three weeks in Italy? Are there any good travel-size diffusers?

What’s the best diffuser for curly hair? If you rely on your hair dryer and diffuser to manage your curls, what do you do when you travel? Hair dryers and diffusers can be bulky to pack, but there are some compact and foldable styles that will help keep your hair looking gorgeous when traveling.

Here’s what our readers say are their favorite hair diffusers, attachments, and tools for travel!

The Best Diffuser Attachments

Hot sock diffuser, freci diffuser hot sock.

• WAJIAYON Collapsible Hair Diffuser

Hairizone Universal Hair Diffuser

Babylisspro nano titanium universal finger diffuser, kingkam universal hair dryer diffuser, best hair dryers with diffuser attachments, hot tools professional, dan technology d29 compact hair dryer.

Hot Sock The Ultralight Diffuser

The  Hot Sock Diffuser is fantastic for curly or wavy hair. Add it to your hair dryer or use it on one provided by your accommodation. Its small size is perfect for slipping into your luggage, so your hair is always ready for those travel photos!

The Hot Sock Diffuser is a favorite among our readers. “I use this at home and take it wherever I go, anywhere where I will blow dry/diffuse my curls. It is elastic and literally does fit on ANY dryer, compresses flat, and weighs practically nothing!”

Another reader used this diffuser for hair when she traveled to Italy. “It worked really well for me despite the fact it was hot, which adds to the frizz.” One curly hair reader adds, “I’m a hairstylist, and I’ve used this sock diffuser for years. Weighs nothing and takes up virtually no room.”

FRECI Hot Sock Hair Dryer Diffuser

The FRECI mesh diffuser sock may seem a little big, but readers say it is easy to use, “is compact, and is great.” The ION fabric helps regulate heat and water molecules so hair dries fast yet still feels soft and hydrated while controlling frizz. 

It fits most hair dryer models. One reader, who has very curly hair, swears by this accessory, saying, “ Travel with a sock diffuser it. It will change your life!”

Universal Collapsible Hair Diffuser

Collapsible Hair Diffuser

Use this  Universal Collapsible Hair Diffuser  to care for your curls while blowing the frizz away. The silicone construction is built to stretch and shrink to fit almost any hair dryer that accommodates attachments. It collapses flat, so it won’t take up room in your suitcase.

Readers like this hair diffuser for travel. One reader took this collapsible diffuser on her trip to Italy “without any problems. The tip is flexible so you can fit it on any blow dryer.”

Use the  Hairizone Universal Hair Diffuser  to tame your curly hair while protecting it from damage from concentrated heat. This hair diffuser is designed with lockable buttons, so it is suitable for hair dryers with nozzle diameters of 1.7 inches to 2.6 inches.

One reader says, “I find that there’s always a blow dryer wherever I go, so I just take this adjustable diffuser attachment with me. It takes up less space, and I love that it has the finger knobs, because that’s what helps give me volume at the roots.”

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Universal Finger Diffuser

Use this  BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Universal Finger Diffuser to create bouncy curls without frizz. This curly hair diffuser is not collapsible, so it takes up more room than a foldable one, but it saves you from having to pack a blow dryer as you just slide it on any hair dryer, including those available at hotels.

One curly-haired reader travels with this diffuser “with great success.” Another reader shares how it works “just as well as one already attached to a hair dryer.”

KingKam Universal Collapsible Hair Dryer Diffuser

This portable KingKamp Collapsible Hair Dryer Diffuser is adaptable to most models of hair dryers, and its foldable design makes it compact and easy to store while traveling. It comes in four colors: black, pink, blue, or gray.

Several TFG readers have said that this is the best hair diffuser for curly hair because it’s great for traveling. “I’ve had no problems with it!”

Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer

The  Hot Tools Professional is a sleek and compact travel hair dryer with a diffuser attachment. It’s also highly recommended by our curly haired travelers. This hair diffuser requires to you travel with the accompanying hair dryer rather than using one provided for by your accommodation.

One reader recommends Hot Tools as the best hair dryer with a diffuser because it is travel size, has dual voltage, and comes with a diffuser, saying, “It’s amazing.”

The DAN Technology D29 Compact Hair Dryer is perfect for travel with dual voltage and mini size. The diffuser attachment will help tame those curls during your trip!

One reader says this is  the best hair dryer for curly hair with a diffuser. “It has been awesome for me. It’s easy to pack, and the diffuser actually stays on!” Another reader says, “I highly recommend the DAN Technology dual-voltage mini dryer. Just remember to switch the voltage as needed, and bring a plug adapter.”

Note: If you choose a travel or regular curly hair diffuser blow dryer, then your styling product needs to be dual voltage to work in other countries. Having the right voltage is crucial when you use electronics abroad.

What is a Dual-Voltage Travel Hair Dryer?

A dual-voltage travel hair dryer has two voltage options: 110-120V and 220-240V. They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too. You will need to adjust the voltage manually by moving a switch.

Here are the best travel hair dryers with dual voltage!

Why Do You Need a Dual-Voltage Hair Dryer for International Travel?

Voltage refers to electricity; different countries have different types of electricity. This means that your electronics are the same voltage as the country in which you bought them, so if you take them to another country, they might not work.

For example, in the US we use 110-120V, whereas in Europe they use 220-240V. If we plug our electronics into each other’s outlets, they can blow a fuse and stop working. In some cases, they even  can fry your hair.

Visit  this website for a full list of voltage by country!

International Power Adapter

Your blow dryer needs to have two things in order to work in other countries:

• The correct voltage
• A travel adapter

A travel adapter enables you to plug your non dual-voltage electronics into international outlets. Not all countries use the same type of plug, so I recommend you buy an international adapter like this.

Remember to switch your hair tools to 220V/240V when you arrive at your destination !

Visit this  power outlet guide for travelers  to see a full list of plugs and outlets by country.

Best Hair Diffuser Product Comparison Chart

Which hair diffuser would you recommend for travel? Share in the comments below!

For more tips on travel hair, please read these posts:

• Best Travel Hair Straightener
• Best Travel Curling Iron
• Best Travel Hair Dryer
• The Ultimate Guide to Hair While Traveling

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I hope you liked this post on the best hair diffuser for travel. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

The hot sock is hands down the best diffuser I’ve ever used. It takes up zero space in my bag while traveling and outperforms everything else at home. Give it a try. You won’t be disappointed!!

Best I have ever used is the Karmin.

Hi Ashlee, thank you for sharing your recommendation of the Karmin with us!! Happy travels!

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The 15 Best Diffusers for Curly Hair of 2024

Smooth, define, and add volume with picks from Conair, Dyson, DevaCurl, Shark, and more

Byrdie / Lecia Landis

For curly hair, there’s often a love/hate relationship with blowdryers. Sure, they can speed up your drying time—but the fast, hot winds can leave your curls feeling dry, and looking less than defined. Enter diffusers: a curly girl’s hero accessory to blow dryers. These handy, bowl-shaped attachments distribute the air throughout your hair so that your curls can dry more evenly, resulting in more defined curls.

According to Aeleise Ollarvia, the co-founder of Black Girl Curls a diffuser makes all the difference. "A diffuser is a great, portable way to take curls from wet to dry with minimal flyaways," she explains. "It can also enhance volume during the drying process if desired.” 

We conducted hours of research on the best diffusers for curly hair, evaluating each model by its design, benefits offered, and what type of hair it works best on. After consulting with a haircare expert and considering dozens of options, we landed on the following best in show.

Final Verdict

• What to Look For
• Why Trust Byrdie?

Best Overall

Devacurl devafuser.

Unique design

Smoothes hairs

Ceramic lining

Not compatible with all hair dryers

Read Full Review : DevaCurl DevaFuser Review

You’re probably familiar with the curl innovation of DevaCurl , so it’s no surprise that the brand would have a one-of-a-kind diffuser made with curly hair in mind. The ceramic inner core preserves moisture to ensure shinier, sleeker-looking curls. Plus, the wide, hand-like head delivers 360 degrees of airflow to shorten your drying time. During testing, we found that it yielded great results; just keep in mind that it takes longer to dry hair.

Type: Diffuser

Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

Best Budget

Kingkam silicone hair dryer diffuser.

Travel-friendly

Compatible with a variety of dryers

May collapse while using

You don’t have to break the bank to get a quality diffuser. This collapsible blowdryer attachment is ideal for travel and easy storage, funneling and softening the airflow of your hairdryer while also collapsing to a convenient size.

Best for Volume

Drybar the bouncer diffuser.

Dries bigger sections

Adds volume

Lightweight

Reviewers note diffuser can fall off

This convenient diffuser gets major points for its large shape that’s able to dry big sections at a time. The circular shape cups your hair to distribute heat from roots to tips for great shape and volume. It’s also surprisingly lightweight so that every wash day doesn’t also have to be an arm workout.

Best for Travel

Hot sock the ultralight diffuser.

Not as much control as traditional diffusers

No room for your standard diffuser in your carry-on bag? This Hot Sock diffuser is the next best thing. While it doesn’t feature fancy prongs, it conveniently glides over the nozzle of your blowdryer to reduce heat damage , limit flyways, and promote more defined curls.

Best Compact

Chi 1875 series advanced ionic compact hair dryer.

Three heat settings

Includes diffuser

Pricier than other options

When you want all of the bang of a quality hair dryer with less of the bulk, this compact ionic dryer is a great solution—and of course, it comes with a handy diffuser attachment. With three heat settings and two speed settings, you can control the amount of heat you subject your hair to while diffusing the airflow for a more precise drying experience. This is pricier than other options on our list—but you're getting a whole drying system, not just an attachment.

Type: Dryer + diffuser

Best Splurge

Dyson supersonic hair dryer.

Reduces damage

Unmatched styling capabilities

This Supersonic hairdryer is quite the splurge, but users who love it say it’s worth every penny. Aeleise says that this dryer “has power and heat but doesn't displace the hair even on the highest air setting. It's game-changing because the hair can dry in half of the time.” Its technology takes blowdrying one step further by protecting your hair from heat damage for 75% increased smoothness and 132% decreased flyaways—no matter the humidity. Yes, it's expensive, but it's also won over fans who swear by its results, so we think it's worth the spend.

Byrdie / Ashley Rubell

Best Classic

Conair infinitipro hair dryer.

There’s a reason why Conair is celebrated for making quality hair tools—they just get it right, and this classic hairdryer is no exception. The ceramic technology makes for safer drying, and you can also use the cold shot when you want to avoid heat. The diffuser also has prongs with multiple lengths so it can evenly distribute air through thick hair.

Byrdie / Emily Algar

Best Smoothing

Revlon salon infrared hair dryer.

Minimizes flyaways

This blowdryer and diffuser set was made with humidity in mind. With infrared heat technology and a diffuser with widespread prongs, you reduce your risk of over-drying your hair. The results? Smoother curls and enhanced shine.

Best Adaptable

Hairizone hair diffuser adaptable for blow dryers.

Comes in various colors

Can break easily

When you buy a diffuser that doesn’t come with your blowdryer you can run the risk of it not fitting—but not with this adaptable head. With a quick squeeze, it can adjust in size to fit 90% of blow dryers on the market. Use the diffuser for a sleek finish.

Best for Thick Hair

Confu hair dryer with diffuser.

Longer prongs than other options

Having a diffuser sounds like a great curly-haired solution unless your hair is too thick for tiny prongs to penetrate. That’s why this diffuser is such a standout. It has extra-long prongs that can reach the roots of thick hair, and the convenient, lightweight dryer is ergonomic for comfortable styling.

For tighter curls, Aeleise offers her advice for maximum definition and flyaway-free diffusing, “When using a diffuser on tighter curls do not put it into the hair. Hover it over the hair 4 to 6 inches like a portable hood dryer. Move it in the direction the hair grows, root to end, not end to root, to reduce the possibility of frizz. Don't put your hand in your hair either till the hair is 60% to 75% dry.”

Best Hair Tool Set

Lovppy silicone hair dryer diffuser set.

Includes diffuser, detangling brush, and two combs

If you’re ready to give your entire wash day styling routine an upgrade, this set of hair tools is a great place to start. It comes with a collapsible silicone diffuser, detangling brush, plus fine-tooth and wide tooth combs for reduced breakage .

Type: Diffuser + combs

Best for Loose Curls

Bed head 1875 watt diffuser dryer.

Hair can get sucked into dryer

This diffuser sets itself apart from the pack for its unique design that has a large surface area—making for quick drying and faster results. The removable diffuser is evenly spaced for added definition, texture, and increased volume .

Type: Diffuser + dryer

To create definition and volume in loose curls, work slowly from the ends towards your roots, gently massaging your hair in a circular motion with the diffuser's "fingers."

Best Hooded Dryer

Glow by daye soft bonnet hood dryer attachment.

Even heat distribution

Reviewers note its not comfortable to wear

Now, this isn’t exactly a diffuser, but the even distribution of the air gives you all of the benefits of a hairdryer with the convenience of an attachment. It’s great for setting roller styles or twist-outs, but it can also be used on wash-and-go styles for easy, effortless drying. Plus, the flexible material fits virtually any blowdryer.

Type: Hood attachment

Best for Fine Hair

T3 soft curl diffuser.

Volumizes and enhances

Only compatible with a T3 blow-dryer

This do-it-all diffuser works for both curly and coily textures, and for all hair types. However, it’s especially choice for those with finer strands. The vented extensions evenly disperse heat, helping to add volume, all while defining your spirals in the process.

Best Multi-Tasker

Shark flexstyle air styling and drying system.

All-in-one tool that’s great for creating a variety of styles

Minimizes heat damage to hair

It's an investment

This isn’t a diffuser, it’s not a dryer, and it’s certainly not your run-of-the-mill hot tool. There are not one, not two, but three different attachments included: a blow-dryer head, two different size curling wraps, a round brush, and a unique, flower-shaped diffuser. The diffuser is noteworthy in and of itself, with retractable and extendable prongs that help shape your curls to perfection. Plus, this also gives you the option of wearing your hair smooth if you want to blow it out, or adding back waves with the curl wraps. Not to mention that it measures and regulates the air temperature a whopping 1,000 times per second, helping to drastically cut down on the likelihood of heat damage.

Type: Diffuser + dryer + attachments

The DevaCurl DevaFuser made the top of our list for its practical design that delivers luscious curls every time. If you’re looking to add a budget-friendly tool to your arsenal, look no further than the KingKam Collapsible Silicone Hair Dryer Diffuser . And finally, if you’re nervous about a diffuser attachment fitting your blowdryer, the Hairizone Universal Hair Diffuser Adaptable for Blow Dryers can adjust to the blowdryer you already have.

Meet the Expert

• Aeleise Ollarvia is a tight curl educator, licensed cosmetologist, and the co-founder of Black Girl Curls and Cut It Kinky .

What to Look For When Shopping for a Diffuser

Size and shape.

When you’re buying a blow dryer that already comes with a diffuser attachment, you’re in the clear. But if you are searching for an attachment, Aeleise says, “make sure the one you purchase fits securely on your preferred handled dryer. This will reduce fumbling and possible frizzing of the hair.”

Your Hair’s Thickness

Thick hair obviously needs a bit of assistance to dry quickly, so those with thick hair should choose a diffuser with longer prongs that can penetrate your curls and coils to dry your hair at the root.

A diffuser helps to control the air coming out of your hair dryer so that your curls can remain more intact and defined.

Gently comb through your hair with a brush and dry softly with a towel after showering. Apply your styling products and a heat protectant . Then, divide your hair into sections.

Put individual sections of your hair into the bowl-like part of the diffuser, pushing up from tip to root so that the prongs touch your scalp. From there, massage the diffuser into your hair by moving your dryer upward in a slow circular motion. Set the dryer to low heat and speed settings to prevent your hair from becoming tangled and difficult to handle. It’s best to not fully dry your hair when using a diffuser.

"If you can expose your hand to the airstream from the diffuser without much discomfort for the same time you would hover over a section of your hair, then it's fine," notes Ollarvia. Indirect heat use is like walking down the street in central Florida in July. Hot and uncomfortable but not dangerous.”

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Kindra Moné has been creating fashion and beauty content since 2013. Whether contributing to some of the top women’s lifestyle magazines or working in-house with global brands, Kindra has collaborated with some of the industry’s most knowledgeable beauty professionals. When she isn’t writing or trying out Instagram recipes, she’s giving wellness tips and sharing fashion news on The StylingSOUL Podcast .

According to our  Diversity Pledge , 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough diffusers for curly hair from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at [email protected] and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

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Bio Ionic Universal Diffuser

Online only | Item 2576061

With a turn of the head, the Bio Ionic's Universal Diffuser adjusts air flow based on your styling needs. Open vents for higher air flow or close them to be more targeted.

• Easy-to-control airflow
• Reaches into scalp with extended fingers
• 12 air outlets allow for faster drying
• 2.25" diameter for dryer attachment

Keep all vents open for increased maximum airflow. Turn dial to lessen air flow.

13 Best Travel Hair Dryers That Are Tiny But Mighty

They pack a powerful blow.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

While travel hair dryers serve the same fundamental purpose as their full-size counterparts (drying and styling hair), they're "usually more compact and lightweight, and are designed to work with a variety of voltage standards and adaptability to different outlets in ways regular dryers typically are not," says Sabina Wizemann , director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab. "Travel blow dryers usually have lower wattage to meet the voltage requirements of various countries," she adds.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Drybar baby buttercup travel blow dryer.

Conair Worldwide Travel Hair Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer With Diffuser

Stylecraft peewee dual voltage travel dryer.

Slimmest Travel Hair Dryer

L'ange le styliste luxe digital salon dryer.

Best Dual-Voltage Travel Hair Dryer

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

Most Powerful Travel Hair Dryer

Revlon fast dry travel styler.

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Damaged Hair

T3 afar lightweight travel size hair dryer.

Best Luxury Travel Hair Dryer

Dyson supersonic hair dryer.

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Thick Hair

Fhi heat innovator dryer.

Best Customizable Travel Hair Dryer

Bio ionic smart-x high efficiency hair dryer + diffuser.

Our Beauty Lab analysts regularly test hair dryers, hair dryer brushes , curling wands and other types of hair tools for performance, styling ability and ease of use. In our most recent test of travel hair dryers, we evaluated 11 models and recorded over 2,000 data points to determine which delivered the most gorgeous, salon-level blowouts. Our final list of recommendations includes the winning models from our test, as well as editor favorites, plus tips from celebrity hairstylists Clariss Rubenstein and Nick Stenson .

Our analysts were impressed by the travel-sized version of Drybar's best-selling hair dryer — in fact, it came out on top in our travel hair dryer tests.

The dual-voltage model delivers fast-drying power in a conveniently compact package that folds at the handle and offers two heat settings plus a cool shot button to lock in your style. It landed perfect scores in our Lab evaluations for its easy-to-use controls , quick drying time and strong airflow. "Wow, this is powerful," said one tester. "It's the right size and doesn't look like a travel dryer until you fold the handle."

While it is pricey for a travel dryer, Wizemann notes that it's powerful enough to pull double-duty as a home and away option. One other thing to note: Some testers commented that it was a bit heavier than other models they've tried, and the attachments weren't always easy to get on and off.

This Conair dryer scored high in our travel hair dryer test and it's a GH Beauty Award winner . It blew away the competition when it came to drying speed, drying standardized human hair samples fastest of all the travel hairdryers we tested (in just 60 seconds!).

While a little bulky for a travel dryer, we think it's a versatile and budget-friendly option, complete with three heat and two speed settings. “It has strong airflow and high heat,” one tester said, while another said they liked that it “offered the most control options.” It does have a shorter cord length than others, though, so you'll need to plug it in close to a mirror if you need one.

Impressively lightweight, this hair dryer is the quick fix you need for a weekend trip if you rely on using a hair diffuser . The Lab found it one of the most consistent models we tested across the board when it came to comfortable hold, quiet airflow and easy-to-use buttons . Plus, it comes with that diffuser, making it a great choice for those with curly hair.

Testers loved that "there is a convenient stand for hands free styling" and that it was "light yet feels substantial." According to our Lab experts, it can get hot, so it's best for quick dries that don't require a cool shot button.

In our testing, our Beauty Lab pros found the Le Styliste Luxe to be a great option for travel. Though it's not technically a travel dryer and doesn't fold, its compact size and weight are on par with other travel hair dryers we've tested.

For being so slender and petite , this 1875-watt hairdryer produced an impressively powerful airflow, drying hair quickly. It comes with two attachments and a diffuser and weighs 1.2 pounds with a cord. It was also quieter than many of the other hair dryers we evaluated.

While we haven't yet fully evaluated this model in the Lab, we had to include it on our list because it's one of the most sought-after travel hair dryers on Amazon , where reviewers say you'll be particularly impressed by how powerful it is, despite its small handheld size. We also give it bonus points for its dual voltage feature and its concentrator nozzle. That said, it may not be ideal for those with curly hair, as there is no diffuser attachment.

One Amazon reviewer, who claims to be an avid traveler, said they've relied on this dryer for 15 years. "I ALWAYS take this with me, period," the reviewer wrote. "I just got back from a 10-day trip to the northern coast of Spain, and my hotel had a blowdryer that I didn't even touch."

Revlon's Fast Dry Travel Styler checks off all the boxes of a good travel hair dryer: It's dual-voltage and offers two heat and speed settings, a cool shot button and a folding handle. Though sleek in design, our Lab testers did find it to be a bit loud and a little difficult to switch between attachments, though. But we're giving it points for being extremely powerful. In fact, it's the only dryer we tested that earned a perfect airflow score .

T3's now-discontinued Featherweight compact hair dryer was a GH favorite. While we haven't yet gotten our hands on this updated version from the brand, we trust that it will prove to be just as great. Why? It has a foldable handle for easy storage, plus it offers dual voltage, meaning you can leave your adapter at home when traveling internationally.

Celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein says she also loves T3 hair dryers for their speedy dry time and frizz-free results . The Afar offers two speeds, three heat settings and a cool shot button. Sephora reviewers say they love the multiple setting options and folding handle — though some note that it is on the noisier side.

While it's not technically a travel hair dryer, the Dyson Supersonic is lightweight and compact, making it a solid travel companion. In our tests, its one-of-a-kind design dried hair fastest and has become the overall standard in our blow dryer tests. It dried an eight-inch hair sample in only 54 seconds due to its impressively strong airflow. How? Its motor is lighter and smaller than most, and it lives in the handle rather than the end of the typical dryer head.

Although it carries a hefty price tag, Deputy Editor Jessica Teich attests that it's worth buying, especially when it comes to domestic travel (it's not dual voltage, so international travelers beware). Our Lab testers agree. "Of all of the dryers, I had the best experience with this one — largely because I felt like on the most humid of days, it got my hair smoother and straighter in less time than any other one I've ever used," shared one.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Why the Dyson Supersonic Is Worth the Money

A GH Beauty Award winner , this sleek dryer delivered the strongest airflow and dried hair fast in testing despite its slim design and compact size, making it ideal for thick hair.

While it's technically a full-size hair dryer and wasn't created for travel, our Lab pros found it to be lightweight, with one saying it was "very comfortable to hold with easy-to-reach controls." Two things to watch for: The nozzle can pop off mid-blowdry when it gets hot and we found it to be slightly more noisy than others tested.

While it is a splurge, Bio Ionic's Smart-X Dryer has a lot of unique features that help justify the price. It allows you to personalize your styling experience with an auto-memorization feature that learns your chosen settings, has a self-cleaning function and uses more air pressure and less heat for an overall healthier dry, according to the brand.

It isn't designed to be a travel dryer, but its lightweight and slim design make it a good option. In testing, Lab analysts noted its strong airflow — a feature echoed by Amazon reviewers. "The concentration of the airflow is [so] amazing that I rarely use the concentrator," wrote one Amazon reviewer. "The dryer is compact in size and perfect for traveling."

Skin Research Institute DryQ “Smart” Hair Dryer

In Lab testing, this quiet and compact hair dryer received the best score for drying hair quickly, making hair look smooth (and not frizzy) and for overall satisfaction when using it . Testers also loved the quality, durability and temperature range of the tool and found it easy to attach and detach accessories, while also folding up nicely.

"I liked how light it was to use and how quickly my hair dried even on the coolest temperature," says one tester, while another loved how smooth and shiny her hair was. "It looked like a professional blowout!" The only downside? The accessories may get hot and controls weren't the easiest to operate.

CHI LAVA PRO Hair Dryer

Lightweight and quiet, this dryer from CHI was another top contender in the Lab's testing due to its good air flow and high heat options . You can't help but notice its unique shape at first glance; it provides a straight shot of air, which reduces drying time using less electricity while producing a stronger air flow, according to the brand. Plus, it has four heat settings, three speed settings and a super quick (seven seconds!) auto-cleaning function.

Since it isn't technically a travel dryer, it doesn't fold up, but reviewers love it nonetheless. "I just started using this hair dryer and love it," shares one reviewer. "It dries my hair so fast and it's so lightweight!"

YA-MAN Spa Styler Blow Dry + Scalp Massage

Comfort is key and Ya-Man's dryer proved that point in our Lab testing. One hundred percent of testers found it ergonomic and comfortable to hold, safe to use and that it didn't cause any discomfort or burns on skin .

The comfort applies to your head and scalp as well: It has a Scalp Lift attachment, inspired by a traditional Japanese head spa, which "combines warm airflow and soothing vibrations to relax and soften the scalp and promote healthy hair," according to the brand. The tool also received the best score in our Lab tests for creating a desired style and 94% of reviewers liked the weight of dryer. While they appreciated the length of the cord, some testers found it to be heavy and also noted that the cool shot button can be easily pressed while blow drying.

"The lightweight and sturdy design makes it easy to maneuver while styling and the airflow dried my hair very quickly (more so than my previous dryer)," shares one tester. "The massage tool is a nice feature — it's very relaxing."

How we test travel hair dryers

When it comes to testing hair dryers, our Beauty Lab pros measure everything from the surface temperature to the ease of use, including the comfort of hold, its weight and its cord length.

In our most recent travel hair dryer test, we evaluated 11 top-rated travel hair dryers by measuring drying speed on standardized human hair samples, as well as airflow and the temperature they reach. We also rated noise level and ease of use, including the comfort of hold, ease of putting on and removing attachments and location of controls and buttons.

Overall, our beauty analysts recorded over 2,000 data points to determine which delivered the most gorgeous, salon-level blowouts . In this list, we included the final seven that outperformed all the others.

If you are traveling internationally, take note that every travel dryer we tested in our Lab features dual voltage, meaning these mini blow dryers can function in the United States and abroad with a compatible travel adapter unless otherwise noted — so no worries about blowing a fuse here.

What to look for when shopping for a travel hair dryer

We called on hair pros celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein and Matrix Artistic Director Nick Stenson for their best shopping advice on mini hair dryers:

✔️ Speed and efficiency: It's the top priority for a travel hair dryer, according to Rubenstein. "Look for features such as ceramic that result in frizz-free and shiny hair," she says. "There is no use in bringing one along if it doesn't make your hair look great." The hairstylist recommends the ion-charged T3 , which dries hair super fast and leaves hair shiny. "It also cuts major frizz," she says. "I would use it even when not traveling."

✔️ Size: The lighter the better! "There are so many that come in compact, lightweight sizes that still pack a major punch," she says. " T3 , Harry Josh and GHD make my favorite travel sizes." You’ll find varied weight and size options with travel dryers, but Stenson suggests keeping it under 1.5 pounds. Another bonus with purchasing a travel dryer is finding one that collapses or folds to allow for easier packing, he adds.

✔️ Wattage: Voltage and wattage should be more of a concern if you’re traveling internationally. Stenson recommends 1875 watts as the sweet spot for most hair dryers. For international travel, you’ll want to invest in a travel adapter as well, no matter the wattage.

✔️ Attachments: A great travel dryer should also come with a concentrator and diffuser attachments for versatility, says Stenson.

Is a travel hair dryer worth it?

Absolutely! Especially if you use a blowdryer daily. "For the moderate to the avid traveler, travel dryers are a fabulous investment that saves space and unnecessary weight in your luggage and keeps you looking your best on the go," says Stenson. Plus, they're likely better than what you'll find in your hotel. "Even though a hotel blowdryer will do its job, it almost never has the same features as higher quality brands," Rubenstein adds. "You won't regret it."

Do mini hair dryers work?

"Travel blow dryers work, but they may not have the same performance, so it's advisable not to have the same expectations as for full-sized hair dryers," Wizemann says. "They may be slower in drying hair and require more time for styling."

That said, the technology has certainly improved in recent years. While regular dryers used to "typically emphasize power and are known to have more advanced styling features for faster and more efficient drying," says Wizemann, many current travel hair dryers have multiple speed and heat setting options just like their bigger, bulkier counterparts.

Can you bring a travel hair dryer in a carry-on?

Yes. "As per TSA regulations, it is allowed to carry a hair dryer as a personal belonging on board ," says Wizemann. She recommends packing it in a separate plastic or Ziploc bag if you are also carrying liquids and place the hair dryer between soft clothing for additional protection.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Contributing Beauty Editor Dori Price is the most recent updater of this article. She has over 15 years of experience researching and writing haircare and hairstyling stories, combining her knowledge with the expertise of top industry professionals such as hairstylists, hair colorists and trichologists. She is an expert in all hair product categories, from shampoos , conditioners, treatments , styling products and tools to hair color, professional services and more.

To update our picks, Price worked closely with Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann , who contributed her expertise, providing information from Lab testing and about travel hair dryers generally. With a background in hair dye research and synthesis, Wizemann loves all things hair-related. Over her many years in the GH Beauty Lab, she has fashioned Lab and consumer studies on at-home hair coloring , shampoos for colored hair , hair serums , dry shampoos and more. She also tests hair styling tools like hair dryers while continuously checking for the latest innovations in hairstyling.

Commerce Editor Jacqueline Saguin wrote the original version of this article, compiling picks and interviewing experts for commentary. She covers all things home, lifestyle, style, beauty and beyond. Before GH, she worked on Insider's style and beauty reviews vertical, where she evaluated skincare, makeup, travel accessories, social media trends and more.

Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute . Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

Dori Price is a New York City-based freelance writer and editor and beauty, style and wellness expert who was the Beauty & Fashion Director at Family Circle for 13 years before she joined Good Housekeeping , Prevention and Woman’s Day as a freelance beauty editor. She has also written for WomensHealthMag.com , E lle.com and HealthCentral.com .

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

Shiny, bouncy curls coming right up!

Best hair diffusers for curly hair

Best Diffuser For Adding Volume

Conair infinitipro hair dryer.

Best Diffuser For Preventing Heat Damage

Shark hyperair blow dryer.

Most Highly-Rated Diffuser On Amazon

Hairizone universal hair diffuser.

Best Diffuser For Dry Hair

Revlon infrared hair dryer.

Best Diffuser For Travel

Ouidad made for curls 3-in-1 universal diffuser.

Most Easy-To-Clean Diffuser

Bed head 1875w tourmaline + ionic diffuser.

Best Blowdryer Brush With Diffuser Attachment

Wen by chaz dean brush dryer styling tool.

Best Overall Diffuser For Curly Hair

Pattern blow dryer.

Best Expert-Approved Diffuser

Trademark beauty speedy blo.

Most Quiet Diffuser

Hot tools quietair power dryer.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Read More: The Best Affordable Hair Dryers

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.

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.

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.

Read More: The Best Hair Dryer Brushes

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.

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.

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.

Curlsmith De-Frizzion Dryer

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!

Shop other hair tools for women

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Lily Wohlner is the Associate E-Commerce Editor of Women’s Health. An expert in recommending the best products to add-to-cart, she knows what it takes for a product to receive a solid five stars (especially when it comes to beauty!). Starting her career as a freelance makeup artist, Lily has since moved to the editorial world, where she has generated content for brands including Oribe, NewBeauty, Dermstore, SkinStore, and LOOKFANTASTIC. When she’s not zenning out with a pore-clearing mask, the Lower East Side dweller is cheffing up a new recipe with her roommate or thrifting for the perfect pair of blue jeans. Follow her on Instagram . 

Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

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Updated January 29th, 2024: This article on the best diffusers for curly hair was updated with editor testing review notes after a thorough round of product testing, as well as more tips on how to style hair with a hair diffuser.

Members of the curly hair club know that ringlets, coils, and curls require special treatment to look fresh and bouncy day in, day out. Of all the hair styling tools in your kit, a diffuser for curly hair is the most essential. With one of the best diffusers for curly hair, you can speed up your drying time without dealing with frizz or flat pieces.

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All curl patterns are different, so just like hair dryers for curly hair , the best diffusers for curly hair are not one-size-fits-all. Selecting the best hair diffuser for your curl pattern requires some research and consideration: Think about how you wear your hair on a daily basis, how often you dry it, and what type of result you’re after.

For everything you need to know about hair diffusers and other key curly hair products , we asked celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons and natural hair experts Kamara Brown and Erinn Courtney to get a complete breakdown on hair diffusers, as well as their picks for the best hair diffusers out there. Equipped with their expert input, we set out to test 24 top-rated hair diffusers — the very best are below.

Top Hair Diffusers of 2024

• Editor’s Choice: Ouidad Made for Curls 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser
• Devafuser Universal Diffuser  
• Best Diffuser and Hair Dryer: InfinitiPro By Conair 1875 Pro Hair Dryer With Diffuser Attachment
• Pattern The Blow Dryer
• Best for Travel:   HairiZone Universal Hair Diffuser
• Shark Beauty DeFrizz Fast Diffuser
• Best Budget: Conair Volumizing Diffuser
• Dyson Gentle Air Attachment 
• T3 Soft Curl Diffuser
• Remington Damage Protection Hair Dryer

Drybar The Bouncer Diffuser

• Best for Wavy Hair: Ghd Professional Hair Dryer Diffuser

Bio Ionic Universal Diffuser

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Related: Best Co-washes for Curly Hair Best Hair Gels Best Heatless Curlers

Testing Verdict: Top 3 Diffusers for Curly Hair of 2024

Hair diffusers for curly hair come in various shapes — from bowl diffusers to hooded hair dryers and beyond. Standard bowl diffusers are the most popular choice, but even these types of hair diffusers vary with different bowl depths and prong lengths. The diffuser that’s right for your curls is a combination of all of these details, as some are better for different hair thicknesses, lengths, and curl patterns. For these reasons, our panel of testers selected three of the best hair diffusers for curly hair versus one best overall.

• Ouidad Made For Curls 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser : An editor favorite after extensive testing in the category, Ouidad’s diffuser is an adjustable pick that created gorgeous results on testers with short, fine hair and long, thick hair. It also created tousled texture on wavy hair while defining and separating the tightest of type 4c curls. It stands out for its two inserts that adjust the bowl depth and prong length, as well as its oval design that’s easier to store and travel with than a standard round diffuser.
• DevaCurl Devafuser Universal Hair Diffuser : The unique hand shape of this Devacurl diffuser is a game changer for all curl patterns. Rather than carefully sectioning your hair to scoop up portions into a bowl diffuser, this option lets you loosely gather the ends of your hair without too much handiwork. This top-rated hair diffuser is also a great choice for drying the mid-lengths of long hair, as you can lightly press the diffuser against your strands to lift and dry hair without disrupting its natural texture.
• InfinitPro By Conair 1875 Pro Hair Dryer With Diffuser Attachment : Looking for the best hair dryer with a diffuser included? Go with this budget-friendly InfitiPro by Conair option. It’s top-rated on Amazon — and earned high marks from our testers — for its efficient, quick-drying time and no-frills design. The diffuser’s lengthy prongs and shallow bowl depth created an air-dried, frizz-free look for our testers.

Ouidad Made For Curls 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser

Ouidad’s Hair Diffuser comes with two bowl inserts that allow you to adjust the depth and prong length: This feature makes the diffuser attachment compatible with hair textures ranging from fine, short curls to long, thick coils. Most diffusers are best suited to attach to dryers with a two-inch nozzle, but this one fits smaller nozzles, so you can attach it to your favorite travel hair dryer . The oval shape is less bulky to throw in a weekender bag , too. Editor testing and review notes: “The unique oval shape of this hair diffuser is surprisingly ergonomic for working around your hair — it gathers more hair than round options for faster styling. I use the deeper bowl insert for the lengths of my hair and switch over to the shallow, longer prongs when I want more volume at the roots or need a touch-up on the mid-lengths of my hair. My only qualm is that it can feel a little heavy on a hair dryer, however the tool doesn’t fall off the dryer mid-use thanks to the grippy silicone nozzle attachment.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $47.53

DevaCurl Devafuser Universal Hair Diffuser

Fitzsimons picks Devacurl’s Devafuser Universal Diffuser for short curly hair because of its lack of prongs. Without prongs, he explains, this best hair diffuser for curly hair is easier to grip onto shorter strands for an even blow-dry. It also provides 360-degree airflow to surround curls so that you cut down your drying time, while preserving moisture in hair and enhancing its shine. As an added bonus, its heat resistant and will fit most dryers — it features an expandable band at the base that secures the diffuser in place. Editor testing and review notes: “If you’re accustomed to a bowl diffuser, this hand-shaped format will take a second to get used to: Rather than gathering your hair into the well of a diffuser, you simply press the tool against your hair and scrunch it up towards your scalp. I found the tool intuitive to use and loved how it shaped my curls without creating frizz. It’s particularly great for those who want definition without a ton of added volume.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $189

InfinitPro By Conair 1875 Pro Hair Dryer With Diffuser Attachment

“ InfinitiPro by Conair is one of my favorite diffusers for all curl types,” says Fitzsimons. “It applies gentle and even heat to your curls leaving them gorgeous and frizz-free.” You’re also able to choose a cooling air option which Fitzsimons says will help lock curls instantly. Easy to use and at a pretty great price, it doesn’t get much better than that.  Editor testing and review notes: “If you’re searching for a simple hair dryer that comes with a diffuser, Conair’s beat out the competitors during testing. This duo feels like a $150 dryer in the hand — it has a matte finish material that’s easy to grip, features three heat and three airflow settings, and securely holds the included diffuser no matter what angle you’re using the tool while styling. The long prongs and shallow bowl give curls definition without overly scrunching them, so you’ll get a pretty, air-dried look.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $32.99

Pattern The Blow Dryer With Hair Diffuser

Tracee Ellis Ross’ hair care line, Pattern, puts curly girls first. After two years of development, Pattern’s The Blow Dryer launched in January 2023. Unlike most hair dryers that include only one attachment for curly hair, each of the four attachments in this blow dryer are specifically designed to uplift your curls. The bowl diffuser features aluminum plates that heat up to expedite your dry time. And the comb attachment helps detangle without flattening out your ringlets. If you’re looking to stretch or smooth your curls, the dryer has two attachments that’ll do the trick as well as the best hair dryer brushes out there. Editor testing and review notes: “After testing Pattern’s hair dryer, I can assure you that curly girls will love the diffuser attachment — and every attachment option included. I found myself rotating between each one on my curly hair for different styling results, whether it’s the wide-tooth comb that detangles while drying or the bowl diffuser that gives my curls major bounce. Yes, the attachments are genius, but the hair dryer itself is, too. The heat and airflow settings cater to curly hair — I love that I have the option to use low, gentle heat with the diffuser to dry your curls without blasting them through the roof.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $189

HairiZone Universal Hair Diffuser

Do you have a dryer that didn’t come with an attachment? No problem. One of the best universal diffusers is one of Brown’s selections, the HairiZone Universal Hair Diffuser. She says it’s adaptable for about 90 perfect different types of blow dryers. This best diffuser for curly hair is a great option for taking on the road — although it’s larger than other options, it’ll connect with most standard hair dryers, as well as the ones you encounter at hotels and bed and breakfasts. Editor testing and review notes: “Many hair diffusers require you to wiggle the diffuser onto the nozzle of the hair dryer and hope for the best. HairiZone’s features an attachment mechanism that allows you to click the diffuser on securely with buttons that lock it into place. Note that the combination of a shallow bowl and short prongs make this option best for thin to medium-thick hair types — those with thick hair will require extra passes that prolong the drying time.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $25

Shark Beauty Shark Speedstyle DefrizzFast Diffuser

Shark Beauty’s hair tools are all the rage for their affordable prices and luxury details. The genius of this diffuser for curly hair is its adjustable design: The prongs are extendable with the flick of a built-in lever, so you have a short- and long-pronged diffuser that work across hair lengths and thicknesses. The DefrizzFast Diffuser is compatible with the editor-approved Shark SpeedStyle hair dryer that’s both travel-friendly and high-powered for quick at-home styling on the daily. Editor testing and review notes: “The DefrizzFast diffuser won top marks during my testing for its smooth, luxury feel — this one will never fall off of your hair dryer due the grooves that lock the attachment into the dryer’s nozzle. Some of the diffusers with extendable prongs I tested wouldn’t extend or retract evenly, but this one transitions between the two settings like butter. I noticed some overheating during a longer styling session, so definitely stick to low heat when you’re using it.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $29 Related: Shark FlexStyle Review Shark SmoothStyle Review 

Conair Volumizing Diffuser

For those looking for a budget-friendly option, Fitzsimons suggests the Conair Volumizing Diffuser, which he says, “will give you stunning, sculpted curls for about $10.” It’s great for all curl types and will help cut down on frizzy flyaways. It’s currently the top-rated diffuser for curly hair on Amazon, with over 10,000 five-star testing reviews. Plus, it fits with most hair dryers.  Editor testing and review notes: “This no-frills hair diffuser gives major bang for your buck: It easily and securely attached to five different hair dryers during testing and features mid-length prongs that work across short to long and fine to thick curl types. For the price, I was expecting inexpensive materials, but this Conair diffuser felt sturdy and well-made in the hand. It sustained a few drops during testing without breaking or malfunctioning the next time I used it.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $11.99

Dyson Gentle Air Attachment

Brown, Courtney, and Fitzsimons all agree: Dyson’s Supersonic Hair Dryer is the best splurge-worthy hair dryer. The dryer itself is a favorite for many, and some configurations come with the Gentle Air diffuser attachment, which Fitzsimons says will get you salon-quality curls. Brown adds that the dryer diffuser is lightweight and extra quiet, making it ideal for anyone with lots of curls. While it’s a pricey option if you don’t currently own a Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer, Courtney says the powerful dryer and diffuser give a flow of concentrated heat that can set any curl in a matter of minutes, making it worth every single penny. Editor testing and review notes: “If frizz is your number one foe, Dyson’s Gentle Air attachment is the diffuser for you. The attachment slows down the device’s high airflow speed while dispersing it, lending a windblown look you might get after a dip in the ocean. It’s also an excellent gentle option for sensitive scalps or damage-prone hair, thanks to the brand’s proprietary technology that dries hair without scalding the cuticle of your hair — you’ll get less frizz and flyaways immediately and in the long run.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $39.99

T3 SoftTouch 3 Hair Diffuser

The T3 Soft Curl diffuser is one of Fitzsimons’s go-tos for long curly hair. Elongated prongs, he explains, are best suited for hair that is medium length or longer. Here, you’ll get vented finger extensions that distribute heat evenly and gently so that you get volume, body, and a faster drying time. You’ll also notice your hair looking super shiny and frizz-free with this best diffuser for curly hair. Editor testing and review notes: “My thick hair hits at my mid-back, so drying it is always a process. T3’s Soft Curl diffuser stood out from other diffusers I tested due to the styling speed. A combination of the brand’s powerful hair dryer and this shallow bowl diffuser makes quick work of turning damp strands into beautifully defined ringlets and coils. It’s also a tad bit bigger than other diffusers, which provides more surface area for thicker manes.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $30

Remington D3190 Damage Protection Hair Dryer With Hair Diffuser

If you’re looking for the best diffuser hair dryer for curly hair that comes together in a set, Fitzsimons recommends the Remington Damage Protection hair dryer three-piece set. He loves the dryer’s heat control sensor to ensure that you’re not damaging curls or fading away color with excessive heat. The diffuser attachment will distribute heat evenly and will also be super gentle with your curls, for a shiny and soft look. Over 32,000 Amazon shoppers award this affordable hair dryer five stars. Editor testing and review notes: “In my decade of experience testing hair dryers, I’ve discovered that few drugstore hair tool brands can compete with Remington in longevity: Even after multiple years of consistent use, these dryers work like new. And the unbeatable price point on this set doesn’t come at the expense of quality. The diffuser attachment locks into the dryer securely without leaking air where the two meet. It’s a little bigger than alternative options, but if you have the space, it’s worth it.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $19.16

“While diffusers work similarly in regards to volume, I would definitely recommend Drybar The Bouncer Diffuser for those looking to give their curls that extra oomph,” says Fitzsimons. This diffuser reduces the speed of heat and guarantees a very gentle blow-dry. You’ll also notice reduced frizz and defined, voluminous curls. As an added bonus, it fits most hair dryers, even if the one you own isn’t from Drybar.  Editor testing and review notes: “An adaptable pick that fit on six standard-sized hair dryers during testing, Drybar’s diffuser is a great add-on that makes nearly any blow dryer friendly for curls. It has a rubber grip that expands for various nozzle sizes, and the attachment area is reinforced to keep its shape with repeated uses. Depending on the dryer, it may fall off during an extended period of use, but nine times out of 10 the tool felt secure.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $34

Ghd Professional Hair Dryer Diffuser

One of Courntey’s favorites is Ghd Professional’s Hair Dryer Diffuser. It has medium-length contoured prongs that help lift hair and keep curl patterns intact, while the shallow bowl shape makes it fit for adding some texture to natural wavy hair types. Pro tip: Courtney says to make sure you hold the dryer at a 90-degree angle as you diffuse curls to give your curls body and movement.  Editor testing and review notes: “Ghd’s diffuser performs best on naturally wavy hair types, separating pieces and adding volume and texture without frizz. The shallow bowl allows you to press the diffuser up against the mid-lengths of your hair without stuffing strands into the well, so you get enhanced texture that lasts. Due to its high amount of vents, the tool dries hair quickly.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $30

Both Fitzsimons and Brown love the Bio Ionic Universal Diffuser for thicker hair textures. Fitzsimons says it’s important to look for a diffuser with longer prongs to allow air flow to reach the scalp without crushing the curls and disrupting the curl pattern. Brown agrees, adding that the diffuser’s prongs work extremely well for thicker curls. You can also adjust the airflow, which is always an added bonus.  Editor testing and review notes: “I was impressed with the functionality of Bio Ionic’s diffuser out of the box — a quick look at the tool revealed rubber pieces on the nozzle end that grab onto the hair dryer for a secure fit, plus adjustable vents that can increase or decrease the airflow that passes through the attachment. I was able to shave two minutes off of my standard styling speed using the tool, so it’s a great choice for those who are short on patience when it comes to drying their curls.” Price upon publish date of this article:  $30

The Different Types of Diffusers for Curly Hair

• Bowl diffusers: These attachments are likely what comes to mind when you think of hair diffusers. They usually feature a silicone ring or an alternative attachment mechanism that locks in to the nozzle of your dryer to evenly distribute heat throughout the bowl. Shallow options are ideal for short hair and targeting your roots, while deep bowl diffusers can dry thick, long hair with ease.
• Hand diffusers: Rather than a bowl that cups your hair, hand diffusers spread heat throughout different finger-like prongs to set your curls naturally for an air-dried effect. This format also makes it easy for those with long hair to target the mid-lengths and roots of the hair without creating frizz or overexposing the ends to heat. DevaCurls’ Devafuser is the top option in this category, according to our testers.
• Hooded hair diffusers: These hands-free hair dryers diffuse heat throughout a bonnet. Because you don’t touch your hair while it dries, you’ll emerge with a full head of gravity-defying ringlets without an ounce of frizz. Note that although they’re hands-free, they can take an extensive amount of time to dry thicker hair types and are not designed for travel — two reasons why we omitted options from the category in our list of the best hair diffusers for curly hair.

What to Look for in the Best Hair Diffusers

Similar to the best curly hair dryers , the best curly hair diffusers come in several different sizes and which one you use depends on what type of hair you have. “A diffuser for each individual will be different,” says Brown. “I don’t believe all diffusers should have a certain amount of prongs or that size should be a certain way.” These factors will help you deduce what to seek out in a diffuser for your unique head of hair.

• Compatibility with a hair dryer: This is crucial, as a diffuser that’s not fitted to your hair dryer is moot. Double check the dryer and diffuser’s manufacturer’s website to determine whether or not a diffuser will fit your current go-to hair dryer. You can also measure the diameter of the dryer nozzle and seek out a diffuser that’ll securely fit to the size.
• Prong size: Shorter prongs are ideal for lifting curls and adding volume near your root. Medium to longer prongs, on the other hand, help dry and add shape to your ends. Looser curl types, like type 2 or 3a, he adds, also benefit from longer prongs to add volume and shape to hair, according to Fitzsimons.
• Venting: Fitzsimons recommends looking for a diffuser with a lot of small holes or vents to allow the perfect amount of controlled airflow to dry hair without prolonging the drying time. This is particularly helpful for those with thicker, coarser hair (types 3 to 4). Some diffusers for curly hair, like Bio Ionic’s, allow you to adjust the vent size for more or less airflow.

How to Use a Hair Diffuser

How you use a diffuser depends on your hair length. Brown and Fitzsimons offer these guidelines for exactly how to use a hair diffuser for your hair length, type and texture :

• Short hair:  Brown says the shorter your hair, the less likely you’re going to press a diffuser close to your roots.
• Long hair: For longer hair, Brown recommends focusing the diffuser head on the ends.
• Fine hair or loose curls:  According to Fitzsimons, those with finer hair and looser curls may need to flip their hair over to add volume.
• Thick hair: Thicker hair will need to push the diffuser gently onto hair and you’ll need to divide hair into smaller sections to ensure consistent curl patterns.

Yet, according to Brown, there are specific steps that all curl types and patterns should follow to set themselves up for curly success. After using a hair diffuser, curls and waves should be light on frizz and heavy on the volume, shine and curl shape.

• Wash and detangle: After sudsing up with a shampoo for curly hair , apply a generous amount of conditioner for curly hair . While your hair is wet, use a hair brush for curly hair to detangle .
• Remove excess water: Next, you’ll want to define your hair with styling products, like mousses and foams for curly hair , and remove excess water with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt so that the diffuser works seamlessly. 
• Section: Then you’ll section off your hair and start to blow dry with the hair diffuser attached to the end. Brown likes to hold the blow dryer with the diffuser attachment attached over the head, taking it around in a circle over the entire head. 
• Dry: Once Brown does that, she’ll cup the bottoms of each section to diffuse the end, moving around section to section so that she’s not putting too much heat in one section. Her tip is to tilt your hair from side to side when diffusing each end so that your curls don’t get stuck together. It’s also a way to create movement and keep hair frizz-free and shiny. 

How We Selected the Best Diffusers for Curly Hair

• Laifen Ionic Hair Dryer With Diffuser: Laifen’s diffuser is a versatile choice with a medium bowl depth and mid-size prongs that work across short to long and fine to thick hair. However the hair dryer emitted super high airflow speeds — so much so that our testers had issues keeping our hair in the diffuser while drying.
• King Kam Collapsible Hair Dryer Diffuser: The concept of a collapsible diffuser is genius, as it’s designed to be less cumbersome to store and travel with. However King Kam’s option would occasionally collapse during use and felt flimsy compared to other options we tested.
• Babyliss Pro Nano Titanium Universal Finger Diffuser: Our testers were wowed by this diffuser’s ability to add shine and prevent flyaways in frizz-prone curly hair. But you may experience some issues getting the tool to lock onto your dryer: We tested the diffuser on eight different hair dryers and had issues with it securely attaching to six out of the bunch.

How We Tested and Reviewed the Best Hair Diffusers for Curly Hair

A panel of three beauty writers and editors evaluated the best hair diffusers for curly hair on their own hair, as well as human hair wigs and extensions provided by Zala , Bellami , and RPZL . Each hair diffuser was put to the test on types 2a to 4c hair so we could accurately assess how the attachments perform on various curl patterns and make honest recommendations about what diffusers work best for certain hair thicknesses and lengths. For diffusers that are marketed as compatible with many commercial hair dryers, we tried the attachments on eight to 10 different hair dryers to make sure they live up to their claims. During testing, we subjected the diffusers to high airflow and heat settings, also dropping them from countertop height onto tile floors and packing them in overnight bags and suitcases to assess their durability. While conducting testing, we rated each diffuser on the below criteria:

• Stability and weight: Some hair diffusers can slide around or detach from the dryer during use — a fault that can make your styling session frustrating. Our testers made sure that the best hair diffusers for curly hair on our list feel stable and secure on the nozzle of hair dryers. Options that are marketed to be compatible with multiple dryers were tested across a variety of dryers with different shapes and sizes to confirm the claim; those that slipped off the nozzle or took elbow grease to lock in were removed from our list.
• Customizable features: Newer diffusers for curly hair come with special features like adjustable prongs and vents you can calibrate for more or less airflow. These capabilities make standard hair diffusers better equipped for various hair textures, lengths, and thicknesses. We awarded extra points to diffusers with these features that are easy to adjust and don’t feel complicated to operate.
• Styling results: Each of our testers used diffusers on freshly washed, damp hair to rate the results of the tools. We took note of frizz level, shine, and how well the diffusers enhanced our natural hair texture, whether it’s more defined waves or bouncy ringlets. Diffusers that snagged on our hair during styling or left our ends feeling dry and damaged didn’t make the cut.

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The 20 Best Diffusers for Curly Hair, from $6 to $430

Say goodbye to frizzy locks.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Let us guess: When you dry your hair (with direct heat on your scalp), you get frizzy curls and breakage. And when you opt to air-dry instead, it takes hours for your hair to be completely dry. It’s a common hair dilemma for those of us with waves, curls and coils, right? Luckily, it’s one that can easily be solved with a good ole diffuser. This handy attachment is a curly gal’s secret weapon. Not only do they help dry your hair, but they also define curls and reduce frizz in the process. Still not sure what the heck a diffuser is (or the point of one)? Here's everything you need to know.

The Best Diffusers for Curly Hair At a Glance

• Best Overall: Xtava Black Orchid Hair Diffuser ($22)
• Great for Wavy Hair: Babylisspro Nano Titanium Universal Diffuser ($13)
• Suitable for Traveling: Ceremonia Collapsible Hair Diffuser ($20)
• Best Alternative Diffuser: Hot Sock Diffuser ( $9 ; $6)
• Best for Heat Distribution: Segbeauty Hair Diffuser ($20)
• Best Compact Diffuser: KingKam Collapsible Diffuser ( $16 ; $11)
• Splurge-Worthy: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer ($430)
• Budget-Friendly: Conair Volumizing Universal Diffuser ($13)
• Best for Settings: BestTrendy Hair Diffuser ( $24 ; $19)
• Best for Volume: Drybar The Bouncer Diffuser ($34)
• Most Adjustable Diffuser: Bio Ionic Universal Diffuser ($30)
• Best for Short Hair: Devacurl Devafuser Universal Diffuser ($55)
• Best Hair Dryer: Bedhead Curls-In-Check Diffuser Dryer ( $35 ; $24)
• The Newcomer: Pattern The Blow Dryer ($189)
• Best 3-in-1: Ouidad 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser ($49)
• Most Universal: UUCOLOR Universal Hair Diffuser ($15)
• Best Hair Dryer and Diffuser Duo: CHI 1875 Advanced Ionic Dryer ($130)
• Fastest Drying Time: Revlon Infrared Hair Dryer ($25)
• Best for Thick Hair: Hairizone Universal Hair Diffuser ( $32 ; $25)
• Best for Fine Hair: T3 Micro SoftTouch Diffuser ($30)

What Is a Hair Diffuser?

A hair diffuser is an attachment that snaps or slides onto your blow dryer to manage the airflow. Instead of having heat pour out directly onto your hair, the diffuser disperses the air around the curls to improve definition, reduce frizz and create volume. Without a diffuser, curly hair is prone to more tangles, breakage and an overall loss of shape.

The nozzles are usually plastic, bowl-shaped and feature prongs inside the attachment. However, some can look like "fingers" (like the DevaCurl DeFuser ) or a sock (like the Hot Sock Diffuser ). Finding the right diffuser comes down to your curl type and/or texture.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Diffuser

As mentioned above, the shape, size and/or prong lengths will determine what diffuser works best for your waves, curls or coils.

• If you have thick and/or long hair , you want to pick a diffuser with a large head and a lot of prongs to let the airflow move across your hair (and cut drying time by half) like Segbeaut y Hair Diffuser.
• If you have frizzy, fine or short hair reach for a small head or a sock diffuser to give you a gentler dry like the T3 Micro SoftTouch Diffuser .
• If you have coily hair, look for a diffuser that has finger-shaped design instead of regular prongs to get the job done. We're looking at you, Devacurl Devafuser Universal Hair Diffuser .
• If you need a universal pick, we recommend the Xtava Black Orchid Hair Diffuser as the crème de la crème of diffusers, so everyone in the fam can use without having to switch out an attachment every time. And at a whopping $22, you simply can't beat the price.

How to See If Your Hair Dryer Is Compatible with Your Attachment

Once you found the one , you want to check to see if your hair dryer is compatible with your nozzle of choice. Some diffusers are not universal (even if they have "universal" in the name). Compare your hair dryer's diameter to the diffuser's diameter range. (A quick Google search can give you that info if you're unsure.) After you find that your attachment matches with your dryer, pop it on and you can begin to dry your hair without any issues.

How To Use A Diffuser On Curly Hair

Found a diffuser? Great! Now, here's a step-by-step tutorial on how to use it properly (and if you need a visual check out the helpful tutorial above to help get you started).

1. Wash your hair as normal. You’ll get the best results when your hair is clean. Wash and style it as usual, then apply a leave-in conditioner before you start drying your curls. (FYI, make sure to detangle hair in the shower for more defined curls.)

2. Apply a heat-protectant . Whether it's a serum, a cream or a spray, applying it before drying your strands can reduce frizz, breakage and damage. Here are a few of our favorites: CHI ( $17 ; $12); Briogeo ($26); Olaplex ($30); Bumble & Bumble ($32)

3. Add the attachment to the end of your blow-dryer . Once it's snapped (or slid) on, place your dryer on a low to medium setting. Using the dryer on high heat is a big no-no for curly gals because it creates more damage in the long run.

4. Flip your head upside down. Not only does this help dry hard-to-reach areas like the nape of your neck, but it provides more volume. (To avoid getting cramps, move your head from side to side as you dry.) You'll want to start by hovering the diffuser a couple inches away from your curls, spending 30 seconds or so in every area (i.e the crown, hairline, etc).

5. Shift your focus to the root and tips. After that initial hover-dry, divide your hair into equal parts. Then, cup each section of hair into the bowl of the diffuser and try to get the attachment as close to the scalp as possible. Next, twirl the diffuser in a circular motion (almost like you're giving yourself a mini massage). Spend time drying each area (aka root to tip) for about 30 seconds or so before moving on to the next section. The whole dry time will vary depending on your hair length, hair type or hair porosity.

6. Finally, shake out your curls. If you want even more volume , use your fingers or a hair pick to fluff up the roots.

For best results, only dry 80 to 90 percent of the way, then let it air dry to finish. The last thing you want to do is over-dry your strands and reduce the effectiveness of the moisturizing products you just applied (aka leave-in, styling cream and heat protectant).

How We Chose the Best Diffusers for Curly Hair

As a curly gal myself, I did some heavy research to find the top picks that were vetted by the curly community. First, we looked at PureWow's favorite brands like Amazon, Sephora and Ulta before scanning through countless of reviews, where consumers poured out their pros (and cons) of each attachment. We looked closely at the products' performance, especially when it came down to their drying time, reducing frizz and improving volume. Plus, we noted how compatible each diffuser was to most hair dryers—even if they claim to be universal—and buzzy features like multiple settings, attachments or prongs.

So, now that you’re up to speed on what a diffuser is, which type might work best for you and how to use it, here are 20 of the best diffusers for curly hair to consider when upgrading your drying game, according to reviewers:

The 26 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Curly Hair

Best Overall

1. xtava black orchid hair diffuser.

• Why We Love It: great for all hair types, 1.8 inches in diameter, 360 degree airflow
• What We Don't Love: not compatible with all hair dryers, non-flexible nozzle
• Standout Review: “I love this diffuser! It has completely changed my curls for the better. It also has cut down on drying time because it holds so much of my hair at a time. Will always have this product on hand for life.” — An Amazon reviewer

This diffuser has 8,300+ five-star ratings, so we’re not surprised by its benefits. The 360-degree design dries your hair quickly from root to tip. Whether your hair is thick, long or curly, the diffuser aims to enhance your natural strands, minimizes frizz and  boosts volume . And thanks to the silicone grip, it won’t fall off the nozzle as you’re drying.

Great for Wavy Hair

2. babylisspro nano titanium universal diffuser, babylisspro.

• Why We Love It: great for loose and fine hair, 2.25 inches in diameter, 12 air outlets for fast drying
• What We Don't Love: not compatible with all hair dryers, flimsy grip
• Standout Review: "[It’s] the best dryer I have ever used on my thick and curly hair. The large diffuser and the light weight of the dryer make drying my hair quick and easy.” — An Ulta reviewer

This diffuser promises soft, bouncy curls to wavy or permed hair. It's designed with wide fingers that helps lift and separate hair by the root for more volume while gently drying large areas for frizz-free curls. Plus, shoppers say it’s a pretty universal attachment that fits most hair dryers.

Suitable for Traveling

3. ceremonia collapsible hair diffuser.

• Why We Love It: lightweight, 2.5 inches in diameter, 5.25 inches in length
• What We Don't Love: collapses if pressed onto the hair too hard
• Standout Review: "[It's] super convenient and easy to use! My blow dryer has a unique shaped nozzle and this fit perfectly! It’s very lightweight as well!" — Abbey, a Sephora reviewer

The last thing you want to do is buy a diffuser only to realize it doesn’t fit your hair dryer. Luckily, this silicone tool is built to stretch or shrink to fit any nozzle, which also makes it super portable when you're left with the hotel hair dryer.

Best Alternative Diffuser

4. hot sock diffuser.

• What We Don't Love: won't define curls, dries in small sections
• Standout Review: "I have used this diffuser on my curly hair for the last 20 years. I love it so much because it is so small and doesn’t take up all the room that those big huge plastic ones do. I have very curly hair and it always works to make sure that my curls stay intact and that my hair doesn’t frizz." — Max, an Amazon reviewer

Yup, this weird but useful tool is great for a quick dry, especially if you’re using roller sets. Shoppers say it fits on every size blow-dryer and won’t take up too much room in your bag when traveling. They also point out that it's a great attachment for smaller hair dryers as long as you use it on the lowest heat setting so your curls (or waves) will dry without frizz.

Best for Heat Distribution

5. segbeauty hair diffuser.

• Why We Love It: 114 air outlets, suitable for 1.73-1.77 hair dryers, great for building volume
• What We Don't Love: bulky design, gets super hot easily
• Standout Review: "The deep bowl of the diffuser is perfect for getting my curls to clump together and form defined ringlets. It evenly distributes the heat from my blow dryer, which helps to reduce frizz and add shine to my curls. Plus, the diffuser itself is easy to attach to my blow dryer and stays securely in place." — An Amazon reviewer

Whether you have long or short locks, this diffuser is a great addition to your haircare routine. Its deep and wide bowl design features 114 air outlets and multiple teeth that helps distribute heat evenly throughout your curls, which prevents frizz, breakage and dryness. Hot tip: You can spin the nozzle to change the airflow to fit your hair type or texture.

Best Compact Diffuser

6. kingkam collapsible diffuser.

• Why We Love It: 5.31 inches in diameter, suitable for 1.579 to 1.986 inches hair dryers, comes in four colors
• What We Don't Love: not compatible with all hair dryers
• Standout Review: "I can't live without diffusing my hair, but taking my large, heavy hairdryer with me while traveling is a no go. I just take this universal diffuser with me and it attaches to most hair dryers you'll find at Airbnbs and hotels. It's super lightweight and collapsible!" — Alexander, an Amazon reviewer

This silicone diffuser makes traveling easier with its foldable design. According to the brand, the attachment fits most common hair dryers and it's so sturdy, it won't slip off mid-drying. With over 3,900 five-star reviews, shoppers say it's lightweight while allowing air flow that leaves curls defined and frizz-free.

Splurge-Worthy

7. dyson supersonic hair dryer.

• Why We Love It: great for all hair types, five attachments included, three shades for diffuser
• What We Don't Love: pricey, bulky cord
• Standout Review: "This dryer changed the game. I have Black natural hair. I've used the diffuser for a week and did a blowout tonight. An excellent investment. No complaints." — Kim, a Saks Fifth Avenue reviewer

If you’re going to pay $430 for a hair dryer, it has to be worth it, right? This quiet tool comes with five attachments, including a diffuser that reduces frizz and helps you style your curly hair with more control. Reviewers say it also has cut their drying time by half, so looks like we can deal with the hefty price tag.

Budget-Friendly

8. conair volumizing universal diffuser.

• Why We Love It: fits over 13 Conair dryers, 5.8 inches in diameter, lightweight
• What We Don't Love: difficult to remove from dryer
• Standout Review: "I'm very happy with this diffuser. It fits my old Conair blow dryer perfectly and I blow dry my hair on low heat. It definitely helps with giving my hair more volume and my waves/curls look softer and more defined." — Diana, an Amazon reviewer

Looking to create curly or wavy styles without breaking the bank? This attachment helps to dry hair quickly and add volume to your locks for under $15. This Conair pick features "fingers," which helps dry your hair quickly and increase volume at the root. Plus, the brand claims it fits over 13 dryers, so thankfully there's no need to buy another hair tool.

Best Settings

9. besttrendy universal diffuser.

• Why We Love It: suitable for 1.4 to 2.4 inches hair dryers, flexible lock button for a nice fit, 2.6 inches in diameter
• What We Don't Love: not suitable for thick hair, difficult to attach on dryer
• Standout Review: "This diffuser is HUGE. It's very wide and deep, which allows you to get a lot of hair into it for diffusing. It is also adjustable so that it will fit snugly on almost any blow dryer out there. I have a very small blow dryer and the diffuser that came with it is worthless but this one fits great and really does the job." — Shannon, an Amazon reviewer

This diffuser evenly dries your hair, protects against heat damage and prevents frizz. Shoppers rave about its heat settings (featuring a cool, warm and hot option) as well as the speed settings that's customizable for every hair type. It also has a flexible lockable button that adjusts to most hair dryers in the market. However, one reviewer notes be mindful that the shallow shape might take longer for thick hair to dry quickly and might cause some frizz.

Best for Volume

10. drybar the bouncer diffuser.

• Why We Love It: universal diffuser, 6.4 inches in diameter, improves volume
• What We Don't Love: pricey
• Standout Review: "This is the ultimate diffuser out there! I have long, very thick and wavy hair, and have never had good results with diffusers until now. This one is giant, which makes it very effective at evenly distributing heat without blasting your curls apart like those with a smaller nozzle. This [one also] gave me the perfect air dried look in a fraction of the time." — a Sephora reviewer

The salon known for its blowouts created a diffuser with the curly gal in mind. Thanks to the wide bowl and 12 prongs located inside, the attachment promises to gently dry, reduce frizz and define curls. It’s important to note that this is specifically designed for the brand’s popular Buttercup blow-dryers, but it can work on nozzle sizes up to two inches.

Great for Long Hair

11. bio ionic universal diffuser.

• Why We Love It: 2.25 inches in diameter, 12 air outlets, extended fingers for even heat distribution
• Standout Review: "It has made such a difference, especially on the top [of my hair] which had been somewhat flat. This helps me create beautiful curls. I have had many compliments on my hair since switching to this diffuser." — Cynthia, a Bio Ionic reviewer

This lightweight tool has 12 air outlets that make for a faster dry time, while providing frizz-free results. You're able to control the vents to provide higher or lower airflow depending on the areas you are targeting. Note: It fits over most Bio Ionic dryers except for the Power Diva model.

Great for Short Hair

12. devacurl devafuser universal diffuser.

• Why We Love It: 360 airflow, fits 2 to 2.5 inch nozzles
• What We Don't Love: not suitable for wavy hair, not compatible with all hair dryers
• Standout Review: "If you have naturally curly hair, this diffuser will change your life. Well, maybe not your life, but it will do wonders for your hair. Unlike some other diffusers that have rubber tips that grab onto your hair (not good if you're avoiding frizz), it gently lifts the curls and cradles them to dry them softly. It's pricey, but you get what you pay for. And it's MUCH easier to travel with given the shape of it (compared to the large barrel styles)." — An Ulta reviewer

Not your average diffuser, this tool is designed to hug your curls at the roots to speed up the drying process, while enhancing their natural definition. The special applicator works great on all hair types, but especially for people with short, coily or protective styles. Shoppers say it's also super lightweight, easy to use and cuts drying time in half.

Best Hair Dryer

13. bed head curls-in-check diffuser dryer.

• Why We Love It: three heat settings, two speed settings, removable diffuser for easy cleaning
• What We Don't Love: loud hair tool, not suitable for long or thick hair
• Standout Review: "This is a great find! The diffuser is light, fast-drying (due to its wide surface area), and it's extremely practical for people with curly hair. It’s ideal to bring along while traveling as well as for everyday use!" — Fabiana, an Amazon reviewer

Never mind the attachment, this entire hair dryer is made for diffusing. The unique design adds texture, tames frizz and speeds up dry time rolled into one tool. Reviewers praise the applicator for being easier to use than a traditional dryer on their curls or waves.

The Newcomer

14. pattern the blow dryer.

• Why We Love It: Black-owned, four attachments, six customized settings
• Standout Review: "This dryer is amazing! The diffuser is wide and dries hair quickly! The pronged attachment helps lift flattened wash and go's. The comb attachment is amazing! The bristle placements glide through hair. I appreciate the innovation of the dryer. You can tell a lot of research and input from naturals we're considered when creating this dryer." — Ash, an Ulta reviewer

Whether you're looking to dry your natural coils or wanting to rock a blowout, this blow dryer by Pattern (aka the brand founded by Tracee Ellis Ross) has you covered. The hair tool has six heat and speed settings that are designed to shape, define, stretch and smooth your hair. It also comes with four attachments: a diffuser, concentrator, wide tooth comb and a brush attachment.

Best 3-in-1

15. ouidad 3-in-1 universal diffuser.

• Why We Love It: three diffuser pieces, suitable for 1.4 1.77 to 2.16 inches hair dryers
• What We Don't Love: pricey, bulky, difficult to switch between the three
• Standout Review: "I love the size of this diffuser, and the different options/attachments. It works great and definitely made my curls softer and smoother than my prior diffuser." — Tamara, an Ouidad reviewer

Often times you find yourself with one universal diffuser, but Ouidad is taking a step further. This attachment is interchangeable with three removable pieces for all hair types and textures. Whether you have long, short, think or fine curls, you can design your diffuser to create the right amount of volume, defintion or shape you're searching for.

Most Universal

16. uucolor universal hair diffuser.

• Why We Love It: suitable for 1.4 to 2.6 inch hair dryers, adjustable attachment, 6.14 inches in diameter
• What We Don't Love: bulky shape, heavy diffuser
• Standout Review: "This is the best diffuser I've ever used on my wavy, frizzy hair. It's large so it covers a large area and cuts down on the time it takes to dry my hair. It really works well to diffuse the air so it doesn't blow my hair around and cause it to frizz. I absolutely love the soft curls I get with this diffuser!" — An Amazon reviewer

FYI, no more worrying about whether your diffuser is going to fit your hairdryer. This attachment works with any size dryer, thanks to the adjustable latch, so you can focus more on drying and defining your curls. Although shoppers point out the bulky design, it still fits and gets the job done without falling off while you dry your curls.

Best Hair Dryer and Diffuser Duo

17. chi 1875 advanced ionic compact dryer.

• Why We Love It: great for loose and fine hair, two attachments included
• What We Don't Love: pricey, not suitable for coily or long hair
• Standout Review: "I've used this hairdryer a few times and I love it! It's quiet, lightweight, and the variable heat settings dry my hair without it getting frizzy or damaged." — Sharon, an Ulta reviewer

Forget spending more on both a hair dryer and a diffuser. This CHI 1875 gives you the best of both worlds. The hair dryer alone includes a built-in generator that reduces frizz, improves shine and cuts down on drying time. Once you add the diffuser attachment, it also helps lock-in moisture and volume. 

Fastest Dry Time

18. revlon infrared hair dryer.

• Why We Love It: great for fine hair, two attachments included, two heat and speed settings
• What We Don't Love: hard to attach diffuser, heavy attachment
• Standout Review: "I was looking for a affordable hair dryer with a good diffuser and decided to give this one a try. Wow, I am beyond impressed! I have thick hair medium length and it dried my hair to 90 percent in under 10 minutes. It’s super quiet and the diffuser is nice and big. My curls tend to get dry and dull when I diffuse but they were soft and shiny with this diffuser." — Helber, an Amazon reviewer

When you have long, thick, voluminous or all of the above curls, they take forever to dry (and listen, we don't have all day). Thankfully, this Revlon dryer claims to cut dry time in half, so you can go about the rest of your day in all your curly glory. The infrared technology maintains moisture in your hair, while the ceramic coating reduces any heat damage and the cold shot button offers to lock in and define curls.

Great for Thick Hair

19. hairizone universal hair diffuser.

• Why We Love It: fits 1.7 to 2.6 inch hair dryers, six-inch large bowl, comes in seven colors
• Standout Review: "This diffuser fits my hairdryer snugly and has a nice curve to cover a large area of your head for efficient drying. I am very happy with this attachment." — An Amazon reviewer

When it comes to thick hair, you're looking for three features: heat distribution, drying time and frizz reduction. Well, this universal hair diffuser checks all the boxes. The larger sized bowl disperses air evenly (and gently) without damaging locks or producing more frizz. Plus, the prongs hold thick hair in place, while maintaining your natural texture. 

Great for Fine Hair

20. t3 micro softtouch diffuser.

• Why We Love It: 3.5 inches in diameter, compatible with the T3 hair dryers
• What We Don't Love: pricey, difficult to attach and remove from hair dryer
• Standout Review: "I'm not sure why I put off purchasing this attachment. I cut my long hair to shoulder length a year ago and it released all this curl. I've been blowing it dry then curling it, but with this I can skip all that and it looks great!!! My curls are set, so much better than crunching and air drying." — An Ulta reviewer

With "soft touch" in the name, prepare for this diffuser to dry your hair and be super gentle on your scalp. It's designed with small finger extensions that distribute heat, improve volume and speed up drying time. While it's only compatible with T3 models, it still has a loyal fan base rallying behind it for curly or fine locks.

We Tested the Pixie Diffusing Technique That’s All Over TikTok (& We’re Saying Goodbye to Air-Drying Curls)

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Chelsea Candelario is an Associate Editor at PureWow. She has been covering beauty, culture, fashion and entertainment for over a decade. You'll find her searching the internet for the latest beauty trends (and testing the coolest products out herself), informing you on ways to be a better ally and offering a native New Yorker perspective on what to do in the Big Apple. When she's not writing, she's spearheading PureWow Cultures that focuses on uplifting and highlighting the BIPOC community.

PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

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Universal Diffuser For All Curls

394 reviews

Why You Need It

It’s the best helping hand your curls could ask for! The patented DevaFuser® helps dry your curls with gorgeous shape, definition, and touchable volume. The innovative 360-degree airflow surrounds curls and gets right to the roots (where it takes longest to dry) for speedier drying time than traditional diffusers. And the ceramic inner core helps preserve moisture to reduce frizz and enhance shine.

Pair It With

DevaFast Dry™

Dry Accelerator Spray

DevaFuser® curl diffuser 101

Will the DevaFuser® fit my hair dryer?

The DevaFuser® is designed to fit most commercial hair dryers of the following size specifications: barrel diameter measuring 2” – 2 ½”, barrel circumference measuring 5 ½” – 6 ½”, and barrel length measuring 2 ½” – 6 ½”. We also offer a DevaDryer and DevaFuser combo for the full Deva drying treatment!

How is the DevaFuser® different than other diffusers?

The DevaFuser® has a unique “hand” shape so you can “scrunch” your curls without using your hands. It cradles your curls and gets right to the roots to surround curls in 360 degree airflow for faster drying time.

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7 Best Diffusers for Perfect, Frizz-Free Curls

Best hair diffuser overall, revlon infrared heat hair dryer.

P refer curly hair only some of the time? You’ll want a blow dryer with several attachments, including a diffuser for curly hair. This Revlon hair dryer offers tourmaline ionic technology, which helps smooth away frizz. Take a pick of the attachments, based on your ideal style for the day. Want smooth hair worthy of a straightening iron ? Use the concentrator. Creating soft, bouncy curls? The diffuser works hard while maintaining volume.

“I need a dryer with a really good diffuser for when I wear my hair curly,” writes one 5-star reviewer Karen S. “This totally fit the bill. Airflow is strong, but the diffuser prevents it from straightening out the curls.”

• Sold with blow dryer and concentrator attachment
• Ionic technology reduces frizziness
• Comes in three colors
• Ceramic coating provides even heat distribution
• Reviewers state the hair dryer is slightly larger than average

Best budget diffuser

Conair volumizing diffuser hair dryer attachment.

If you’re not looking to replace your hair dryer, consider Conair’s diffuser attachment . There’s an impressive list of blow dryers that this diffuser fits and an even longer list of rave reviews. Don’t have naturally curly hair ? The product also works to create natural-looking or beachy waves in addition to frizz-free curls.

“Thought my hair dryer was from Conair. Whoops. Mine is a Revlon model. Still fits,” says verified reviewer Martina B . Another reviewer, Diana F. , uses it on low heat for the perfect curls. “ I am very happy with this diffuser. It fits my old Conair blow dryer perfectly and I blow dry my hair on low heat. It definitely helps with giving my hair more volume and my curls look softer and more defined.”

• Affordable price
• Fits most Conair blow dryers and even those from other brands
• Lightweight construction
• Compatible with permed, naturally wavy and curly hair
• Doesn’t fit every hair dryer

Best diffuser for fast drying

Devacurl devafuser universal diffuser.

This DevaCurl DevaFuser hair dryer diffuser is the pick for the impatient or those who don’t have enough time in the morning. It looks like a funky green hand that might tousle curls as it dries. But from a design standpoint, it’s genius. It boasts 360-degree airflow, which surrounds the curls and speeds up drying time without leaving hair looking parched. This hair dryer diffuser works on all curl types —from natural texture to braids, twists or knots.

• 360-degree airflow
• Fits most blow dryers
• Ceramic inner core helps preserve moisture to reduce frizz and enhance shine
• Made of durable heat-resistant material
• Works on all curl types
• Some reviewers state it’s tough to attach to their hair dryer

Best diffuser for coils

T3 fit diffuser.

The T3 brand has an excellent reputation for delivering quality hair tools, like this sleek and affordable T3 Fit diffuser . It’s designed to fit the T3 Fit Hair Dryer (sold separately), but we tested it out with different models—it worked on some, not on others. It’s worth a try, but consider the return policy before committing to trying this diffuser on another brand’s hair dryer.

The product lifts and separates hair for added body, so even heavy curls or coils won’t be weighed down. Pro tip: If frizz is an issue, use a frizzy-hair product before diffusing.

• Ideal for tight coils
• Lifts and separates curls
• Vented finger extensions distribute heat evenly
• Designed to work on only one hair dryer (sold separately)

Best diffuser for natural-looking curls

Drybar the bouncer diffuser.

The Drybar Bouncer diffuser has “fingers” of different lengths, which helps it create springy curls that look polished but not too “done.” Drybar products have a massive following for a reason—they almost always produce perfect blow-out-worthy results, even for styling newbies. Many reviewers rave about its curl-defining ability, and most (though not all) report that it fits their blow dryer, no matter what brand or model.

• Fits many blow dryers
• Good for all hair types
• Distributes airflow evenly for defined curls
• May not fit every blow dryer

Best for big, bouncy curls

Flower hair tools ionic pro dryer diffuser.

Drew Barrymore’s Flower Beauty line has a huge following for a reason, and it’s not (only) because the products are so darn cute. Just about all of them are as bold and colorful as the pink diffuser , and they also get results.

Reviewer Laya says it’s perfect for her 3C hair. “ I started wearing my hair naturally and don’t want to dry it out with too many products every day. This diffuser revives my natural curls every morning, and I am so grateful. I get so many compliments.”

• Air reaches hair at roots
• Inexpensive
• Works for all curly hair types
• Free 90-day returns
• Only available in one color
• May not fit every hair dryer

Best for volume

Babylisspro nano titanium universal finger diffuser.

Everyone assumes that curly-hair automatically has tons of volume. Not so. For those who want to add lift to their fine hair , the BaBylissPro diffuser combines fingers aimed at creating volume and titanium ion technology aimed at tackling frizz. Even though loads of air disperse while drying, there’s no disruption to the curl pattern or the natural wave.

• Adds volume to fine curls
• Fits most blow-dryers
• Far-infrared heat speeds up drying
• Some reviewers note it slides off their hair dryer

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November 14, 1997 'The Jackal': Cynic Vs. Killer, Who's More Macho Related Articles Film Reviews from The New York Times Forum Join a Discussion on Movies By STEPHEN HOLDEN ne of the few compensatory pleasures of "The Jackal," an earnest, gadget-crazed thriller that grows steadily more preposterous as it skids off the track of its own premise, is the opportunity to watch Richard Gere play a character who is something more than a suave cynic flashing facetious little grins. As Declan Mulqueen, a jailed IRA soldier recruited by the FBI to help find a mysterious terrorist-for-hire whom only he can identify, Gere deftly adopts an Irish accent to play a man of passionate conviction. Without making his character a martyr, Gere imbues Declan with an ambivalent mixture of cunning and vulnerability. Against all logic, in a story that forsakes logic early on, Declan emerges from the manipulative plot maneuvers with a measure of consistency. "The Jackal" is inspired by a 1973 Fred Zinnemann film, adapted from a novel by Frederick Forsyth, about tracking down an assassin hired to kill Charles de Gaulle. Updated and Americanized, the killer (Bruce Willis), identified only as "the Jackal," is an infinitely resourceful psychopath who accepts an offer of $70 million from a Russian gangster seeking to avenge his brother's shooting in a Moscow discotheque during a raid involving the FBI. The film, directed by Michael Caton-Jones, is one long cat-and-mouse game set in some scenic locales, including Moscow, Helsinki, Montreal and Chicago, in which Declan, accompanied by the FBI's deputy director, Carter Preston (Sidney Poitier) and a tough-as-nails Russian intelligence officer named Valentina (Diane Venora), tracks down his prey. Among other things, the villain is a master of disguises who looks especially ominous in short platinum blond hair. And Willis, an actor who rarely allows his characters to exhibit genuine anxiety or fear, clearly relishes the opportunity to switch wigs and outfits as he goes about buying the ingredients for a spectacularly deadly remote-control-operated supergun. The movie's best scene finds the Jackal, poker-faced with a hint of merriment in his ice-blue eyes, testing this fabulous toy in a Canadian field with the sleazy firearms dealer (Jack Black), who provided the parts standing by. Black nearly steals the movie in the scene where he goes crazy with excitement, screaming, "That rocks!" as the device fells a tree in one shot. He then pales as the Jackal orders him to run in a test of the gun's ability to mow down moving objects. Halfway along the story simply forgets that the villain was hired to do someone else's bidding and the movie becomes a crude macho power struggle between the Jackal and Declan, whom the FBI has apparently allowed to take over the case. When the Jackal starts baiting Declan about not being able to protect his women, the movie loses its last shred of shame. Those women include the grim, indefatigable Valentina, with whom Declan ignites an unacknowledged romance, and his former lover Isabella (Mathilda May), whom he finds married and with a child. Isabella exists mainly to add a softening note of sexual nostalgia and to show that in matters of the heart, Declan is salt of the earth. She is also the subject of some of the silliest lines in a screenplay (by Chuck Pfarrer) that has more than its share of clinkers. Because she is Basque, one character solemnly explains, she can nurture a lifetime vendetta but Basques also love with the same tenacity as they hate. Yuck. "The Jackal," like most expensive thrillers nowadays, knows how to do gadgets, pyrotechnics, underground subway chases and panicked crowd scenes. But except for Gere's uphill battle, it has only the vaguest idea of how to do people. PRODUCTION NOTES THE JACKAL Rating: "The Jackal" is rated R (under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian). It includes some strong language and some violence, including a scene in which a limb is severed. Directed by Michael Caton-Jones; written by Chuck Pfarrer, based on the motion picture screenplay "The Day of the Jackal" by Kenneth Ross; director of photography, Karl Walter Lindenlaub; edited by Jim Clark; music by Carter Burwell; production designer, Michael White; produced by James Jacks, Sean Daniels, Caton-Jones and Kevin Jarre; released by Universal Pictures. Running time: 123 minutes. Cast: Bruce Willis (the Jackal), Richard Gere (Declan Mulqueen), Sidney Poitier (Carter Preston), Diane Venora (Valentina Koslova), Mathilda May (Isabella), J.K. Simmons (Witherspoon) and Jack Black (Lamont).