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

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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

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”346″ class=”center-table-align”]

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 Will Smooth and Define Coils

With picks from Conair, Dyson, DevaCurl, Shark, and more.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look For
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Why Trust Byrdie?

Byrdie / Lecia Landis

For curly hair, there's often a love/hate relationship with hair dryers . 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 cofounder 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.

Best Overall

Devacurl devafuser.

Unique design

Smoothes hairs

Ceramic lining

Not compatible with all hair dryers

Type: Diffuser

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. Just keep in mind that it takes longer to dry hair.

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 travel-friendly blow-dryer attachment offers easy storage, funneling and softening the airflow of your hairdryer while also collapsing to a convenient size.

Best for Volume

Drybar the bouncer diffuser.

Adds volume

Dries bigger sections

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 blow-dryer 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

Type: Dryer + diffuser

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.

Best Splurge

Dyson supersonic hair dryer.

Unmatched styling capabilities

Reduces damage

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 blow-drying one step further by doing the work of your favorite heat protectant and guarding your hair against 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.

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.

Best Smoothing

Revlon salon infrared hair dryer.

Minimizes flyaways

This blow-dryer 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 blow-dryer 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

Type: Diffuser + 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 to reduce breakage .

Best for Loose Curls

Bed head 1875 watt diffuser dryer.

Hair can get sucked into dryer

Type: Diffuser + 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 .

Best Hooded Dryer

Glow by daye soft bonnet hood dryer attachment.

Even heat distribution

Testers note its not comfortable to wear

Type: Hood attachment

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 blow-dryer.

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 Multitasker

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

Type: Diffuser + dryer + attachments

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.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Diffuser for Curly Hair

• 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 Aeleise. "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 . For this story she tapped the following expert for more in-depth insights:

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

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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