A blow dryer is a hair tool that speeds the evaporation of water in your hair. It also helps shape your hair and set a style.
Invest in a high-quality hair dryer with multiple heat and air settings. It should also have attachments for different styles. It’s also best to apply a leave-in conditioner, shine cream or pomade before blow drying your hair.
Diffuser Attachment
A diffuser is a hair dryer accessory that helps tame frizz and maintain your curl pattern. It’s typically a pronged, bowl-shaped attachment that clicks on to the nozzle of your blow dryer. “A good diffuser distributes heat evenly to prevent your strands from getting fried,” says stylist Andrew Fitzsimons.
It also tames your curls or waves, which can help them appear more full and voluminous. Essentially, it simulates the natural drying process, which in turn reduces frizz and enhances texture.
Look for a hair diffuser with longer prongs, which will reach deeper into your hair to dry your strands without smashing your curls or waves. Brown also recommends the Devacurl diffuser, which is made for all curl types. If you’re using it on a short curly cut, she suggests simply hovering the diffuser over your hair rather than “cupping” it. It’ll be just as effective. This model comes in a variety of sizes, including a small one that fits the nozzles of most hair dryers.
Comb or Pik Attachment
For hair that’s curly, wavy or frizzy, a comb or pik attachment helps add volume. These comb attachments have long, heat resistant teeth that comb through the hair as they dry and help detangle knots. They also reduce the intensity of blow dryer air flow, taming frizz and creating a smooth finish.
Unlike diffusers that distribute the airflow to evenly tame your curls, these wide-tooth comb attachments lift curls at the roots for a voluminous look. They’re a must-have for wash n’ go styles, such as loose, bouncy curls or Bantu knots.
Some of these comb attachments have soft plastic “fingers” that massage the hair while drying it. They come in different lengths so make sure the one you choose has prongs that match your hair texture (longer for longer hair and shorter for short hair). Some comb or pik attachments can also be used to straighten your hair or even create a faux bob.
Temperature Settings
When you shop for a blow dryer at the beauty store, you’ll see models with different heat and speed settings. They work by passing air over and through a heating element made of nichrome wire.
The hotter the temperature setting, the more powerful the hair dryer is. You should avoid using a high heat setting because it can cause damage to your hair, especially if it’s thick.
A hair dryer with a low heat setting can help your hair stay healthy and smooth by reducing frizz. You should also look for a hair dryer that has a cool shot button to lock in your style and prevent damage.
If you have thick hair, consider getting a high-performance blow dryer that’s designed for curlies, coilies, or tight textures. It will have a ceramic-coated heating element and may be infused with materials like crushed tourmaline to generate negative ions for healthier, shinier hair. This type of hair dryer can help you achieve the salon-worthy blowouts you desire without having to pay for a stylist’s services.