Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between using a diffuser and using a blow-dryer without one?
“A diffuser is designed to disperse airflow gently and evenly, which helps preserve natural curl patterns, enhance definition, and reduce frizz,” Aquino explains. “Using a blow-dryer without a diffuser directs concentrated heat and air, which can disrupt the curl structure and create unwanted volume or frizz.” The core distinction is that “a diffuser works with the hair’s natural texture, while a bare blow-dryer works against it, especially for curls, coils, and waves.”
How should a diffuser be used to maximize curl definition and minimize frizz?
“To maximize curl definition and minimize frizz, a diffuser should be used on low to medium heat and low airflow, starting with properly hydrated hair and a curl-defining product applied evenly,” Aquino says. “Gently cradle the curls into the diffuser and lift toward the scalp rather than blowing air directly onto the hair, allowing curls to set in their natural pattern.” She adds that “it’s also important to avoid touching the hair while drying and to diffuse in sections for even, controlled results.”
Meet the experts
How we test and review products
We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. When reviewing tools, we also take into account testers’ experience levels. For instance, an innovative new blow-dryer may feature industry-leading technology, but if the only people who find it intuitive to use are professional hairstylists, we have to consider this when determining whether it is worthy of a recommendation.
For our list of the best diffusers for curly hair, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists and seasoned estheticians. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
Done reading? Now, watch Dove Cameron’s “less is more” beauty routine.
