Curly hair is definitely IN and having a big moment. But dealing with frizz and humidity? Not so much.
There are plenty of hair treatments out there for diminishing frizz and making everyday curly hair maintenance easier. From a Brazilian blowout to a silk press, to Keratin treatments.
But there are also some things you can do at home. Starting with diffusing your hair dry instead of air drying or standard blow drying.
When you diffuse your curly hair, your curls go from unruly to stunning. Plus, proper diffusing can enhance your natural hair pattern and curl type meaning you’ll have a great hair day every day!
So check out our step-by-step guide on how to diffuse curly hair and get ready to transform your curls from unruly to show-stopping!
How to Use a Diffuser
Before we go too far down the diffuse rabbit hole, what is a diffuser?
A diffuser is a pronged attachment on your blow dryer that disperses the air flow in a more gentle manner so the drying doesn’t affect your natural curl or wave pattern. It helps you minimize frizz, enhance volume, and shorten your drying time.
When diffusing your hair, you’ll want to follow the same guidelines for using any other heat tools. That means proper shampoo and conditioning and heat protectant.
You also want to avoid touching or manipulating your hair too much while diffusing as it will only encourage frizz.
More pro tips:
- Stick to a medium to low heat setting.
- Don’t get too close to your curls.
Now get that diffuser out and let’s get to our step-by-step guide.
Diffusing Curly Hair: Step-by-Step
If you’re tired of waiting hours for your curls to dry naturally but don’t like all the frizz and flatness that comes from a blow dryer, you’ve come to the right place.
Follow these steps and get expertly diffused curly hair.
- Wash, Condition, Towel Dry: Do your normal shampoo and conditioning routine and gently squeeze excess water out with a towel so your hair isn’t dripping wet. When towel drying, don’t rub too hard or squeeze out too much moisture. You want your hair to be wet, just not soaking.
- Apply product: Use your typical styling product and add in a heat protectant if that’s not included. Scrunch or spread throughout your hair as you would normally.
- Section your hair: Working in smaller sections will ensure more even drying and styling and that your hair keeps more of its natural pattern.
- Get to diffusing: Attach your diffuser nozzle to your blow dryer and set it at a low heat and low speed. More heat and speed only means more frizz when it comes to curly or wavy hair. Section by section, allow your hair to rest on the diffuser prongs and lift it up toward your scalp gently. Go section by section and repeat as needed to achieve your desired look. Finally, finish it off with a shot of cooler air to allow your hair to set.
Diffusing Techniques for Curly Hair
We’ve got the basics of diffusing down, so now here are some different techniques you can try before you find what works best for you.
Scrunch & Hold
Scrunch your hair with your hairs and hold the diffuser to them in the scrunched position. You’ll get a boost of curl definition this way.
Hover
Instead of cupping the hair, place the diffuser about several inches from your head and below your hair. Hover around without touching your hair. You won’t disturb your curls or stir up any frizz since you’re not touching the hair.
If you’re just looking for a light diffusing action after you’ve already styled your hair, this is the technique for you.
Upside Down
After diffusing the top side of your hair, flip it over to get the underside. Hold the diffuser a little away from your hair as you help dry the roots and boost volume.
Pixie
Instead of scrunching each hair section, simply hold each section to the diffuser and allow the curls to form around the prongs. This method can add a bit more bounce along your roots.
What Products to Use
The most important product to use when diffusing your hair is a heat protectant. Even though you’re sticking with a low heat, it will still prevent damaging your strands or scalp.
Leave-in conditioners and anti-frizz products are great for adding moisture to prevent your hair from drying out during the process as well.
After you’re done diffusing, adding a bit of hair serum or oil can add a bit more shine to your hair as well. This will also help alleviate that crunchy feeling you might get after diffusing.
Get Your Best Look With Studio 312 Salon
The proper diffusing technique is all about making your hair look its best. At Studio 312 Salon in Oviedo, we have the same goal.
We help you look and feel your best no matter what service you’re here for. Breathe new life into your curls with a curly cut tailored specifically to your hair. Or add some natural color with balayage.
Whatever hairstyle you’re looking for, we’re here to help make it happen. Book your consultation today!
