Diffusing curly hair is a fantastic way to enhance your natural curl pattern, speed up drying time, and add volume without the frizz. However, mastering the art of diffusing requires a little finesse and the right techniques. One wrong move, and you could end up with dry, frizzy curls instead of the bouncy, defined ringlets you want.
To help you achieve those picture-perfect curls, we’ve put together a list of dos and don’ts when diffusing curly hair.
The Dos of Diffusing Curly Hair
1. Do Use a Heat Protectant
Before you even think about grabbing your blow dryer, make sure to apply a heat protectant spray. Even though diffusing is a gentler method of drying, heat is still involved, and curly hair is naturally more prone to heat damage. A good heat protectant will act as a barrier between your hair and the heat, helping to lock in moisture, reduce frizz, and keep your curls defined. For the best results, spray the product evenly on damp hair, focusing on the ends.
2. Do Use a Microfiber Towel or T-shirt to Dry
Curly hair tends to frizz up when roughly dried with a standard towel. Instead, opt for a microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt to gently blot out excess water before diffusing. This will help keep your curls intact and minimize frizz.
3. Do Flip Your Head Upside Down for Volume
If you’re looking for big, voluminous curls, one of the easiest tricks is to flip your head upside down while diffusing. This encourages lift at the roots, resulting in more volume once your hair is fully dry. Just be careful not to disrupt your curl pattern too much by touching your hair excessively.
4. Do Use the Cool Setting for Definition
While heat can speed up the drying process, it’s best to end your diffusing session with a blast of cool air. This helps seal the hair cuticle, lock in moisture, and reduce frizz. Plus, the cool setting can add extra shine and help define your curls, making them look more polished.
The Don’ts of Diffusing Curly Hair
1. Don’t Diffuse Soaking Wet Hair
Attempting to diffuse soaking-wet hair is a recipe for disaster. Wet hair is more fragile and prone to frizz. Let your hair air dry or gently blot it with a microfiber towel before you begin. Diffusing damp hair rather than dripping wet curls ensures faster drying time and better curl definition.
2. Don’t Use High Heat
Even though it might be tempting to crank up the heat to get your hair dry faster, resist the urge! High heat settings can cause damage to your curls, leaving them dry, frizzy, and prone to breakage. Stick to a medium or low heat setting when diffusing to ensure your curls stay healthy and hydrated.
3. Don’t Over-Dry Your Curls
Another common mistake is diffusing the hair until it’s completely dry. Over-drying can lead to frizz and cause your curls to lose their natural shape. Instead, aim to dry your hair until it’s about 80-90% dry, then let the remaining moisture air dry to avoid over-processing.
4. Don’t Touch Your Hair Too Much
It’s tempting to play with your curls while diffusing, but this can lead to unwanted frizz and disturb your curl pattern. Try to avoid touching your hair during the process. Instead, gently place sections of your hair into the diffuser and let it work its magic.
Bonus Tips for Perfectly Diffused Curls
Section Your Hair: For even drying, divide your hair into sections and diffuse each one individually. This ensures every curl gets the attention it deserves.
Scrunch While Diffusing: If you’re looking to enhance curl definition, scrunching your hair as you diffuse can help encourage a more defined curl shape.
Seal with Oil: After diffusing, apply a lightweight oil like our 3 in 1 Shine Booster to the ends of your hair to lock in moisture and add shine.
Diffusing curly hair is a great way to achieve voluminous, defined curls without the frizz. By following the dos and avoiding the don’ts, you can keep your curls healthy, bouncy, and full of life. Remember to always use a heat protectant before applying any heat, be mindful of the temperature setting, and try not to touch your hair too much during the process.
Master these tips, and your curls will thank you!
