If you have curly hair, the chances are everyone envies you. Although your curls dazzle people when you are out, taking care of your hair can be a bit troubling. You probably use specialized hair products, and drying your hair can be tedious. Why not break that process by using a hair dryer with diffuser attachments, which are essential for curls.
These units can do an amazing job in delivering the expected results and keeping your hair healthy and voluminous. In this article, you will discover everything about the best hair dryers for curly hair. We searched up and down and found top-rated models that will be worth your while.
Getting the right hair dryer will mean the world to your curls. First, you will style them properly, and look the way you want. Apart from that, you will also promote the health of your cuticles and keep your hair shiny. So, don’t waste any time, and start checking out our reviews!
Best Hair Dryers for Curly Hair
1. REVAIR Reverse-Air
If you want to spoil your hair and care for it properly, you should only choose the best hair care products. REVAIR designed a unit that falls into that category. The premium hair dryer uses a special technique to ensure the heat follows cuticle direction. It uses about 50% less heat than a curling iron, which means it is a healthier solution for your hair.
This premium quality product has the power required to be effective for curly hair. It is very durable and should last for a long time. Apart from giving the results you want, it will boost the drying efficiency with the 360-degree coverage.
The only minor drawback is that the product might be a bit heavier than you expect. Although that will require a bit more effort, it will be worth it once you what this hair dryer can do.
2. Panasonic EH-NA65-K nanoe
Panasonic designed a unit that both looks cool and is capable of delivering expected results. If you’ve used their products before, you may be aware of the nanoe technology. Its goal is to utilize air moisture to promote hair hydration and keep your hair shiny and healthy.
Users get to choose between three heat settings, as well as two different speeds depending on the shape of your hair. The 1875W of power should be more than enough to suit your curls. If necessary, you can also take advantage of the cool shot button to style everything the way you want.
You will receive three different attachments with this dryer, including an accessory that accelerates drying, one that helps to deal with frizz, and an attachment to style your hair precisely. The only thing missing is a retractable cord, but the cable is still nine-feet long, which is quite impressive.
3. NITION Negative Ions
We will be honest and tell you that it is the golden color that attracted us to this hair dryer. It was then when we realized that it could perform well, too.
NITION used the standard negative ion technology and ensured that the ceramic-coated dryer offers a decent 1875W of power. Add different speed, and heat settings to the equation, as well as multiple attachments, and you realize that you have the ultimate control over this product. One of the attachments is a diffuser, which you will need for curly hair.
The dryer seems very light as its total weight is only a pound. However, that affects its durability a bit, but the unit should still last for a long time if you take care of it properly. The cord has a hanging hook, and it is 7.5-feet long, which is not as impressive as in other products, but it still gives you enough freedom to maneuver the dryer.
4. Revlon Infrared
The first thing you notice is the unusually thin handle, especially if you keep in mind the bulky body of the appliance. It will take some getting used to if you want to find stable angles, but it helps that the product is light and easy to maneuver.
Revlon designed a hair dryer that belongs to entry-level appliances but can do a decent job in drying curly hair. It comes with three different hair sectioning clips, as well as a diffuser and concentrator attachments.
Combined with 1875W of power and a couple of speed and heat settings, it should be more than enough to allow you to style your hair the way you want. Infrared heat will secure the temperature you were looking for, and ionic tourmaline technology will promote shine and reduce frizz. Finally, the product looks classy, thanks to the colors that the manufacturer picked.
5. Remington D3190 Damage Protection
Remington is a reputable brand in the haircare industry, but one thing to keep in mind is that this is a starting-level dryer. While it may not be a suitable hair dryer for professionals, casual users can benefit from it.
First, it looks great thanks to the purple-black combination of colors. It also has what curly hair requires, and that is a diffuser attachment. The manufacturer coated the dryer with tourmaline and ceramic, which enables the product the utilize the ionic technology while keeping the health of your hair and promoting its shine.
The total power offered is 1875W, and you can pick from three different heat adjustments. Add to that a couple of speeds, and the cools hot button for final styling work, and you get everything you need. Please note that you shouldn’t close the front where the air blows out or the air filter at the back, or you might compromise the product’s performance.
6. SABUY 2200W Professional
According to the manufacturer, it takes only six minutes to dry long hair with this dryer. That estimation is quite correct, and you realize that once you turn on this strong unit that offers 2200W of power, and high heat suitable for curly hair.
You can control the heat with three different adjustments, as well as set the desired speed. The cord is 8.7-feet long, and it has an anti-tangle feature to enable ease of use. It also helps that the dryer only has 1.3 pounds, which makes it easy to maneuver.
The product comes with three attachments, including a diffuser that aims to dry curls quickly. The only problem is that you need to be careful because the attachments don’t hold firmly to the dryer. It is, however, impressive how quite this ionic ceramic hair dryer can be despite its high power.
Hair Dryer for Curly Hair Buying Guide
The first time you look at them, most hair dryers look similar. However, the differences can be substantial, and we will be talking about them in this buying guide.
We will start with the factors that will help you choose the most suitable unit for your hair. Make sure to check out our guides on using the device and styling your hair, as well as our FAQ section.
How to Choose the Best Hair Dryer for Curly Hair
Each hair type has specific characteristics that require different styling appliances. For example, if you need the best hair dryer for thick hair, it should be somewhat different than the one for curly hair.
We are focusing on choosing a blow-dryer for hair that is curly, and these are the factors to consider.
Device Strength
Each hair dryer has a motor that runs the device and enables hot air to blow. When it comes to blow-dryers you use at home, they usually have wattage from 1200W to 2000W. They might not be as potent as professional salon dryers, but they are capable of doing the job.
When looking for a dryer for curly hair, find one with the highest wattage possible. If you want to reach impressive volume and long-lasting results, you will benefit from the additional quantity of air blowing.
Please note that some dryers have multiple speed settings available. That way, you can adjust the desired velocity during the process. You may start with a high-speed setting, and then reduce it as you go into details and style your curls.Maximum Heat and Adjustable Temperature
Hairdryers can achieve extreme temperatures, and we have technology progress to thank for that. However, you should be very careful when using high heat. For example, you can quickly burn fine hair with a 450F setting. On the other hand, coarse hair might require extreme temperatures of optimal styling. For more information, read our detailed hair dryer for fine hair buying guide.
When it comes to curls, you need a hairdryer with adjustable temperature settings. That will allow you to choose the ideal heat level for your hair. We suggest starting low and making your way up if necessary.
Additionally, adjustable heat might give you freedom in styling your curls just the way you want. The majority of hair dryers have a choice between two or more temperature modes.Which Material Is the Best for a Hair Dryer?
The primary component you want to consider is the heater. Ceramic is the preferred material of most manufacturers these days. While some companies choose only ceramic, some add tourmaline to the mix.
The task of that material is to improve heat distribution while ensuring that your hair remains protected against heat damage.Should You Use Ionic or Infrared Technology?
Both approaches are good, and you can’t go wrong whichever you choose. Ionic technology accelerates the entire process and allows your hair to keep most of its moisture.
Thanks to negative ions emitted from the appliance, the product manages to deal with molecules of water quickly, which accelerates the drying process. Thanks to that, you decrease the risk of hair damage.
As for infrared technology, its main task is to be gentle. That is why devices equipped with this feature are popular with people who have sensitive hair.
Thanks to the unique design, infrared hair dryers can operate at high heat levels, and still do a good job in protecting your hair against extreme temperatures.Ease of Use
Hairdryers are not complicated appliances, which you will realize once you read our guide on how to use them. However, certain factors can affect your comfort during the process.
These include:- Weight – if you like going into details and spending a lot of time styling your hair, look for a light dryer. That way, your hand won’t hurt when holding the product for a long time.
- Size – some dryers are bigger, and others are smaller. The bigger ones may cover a larger area of hair at once, but they also trickier to maneuver.
- Ergonomic handle – ergonomic design of the handle ensures that you can hold the product comfortably. A non-slip grip can also be important as it helps to avoid the device slipping from your hands.
- Cord length – the cord should never be strained, and you should have enough room to maneuver the device. There is no such thing as an ideal cord length, but make sure it can reach the nearby outlet comfortably.
- Cord swivel – another thing that may contribute to the ease of use is a 360-degree swivel cord. It will allow you to maneuver the device in any direction without tangling the cable.
Why Is a Diffuser the Most Important Dryer Attachment for Curly Hair?
You may think that a diffuser is only an attachment, but it is far more than that. That accessory will be your best companion in getting the curls you want and ensuring extended longevity.
Here is how a diffuser works – it spreads the air your appliance blows, and ensures even heat distribution. That is vital because it will prevent damaging your hair while securing that you style each section optimally.
Some dryers may come with a diffuser. However, even if they don’t, the manufacturer probably sells it separately. It is not a big investment, and it can be essential when drying curly hair.What Is the Benefit of a Cool Shot Mode?
If you check out your hairdryer, the chances are you will find a “Cool Shot” function. Reputable manufacturers have included this feature in their devices for a long time, but not too many people used this option.
The important thing to emphasize is that cool air helps you get the styling you want. That can be particularly important if you are going for curls. Thanks to a shot of cool air, you can make sure to set each section in as you finish styling it.
Using this feature is not difficult because activating it takes only pressing a button. Cool air can be extremely beneficial for long-lasting curls, which is why you should look for dryers that come with this feature.Should Your Hair Dryer Be Quiet?
Hairdryer belongs to those appliances that we are used to being loud. It is a myth that this appliance can damage your hearing, but it is true that it can wake up other members of your family or neighbors.
If you don’t want to disturb people around you, check out the quietest hair dryer buying guide. The general rule is that AC motors are quieter than DC motors, which is something you can consider when choosing your device.
The good news is that hair dryers are considerably quieter than before. As time passes, the manufacturers will probably make even more progress in this area.Do You Plan to Take Your Hair Dryer with You When Traveling?
If you are a frequent traveler, you may want to adjust the features of the appliance to your needs. First, you will need the hairdryer to be as light as possible. The reason is simple – it will be easier to carry it around in your suitcase.
Next, you can also benefit from a foldable design. That ensures the device won’t take a lot of room in your luggage. Finally, you should look for a unit with dual voltage support. It enables you to use the dryer in both 120V and 240V outlets, which guarantees you can use it anywhere in the world.
You can check out our travel hair dryer reviews if you are looking to find the most suitable device for your upcoming journey.
How to Dry Curly Hair Correctly
You are probably already familiar with the working process of a hairdryer. However, you might not be aware that each hair type needs a different approach. If you have curly hair, you need to adjust the process to it.
Apart from that, it is vital that you pick a suitable appliance. The process of choosing a hair dryer for natural hair is not the same as picking for dyed or other hair types. We hope that our buying guide helped you to understand the features that curly hair requires.
As for the actual process of drying your hair, these are the steps that you should follow.
Step 1: Use a Towel to Eliminate Excess Water
Once you wash your hair, you should use a towel to pick any excess water. Make sure to be gentle, especially if you have sensitive hair.
Step 2: Mount the Diffuser and Turn on the Device
If you have curly hair, it is best to use dryers that have a diffuser attachment. Now, split your hair into several segments. It will depend on your hair length, but the average segment number is three. The first section is a bun on the left side, the second a bun on the right, and the third segment is on the backside of your head.
The idea of this division is to ensure you distribute the heat evenly. That should help in getting even curls and minimizing frizz and hair damage.
Feel free to use hairpins, barrettes, clips, or anything else that comes to mind to keep the segments in place throughout the process.
Now, turn on your device and use the lowest heat setting. It is vital to start with a low temperature because you don’t want to damage your hair. If you see that you can’t style it properly, and it’s necessary to increase the heat, feel free to do that later. But remember, you want to stick with the lowest heat that can deliver the desired results.Step 3: Begin the Drying Process at the Roots
Pick one of the segments, and begin drying it at the roots. The idea is to move from there toward the ends. While you are styling your hair, it is vital not to keep the appliance in the same position for more than a second or so. You want to move it around constantly to avoid hair damage.
Once you complete drying the first segment, move to the next one until you finish them all.Step 4: Cold-Air Function
If your hairdryer has a cold-air function, now is the time to use it. You want to flip your hair upside down and blow your appliance that way.
Many professionals use this trick because it adds volume. That can be particularly important if you have curly hair. On the other hand, if your hair is thick and voluminous, you don’t have to flip it for this step.
Finally, turn off the appliance, and don’t forget to unplug the cord from the power socket.
Drying Tips for Curly Hair
We are all dreaming about perfect curls, but they are not easy to achieve. Apart from using your dryer correctly, these are the steps that can improve results and prolong the longevity of your curls:
- Use alcohol and sulfate-free shampoo – while washing your hair, go with a shampoo that doesn’t contain alcohol or sulfate. The former can take away moisture, and sulfate contributes to frizz.
- Find the right conditioner and styling products – you want to find a leave-in conditioner as that can boost your hair health and volume. As for styling products, you should apply sprays for soft curls, and gels for big curls.
- Never use a brush – the only time when you can use a brush is while your hair is still wet. Once you dry it, the only thing the brush will do is promote frizz. That can reduce the beauty and longevity of your curls.
Common Mistakes While Drying Curly Hair
If you don’t have a lot of experience with hairdryers, the chances are you might be making an error or two in the process.
Take a look at the most common mistakes so that you can avoid them in the future:
- You are using too much force with the towel – the process of drying your hair starts with removing excess water with a soft towel. It is vital to be gentle, especially if you have sensitive hair. Otherwise, you can easily damage it.
- Not using a heat-resistant spray – these sprays have the task of protecting your hair during the drying process. If you use them, you significantly reduce the risk of hair damage.
- Too much heat – you need to find a sufficient amount of heat to style your hair properly and get the curls you want. However, it is essential to start gradually and increase temperature only if necessary. The higher the heat, the more chances of damaging your hair, and that’s not something you want to happen.
FAQs & Answers
- Q: How often should you dry your hair with a blow-dryer?
A: it would be ideal if you did that as rarely as possible. High temperatures are not beneficial for the hair quality and may cause damage. You minimize the damage with protective sprays and other hair care products, but it still exists.
The problem is that curly hair requires the use of a dryer. That is why you can use it, but try to keep it to two or three times a week. That way, you will minimize the risk of hair damage, especially long-term damage. - Q: What is the average lifespan of a hairdryer?
A: The duration of an appliance depends on its quality of construction, the materials used in the manufacturing process, but also proper maintenance and frequency of use.
Hairdryers tend to last between two and eight years. A fine indicator of how much a manufacturer trusts its product is the length of the warranty. For hair dryers, it usually goes from one to three years, but many appliances last longer than that. - Q: How to clean a hairdryer effectively?
A: Once you finish the drying process, turn the appliance off and unplug it. Once you are confident you unplugged it, find the removable air filter. It is usually on the backside of the device. Make sure to clean it and remove any buildup.
You should also ensure to remove any hair that fell out if you notice it stuck to the dryer. The same goes for any dust or debris. Feel free to wipe the device with a damp cloth to keep it clean.
Wrap Up
Congratulations, you’ve reached the end of our buying guide! We hope that the article provided extensive information on how to choose the best hair dryer for curly hair.
The task won’t be easy, but if you stick to the advice written above, you will find the most suitable appliance for your hair. The vital thing to remember is that your hair dryer should come with a diffuser attachment. It is an essential accessory that can help you style your curls to look great and last for a long time.
You shouldn’t forget about the factors that contribute to the ease of use because comfort is crucial for these products. That is particularly true if you use hair dryers frequently.
If you want the most options for different curls, go with a hairdryer that has adjustable speed and temperature settings. And don’t forget the cool air function as it can make the styling process easier!
