Best Diffusers for Curly Hair in 2023

When you have wavy, curly, or coily hair, you can’t always use hot styling tools the same way someone with straight hair can. This is especially true if you’re using a blow dryer. While they’re great for blowouts and general drying, blow dryers are a nightmare for curls because direct contact with high-speed air can encourage frizz. 

Enter the perfect solution: a diffuser. This simple attachment helps to control airflow and minimize disturbing your curls. You can still dry your hair quickly but minimize the risk of looking like a fluffy sheep is resting on your head. Whether you opt for a full curly hair blow dryer system or are simply in the market for an attachment, these are the top diffusers on the market.

Best diffusers for curly hair overview:

• Best overall: Curlsmith Defrizzion Dryer & XXL Diffuser
• Best budget: BabylissPro Nano Titanium Universal Finger Diffuser
• Best for fluffing: DevaCurl DevaFuser
• Best for frizz: Drybar The Bouncer Diffuser
• Best splurge: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer
• Best compact: Bed Head Curlipops 1875 Watt Diffuser Dryer
• Best for coilies: Conair The Curl Collective Coily Diffuser
• Best travel: Rizos Curls Pump Up the Volume Kit
• Best for waves: CHI 1875 Series Hair Dryer
• Best settings: Hot Tools Pro Signature Ionic Ceramic Salon Hair Dryer
• Best curl kit: T3 Micro Natural Curl Enhancer Set

How we chose the best diffusers for curly hair

To compile this list, we researched manufacturer specifications, including compatible hair types, whether it’s a universal fit, if the blow dryer itself is included, and beyond, to create a short list of the top diffusers for curly hair. Then, we combed through detailed product descriptions, ratings, and reviews to find the best diffusers for curly hair for each category.

Our picks for the best hair diffusers

Curls can refer to anything from waves to coils. So, it’s critical to find a good blow dryer that can effectively tackle all types of curl patterns without overdrying or leaving your hair looking like a frizzy mess. 

Curlsmith is a haircare brand that specifically targets curly heads ranging from upper type 2s (think 2C) to 4Cs. This complete dryer set comes with three attachments: a styling comb, a vent attachment, and an oversized diffuser. The larger 8-inch diameter ensures your curls won’t be disturbed whether your hair hangs low or rises to the sun. 

Choose from four heat settings, three speeds, and the option of a cold shot to lock in your hairstyle. You’ll also get ceramic construction that offers even heat and far-infrared technology to penetrate the hair for faster drying time. However, the maximum heat output of 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit) might not be enough for very dense hair or if you want to use the dryer for other styles like silk presses.

Hair type: Types 2-4, all lengths | Blowdryer included: Yes

If you love your existing blow dryer but need a simple solution to preserve your curls, you should purchase an attachment. Thankfully, plenty of brands offer standalone diffusers — including the professional fan-favorite option, Babyliss. 

While most people know Babyliss for its flat irons, the brand also makes this standalone diffuser that universally fits most dryers. Along with being incredibly affordable, it features elongated fingers to effectively dry your scalp without disturbing your curls. 

This diffuser leverages Nano Titanium technology and natural ions to quickly dry your hair and seal in moisture. However, we did note that a common complaint from reviewers was that even on Babyliss dryers, this attachment had a habit of falling off.

Hair type: All | Blowdryer included: No

If you’re used to your diffusers looking like half circles with pointy extensions, you might initially be put off by DevaCurl’s entry into this category. But the Devafuser is a revolutionary twist on a must-have for curlies. It features 360-degree airflow and is meant to mimic your hand. It’s also meant to be a universal fit attachment for most dryers.

By effectively lifting your hair without disturbing your curls, you’ll speed up drying time — especially at the scalp, which can be a pain point for many curlies. This diffuser features a ceramic core to minimize frizz and prevent moisture loss. And, as an added bonus, you’ll get enhanced shine.

Hair type: Type 2 – 4, all lengths | Blowdryer included: No

Most people think of Drybar as the go-to brand for killer blowouts. But the brand also serves curly heads. If you’re tired of your curly hair turning into cotton candy when you head outside, you’ll want to consider the brand’s Bouncer Diffuser. 

This diffuser attachment is designed to speed drying time by optimizing airflow to define your curls without encouraging frizz. It’s ideal for all hair types and can work with most other blow dryers, although it’s meant to be paired with Drybar’s proprietary options.

Hair type: All | Blowdryer included: No

If you’ve spent even just a little bit of time researching hot styling tools, you’ve inevitably come across Dyson. The brand that made a name for itself by creating pricey yet efficient vacuums has long since entered the health and beauty space. 

We can’t deny that the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is a serious splurge. But similar to those vacuums that “just work properly” (per vintage commercials featuring the founder James Dyson), the hair dryer is revolutionary. 

Along with quiet operation and gentler airflow, you’ll get a host of attachments to dry your curls, straighten your hair, and even tame flyaways. You’ll also enjoy faster drying time and more controlled heat to prevent heat damage — a serious risk for curlies.

Hair type: All | Blowdryer included: Yes

Haircare products take up space, and finding room for a bulky traditional blow dryer may be an issue if your bathroom is already overflowing. But if you have curly hair and no intentions of straightening it, the Bed Head Curlipops 1875 Watt Diffuser Dryer is a great compact solution that effectively dries your tresses without taking over your vanity. 

This pick features tourmaline ionic technology to minimize frizz while boosting shine. You’ll get three heat settings and two speeds, as well as a cool air button to lock in your style. Plus, the diffuser cover is removable, so you can still use this tool for general drying even if you have a looser hair pattern.

Hair type: Types 2 and 3 | Blowdryer included: Yes

Even if you don’t technically have thick hair, when you have a tighter curl pattern, your hair can be harder to dry because airflow often doesn’t reach the hair closest to the scalp. Conair’s The Curl Collective Coily Diffuser is explicitly designed for people at the upper end of the Andre Walker Typing scale (described below). 

If you have type 3C or tighter curls, this diffuser is meant for you. The oversized depth means you can effectively push air toward your scalp without disturbing other curls. This results in a more controlled drying experience. Additionally, this diffuser has a thermal aluminum interior that aids in speeding drying times. Ultimately, you’ll achieve less frizz and more defined curls.

Hair type: 3C+, all lengths | Blowdryer included: No

Hotel blow dryers are rarely anything to write home about. In many cases, management outfits the rooms with the most basic option that won’t mysteriously find its way into your luggage. For curly heads, you probably won’t want to rely on a basic hotel dryer. Thankfully, collapsible diffusers are a thing. 

This option from Rizo Curls takes it a step further, as it’s a complete set rather than just the diffuser. While you still get a collapsible diffuser that offers a fairly universal fit, you also get an alcohol-free volumizing hair spray and a hair pick to help fluff those curls. For best results, start by spraying the Rizos Curls Volumizing Hair Spray on damp hair, then use the diffuser to dry your curls. 

Keep in mind, though, that collapsible diffusers have a history of sometimes collapsing while in use. This is a common concern verified shoppers mentioned in negative reviews.

Hair type: Type 2-4, all lengths | Blowdryer included: No

CHI is another one of those brands that’s a fan favorite amongst consumers and professionals — and for good reason. Many of us are familiar with the brand because of its iconic 44 Iron Guard heat protectant spray, but the brand also has a host of hot styling tools. 

The CHI 1875 Series Hair Dryer is a great option for wavy hair because the diffuser is better catered to this hair type. It features a flatter design with elongated fingers to get to the roots without disturbing your waves. 

This dryer also comes with a nozzle concentrator attachment, and you can choose from three heat settings, two speeds, and a cold shot button. This pick leverages ceramic to preserve moisture while also generating ions to boost shine and prevent frizz.

Hair type: All | Blowdryer included: Yes

A common pain point for many blow dryers is that you don’t always know what specific temperature you’re using. Brands often simply offer three settings: low, medium, and high. But depending on your hair type or the style you’re trying to achieve, you might not get enough heat for the blow dryer to be effective. 

Hot Tools is another popular heat styling tools brand that’s best known for its flat irons, curling irons, and hot combs. The Ionic Ceramic Salon Hair Dryer is part of the brand’s Pro Signature collection and comes with a concentrator nozzle and diffuser. 

Choose from six heat settings, six speed settings, and a cold shot button for a truly customized solution. This dryer leverages Direct ION Technology to control frizz and speed up drying times. Meanwhile, the ceramic core utilizes far-infrared heat to not only speed drying but also seal the cuticle to preserve moisture.

Hair type: All | Blowdryer included: Yes

Whether you’re looking for a complete heat styling solution for your curls or just want to treat yourself, T3 is a great haircare brand that’s the perfect solution. The Natural Curl Enhancer Set comes with the T3 AireLuxe dryer, T3 SoftTouch 3 Diffuser, and T3 SinglePass Curl 0.75-inch curling iron. 

The Aireluxe Dryer promises to offer 128% wider airflow to reduce drying time while leveraging a gentler air stream that helps your hair retain 60% more moisture. The larger SoftTouch 3 Diffuser works to volumize, eliminate frizz, and control flyaways and is intended for curly, coily, and wavy hair types. And, the SinglePass Curl promises to give you 24 hours of defined curls. 

The Aireluxe blow dryer offers five heat settings and your choice of three speeds. It also incorporates negative ion technology to control frizz while smoothing your hair’s cuticle. Plus, it has a volume boost switch to enhance texture and volume.

Hair type: Types 2-4, all lengths | Blowdryer included: Yes

Say goodbye to bad hair days

Curly hair requires a bit of a learning curve, but there’s no reason you can’t use heat tools like a blow dryer. The right diffuser can speed up your drying time to result in frizz-free hair. If you want a smart option that works for all hair types, Curlsmith’s Defrizzion Dryer with XXL Diffuser is a great pick, thanks to the oversized attachment. Meanwhile, budget beauties will appreciate the Babyliss Pro Nano Titanium Universal Finger Diffuser attachment. 

How to pick the right diffuser for curly hair for you

A few factors will influence which diffuser is best for you. In particular, your hair type, volume, and even length of hair can filter your results. Likewise, consider whether you simply want to purchase an attachment or a complete blow dryer system. 

Hair type

Diffusers may all look the same, but the truth is that they can vary widely in size and shape. When selecting the right one, you can’t just think about the length of your hair; you’ll need to consider its density and volume, too. People with very thick hair should opt for a diffuser with elongated fingers that can effectively reach the scalp since the roots tend to dry slower than the rest of the hair. 

You’ll find that most diffusers are intended for people with wavy, curly, or coily hair. This coincides with hair types 2, 3, and 4 from the Andre Walker Typing System. These types are further broken down into subcategories ranging from A through C and listed with the number and letter according to your hair’s texture pattern. 

Types 2A through 3A tend to have a looser curl pattern and may find that traditional diffusers will usually work. Types 3B through 4C tend to have more volume and should be paired with diffusers that are more effective at getting to your roots to fully dry your hair. In some cases, you may find you need an oversized diffuser like the one from Curlsmith. 

Size

Diffuser size is going to depend on your hair’s volume. As seen in our roundup, we featured one diffuser from Curlsmith with a large 8-inch diameter. This is especially ideal for people with very curly hair who want to cover more area to reduce drying time. 

However, it’s important to note that diffusers are simply dryer attachments. They can’t influence your curl pattern. To get the best use out of your diffuser, consider prepping your hair with styling techniques such as plopping. Plopping is when you use a cotton t-shirt to dry your hair. 

Start by squeezing out excess water after washing. Use a t-shirt as a head wrap and drop your curls into the main body of the t-shirt with your body bent over and your head pointed down. Tie the t-shirt around your head and wait until your hair is about 77% to 80% dry before removing, adding styling products, and drying your hair with a diffuser. 

Alternatively, dry your hair to at least 77% to 80%, then add your preferred styling products. Lock in the style by then using your diffuser. 

FAQ

Is it better to air dry or diffuse your curly hair? 

This depends on your haircare habits. If you follow The Curly Girl Method, then you know that wash n’ gos are the preferred styling option. However, most experts recommend not blow drying soaking wet curly hair. It’s best to let your hair air dry or use a microfiber towel or old cotton T-shirt to absorb the bulk of the moisture before using heat on your hair. Whichever pre-blow dryer method you choose, always apply a heat protectant before using your blow dryer. 

Why is my hair frizzy after diffusing?

A diffuser can aid in gently drying your hair by preventing excess airflow from blowing over your hair. But it’s not a complete solution against frizz. If frizz is an issue, you’ll need to apply styling products designed to control that problem before using your diffuser. 

What’s the healthiest way to dry curly hair?

Keeping heat use to a minimum is the best way to protect your curls from heat damage that can permanently alter your curl pattern. But if you’re using a blow dryer, avoid using the hottest setting and always use a heat protectant before drying your hair. Likewise, avoid excessive heat exposure to your curls.