Learning how to make the most of your curly or wavy hair can take some practice. You've probably gone through some trial and error over the years regarding hair care and styles. From the sky-high teased look to the ill-advised attempt at bangs, chances are you have a few photos that prompt "What was I thinking?" moments.

Luckily, caring for curly or wavy hair is easier now than ever. Almost every hair care company has a product line geared to defining and enhancing curly hair types. And there are plenty of styling tools available to help you get the bouncy, springy, salon-perfect curls of your dreams.

Diffusers are indispensable hair care tools for anyone with curly or wavy hair. Diffusers are attachments that fit on the end of your hair dryer to help evenly distribute warm air and heat for faster, more effective hair drying. Diffusers are usually round or oval and some have small protrusions called fingers that help direct the air to the roots of your hair to provide extra lift and volume.

Who Should Use a Diffuser?

Anyone prone to dry or damaged hair needs to take extra precautions to keep hair healthy. Curly, coarse, and thick hair is more susceptible to dryness and breakage, which is why diffusers are at the top of the list of beauty must-haves for women with this hair type.
That's not to say that straight-haired gals (and those trying to achieve a straight look) can't use diffusers. There are ways to use a diffuser to enhance straight, sleek hairstyles. Because diffusers are designed to prevent excess drying and damage, they can be recommended for just about anyone.

How Is A Diffuser Used For Styling?

It depends on your hair type and your desired style, but the general procedure for curly hair is to apply a styling product to your wet hair, attach your diffuser to the hair dryer barrel, and set to work. Focus on the roots of your hair first, and continue moving the dryer around your head in a circular motion. When drying the bottom of your hair, you can encourage the curl by scrunching the hair with your fingers as you go. For extra body, try finishing by drying hair with your head turned upside down.

Shopping For Diffusers

One great thing about diffusers is that they're a very good value. While a hair dryer can be quite pricey, many diffusers can be bought for less than $20, some for half that! There are diffusers in the neighborhood of $40, but these are high-end salon-grade tools that would interest someone very serious about styling.

If you already have a hair dryer, a diffuser can be a great addition. Just be careful about sizing. While plenty of diffusers fit the barrels of all or most standard hair dryers, some will only fit hair dryers of certain sizes and brands. Aside from fit, you should take into consideration your hair length, styling goals, and aesthetic preferences when choosing a diffuser. A diffuser is a small investment that can make a big difference in the health and beauty of your hair.
The Helen of Troy SofTouch Volumizing Massaging Diffuser features soft gentle rubber fingers that direct air at the roots where it belongs. It provides excellent lift and volume along with comfort for a quick and convenient hair styling experience. The only issue with this model is one of fit. It seems to be an odd size that prevents it from fitting snugly on most hair dryer barrels.

The DevaFuser from Deva Concepts boasts a quirky shape and bright green color that make it look like it originated in a salon on Mars, but it's quite a practical product. The unique ergonomic design delivers air more effectively, and the universal adaptor promises to fit 99% of all hair dryers. You'll also get a free 3 oz. bottle of setting spray so you can lock in the style you love.

Another diffuser that offers great fit is the Solia Universal Diffuser. This Italian-made styling tool offers an adjustable collar to fit most hair dryers. It's also super versatile, with 2 detachable diffuser rings; one with fingers and one without; to create a wider variety of styles.

Are you a frequent traveler who wants gorgeous style while away from home, without the bulk and hassle of hair dryer attachments? The Hot Sock Diffuser can be the answer. This small light foam diffuser fits easily on any hair dryer to provide adequate protection from heat damage. While it doesn't offer all the features of a traditional hard diffuser, it's a quick and easy alternative that works fine in a pinch. It retails for around $5, so it can't hurt to have it on hand!
The T-3 Featherweight Diffuser is a real jewel.... literally! It's made from 100% crushed tourmaline jewels and utilizes a high concentration of negative ions and near infrared heat to give you the quickest, smoothest dry ever. Thanks to its high-end features, this model will cost you a little more, and it only fits T3 Featherweight and Evolution dryers, which aren't cheap, either, but if you want salon-level hair care, this diffuser fits the bill.

The Conair Pro Mitt Diffuser CPCSOCK is another light foam diffuser that's excellent for use on the road or at home. This diffuser is fairly basic, and might not do the best job on very curly or unruly hair. But if you have medium length hair or soft waves, you should get decent results.

The Infratec IT0011 Claw might look scary with its long, pointy fingers, but it will make your hair look awesome. It's made to enhance all kinds of curly hairstyles, from spirals to ringlets, with its unique ultra-lift design. It fits all Infratec hairdryers.

Do you love European salon style? The Conair DF09A Euro Style Diffuser delivers smooth sophistication to your hair care routine. It's wonderful for creating and enhancing waves and curls as well modern, sculpted styles.

Diffusers should be used as part of an overall regimen designed to protect and preserve your hair. In addition to using a diffuser to protect from heat damage, you should also practice gentle hair combing and brushing habits, and treat your hair to a moisturizing treatment, like hot oil, as necessary.