hair dryer diffuser

When you open your brand new hair dryer, there’s a little something extra in the box: A diffuser. The circular, pokey attachment is a new must-have for curly and wavy ladies looking to achieve beach-goddess curls and waves. While it may seem like a confusing add-on, using one is actually a breeze once you know how to do it right.

Diffusers soften the harsh blast of heat from your usual hair dryer with diffuser, making them better for delicate strands and perfecting scrunching techniques that encourage curls. Plus, they distribute air evenly throughout your strands, so you can dry your entire mane without worrying about overheating certain areas (read: frizz). So if you’re thinking of trying out a diffuser for the first time or want to learn how to use your new tool, read on for quick tips, a guide on how to use a hair dryer with a diffuser, and the best diffusers on the market today.

The first step in ensuring you’re getting the most out of your diffuser is to start with clean, damp hair that’s been spritzed liberally with your favorite heat protectant spray. Then, attach your diffuser and make sure it’s locked in — “it can be easy to accidentally bump a diffuser off while blow-drying your hair and ruin the shape you’re working so hard for,” stylist Nika Torres tells SELF.

Is hair dryer diffuser good for hair?

Once you’re ready to start, you can begin diffusing in sections. “Take a handful of your curls and coil them in the diffuser, letting them drop down and away from the head,” Torres says. “Don’t push down or bunch them up; this can disturb the clumps and curl pattern you’re working so hard to create.” Then, move on to the next section and continue to do so until your whole head is about 80% dry.

While you’re drying your hair, avoid touching it or twirling it around—doing so can disrupt the curl pattern and lead to frizz and flyaways. “You’ll also want to avoid combing it with a brush or comb, which can cause frizz,” Torres says. Instead, opt for a wide-tooth comb to detangle your strands.

Unlike other traditional plastic options, this foam-sock diffuser collapses flat for easy storage, making it easier to fit into your bag when traveling. It’s also incredibly lightweight so it won’t turn your normal blow-drying routine into an arm workout. Plus, it’s a great option for dry summer months when humidity can make hair extra frizzy. The best part: It’s super affordable, too. So whether you’re on a budget or just looking for a good deal, this diffuser is worth considering. (It’s available in a variety of colors, too.) It has a 4.4-star rating from more than 2,000 Amazon reviewers, and it should easily clip onto any hair dryer nozzle. Plus, it’s easy to clean and comes with a convenient carrying pouch.