The 6 Best Diffusers For Curly Hair

If you have curly hair, you know how difficult it can be to use a blowdryer without disrupting your natural curl pattern. What’s more, when applying heat directly to your hair, you run the risk of adding frizz, losing definition, and even causing breakage. But if you use one of the best diffusers for curly hair (as well as a great leave-in conditioner for curly hair), none of that will be an issue.

There are a few other reasons why you might want to use a diffuser: They work to reduce frizz, speed up drying time, and can also help thick, curly hair dry more evenly. But to find the right one for you depends on your lifestyle, curl type, budget, and even your storage situation.

In a hurry? These are the best diffusers for curly hair:

• DevaCurl DevaFuser
• BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Universal Finger Diffuser
• Extava Black Orchid Hair Diffuser
• The Curly Co. Collapsible Hair Diffuser
• Bed Head Curls in Check 1875 Watt Diffuser Hair Dryer
• Hot Sock Diffuser
• INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1875 Watt Hair Dryer With Diffuser

A universal diffuser is great for leveling up those hotel dryers when you travel, but they’ll also work on that expensive new blowdryer you just bought — or that old one you can’t bear to get rid of. The diffuser that looks like a hand (you’ll see in a minute) is ideal for maintaining your natural curl pattern, while an extra-large diffuser will be great for hair that’s thick and long. But most importantly, you'll want to choose something that was specifically made for curly hair, like any of the options below.

1. This Hand-Shaped Diffuser For A Natural, Air-Dried Look

• Also available on Ulta, $50, and Sephora, $50

The DevaCurl DevaFuser is a diffuser made for every curly hair type, only for curly hair types. It might be odd-looking, but the 360-degree airflow works to give your curls definition, volume, and lift — all while promoting softer hair. It fits on most blow dryers using a secure rubber nozzle, and it works like fingers running through your hair — which helps keep your natural curl pattern completely undisturbed. Finish off your styling session with the cold air setting to lock your curls in place.

User review: "Love it! This dries from the inside outward so your ends won't be frizzy and fried by the time your roots are dry. Your curls will be beautiful with a ton of volume, so worth the price!”

2. A Finger Diffuser That's Perfect For Loose Waves

• Also available on Walmart, $10

This universal finger diffuser fits on any blowdryer, and the large dome helps to evenly distribute heat, which can minimize the risk of damage while you dry your hair. It's especially great for those of you who have less time in the morning, as the even heat distribution also helps to dry hair quickly. This is also good if your hair is slightly wavy — it creates shine and bounce, but not so much ringlets, so it’s the perfect choice if your curls are a bit looser.

User review: “Upgraded from a collapsible silicon diffuser, and it was worth it. My hairdryer is a Babyliss, the diffuser fits great. My hair is fine and 2b/2c/3a/ frizzy- this diffuser reduced a lot of the frizz, seems to dry my hair faster, and, defines my hair into loose spirals. Not too heavy either. It works well for me.”

3. An Extra-Large Diffuser For Long, Thick Curls

• Also available on Walmart, $48

Long, thick, curly hair can benefit from this large hair diffuser from Xtava. The 3-D prongs disperse air evenly, which keeps curls defined and adds volume, which thicker hair can sometimes lack when it’s weighed down by heavy curls. It fits perfectly on a blowdryer with a 6-inch circumference, and the silicone base helps secure the diffuser to the nozzle.

One fan raved: "I am thrilled with this diffuser! I have tried many similar products and this one does a job! The cup design is perfect for holding your hair while it diffuses it helping to produce the volume and shape most girls with curly hair want.”

4. This Silicone Diffuser That Collapses To Save Space

• Also available on Walmart, $29

When you're on a weekend vacation and don't want to rely on your friend's hair tools, this clever hair diffuser will collapse to fit easily and neatly into any suitcase or backpack (and it'll be less bulky to store under your bathroom sink, too). Its collapsible silicone design also helps to fit it onto any blowdryer model. When used with low heat, it'll maintain the natural texture of your curls while also reducing unwanted frizz.

User review: "I love this product! I travel often, and I’m always freaking out that the plastic diffuser that came with my dryer will get broken during transit leaving me to deal with bad hair for my entire trip. This diffuser fits snugly on my dryer, even with my dryer’s somewhat oddly shaped end. There is no struggle to put it on or get it off. I simply put the collapsed diffuser down on a flat surface (typically the bed) and press my dryer into the end.”

5. A Blowdryer & Diffuser That Work In Tandem To Create Gorgeous Curls

• Also available on Walmart, $30

This Bed Head blowdryer can be used both with or without the included diffuser attachment— the round, flat shape makes diffusing curly hair easier and adds definition and volume. The tourmaline ceramic technology ensures your hair dries frizz-free, and the cold shot button helps lock in your style. It has three heat settings, two speed settings, and a 6-foot cord as well.

User review: "This is the most amazing blow dryer for people with curly or somewhat curly hair! I've been using this for years and I get compliments all the time on how pretty my curls are. A normal diffuser doesn't even compare to this dryer.”

6. A Lightweight Diffuser That Stretches To Fit Over Any Blowdryer

• Also available on Walmart, $9

This neat little sock diffuser is a unique option: because it'll stretch to fit, you can be sure it'll work on any dryer. It's also great if you travel a lot or go between apartments often — keep one in your purse and you'll be ready for any overnight stay that comes your way. It takes a longer time to dry your hair than traditional diffusers, and you'll have to make sure you're scrunching often, but it’s still a great option to have on hand, especially for just $7.

User review: "I have short/medium length curly hair and have used the plastic diffusers for years. I’d never even seen one of these until I changed hair stylists and she used one on me. These little things really work. I don’t completely dry my hair but have noticed this thing does in just a few minutes what the plastic one took three times as long to. If you’re looking for something to do a quick dry and soften curls, I think you’d be happy with this.”