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You often hear about diffusers being an essential part of a curly hair routine, but what about those with a slightly looser texture?
Wavy haired beauties still benefit from the texture-enhancing powers of a diffuser, which is why you may want to invest in one if you feel like your waves could use a boost.
Not sure how or why to use one? We’ll share exactly how to diffuse wavy hair in this step-by-step guide, as well as explaining all the juicy benefits of a diffuser for textured hair. Read on to unlock your most gorgeous mermaid waves with one simple tool!
What Is A Diffuser?
A diffuser is a hair dryer attachment that is known for enhancing hair texture and boosting volume, which is why it’s a favorite for those with curly and wavy hair.
It has a distinctive bowl shape covered in spike-like prongs. The wide surface area disperses (or diffuses) the hair dryer’s airflow in a gentle and controlled manner. It allows air to gently wrap around waves and curls, preserving their natural texture as they dry.
In contrast, the singular concentrated air flow of a regular hair dryer nozzle is so powerful it can temporarily alter the texture of waves and curls, resulting in a looser pattern.
Why Using A Diffuser Is Beneficial For Wavy Hair
- Enhances wave pattern
- Adds volume and shine
- Gentler on hair
- Prevents frizz and damage
- Speeds up drying time
Blow Drying Wavy Hair With A Diffuser
So, how can you unlock all of the benefits of a diffuser?
The technique is slightly different to regular blow drying, so be sure to employ the following steps:
1. Prep your hair. Start in the shower with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. While conditioning, detangle and disperse the product by brushing through your hair with a wide tooth comb.
Once out of the shower, add any necessary product (heat protectant and hydrating gel are always a good idea) and remove excess moisture by using the plopping technique: ‘plop’ your hair into a microfiber hair towel (the texture is gentler on hair than a regular jersey towel), wrap it up, and let it dry until your hair is no longer dripping wet. This will help to speed up the drying time.
2. Diffuse. The process is easiest if you work in sections. Gather a section of hair into the diffuser, hold it towards the scalp and let it dry for 30 to 60 seconds (depending on your hair’s thickness) before moving onto the next section. As wavy hair varies in thickness and texture, you’ll want to experiment with how close you hold the diffuser to your head.
- Pixie diffusing means holding the diffuser right up to your scalp
- Hover diffusing means holding the diffuser further away from the scalp
Figure out which method works best for your wave type.
3. Finish. Once hair is about 80% dry, you can stop diffusing and let air do the rest. Finish up by adding some lightweight hair oil to your locks if you feel they need extra hydration.
General Diffusing Tips
- Rather than blowing at a downwards angle, diffuse from below and tilt your head towards the hair dryer. You can flip your head upside if you’re looking to gain more volume.
- Focus on the roots and mid-lengths of the hair to prevent damage and breakage. Ends are the oldest part of the hair, and therefore are more fragile and prone to damage.
- Work on low to medium heat and speed settings to create the gentlest effect.
- Turn off the hair dryer as you move between sections to ensure your wave pattern remains consistent.
- Finish each section with a cold blast to seal the hair cuticle, prevent frizz, and boost shine.
The Best Hair Dryer With A Diffuser For Wavy Hair
Feel like your current hair dryer isn’t doing enough to support your waves? Consider upgrading to the Laifen SE High Speed Hair Dryer.
Equipped with its own diffuser nozzle, this innovative hair dryer is filled with features that will bring out your healthiest, most gorgeous waves. It’s crafted with ionic technology to quickly wick moisture away from wet hair while neutralising static electricity to prevent frizz and boost shine. The clever temperature cycling mode ensures your hair is never exposed to excessive heat, keeping damage at bay. And if you’re worried the diffusing process will take too long, the Laifen SE’s ultra fast brushless motor significantly reduces drying time: it dries hair three times faster than conventional hair dryers!
How To Diffuse Wavy Hair Without A Diffuser
No diffuser? You can still get results with the following DIY methods. Whether you’re traveling light or you’re just not ready to invest in an attachment, recreate the effects of a diffuser with one of these techniques:
DIY diffuser. Simply place a clean sock, laundry dryer sheet, or cheesecloth (or any type of small, breathable fabric) over the end of your hair dryer. You can secure it with a hair tie. The sock will work to disperse the air like a diffuser attachment nozzle – just be mindful of the fabric overheating.
Fan or car vent. Any type of device that provides a widely dispersed air flow can be used as a diffuser in a pinch. Hold your hair close enough to the fan or car vents that they dry your strands while making sure they don’t get caught.
Plop & scrunch. Use the plopping method for a bit longer (around 30 minutes) until your hair is almost dry. Add in a texturizing product, and scrunch your waves towards your scalp with your hands. This will encourage your waves to form and set them in place.
Conclusion – How To Diffuse Wavy Hair
If you have wavy hair but haven’t tried a diffuser, you’re missing out. These incredible hair dryer attachments create a gentle, evenly dispersed air flow that enhances your natural wave pattern, prevents frizz, boosts shine and volume, reduces damage, and speeds up drying times. The diffusing process may take a bit of trial and error, but once you master it, you’ll love the results!
