Why a diffuser is the secret to mastering curly hair volume
In short: Standard blow-drying concentrates air to move hair, but for curls, you need the opposite. By moving the air around while keeping the hair stationary, a diffuser preserves curl shape and builds body. Mastering this technique requires specific settings and strategic movements to achieve maximum lift and definition.
To achieve a stronger curl pattern and more body, the primary tool is the diffuser. Unlike a standard blow-dryer that concentrates air into a single spot to move hair, a diffuser moves the air around while concentrating the hair in one place. This allows you to blow-dry right up against the scalp without causing the hair to move, which is essential for maintaining the curl's shape.
The process begins with hair that has been shampooed, conditioned, and treated with product. To ensure even distribution, you can perform light twists or rake your hands through the hair. This helps lift the hair at the roots, preventing it from lying too tight against the head. For those with very fine, wavy hair, twisting the hair before applying the diffuser can be particularly helpful.
Efficiency and technique are key to a professional finish. When using a diffuser, it is recommended to set the speed to low to keep airflow gentle, while using high heat to speed up the drying process. Stylists often focus on the areas that take longest to dry, such as the roots and the back of the neck. Most people find that diffusing gets the hair about 80 to 90 percent dry.
For maximum volume, you can blow-dry with your head tilted or completely upside down. Tilting the head allows for better control around the face and sides, while flipping upside down provides significant lift at the back. Ultimately, the less you manually mess with the hair during the process, the better the final result will be.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Blow Dry Curly Hair, Part 1 | Curly Hairstyles
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