Diffusers are versatile in that they attach to the nozzle of your hair dryer, but you want something a little more personalized to find a hair diffuser that fits your specific needs. According to hairstylist Lee Harges, there are three important features you want to look for when buying a hair diffuser:
Find the right size
First, you’ll want to make sure the attachment is compatible with the size of your dryer, but you’ll also want to pay particular attention to the bowl diameter. “The size, or diameter, of your diffuser determines how much of your head’s surface area it will cover,” says Harges. “The size of the diffuser’s cup is an indication of how much hair it can accommodate while drying.” In other words, the longer your hair, the bigger, wider, and deeper the bowl you’ll need.
Determine the amount of air needed
The holes or vents in the bowl of your hair diffuser control how much air flows through the device. “The position and number of holes in the diffuser determines how much air flows, which in turn determines how quickly your hair dries,” says Harges. If you have very thick, tricky-to-dry hair, a diffuser with more holes or vents might be the way to go, while finer hair might be better off with fewer holes or customizable vents.
Consider the length of your nails
If you have long hair or thick curls, you may want a diffuser with longer prongs, as this will help dry your scalp and keep your curls together while they’re in the diffuser bowl. For short or fine hair, a diffuser with short or chunky prongs will suffice.
