The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →It can be worth buying if you want a dryer that also styles your hair—but for thick or curly hair, the diffuser and the exact bundle matter. Shark says the FlexStyle’s curl-defining diffuser has extendable prongs intended to reach the roots of longer, thicker hair. But the available evidence does not establish a dependable drying time or lasting curl hold across different curl patterns and hair densities. If you mainly want to diffuse curls, compare the price of a compatible diffuser and a dedicated dryer before choosing a multi-styler.
What the FlexStyle does—and what its claims establish
Shark describes the FlexStyle HD400 as a hair dryer that rotates into a multi-styler for drying, curling, volumizing, and smoothing. The company markets it for straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. Those are manufacturer descriptions, not independent proof of equal results across textures. Shark’s product page lists a two-year limited warranty; check the terms for the specific regional model and retailer listing before buying. Shark’s HD400 product page.
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Why the diffuser is central for curls
For natural curls, first check whether the bundle you are considering includes the curl-defining diffuser. Shark describes it as an attachment with retractable and extendable prongs, recommending the extended position for longer, thicker hair and to reach and lift at the root. Shark’s FlexStyle page describes that design.
The diffuser is also listed separately as model XSKHD4DA, and Shark names HD400 among its compatible models. The parts listing showed it out of stock when checked, so current availability and price should be confirmed on the listing. Bundle contents can differ: verify what is included and check compatibility with your precise model before purchasing an attachment. Shark’s diffuser listing.
#1 Best Overall
- MULTI-STYLING HAIR DRYER TOOL: Rotate the powerful hair dryer to transform into a versatile multi styler for drying, styling, and finishing. One tool replaces multiple styling tools for faster, easier routines.
- CURL, VOLUMIZE, SMOOTH & DRY: Attach stylers to the wand to curl, volumize, smooth, and dry. Create multiple styles with one air styler designed for flexibility across different hair types and styling needs.
- NO HEAT DAMAGE: Fast drying with low heat, measuring and regulating temperatures 1000x per second to ensure consistent air temperature. Designed to minimize heat exposure while maintaining smooth, healthy-looking hair.
- POWERFUL, FAST DRYING PERFORMANCE: Lightweight at just over 1.5 lbs with high-speed airflow for ultra-fast drying. Style while you dry with powerful performance designed to reduce time spent on your routine.
- FOR ALL HAIR TYPES: Designed for straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. A versatile hair dryer and multi styler that adapts to different textures, lengths, and styling preferences for everyday use.
What performance evidence says about thick or curly hair
The available evidence does not establish a standard drying time or consistent curl hold for people with thick or curly hair. In a 2026 article, Who What Wear discussed air-styler curls dropping quickly and suggested styling and heat-protecting product and hairspray. Its author said they could not provide a first-person diffuser review, so it is not a direct test of diffusing thick or curly hair. Read the article.
A separate 2026 Who What Wear hair-dryer roundup described the FlexStyle as powerful and loud at its highest setting, based on a tester with straight hair. That offers limited context on general use, not proof of how it performs on thick or curly hair. Read the roundup.
Rank #2
- MULTI-STYLING HAIR DRYER TOOL: Rotate the powerful hair dryer to transform into a versatile multi-styler for drying, styling, and finishing.
- CURL, VOLUMIZE, SMOOTH & DRY: Attach stylers to the wand to curl, volumize, smooth, and dry. Create multiple styles with one air styler designed for flexibility across different hair types and styling needs.
- NO HEAT DAMAGE: Fast drying with low heat, measuring and regulating temperatures 1,000x per second for consistent air temperature. Designed to minimize heat exposure while maintaining smooth, healthy-looking hair.
- POWERFUL, FAST DRYING PERFORMANCE: Lightweight at just over 1.5 lbs with high- speed airflow for ultra-fast drying. Style while you dry with powerful performance designed to reduce time spent on your routine.
- FOR ALL HAIR TYPES: Designed for straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. A versatile hair dryer and multi-styler that adapts to different textures, lengths, and styling preferences for everyday use.
Community reports are mixed and anecdotal. One curly-hair poster said drying their thick hair took about 35 minutes and that they returned the tool after two attempts; another discussion included a positive report from someone styling thick, naturally curly hair. Neither is a controlled comparison or a reliable prediction for someone with a different curl pattern, length, density, technique, or bundle. One r/curlyhair account; an r/Ulta discussion.
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How to use Shark’s guidance without treating it as a guarantee
Shark’s styling guide advises applying curly-hair products to wet hair before drying to help define curls and reduce frizz. It also suggests increasing heat for faster results on thick hair. These are the manufacturer’s usage recommendations, not evidence that a particular heat setting is safe or optimal for every person. See Shark’s FlexStyle Styling Guide.
Rank #3
- MULTI-STYLING TOOL: Transform from a powerful hair dryer to a multi-styler with a simple twist. Use as a blow dryer, hot air brush, or curling tool—perfect for styling anywhere with this portable hair dryer.
- CURL, VOLUMIZE, SMOOTH & DRY: Attach interchangeable tools like auto-wrap curlers, oval brush, or concentrator attachment to volumize, define curls, or smooth strands.
- NO HEAT DAMAGE: Enjoy salon-quality styles with no worry. FlexStyle uses intelligent heat control to reduce exposure, making it safer for daily use.
- POWERFUL, FAST DRYING: Get fast, efficient styling with a compact, lightweight design. This professional hair dryer delivers power without bulk—perfect as a portable dryer.
- FOR ALL HAIRKIND: Designed for every hair type: straight, wavy, curly, or coily. Whether you need curlers, oval brush, or diffuser for curly hair, FlexStyle adapts to your needs.
How to decide whether it fits your routine
- Consider it if you expect to use the dryer as well as multiple styling attachments, and the bundle includes the tools you actually need.
- Check the diffuser first if diffusing natural curls is your main reason for buying. Compare the bundle with the cost and current availability of a compatible XSKHD4DA attachment.
- Compare alternatives if you mainly want a dryer and diffuser. A multi-styler’s extra functions may not justify its cost if you will not use them.
- Judge performance claims carefully: drying-time and curl-hold reports are most useful when the reviewer has a similar hair type and explains the method and conditions. The cited evidence does not provide that kind of consistent comparison.
Prices and attachment availability can vary by retailer and change over time, so compare current listings for the exact model and bundle rather than relying on a general product name.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- NEXT-GEN ION-POWERED HAIR DRYER & MULTI-STYLER: Dries, styles, and creates bouncy, defined curls with powerful Coanda ion airflow—all without heat damage.
- POWERFUL COANDA WRAP CURLING: Hassle-free curls in seconds. Stronger wrap force for bouncier, more defined curls*. Coanda airflow does the wrapping for you — the left barrel curls counterclockwise, the right curls clockwise, so each side of your head gets a curl that falls the way your hair naturally wants to.
- THE IONCURL DIFFERENCE: Ion power and powerful airflow help dry and style hair faster than your usual routine, with no heat damage for healthier looking hair.
- NEW AIRSET BUTTON: Double-tap to pause airflow mid-style or hold down for a burst of cool air that locks your look in place.
- NOW WITH SCALP SHIELD MODE: Activate to instantly drop to a cooler, scalp-safe setting — designed to protect hair growth from excessive heat. Choose from 4 heat levels up to 203°F to match the style you're going for.
Rank #4
- MULTI-STYLING HAIR DRYER TOOL: Rotate the powerful hair dryer to transform into a versatile multi styler for drying, styling, and finishing. One tool replaces multiple styling tools for faster, easier routines.
- CURL, VOLUMIZE, SMOOTH & DRY: Attach stylers to the wand to curl, volumize, smooth, and dry. Create multiple styles with one air styler designed for flexibility across different hair types and styling needs.
- NO HEAT DAMAGE: Fast drying with low heat, measuring and regulating temperatures 1000x per second to ensure consistent air temperature. Designed to minimize heat exposure while maintaining smooth, healthy- looking hair.
- POWERFUL, FAST DRYING PERFORMANCE: Lightweight at just over 1.5 lbs with high-speed airflow for ultra-fast drying. Style while you dry with powerful performance designed to reduce time spent on your routine.
- FOR ALL HAIR TYPES: Designed for straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair. A versatile hair dryer and multi styler that adapts to different textures, lengths, and styling preferences for everyday use.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
