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Welcome to Skimm Tested, where we put products to the test and then give them a report card. (Check out all of our tried-and-tested faves here.)
The assignment…
To test Shark’s FlexStyle blow-dryer ($279.99+), including the auto-wrap curlers, diffuser, oval brush, paddle brush, and concentrator. Can it sub in for the infamous Dyson Supersonic hair dryer and are the separate attachments truly worth it?
Straight A’s in…
Versatility. Long story short, this blow-dryer can do a lot. The different attachments mean you get a multiuse beauty tool, and who doesn’t love that? The curlers curl, the diffuser dries, the brushes (oval and paddle) produce noticeable volume, and the concentrator targets certain parts of your hair that need more attention (like the roots). One tester used the curler attachment to style her bangs and loved the results.
Efficiency and power. The blow-dryer is quick and powerful, so it cut drying time in half for our testers. Bonus: This could also help lessen heat damage.
Price. It’s priced at $279.99, which is much less than its Dyson counterpart. With the bundle, you can choose up to three attachments, but also have the option of adding more when you check out.
Design. The body itself can bend, which means reaching certain sections of your hair is easier.
Room for growth…
Attachment size. Our testers noted that while the different attachments provide useful versatility, they’re big. This means that drying hair near the nape of your neck may be hard. And if you’re traveling with the blow-dryer, some attachments may be cumbersome to pack.
Curler barrel size. The curlers (they come in a two-pack) are one size: 1.25 inches. This will produce only one size curl, which can be limiting while styling.
Noise. Two testers noted the blow-dryer is on the louder side, so something to be mindful of if you live with others. Waking up early in the morning and using this may not be the most considerate thing if people are sleeping within earshot.
Plays well with…
Those with curly hair. The diffuser works well and keeps frizz out.
People with fine, straight hair. The oval brush can add volume to locks that otherwise air-dry flat, but pro tip: Reduce the airflow when using attachments to avoid extra static.
Anyone who regularly styles their hair at home but doesn’t want to drop a ton of money on the Dyson Supersonic ($429.99).
Those who want to upgrade their run-of-the-mill drugstore blow-dryer.
How we did our homework…
We had three testers use the Shark FlexStyle up to three times a week over the course of two months. Their hair types range from straight and fine to curly and frizzy. One editor also has bangs.
Each noted how long their blowout took to complete, how their hair felt and looked after it was dry, and how much frizz was produced in the process.
They evaluated the blow-dryer’s design and functionality. Did it feel heavy to hold over time? Could they reach the underlayer of their hair easily?
We asked them how the blow-dryer held up over time and if its performance was consistent. In the end, was it a beauty tool they’d want to buy?
Footnotes…
Three attachments are included, but others can be added to the bundle
Free shipping with a free two-year limited warranty
60-day money-back guarantee
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