Do You Put Product in Your Hair Before Diffusing

Diffusing is a popular technique used to enhance the texture and definition of curly and wavy hair. It involves using a diffuser attachment on a hair dryer to distribute heat evenly and gently, preventing frizz and preserving the natural shape of curls. However, the success of diffusing largely depends on the products you use and how you apply them. One of the most frequently asked questions in the curly hair community is whether you should put product in your hair before diffusing. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and techniques of using products before diffusing, providing you with a comprehensive guide to achieving the best results.

Understanding Diffusing

Before we dive into the specifics of product application, let’s first understand what diffusing is and why it’s beneficial for curly and wavy hair.

What is Diffusing?

Diffusing is a method of drying curly or wavy hair using a special attachment called a diffuser. Unlike a regular hair dryer, which blows a concentrated stream of hot air directly onto the hair, a diffuser disperses the air flow more evenly. This gentle drying process helps to:

1. Reduce Frizz: By distributing heat evenly, a diffuser minimizes the risk of frizz and flyaways.
2. Preserve Curl Shape: The diffuser allows curls to dry naturally, maintaining their shape and definition.
3. Add Volume: Diffusing can help add volume and lift to the roots, giving the hair a fuller appearance.
4. Minimize Damage: Gentle heat distribution reduces the risk of heat damage, keeping the hair healthy and strong.

The Importance of Using Products Before Diffusing

Using the right products before diffusing is crucial for achieving the best results. Here’s why:

Enhances Curl Definition

Products like curl creams, gels, and serums are designed to define and enhance the natural shape of your curls. Applying these products before diffusing helps to lock in moisture and provide the necessary hold to maintain the curl pattern.

Controls Frizz

Anti-frizz products, such as serums and oils, can be applied before diffusing to smooth the hair cuticles and prevent frizz. This is especially important for those with porous or coarse hair, which tends to absorb more moisture and become frizzy.

Adds Shine and Softness

Using conditioning products before diffusing can add shine and softness to your hair. This is particularly beneficial for those with dry or damaged hair, as it helps to restore moisture and improve the overall texture.

Protects from Heat Damage

While diffusing is gentler than using a regular hair dryer, it still involves heat. Using heat protectant products before diffusing can help shield your hair from potential damage, ensuring that it remains healthy and strong.

Types of Products to Use Before Diffusing

Choosing the right products is essential for achieving the desired results. Here are some of the most effective products to use before diffusing:

Curl Creams and Gels

Purpose: Define and enhance curls, provide hold, and control frizz.

Application: Apply to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly.

Serums and Oils

Purpose: Smooth the hair cuticles, add shine, and reduce frizz.

Application: Apply a small amount to the mid-lengths and ends of damp hair. Avoid the roots to prevent greasiness.

Conditioners

Purpose: Hydrate and soften the hair, making it more manageable.

Application: Use a leave-in conditioner or a rinse-out conditioner during your shampoo routine. Leave-in conditioners can be applied to damp hair before diffusing.

Heat Protectants

Purpose: Shield the hair from heat damage.

Application: Apply a heat protectant spray or serum to damp hair before diffusing. Make sure to cover all sections of the hair.

Volumizing Products

Purpose: Add lift and volume to the roots.

Application: Apply a volumizing mousse or spray to damp hair, focusing on the roots. Use your fingers to scrunch the product into the hair for added lift.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Products Before Diffusing

Now that we’ve covered the types of products to use, let’s go through a step-by-step guide to applying them before diffusing:

Wash and Condition Your Hair

Start by washing your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Rinse thoroughly to remove any product buildup.

Apply Leave-In Conditioner

Towel-dry your hair gently to remove excess water. Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This will help hydrate and detangle the hair.

Apply Curl Defining Product

Choose a curl cream, gel, or mousse and apply it to damp hair. Start from the mid-lengths and work your way up to the roots. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly.

Smooth with Serum or Oil

If your hair is prone to frizz, apply a small amount of serum or oil to the mid-lengths and ends. This will help smooth the cuticles and add shine.

Add Heat Protectant

Spray a heat protectant product onto your damp hair, making sure to cover all sections. This will help shield your hair from the heat of the diffuser.

Scunch the Hair

Use your fingers to scrunch the hair upwards, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. This technique helps to enhance curl definition and add volume.

Attach the Diffuser

Attach the diffuser to your hair dryer. Make sure the diffuser is securely in place and that the airflow is evenly distributed.

Diffuse the Hair

Hold the diffuser about 6-8 inches away from your hair and start drying from the bottom, working your way up to the top. Use the scrunching technique with the diffuser to enhance curl definition and add volume.

Final Touches

Once your hair is about 80% dry, remove the diffuser and finish drying with a regular hair dryer if needed. Use a light hold hairspray to set the style and add extra hold.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results

Here are some additional tips to help you achieve the best results when using products before diffusing:

Use the Right Amount of Product

Too much product can weigh down your curls and make them look greasy. Start with a small amount and build up as needed. Less is often more when it comes to curly hair products.

Avoid Over-Diffusing

While diffusing is gentle, over-diffusing can still cause heat damage. Aim to dry your hair until it’s about 80% dry, then finish with a regular hair dryer if needed.

Customize Your Routine

Every head of hair is unique, so customize your routine to suit your specific needs. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your hair type.

Maintain a Healthy Scalp

A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. Use a scalp treatment or exfoliating shampoo once a week to keep your scalp clean and free from buildup.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help keep your hair and scalp hydrated from the inside out. This can make your hair more resilient and less prone to damage.

Regular Trims

Regular trims can help prevent split ends and breakage, which can make your hair more susceptible to frizz and damage. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair healthy and strong.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While using products before diffusing can yield excellent results, there are some common mistakes to avoid:

Overloading with Product

Using too much product can weigh down your curls and make them look greasy. Start with a small amount and build up as needed.

Skipping Heat Protection

Even with a diffuser, heat can still damage your hair. Always use a heat protectant product before diffusing to shield your hair from potential damage.

Not Scrunching Properly

Scrunching is a crucial technique for enhancing curl definition. Make sure to scrunch the hair upwards, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.

Over-Drying

Over-drying can cause frizz and damage. Aim to dry your hair until it’s about 80% dry, then finish with a regular hair dryer if needed.

Using the Wrong Diffuser

Not all diffusers are created equal. Choose a diffuser that fits your hair dryer and provides even heat distribution. Some diffusers have multiple settings, allowing you to adjust the airflow to suit your hair type.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using products before diffusing is essential for achieving the best results with curly and wavy hair. By choosing the right products and applying them correctly, you can enhance curl definition, control frizz, add shine, and protect your hair from heat damage. Follow the step-by-step guide and tips provided in this article to create a customized routine that works for your hair type. With the right approach, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy curls every day. So, the next time you diffuse your hair, remember to prep with the right products and enjoy the stunning results.