Dyson Airwrap Vs Shark Flexstyle Does The Shark Hold A Curl On Fine Hair

When it comes to styling fine hair, not all tools are created equal. Fine hair is often more fragile, less dense, and prone to falling flat—especially when exposed to excessive heat or improper tension. Two of the most talked-about multi-stylers on the market today are the Dyson Airwrap and the Shark FlexStyle. While both promise salon-quality results at home, many users with fine hair wonder: Can the Shark FlexStyle actually hold a curl on fine hair like the Dyson Airwrap?

The answer isn’t straightforward. It depends on technique, hair prep, tool settings, and even personal expectations. This article dives deep into the performance of both devices specifically for fine hair, focusing on curl retention, ease of use, and long-term styling viability.

Understanding Fine Hair and Its Styling Challenges

Fine hair refers to the diameter of individual strands, not necessarily the amount of hair on your head. People with fine hair often struggle with volume loss, limp curls, and styles that don’t last beyond a few hours. The root issue lies in structural weakness—fine strands have less cortex (the inner layer that provides strength and elasticity), making them more vulnerable to heat damage and less capable of holding shape.

Styling tools must balance effectiveness with gentleness. Too much heat can fry delicate strands; too little may fail to set a curl. Additionally, airflow dynamics and barrel material play critical roles in whether a curl will set properly and endure humidity or movement.

“Fine hair needs precision—not power. A high-wattage dryer won’t help if the airflow isn’t controlled and the temperature isn’t adjustable.” — Lila Chen, Celebrity Hairstylist and Texture Specialist

Tip: Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tool on fine hair. Look for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh down strands.

Dyson Airwrap: Performance on Fine Hair

The Dyson Airwrap revolutionized at-home styling by leveraging the Coanda effect—aerodynamic principles that cause air to follow a curved surface. Instead of clamping hair between plates, it uses controlled airflow to wrap and style strands around barrels. For fine hair, this means less direct heat exposure and reduced friction.

Users with fine hair consistently report strong curl retention when using the 1.2” or 1.6” barrels. The key is pre-drying: hair should be about 80% dry before wrapping begins. Applying mousse or a light-hold spray before styling helps build texture and support.

The Airwrap’s intelligent heat control cycles temperatures up to 30 times per second, preventing extreme spikes. This is especially beneficial for fine hair, which can overheat quickly. However, the device has limitations: it's expensive, heavy, and requires a learning curve to master consistent results.

Pros of Dyson Airwrap for Fine Hair

• Low direct heat exposure due to air-based styling
• Precise temperature regulation prevents damage
• Curls tend to last 6–8 hours with proper prep
• Multiple attachments allow for versatility (curls, smoothness, volume)

Cons of Dyson Airwrap for Fine Hair

• High price point (~$550–$650)
• Bulkier design can be tiring during longer sessions
• Learning curve: inconsistent wrapping without practice
• Limited suction power on very short or baby-fine sections

Shark FlexStyle: Can It Hold a Curl on Fine Hair?

The Shark FlexStyle entered the market as a more affordable alternative to the Dyson Airwrap, priced around $200–$250. It also uses the Coanda effect but with a slightly different airflow mechanism. The device features interchangeable heads—including a curling barrel, volumizing brush, smoothing brush, and concentrator—making it a true multi-styler.

For fine hair, the Shark FlexStyle performs surprisingly well, particularly when used correctly. Independent tests and user reviews show that curls can last 4–6 hours on fine, straight-to-wavy hair types. The results improve significantly when paired with a volumizing mousse and finished with a flexible-hold hairspray.

One advantage over the Dyson is its lighter weight and modular design. The wand detaches from the motor base, allowing for easier maneuverability. Additionally, the Shark offers three heat/speed settings compared to Dyson’s four, but still includes a “cool shot” function to set the style.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Fine Hair Test

Sarah, a 32-year-old with naturally fine, straight hair, tested both devices over two weeks. She washed her hair every other day and styled it the same way: part down the middle, medium waves on both sides using the 1.2” barrel.

With the Dyson Airwrap, her curls held strongly until mid-afternoon, beginning to loosen only after 7 hours. With the Shark FlexStyle, the curls started dropping around the 5-hour mark, though they retained some wave pattern. She noted the Shark felt lighter and easier to handle but required more passes to achieve full wrapping.

Her conclusion: “The Dyson holds the curl better, but the Shark is close—and I saved nearly $400.”

Direct Comparison: Dyson Airwrap vs Shark FlexStyle for Fine Hair

Feature	Dyson Airwrap	Shark FlexStyle
Price	$549–$650	$199–$249
Weight	1.8 lbs (with attachment)	1.3 lbs (wand only)
Heat Settings	4 (including cold)	3 (including cool shot)
Temperature Control	Smart sensor, 30x/sec monitoring	Manual settings, no real-time adjustment
Curl Retention (Fine Hair)	6–8 hours (with prep)	4–6 hours (with prep)
Airflow Technology	Coanda effect with high-pressure fan	Coanda-inspired, lower suction
Ease of Use (Beginners)	Moderate learning curve	Steeper initial learning curve
Noise Level	High (similar to hairdryer)	High (slightly quieter than Dyson)

Tip: For best curl retention on fine hair, use the lowest effective heat setting. Overheating weakens keratin bonds and causes curls to fall faster.

How to Maximize Curl Hold on Fine Hair with Either Tool

Regardless of which device you choose, technique matters just as much as technology. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving longer-lasting curls on fine hair:

1. Start with clean, conditioned hair. Use a volumizing shampoo and avoid heavy conditioners on the roots.
2. Towel-dry gently. Do not rub hair vigorously—use a microfiber towel or old cotton T-shirt.
3. Apply a heat protectant. Choose a lightweight, spray-on formula to shield strands without weighing them down.
4. Add texture product. Use a mousse or foam designed for fine hair. Focus on mid-lengths to ends.
5. Pre-dry to 70–80%. Use a diffuser or concentrator nozzle to smooth and partially dry hair before styling.
6. Section hair. Clip top layers away and work in 1–2 inch sections for consistent results.
7. Use the right barrel size. For fine hair, 1.2” tends to give more defined, lasting curls than larger barrels.
8. Let each curl cool completely. After releasing, let the curl hang freely for 10–15 seconds before touching.
9. Finish with a light-hold spray. Avoid crunchy formulas—opt for flexible aerosols that add grip without stiffness.
10. Don’t brush out curls immediately. Let them set for at least 30 minutes before gently separating with fingers.

Checklist: Getting the Best Curls on Fine Hair

• ✅ Wash with volumizing shampoo
• ✅ Apply heat protectant
• ✅ Use mousse or texturizing foam
• ✅ Pre-dry thoroughly
• ✅ Work in small sections
• ✅ Use low-to-medium heat
• ✅ Allow curls to cool before handling
• ✅ Finish with flexible-hold hairspray
• ✅ Avoid touching hair post-styling

Expert Verdict: Which Tool Is Better for Fine Hair?

While both tools are capable, the Dyson Airwrap edges ahead in curl longevity and consistency—especially for those who prioritize polished, long-lasting results. Its advanced heat regulation and stronger airflow make it more reliable for setting curls in fine, slippery strands.

However, the Shark FlexStyle is no slouch. For budget-conscious users or those who prefer a lighter, more compact system, it delivers impressive value. With proper prep and technique, it can produce soft, bouncy waves that last through a workday or casual outing.

“The Shark FlexStyle proves you don’t need to spend premium prices for good results. But if you style daily and want consistent, damage-free curls on fine hair, the Dyson’s engineering still sets the standard.” — Marcus Reed, Lead Educator at ProStyling Labs

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Shark FlexStyle damage fine hair?

Not inherently. Like any heated tool, damage occurs when used improperly—such as on soaking wet hair, at max heat for prolonged periods, or without heat protection. When used correctly, the Shark FlexStyle is safe for fine hair.

Why won’t my curls hold with the Shark FlexStyle?

Curls may fail to hold due to insufficient pre-drying, lack of texture product, or rushing the cooling phase. Fine hair especially needs time to set. Try increasing mousse application and letting each curl cool fully before releasing.

Can I use the Dyson Airwrap on very short fine hair?

Yes, but with caution. Very short sections (under 3 inches) may not wrap fully around the barrel. Use the smoothing brush attachment instead, or try the smaller 0.7” barrel if available. Avoid forcing short pieces into the airflow stream.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Hair

The debate between Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexStyle ultimately comes down to priorities. If you have fine hair and want maximum curl retention with minimal effort, the Dyson Airwrap is worth the investment. Its precision engineering and consistent performance cater well to delicate strands that resist styling.

But if you’re looking for a capable, cost-effective alternative that still leverages modern airflow technology, the Shark FlexStyle delivers solid results—especially when paired with smart prep and technique. It may require a few extra passes or a touch-up midday, but for many, that trade-off is acceptable given the savings.

Remember: no tool can compensate for poor preparation. Fine hair thrives on lightweight products, gentle heat, and patience. Whether you choose Dyson or Shark, focus on building a routine that supports hair health first. Long-lasting curls are a bonus—but healthy hair is the real win.

💬 Have you tried either the Dyson Airwrap or Shark FlexStyle on fine hair? Share your experience, tips, or questions in the comments below—your insights could help others make the right choice!