Hair Attachments 101: How & When to Use Them

Hair dryers do more than just dry they shape, define, stretch, and smooth. And with the right attachments, they become your most versatile styling tool. Whether you're a pro with a round brush or just learning how to stretch your curls without heat damage, knowing when and how to use each dryer attachment gives you the freedom to create exactly what your style calls for. Whether you’re going for volume, smoothness, definition, or detangling, the tool you add to the nozzle can dramatically change your results.

New to attachments? Or just want to get more from your dryer? This guide walks through exactly when and how to use a diffuser, concentrator, or comb attachment, plus which Bio Ionic tools come with each one. Because great hair starts with smart styling, and smart styling starts with the right accessories.

What is a diffuser?

A diffuser is a bowl-shaped attachment with vents or prongs that spreads airflow over a larger area. Instead of blasting your curls or waves with direct heat, it diffuses the air to keep your pattern intact.

Best for:

• Curly or wavy hair

• Coily or textured hair

• Enhancing natural definition without frizz

How to use it:

• Start on freshly washed, conditioned hair

• Apply a curl cream or styling product, then scrunch upward with your hands

• Set your dryer to low or medium heat with low airflow

• Use the diffuser to lift and dry curls from the ends upward, or hover above for more volume

Try SMART-X™ High Efficiency Dryer

This lightweight dryer includes a diffuser in the box and is ideal for curls. It features Moisturizing Heat™ and smart airflow control to help maintain hydration while reducing frizz.

Or Universal Diffuser - Black

Already have a dryer? This universal option fits all Bio Ionic dryers and gives curls the lift and control they need.

What is a concentrator nozzle?

A concentrator is a narrow attachment that focuses airflow in one direction, helping smooth the cuticle for sleek styles, faster drying, and more targeted control.

 Best for:

• Straight or straightened hair

• Blowouts and round brushing

• Polishing frizz-prone areas

How to use it:

• Start with a heat protectant and pre-dried hair (80% dry)

• Attach the concentrator and set dryer to medium/high heat

• Aim the nozzle downward along the hair shaft while brushing for a smooth finish

• Use a cool shot at the end to seal in shine

Try: 10X™ UltraLight Speed Dryer

This ultra-light dryer includes a concentrator nozzle and a comb attachment, making it a great option for smoothing and detangling in one session. Moisturizing Heat™ keeps hair soft and manageable, even at high speeds.

What is a comb attachment?

A comb attachment (sometimes called a “pik”) snaps onto the end of a dryer and combines detangling with drying. It’s a go-to for stretching curls or coils, adding root volume, or speeding up detangling post-wash.

Best for:

• Coily, curly, or dense hair

• Detangling while drying

• Stretching natural curls before styling

How to use it:

• Apply leave-in conditioner or heat protectant to damp hair

• Snap on the comb attachment and set your dryer to medium heat

• Work in small sections, starting at the ends and moving upward

• Follow with a styler, twist-out, or protective style

Try: Universal Comb Attachment

This universal comb attachment fits most Bio Ionic dryers and offers firm, flexible control while drying. It's great for textured styles, twist preps, and soft stretches.

Or: 10X™ UltraLight Speed Dryer

Comes with a concentrator and a comb attachment, ideal for multitaskers who need smoothing one day and detangling the next.

How to choose the right attachment for your hair type and style goals

Want volume at the roots? 

Use a diffuser or comb attachment with upward motion.

Trying to smooth and polish? 

The concentrator gives you tension and direction, perfect for straight styles.

 Need to detangle while you dry? 

Comb attachments do the work of your brush and dryer at the same time.

And here's the best part—you don’t have to pick just one. Use a diffuser when you want definition, a concentrator when you’re going sleek, and a comb attachment when you're stretching curls or detangling after a wash day. 

Bio Ionic tools make it easy to swap between them based on your hair type, style goals, or even just your mood. With tools like the 10X™ and SMART-X™, you can easily swap between attachments depending on the day, your texture, or your goal.

Attachment maintenance tips

Keeping your hair tools in good condition is just as important as knowing how to use them. Attachments are made to last, but they need the occasional care to stay clean and effective. Built-up residue, dust, or product gunk can interfere with airflow and affect your results.

Here’s how to keep them clean:

• Wipe attachments after each use with a microfiber cloth to remove hair product or oils.

• Wash diffusers and comb attachments with mild soap and warm water once a month (or more often if you use heavy creams or gels).

• Check vents and airways for buildup or blockages that can affect airflow. Clean with a soft brush or cloth as needed.

• Let attachments fully dry before reattaching to your dryer to avoid shorting or damage.

Proper care extends the life of your tools and ensures consistent performance each time you style.

How to get the most use out of attachments

• Always use a heat protectant, even with diffusers and low heat.

• Attach first, then power on your dryer to avoid burns or breakage.

• For curly styles, avoid touching your hair too much while diffusing to prevent frizz.

• Use the cool shot to finish any look and lock in shine.

Real-life examples: how stylists use attachments

Bio Ionic educators and stylists love using attachments to take their styles from standard to standout. Here are a few of our favorite use cases straight from the chair:

For defined curls on clients with 3A–3C texture

Our stylists recommend using the SMART-X™ Diffuser with the dryer set to low heat, cupping the curls from underneath to enhance bounce without disrupting the pattern.

For a tension blowout on 4C hair

The Universal Comb Attachment is the go-to for detangling while stretching curls. Use medium heat and steady movement at the roots for the most control with the least breakage.

For glass-like straightening before flat ironing

Use the concentrator nozzle with the 10X™ UltraLight Speed Dryer and a paddle brush to smooth the hair first. This allows for fewer flat iron passes and less heat overall.

These techniques help reduce stress on the hair, speed up your routine, and deliver long-lasting, polished results that still feel soft and natural.

Styled your way

Hair is personal. Your heat tools should be too. Whether you’re diffusing for definition, smoothing for sleekness, or detangling with care, Bio Ionic attachments give you the flexibility to style how you want, without compromising on performance.