The Shark FlexFusion is the only hair tool that can tame my unruly hair

CNN

6 days ago

I've long had a love-hate relationship with my wild, curly and unmanageably thick hair, and I have mostly leaned toward hate. It's an epic odyssey to style my hair — believe me, I've tried and tested many a hair tool. But it all changed when I tested the Shark FlexFusion, a multi-styler designed to dry, straighten, volumize and shape hair without the back-breaking strain or heat damage of traditional styling tools.
For years, I brushed, sprayed, straightened, pinned, sizzled and fried my way through endless frizz. The concept of 'multi-styling' wasn't even in my vocabulary. But with the FlexFusion, I can now rely on a single device to deliver a smooth blowout, lasting curls and faster drying times, all while being gentle on my fragile, damaged hair.
I don't trust most hair tools. But the Shark FlexFusion earned a spot in my routine. Here's why.
Shark FlexFusion Multi-Styler
Shark's wet-to-dry styler has become a staple in my hair routine. Although the set is customizable, the standard system comes with a handy round brush, auto-wrap curlers, a frizz-fighting finishing tool and a styling concentrator. But don't forget that the base also acts as a blow-dryer. It's less damaging than most hair stylers
As someone with curly hair prone to breakage, I've learned to be especially cautious when using heated styling tools. After more than two decades of straightening (rather, burning) my hair with devices that can reach up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, the damage is hard to ignore. For years, I believed extreme heat was the only way to get the sleek, straight hair I coveted.
But the Shark FlexFusion multi-styler disrupted that idea. Unlike traditional tools that can feel like they're scorching your strands, the FlexFusion uses style-safe technology that actively regulates heat, keeping the temperature below 230 degrees Fahrenheit during styling. It even features a no-heat setting that speeds up air-drying without applying any heat at all — a welcome change for heat-damaged hair.
Built with ceramic plates, the FlexFusion also allows for effective styling at lower temperatures, delivering smooth blowouts and defined curls without the high-heat risk. The device monitors heat up to 1,000 times per second to prevent hot spots and minimize the risk of burned or split ends. For me, that means my hair still feels somewhat soft, rather than crisp, after use.
Discovering the scalp shield mode was a game changer too. The high-velocity airflow protects the scalp from extreme heat, which was so validating to find as someone who has struggled to target hair close to the roots. Still, even with the advanced tech, experts recommend applying a heat protectant spray before styling. It's a small step that can go a long way in keeping your hair healthy.
It's very versatile
The Shark FlexFusion is, in my humble opinion, one of the most underrated hair tools on the market. It truly does it all. With one device and a set of customizable attachments, I can achieve a voluminous blowout; a sleek, straightened look; or effortless curls. I can also just dry my hair. And that's all without needing multiple tools. One feature many users overlook is that the base of the styler rotates, allowing it to seamlessly switch from dryer to styler.
The core FlexFusion set includes the following.
The wet-or-dry fusion straightener: a ceramic iron designed to deliver smooth, straight styles in just a few passes, with significantly less risk of heat damage.
The wet-or-dry fusion brush: a round brush with a mix of boar and nylon bristles that adds volume while minimizing tugging and breakage. Its wide surface area also speeds up the blow-drying process. This is the attachment I reach for most often.
Two 1.25-inch auto-wrap curlers: one for each side of the head, to create soft, bouncy curls without extreme heat.
The FrizzFighter finishing tool: ideal for smoothing down flyaways and giving hair a polished finish.
The styling concentrator: a rotating nozzle that helps direct airflow with precision, is particularly useful for targeting roots or setting styles in place.
For anyone looking to streamline their styling routine while minimizing heat damage, the FlexFusion offers versatility and innovation in one sleek package.
It saves me time and spares my arms
As someone who lacks upper-body strength — and has a head of thick hair — drying my hair used to be a workout in itself. Holding a bulky appliance for an extended period, often in awkward positions, left me exhausted after just a few passes. Before I started using the Shark FlexFusion, it could take me 45 minutes to an hour to get my hair straight.
With the FlexFusion, I can go from wet to dry in under 30 minutes — sometimes in as little as 20, depending on the day and humidity levels. That efficiency comes from its high-velocity airflow and smart heat control, allowing for fast, effective styling without the risk of damage. The device operates at 1,400W, outperforming the typical 1,200W dryers and making a noticeable difference in speed and performance.
Looks actually last all day
The Shark FlexFusion delivers styles that last, not just throughout the day, but for multiple days if properly maintained. To put it to the test, I brought it to the pros on the CNN Hair and Makeup team. And I'm not exaggerating when I say we were all seriously impressed.
Stylist Laura Gattini styled the left side of my hair using the Shark and the right side with the widely praised Dyson AirWrap. While she noted that the Shark felt heavier, less refined and slightly clunkier to maneuver, the results told a different story. The curls created with the Shark held their shape throughout my entire day. The Dyson-styled side, on the other hand, quickly fell flat and began to frizz as time went on.
It's more affordable
There's no shortage of multi-stylers on the market, from T3 to Dyson, with brands like Chi and Drybar also offering versions. But in terms of value, the Shark FlexFusion truly stands out. Yes, it's $350, which isn't cheap, and it's not without flaws, but Dyson's AirWrap is $600, and the FlexFusion proved to be the more capable styling tool. That's undeniably valuable.
What truly sets the FlexFusion apart is that it's the only multi-styler I've tested that truly works on thick, non-straight hair types. That alone makes it worth considering. And when you break down the cost, it equates to just two or three salon visits. Factor in the price of buying a separate hair dryer, flat iron, curling wand and diffuser, and the Shark begins to look like a smart investment.
Is a multi-styler a worthy investment? It depends. If you rock your natural hair, you may only need a blow-dryer or diffuser. However, if you frequently find yourself at weddings, conferences and events, or you love regularly styling your hair, a multi-styler is a game changer. You'll save on salon visits and master your styling routine from the comfort of your home. And your technique will only get better with time, I promise.
The Shark FlexFusion is the best multi-styler I've tested at the best price. Dyson's similar model can't top its powerful airflow with heat-controlled ceramic technology. It's also far more expensive.
Plus, the FlexFusion's wet-to-dry mode saves me time with safe, efficient styling that protects hair integrity. With an intuitive design, the FlexFusion can recreate smooth, salon-style blowouts on even my dry, damaged hair. And again, the Scalp Shield automatically regulates temperature to protect the scalp from extreme heat, which is priceless to me.
This one appliance can give you Farah Fawcett-level volume, body, bounce and shine that lasts all day — with less frizz. I know $350 is no small investment, but when it comes to saving in the long run, I vouch for the FlexFusion's lasting power.
The following FAQs have been answered by hair and makeup expert Laura Gattini, hair colorist and stylist on CNN's Hair and Makeup team.
How does this tool differ from a standard blow-dryer?
How does this tool differ from a standard blow-dryer?
'A multi-styler differs from a standard blow-dryer in so many ways,' Gattini said. 'You just need the one tool to achieve different styles, whereas with a blow-dryer, you will also need a brush and another tool, such as a curling iron, to create movement and waves. Another notable difference is that you only use one hand versus a blow-dryer in one hand and a brush in another to style.'
Why are hair dryers damaging to hair?
Why are hair dryers damaging to hair?
'Hair dryers can possibly be damaging to hair with an inexperienced user,' Gattini said. 'Too much heat, too much tension with a brush and improper use of the brush can create dry, brittle or damaged hair.'
What are the advantages of using a multi-styler versus a blow-dryer?
What are the advantages of using a multi-styler versus a blow-dryer?
Put simply, ease of use. 'The ability to use just one hand reduces the risk of tiring out in a blowout,' Gattini said. 'You don't need much skill to achieve your desired result. Also, the convenience of having one tool to dry and curl can be cost-effective and space-saving.'
How can I protect my hair from heat damage?
How can I protect my hair from heat damage?
'Always make sure you are using your tools properly,' Gattini said. 'Never keep the heat on a section for too long or go over the same section too many times. Make sure heat settings are set to your specific needs. Use good prep products such as a heat protectant, and depending on the texture and dryness of your hair, use products that will add moisture and seal the cuticle.'
What are the best products to use to maintain a styled look after using the Shark multi styler?
What are the best products to use to maintain a styled look after using the Shark multi styler?
'Finish off with an anti-humidity spray or hair oil (depending on texture) to further seal the cuticle,' Gattini said. 'This is key for protecting your hair, locking in moisture and securing the style. A light hair spray can also be used.'
For this article, we consulted the following expert to gain their professional insights on all things multi-stylers.
Laura Gattini, hair colorist and stylist on CNN's Hair and Makeup team, with over 20 years of industry experience, specializing in hair extensions and styling
CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item.
For this story, CNN Underscored associate testing writer Carolina Gazal personally tested each of the accessories on the Shark FlexFusion to vouch for their all-star quality.