Latest news with #SharkFlexFusion
CNN
30-07-2025
- CNN
The Shark FlexFusion is the only hair tool that can tame my unruly hair
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.
CNET
13-06-2025
- CNET
Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexFusion: I Tested Both Hair Tools on My Long, Thick, Wavy Hair. There Was an Unexpected Winner
Few high-tech hair tools get mentioned the way the Dyson AirWrap does when it comes to high-tech hair tools. It's sleek, well-designed and yes, expensive. But in recent years, a new, more affordable contender has stepped into the spotlight: the Shark FlexFusion. Both brands promise salon-quality results at home with less heat damage. After testing both hair styling tools for a few weeks, I found that while they promise similar results, each works best for different hair types. For the purpose of this article, I parted my hair down the middle and styled one half with the Dyson Airwrap and the other half with the Shark FlexFusion. I wore the results all day, tested for hold and volume, and noted how each side held up by the next morning. How these hair tools work At first glance, the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexFusion seem to promise the same results. Both are multi-styling tools that dry, curl, volumize and smooth hair using fast airflow instead of extreme heat. Both styling tools use what's known as the Coanda effect, a technique where air follows the natural curve of a surface. It's what allows your hair to wrap around the barrel without spinning parts or clamps. Dyson vs. Shark: Comparison table Feature Dyson Airwrap Shark FlexFusion Price $599 $349 Attachments included 6 4 Heat settings 2 heat settings + cool shot 3 heat settings + cool shot Technology Coanda effect Coanda effect Cord length 8.5 ft 8.0 ft Hair types supported Mostly for fine to medium hair thicknesses Works well on all hair types, including thick and curly First test: Straightening my hair with both tools To compare them fairly, I did a true side-by-side test. I parted my hair down the middle and straightened one half with the Dyson Smoothing Brush and the other half with the Shark Fusion Brush, both tools set at the highest heat setting. The Shark smoothed out my roots a lot better than the Dyson. It took longer to straighten my hair with the Dyson because I had to do more passes near my scalp, and it still didn't tame the volume as well as the Shark. On the ends, the Shark also gave a sleeker, more polished finish. I expected the Dyson to do a better job, but the Shark brush is designed to give you a more blowout look and the Dyson smoothing brush is more for strict straightening. The Shark definitely gripped my thick waves more firmly and shaped them with better tension. I do have to make a note of the noise levels, though. The Shark is much noisier than the Dyson. At times, I felt the need to use earplugs when styling near my ears with the Shark. The Dyson tool performed pretty quietly. This is what my hair looks like naturally, air-dried with no products before styling with the tools. Nasha Addarich Martínez Dyson side: The bristles on the smoothing brush move from side to side, which avoids pulling on hair and prevents breakage. This gentle movement made my hair feel extra soft. It didn't grip my hair as firmly as I would have liked, leaving visible waves near the roots. If your roots are straight, this won't be an issue. But with deep waves, curls or coils, you may need several passes or a round brush to fully straighten them. The ends were fine but lacked definition and style. Shark side: The Fusion brush gripped my hair better and provided more tension, giving the roots and ends a sleeker look. Because of this, I had to do fewer passes, and it cut my drying time by around 10 minutes compared to the Dyson. The airflow felt stronger, which also contributed to faster drying time. Overall, the end result with the Shark looked like a professional blowout. Verdict: For this part of the test, Shark was the obvious winner for my long, thick hair. Shark's half looked better styled (as if I had it professionally done), without the heat damage. However, if you have fine hair with less texture, the Dyson should give you great results. Left image: Left side styled with the Dyson. Right side styled with the Shark. Right Image: Left side styled with the Shark. Right side styled with the Dyson. Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Second test: Using the curling rods After straightening both sides of my hair with the smoothing and Fusion brushes, I tested each tool's curling attachments. I used the Dyson Airwrap conical curling barrel on one side -- the thinner barrel, not the thicker one that gives more of a blowout look. This was the side I had blow-dried with the smoothing brush. On the other side, which I dried with the Fusion brush, I used the Shark FlexFusion curling rod. Both tools have dry or damp settings, so I used them both on the highest setting for dry hair. Right off the bat, the Dyson earns brownie points for its single reversible curling barrel. It makes switching curl directions easier -- just twist the top of the barrel. The older Airwrap version required two separate barrels to curl in different directions. The Shark FlexFusion uses two separate curling rods, each marked with arrows to indicate airflow direction. That makes the Dyson more convenient -- you only need one barrel, not two rods, and it's quicker to use. With the Shark, you have to swap rods to style each side of your head, and you often have to wait for them to cool down first. I frequently found them too hot to handle. Dyson side: This side of my hair had tighter, more defined curls Curl direction was easier to control because of the single-barrel switch option The airflow and barrels felt a lot more gentle on my strands, with less pulling and tugging (better for fine to medium hair) Curls were a lot more structured and classic, which I find more appropriate for formal styles or long wear The Dyson also comes with two curling barrel sizes, 1.2-inch and 1.6-inch, so you can decide if you want tighter or looser curls. My experience with the larger barrel is that it doesn't give you a lasting curl look but rather a more blowout wave. Shark side: Gave looser, bouncier curls with more movement The airflow felt stronger, so I had to spend less time curling my hair The rods and airflow had a better grip on my hair (better for thick or textured hair) Curls had a softer, more lived-in texture, which I find better for casual looks Verdict: If you want precision, and convenience or have fine to medium hair, the Dyson is the best choice. On the other hand, if you want more relaxed curls and bounce and have thick or textured hair, the Shark is the better choice. Left image: Left curled with the Dyson and right side curled with the Shark. Right image: Left curled with the Shark and right side curled with the Dyson. Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexFusion: Other attachments included The most popular tools used for both the Shark and Dyson are the curling and straightening attachments, but both brands offer additional attachments to add versatility to your routine. Here's a breakdown of what tools each one offers: Dyson Airwrap attachments Conical Airwrap barrel (for tighter curls) 1.6-inch Airwrap long barrel (for looser curls) Dryer and flyaway smoother Fast dryer Large, round volumizing brush Soft smoothing brush Takeaway: Dyson gives you more customization attachments that cater to precision styling and polished results. The Flyaway attachment really stands out for polishing frizzy hair. Dyson Airwrap attachments Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Shark FlexFusion attachments The Shark FlexFusion is a build-your-own bundle that comes with a Fusion brush and ceramic straightener (like a flatiron), and your choice of two other attachments. For mine, I chose the curling rods and the styling concentrator so I can also use it as a handheld hair dryer. You can choose two of the following: 1.25" auto-wrap curlers Oval brush Curl defining diffuser Frizz fighter finishing tool Wide-tooth comb Styling concentrator Takeaway: Shark prioritizes efficiency, as you can choose the tools you'll actually use. You'll get the essentials for your styling needs, so it's less about endless combinations and more about practicality. Shark FlexFusion attachments Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Which one is best: the Dyson Airwrap or Shark FlexFusion? As a person of color with thick and textured hair, I know all too well that most hair care tools are built with finer hair in mind. I think both of these tools can work for all types of hair, with some caveats. The Dyson Airwrap feels and looks more premium, but you'll need to section and style smaller pieces of hair and it'll require more passes (and more time) to get polished results on thick hair (even on the highest setting). For fine hair, you can probably get away with larger sections. The Shark handles my volume effortlessly and gives a sleeker look to my roots and ends. I think that the highest setting may be too strong for fine hair, so it's best to use a more gentle setting to avoid breakage. Dyson Airwrap pros and cons Pros: Luxurious feel and design Great for tighter curls and soft blowouts Lower heat, which makes it safer for daily use Cons: Struggles with thick or curly roots Pricey Takes more time for dense hair Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Shark pros and cons Pros: Better tension and grip for thick, wavy or curly hair Smoother results for roots and ends Faster styling More affordable Cons: Curling rods require you to switch them out for different airflow directions Louder airflow than the Dyson Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Final verdict If you have long, thick, curly or wavy hair like me, the Shark FlexFusion may be the best option for you. It delivers faster results, smooths both roots and ends more effectively -- and does it all for a fraction of the price of the Dyson Airwrap. That said, Dyson is a leader in the hair care world for good reason. If you want more polished curls, love the luxurious experience, are a fan of the Dyson name or have fine to medium hair, it's definitely worth the splurge. If we're looking objectively at performance alone, especially a tool that'll work well on all hair types, the Shark FlexFusion is really impressive.
CNET
11-06-2025
- CNET
My Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexFusion Experiment: You Won't Believe Which Hair Tool Was Best
Few high-tech hair tools get mentioned the way the Dyson AirWrap does when it comes to high-tech hair tools. It's sleek, well-designed and yes, expensive. But in recent years, a new, more affordable contender has stepped into the spotlight: the Shark FlexFusion. Both brands promise salon-quality results at home with less heat damage. After testing both hair styling tools for a few weeks, I found that while they promise similar results, each works best for different hair types. For the purpose of this article, I parted my hair down the middle and styled one half with the Dyson Airwrap and the other half with the Shark FlexFusion. I wore the results all day, tested for hold and volume, and noted how each side held up by the next morning. How these hair tools work At first glance, the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexFusion seem to promise the same results. Both are multi-styling tools that dry, curl, volumize and smooth hair using fast airflow instead of extreme heat. Both styling tools use what's known as the Coanda effect, a technique where air follows the natural curve of a surface. It's what allows your hair to wrap around the barrel without spinning parts or clamps. Dyson vs. Shark: Comparison table undefined Feature Dyson Airwrap Shark FlexFusion Price $599 $349 Attachments included 6 4 Heat settings 2 heat settings + cool shot 3 heat settings + cool shot Technology Coanda effect Coanda effect Cord length 8.5 ft 8.0 ft Hair types supported Mostly for fine to medium hair thicknesses Works well on all hair types, including thick and curly First test: Straightening my hair with both tools To compare them fairly, I did a true side-by-side test. I parted my hair down the middle and straightened one half with the Dyson Smoothing Brush and the other half with the Shark Fusion Brush, both tools set at the highest heat setting. The Shark smoothed out my roots a lot better than the Dyson. It took longer to straighten my hair with the Dyson because I had to do more passes near my scalp, and it still didn't tame the volume as well as the Shark. On the ends, the Shark also gave a sleeker, more polished finish. I expected the Dyson to do a better job, but the Shark brush is designed to give you a more blowout look and the Dyson smoothing brush is more for strict straightening. The Shark definitely gripped my thick waves more firmly and shaped them with better tension. I do have to make a note of the noise levels, though. The Shark is much noisier than the Dyson. At times, I felt the need to use earplugs when styling near my ears with the Shark. The Dyson tool performed pretty quietly. This is what my hair looks like naturally, air-dried with no products before styling with the tools. Nasha Addarich Martínez Dyson side: The bristles on the smoothing brush move from side to side, which avoids pulling on hair and prevents breakage. This gentle movement made my hair feel extra soft. It didn't grip my hair as firmly as I would have liked, leaving visible waves near the roots. If your roots are straight, this won't be an issue. But with deep waves, curls or coils, you may need several passes or a round brush to fully straighten them. The ends were fine but lacked definition and style. Shark side: The Fusion brush gripped my hair better and provided more tension, giving the roots and ends a sleeker look. Because of this, I had to do fewer passes, and it cut my drying time by around 10 minutes compared to the Dyson. The airflow felt stronger, which also contributed to faster drying time. Overall, the end result with the Shark looked like a professional blowout. Verdict: For this part of the test, Shark was the obvious winner for my long, thick hair. Shark's half looked better styled (as if I had it professionally done), without the heat damage. However, if you have fine hair with less texture, the Dyson should give you great results. Left image: Left side styled with the Dyson. Right side styled with the Shark. Right Image: Left side styled with the Shark. Right side styled with the Dyson. Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Second test: Using the curling rods After straightening both sides of my hair with the smoothing and Fusion brushes, I tested each tool's curling attachments. I used the Dyson Airwrap conical curling barrel on one side -- the thinner barrel, not the thicker one that gives more of a blowout look. This was the side I had blow-dried with the smoothing brush. On the other side, which I dried with the Fusion brush, I used the Shark FlexFusion curling rod. Both tools have dry or damp settings, so I used them both on the highest setting for dry hair. Right off the bat, the Dyson earns brownie points for its single reversible curling barrel. It makes switching curl directions easier -- just twist the top of the barrel. The older Airwrap version required two separate barrels to curl in different directions. The Shark FlexFusion uses two separate curling rods, each marked with arrows to indicate airflow direction. That makes the Dyson more convenient -- you only need one barrel, not two rods, and it's quicker to use. With the Shark, you have to swap rods to style each side of your head, and you often have to wait for them to cool down first. I frequently found them too hot to handle. Dyson side: This side of my hair had tighter, more defined curls Curl direction was easier to control because of the single-barrel switch option The airflow and barrels felt a lot more gentle on my strands, with less pulling and tugging (better for fine to medium hair) Curls were a lot more structured and classic, which I find more appropriate for formal styles or long wear The Dyson also comes with two curling barrel sizes, 1.2-inch and 1.6-inch, so you can decide if you want tighter or looser curls. My experience with the larger barrel is that it doesn't give you a lasting curl look but rather a more blowout wave. Shark side: Gave looser, bouncier curls with more movement The airflow felt stronger, so I had to spend less time curling my hair The rods and airflow had a better grip on my hair (better for thick or textured hair) Curls had a softer, more lived-in texture, which I find better for casual looks Verdict: If you want precision, and convenience or have fine to medium hair, the Dyson is the best choice. On the other hand, if you want more relaxed curls and bounce and have thick or textured hair, the Shark is the better choice. Left image: Left curled with the Dyson and right side curled with the Shark. Right image: Left curled with the Shark and right side curled with the Dyson. Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexFusion: Other attachments included The most popular tools used for both the Shark and Dyson are the curling and straightening attachments, but both brands offer additional attachments to add versatility to your routine. Here's a breakdown of what tools each one offers: Dyson Airwrap attachments Conical Airwrap barrel (for tighter curls) 1.6-inch Airwrap long barrel (for looser curls) Dryer and flyaway smoother Fast dryer Large, round volumizing brush Soft smoothing brush Takeaway: Dyson gives you more customization attachments that cater to precision styling and polished results. The Flyaway attachment really stands out for polishing frizzy hair. Dyson Airwrap attachments Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Shark FlexFusion attachments The Shark FlexFusion is a build-your-own bundle that comes with a Fusion brush and ceramic straightener (like a flatiron), and your choice of two other attachments. For mine, I chose the curling rods and the styling concentrator so I can also use it as a handheld hair dryer. You can choose two of the following: 1.25" auto-wrap curlers Oval brush Curl defining diffuser Frizz fighter finishing tool Wide-tooth comb Styling concentrator Takeaway: Shark prioritizes efficiency, as you can choose the tools you'll actually use. You'll get the essentials for your styling needs, so it's less about endless combinations and more about practicality. Shark FlexFusion attachments Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Which one is best: the Dyson Airwrap or Shark FlexFusion? As a person of color with thick and textured hair, I know all too well that most hair care tools are built with finer hair in mind. I think both of these tools can work for all types of hair, with some caveats. The Dyson Airwrap feels and looks more premium, but you'll need to section and style smaller pieces of hair and it'll require more passes (and more time) to get polished results on thick hair (even on the highest setting). For fine hair, you can probably get away with larger sections. The Shark handles my volume effortlessly and gives a sleeker look to my roots and ends. I think that the highest setting may be too strong for fine hair, so it's best to use a more gentle setting to avoid breakage. Dyson Airwrap pros and cons Pros: Luxurious feel and design Great for tighter curls and soft blowouts Lower heat, which makes it safer for daily use Cons: Struggles with thick or curly roots Pricey Takes more time for dense hair Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Shark pros and cons Pros: Better tension and grip for thick, wavy or curly hair Smoother results for roots and ends Faster styling More affordable Cons: Curling rods require you to switch them out for different airflow directions Louder airflow than the Dyson Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Final verdict If you have long, thick, curly or wavy hair like me, the Shark FlexFusion may be the best option for you. It delivers faster results, smooths both roots and ends more effectively -- and does it all for a fraction of the price of the Dyson Airwrap. That said, Dyson is a leader in the hair care world for good reason. If you want more polished curls, love the luxurious experience, are a fan of the Dyson name or have fine to medium hair, it's definitely worth the splurge. If we're looking objectively at performance alone, especially a tool that'll work well on all hair types, the Shark FlexFusion is really impressive.
CNET
09-06-2025
- CNET
Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexFusion: I Put Them Both to the Test on My Long, Thick, Wavy Hair
When it comes to high-tech hair tools, few names get thrown around as much as the Dyson AirWrap. It's sleek, well-designed and yes, expensive. But in recent years, a new, more affordable contender has stepped into the spotlight: the Shark FlexFusion. Both brands promise salon-quality results at home with less heat damage. After testing both hair styling tools for a few weeks, I found that while they promise similar results, each works best for different hair types. For the purpose of this article, I parted my hair down the middle and styled one half with the Dyson Airwrap and the other half with the Shark FlexFusion. I wore the results all day, tested for hold and volume, and noted how each side held up by the next morning. How these hair tools work At first glance, the Dyson Airwrap and Shark FlexFusion seem to promise the same results. Both are multi-styling tools that dry, curl, volumize and smooth hair using fast airflow instead of extreme heat. Both styling tools use what's known as the Coanda effect, a technique where air follows the natural curve of a surface. It's what allows your hair to wrap around the barrel without spinning parts or clamps. Dyson vs. Shark: Comparison table undefined Feature Dyson Airwrap Shark FlexFusion Price $599 $349 Attachments included 6 4 Heat settings 2 heat settings + cool shot 3 heat settings + cool shot Technology Coanda effect Coanda effect Cord length 8.5 ft 8.0 ft Hair types supported Mostly for fine to medium hair thicknesses Works well on all hair types, including thick and curly First test: Straightening my hair with both tools To compare them fairly, I did a true side-by-side test. I parted my hair down the middle and straightened one half with the Dyson Smoothing Brush and the other half with the Shark Fusion Brush, both tools set at the highest heat setting. The Shark smoothed out my roots a lot better than the Dyson. It took longer to straighten my hair with the Dyson because I had to do more passes near my scalp, and it still didn't tame the volume as well as the Shark. On the ends, the Shark also gave a sleeker, more polished finish. I expected the Dyson to do a better job, but the Shark brush is designed to give you a more blowout look and the Dyson smoothing brush is more for strict straightening. The Shark definitely gripped my thick waves more firmly and shaped them with better tension. I do have to make a note of the noise levels, though. The Shark is much noisier than the Dyson. At times, I felt the need to use earplugs when styling near my ears with the Shark. The Dyson tool performed pretty quietly. This is what my hair looks like naturally, air-dried with no products before styling with the tools. Nasha Addarich Martínez Dyson side: The bristles on the smoothing brush move from side to side, which avoids pulling on hair and prevents breakage. This gentle movement made my hair feel extra soft. It didn't grip my hair as firmly as I would have liked, leaving visible waves near the roots. If your roots are straight, this won't be an issue. But with deep waves, curls or coils, you may need several passes or a round brush to fully straighten them. The ends were fine but lacked definition and style. Shark side: The Fusion brush gripped my hair better and provided more tension, giving the roots and ends a sleeker look. Because of this, I had to do fewer passes, and it cut my drying time by around 10 minutes compared to the Dyson. The airflow felt stronger, which also contributed to faster drying time. Overall, the end result with the Shark looked like a professional blowout. Verdict: For this part of the test, Shark was the obvious winner for my long, thick hair. Shark's half looked better styled (as if I had it professionally done), without the heat damage. However, if you have fine hair with less texture, the Dyson should give you great results. Left image: Left side styled with the Dyson. Right side styled with the Shark. Right Image: Left side styled with the Shark. Right side styled with the Dyson. Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Second test: Using the curling rods After straightening both sides of my hair with the smoothing and Fusion brushes, I tested each tool's curling attachments. I used the Dyson Airwrap conical curling barrel on one side -- the thinner barrel, not the thicker one that gives more of a blowout look. This was the side I had blow-dried with the smoothing brush. On the other side, which I dried with the Fusion brush, I used the Shark FlexFusion curling rod. Both tools have dry or damp settings, so I used them both on the highest setting for dry hair. Right off the bat, the Dyson earns brownie points for its single reversible curling barrel. It makes switching curl directions easier -- just twist the top of the barrel. The older Airwrap version required two separate barrels to curl in different directions. The Shark FlexFusion uses two separate curling rods, each marked with arrows to indicate airflow direction. That makes the Dyson more convenient -- you only need one barrel, not two rods, and it's quicker to use. With the Shark, you have to swap rods to style each side of your head, and you often have to wait for them to cool down first. I frequently found them too hot to handle. Dyson side: This side of my hair had tighter, more defined curls Curl direction was easier to control because of the single-barrel switch option The airflow and barrels felt a lot more gentle on my strands, with less pulling and tugging (better for fine to medium hair) Curls were a lot more structured and classic, which I find more appropriate for formal styles or long wear The Dyson also comes with two curling barrel sizes, 1.2-inch and 1.6-inch, so you can decide if you want tighter or looser curls. My experience with the larger barrel is that it doesn't give you a lasting curl look but rather a more blowout wave. Shark side: Gave looser, bouncier curls with more movement The airflow felt stronger, so I had to spend less time curling my hair The rods and airflow had a better grip on my hair (better for thick or textured hair) Curls had a softer, more lived-in texture, which I find better for casual looks Verdict: If you want precision, and convenience or have fine to medium hair, the Dyson is the best choice. On the other hand, if you want more relaxed curls and bounce and have thick or textured hair, the Shark is the better choice. Left image: Left curled with the Dyson and right side curled with the Shark. Right image: Left curled with the Shark and right side curled with the Dyson. Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexFusion: Other attachments included The most popular tools used for both the Shark and Dyson are the curling and straightening attachments, but both brands offer additional attachments to add versatility to your routine. Here's a breakdown of what tools each one offers: Dyson Airwrap attachments Conical Airwrap barrel (for tighter curls) 1.6-inch Airwrap long barrel (for looser curls) Dryer and flyaway smoother Fast dryer Large, round volumizing brush Soft smoothing brush Takeaway: Dyson gives you more customization attachments that cater to precision styling and polished results. The Flyaway attachment really stands out for polishing frizzy hair. Dyson Airwrap attachments Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Shark FlexFusion attachments The Shark FlexFusion is a build-your-own bundle that comes with a Fusion brush and ceramic straightener (like a flatiron), and your choice of two other attachments. For mine, I chose the curling rods and the styling concentrator so I can also use it as a handheld hair dryer. You can choose two of the following: 1.25" auto-wrap curlers Oval brush Curl defining diffuser Frizz fighter finishing tool Wide-tooth comb Styling concentrator Takeaway: Shark prioritizes efficiency, as you can choose the tools you'll actually use. You'll get the essentials for your styling needs, so it's less about endless combinations and more about practicality. Shark FlexFusion attachments Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Which one is best: the Dyson Airwrap or Shark FlexFusion? As a person of color with thick and textured hair, I know all too well that most hair care tools are built with finer hair in mind. I think both of these tools can work for all types of hair, with some caveats. The Dyson Airwrap feels and looks more premium, but you'll need to section and style smaller pieces of hair and it'll require more passes (and more time) to get polished results on thick hair (even on the highest setting). For fine hair, you can probably get away with larger sections. The Shark handles my volume effortlessly and gives a sleeker look to my roots and ends. I think that the highest setting may be too strong for fine hair, so it's best to use a more gentle setting to avoid breakage. Dyson Airwrap pros and cons Pros: Luxurious feel and design Great for tighter curls and soft blowouts Lower heat, which makes it safer for daily use Cons: Struggles with thick or curly roots Pricey Takes more time for dense hair Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Shark pros and cons Pros: Better tension and grip for thick, wavy or curly hair Smoother results for roots and ends Faster styling More affordable Cons: Curling rods require you to switch them out for different airflow directions Louder airflow than the Dyson Nasha Addarich Martínez/CNET Final verdict If you have long, thick, curly or wavy hair like me, the Shark FlexFusion may be the best option for you. It delivers faster results, smooths both roots and ends more effectively -- and does it all for a fraction of the price of the Dyson Airwrap. That said, Dyson is a leader in the hair care world for good reason. If you want more polished curls, love the luxurious experience, are a fan of the Dyson name or have fine to medium hair, it's definitely worth the splurge. If we're looking objectively at performance alone, especially a tool that'll work well on all hair types, the Shark FlexFusion is really impressive.
USA Today
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Shark has crazy Memorial Day beauty deals: Save an extra 20% on viral hair styling tools
Shark has crazy Memorial Day beauty deals: Save an extra 20% on viral hair styling tools The best deals include the newest Shark FlexStyle Air Styling system in Blossom Bliss. I love finding crazy deals on stuff everyone loves. The fan-favorite Shark hair styling system initially went viral for being a dupe for the Dyson Airwrap and quickly earned its flowers for delivering seriously effortless hair styles. Usually ringing up at about half the price of the Dyson, the Shark FlexStyle is a fairly affordable hair styling tool for those who love to experiment with different styles while maintaining healthy, beautiful locks (without the heat damage). Plus, it is even more affordable with Shark's Memorial Day beauty deals. Right now, we've got our eye on some seriously good Memorial Day deals on Shark hair styling tools. You can use promo code BEAUTY20 to save an extra 20% on all sorts of tools, including the new limited-edition Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System in a sweet Blossom Bliss colorway, the super popular Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb & Blow Dryer Brush and more. Check out the rare Shark beauty savings below. Shop the best Memorial Day deals on Shark hair styling tools Use code BEAUTY20 to save 20% on select Shark hair tools. Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System in Blossom Bliss Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System in Blossom Bliss Order the new, limited-edition Blossom Bliss version of the cult-favorite hair styling tool on sale for Memorial Day 2025. Use code BEAUTY20 to save an extra 20%! $349.99 at Shark (Save $30) Build your own Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System Build your own Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System Save an extra 20% on a cult-favorite Shark FlexStyle that is customized to your preferences. $239.99 at Shark (Save $59.99) The Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System is designed to cater to all hair types and styling preferences and uniquely prevents heat damage, making it a super popular gift for anyone who loves to look their best. The FlexStyle offers a variety of styling options, from creating bouncy curls to adding volume, smoothing strands and drying your hair efficiently. Build Your Own Shark FlexFusion Air and Ceramic Styling System Build Your Own Shark FlexFusion Air and Ceramic Styling System Save an extra 20% on a customized Shark FlexFusion styling system that is perfect for your hair needs. $279.99 at Shark (Save $69.99) Shark FlexFusion 5-in-1 Air Styler Straightener + Brush Set Shark FlexFusion 5-in-1 Air Styler Straightener + Brush Set This gorgeous blush-colored Shark hair tool offers wet to hot styling and includes all the attachments you could dream of. $319.99 at Shark (Save $79.99) Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb and Blow Dryer Brush Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb and Blow Dryer Brush This iconic Shark hair dryer blush is on sale for 20% off during this Memorial Day sale and it shouldn't be overlooked. $103.99 at Shark (Save $25.99) More: Don't miss rare Dyson hair styling tools on sale for Memorial Day ✨ Pro-tip: Don't forget to apply the promo code BEAUTY20 at checkout to save an extra 20% on select Shark hair styling tools. Why buy from Shark? You'll get a few extra perks when you order directly from Shark's website: 60-day money-back guarantee Free shipping Exclusive two-year limited warranty from Shark Save 10% when you sign up for Shark's newsletter Shop all Shark Beauty deals
