If TikTok has taught us anything, itâs this: every woman is one overpriced hair tool away from becoming That Girlâ˘.
But when it comes to the Dyson Airwrap and its viral dupe, the Shark FlexStyle, the question remains - is it worth spending $600+ to look like you walked out of a hair commercial⌠or can Sharkâs budget-friendly version do the same thing without making your bank account weep?
Letâs break it down - TikTok style, but with receipts.
đŚ Shark FlexStyle Tips
1. Twist to Style, Donât Fight the Tool
The Shark FlexStyle literally twists from hair dryer to styling wand. Donât overthink it - just twist, click, and slay. If youâre spending more than 3 seconds figuring it out, take a deep breath. Itâs not a Rubikâs cube, itâs just hot air.
2. Use Damp Hair for Maximum Curl Hold
The auto-wrap barrels on the Shark love 80% dry hair. If your hair is bone-dry or soaking wet, results will be mid. Mist it lightly and watch those curls pop like you actually know what youâre doing (because now you do).
đ Dyson Airwrap Tips
1. Section Small, Set Cold
With the Dyson, less is more. Smaller hair sections wrap and hold better. Once styled, hit it with the cold shot like you're sealing a contract - because that curl will bail if you skip this step.
2. Donât Skip the Pre-Styling Dryer
That random-looking dryer attachment? Itâs not optional. Itâs the warm-up act. Use it to rough-dry your hair to 70â80% before you curl. Otherwise, youâll be waving a $600 wand over wet hair and wondering why you look like a soggy poodle.
Original Video Creator @molliecampsie
đŚ Shark FlexStyle: The Affordable Underdog
Price: Cost efficient
Attachments: 5 (including auto-wrap curlers, paddle brush, oval brush, concentrator)
Weight: Lightweight and compact
Heat Settings: Adjustable, less damaging
Dryer-to-Styler switch: Chefâs kissâjust twist and go
TikTok Buzz: âI bought this instead of Dyson and I have zero regretsâ kind of energy.
Pros:
- Doesnât scorch your hair like a dragon with something to prove
- Swappable attachments = versatile AF
- Auto-wrap curlers give Dyson vibes without the price
- Actually dries hair fast
- Half the price with similar aesthetic
Cons:
- Slightly louder
- Curls may not hold as long on thicker/coarser textures
- Not quite Dyson engineering quality, but does the damn job
đ Dyson Airwrap: The Original Influencer Grail
Price: Costly
Attachments: 6+ depending on model
Weight: Sleek, slightly heavier
Heat Settings: Advanced airflow tech with smart heat control
Vibe: âI can afford to look flawless at 7AM.â
Pros:
- Iconic airflow tech that minimizes damage
- Long-lasting curls with proper prep
- High-quality feel and performance
- Comes with a luxury case that screams âI have my life togetherâ
Cons:
- That price tag though đ
- Learning curve (not plug-and-play for beginners)
- Not a miracle for ultra-thick or textured hair without some help
âď¸ The Verdict: Who Wins?
It depends on your vibe:
- If you want designer performance and donât mind dropping a rent payment â go Dyson.
- If you want 85% of the results for 50% of the cost, with a way easier learning curve â Shark FlexStyle all day.
TikTok didnât lie - the FlexStyle is the real deal. If youâre new to styling tools or donât have the patience (or budget) for Dysonâs prestige flex, Shark is your girl.
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đ Shark FlexStyle vs Dyson Airwrap: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Shark FlexStyle as good as the Dyson Airwrap for hair styling?
A: For most people, yes. The Shark FlexStyle delivers very similar results at half the price. Itâs one of the best Dyson Airwrap dupes in 2025 and is ideal if you want salon-quality hair without the luxury price tag.
Q: Does the Shark FlexStyle damage your hair less than traditional heat tools?
A: Definitely. Both the FlexStyle and Airwrap use controlled airflow and lower heat than typical curlers or flat irons. This makes them great multi-stylers for reducing heat damage - especially when used with a heat protectant spray.
Q: Whatâs the best multi-styler for beginners: Shark or Dyson?
A: Shark FlexStyle wins for ease of use. Its attachments are beginner-friendly, and the auto-wrap curlers are more forgiving. The Dyson Airwrap has a steeper learning curve but rewards patience if youâve got time (and money).
Q: Can the Shark FlexStyle or Dyson Airwrap style thick or textured hair?
A: Yes, but with a few tweaks. If you have thick, coily, or textured hair, prep is key: detangle first, use a good leave-in and tension brush, and donât skip heat protection. The Shark FlexStyle works faster on damp hair, while the Airwrap may need extra sectioning for best results.
Q: Is it safe to use either tool daily on fine or color-treated hair?
A: Yes - safer than a curling iron or blow dryer - but try to limit usage to 2â3 times a week. Even low heat adds up over time. Both are great for maintaining styles with minimal daily re-styling, so your strands stay healthy.
Q: How can I make curls last longer with the Dyson Airwrap or Shark FlexStyle?
A: Easy:
- Start with 80% dry hair
- Use a volumizing mousse or curl-holding spray
- Curl away from the face
- Cold shot each section
- Donât touch until the hair has cooled
Bonus tip? Wrap curls around your finger and pin them for 10 minutes post-styling. Hello, red carpet bounce.
â Check out this post on Damage Free Hair!
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