Another day, another iteration of the airwrap. But not all, it would seem, are made equal. Between Dyson, Babyliss, BondiBoost and everything in between, we’ve seen many styling gadgets utilising the power of hot air. The biggest complaint, however? The curls and blowdries just don’t last - my own included. Shark’s newest launch – the Shark FlexFusion Straight 5-in-1 Air Styler & Dryer & Ceramic Straightener, £369 – has one point of difference, however.
What does the Shark FlexFusion Straight 5-in-1 Air Styler & Dryer & Ceramic Straightener do?
You’re likely already acquainted with the Shark Hair Wrap, a ‘powerful, fast drying multi-styler’ that can be transformed from a styling tool to a dryer with ease. The OG allows for easy curling, straightening, volumising, defining and smoothing without the need for extreme heat thanks to gentle air temperatures. Although similar, the new iteration addresses a key issue - one Shark itself is aware of. At its launch, the brand said the tool was created in response to customers' 'need for longer lasting styles' - something that the original doesn’t always allow for. This version combines the classic hot air multi-styler with 'FlexFusion Straightening Technology' - think styling and straightening attachments that combine heated ceramic and powerful airflow. It's this additional heated ceramic element that will really help hair to hold, Shark say.
Shop: Shark FlexFusion Straight 5-in-1 Air Styler & Dryer & Ceramic Straightener
sharkclean.co.uk
The ultimate multitasker, this 5-piece set includes 2 Fusion attachments and 3 air styling attachments. There's the Wet-or-Dry Fusion Straightener which simultaneously dries and straightens wet hair with no heat damage. Then there's the Wet-or-Dry Fusion Brush which brings bounce and shine to both wet and dry hair for the ultimate blow-out. There's also Auto-Wrap Curlers (for curls) the Styling Concentrator (sleek, straight styles) and the Curl-Defining Diffuser to lift & define natural curls.
Pros
- Can achieve multiple hair styles with various attachments
- Minimal heat damage when compared to traditional ceramic straighteners/tongs
- Contains case
- An investment page
Cons
- Bulky for travelling
How to use the Shark FlexFusion Straight 5-in-1 Air Styler & Dryer & Ceramic Straightener
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Start by drying your hair until it's just slightly damp. Then activate "Scalp Shield" while drying roots to improve scalp comfort and protect new hair growth.
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Next choose your go-to accessory and pop it onto the wand. Toggle to "Wet Mode." To use the Fusion Straightener, position plates near roots and direct airflow toward ends of hair to dry and straighten at the same time. To use Fusion Wet or Dry Brush, wrap damp hair around the barrel to dry and add volume.
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Then toggle to "Dry Mode." Once the LED light has turned green the airflow will turn on. This indicates the tool has reached the correct temperature.
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For touch-ups use the "FrizzFighter" by toggling to "Dry Mode." To use "FrizzFighter," hover over roots and move down along your hair to smooth and de-frizz any style**.**
Our full review:
Rachael Martin, beauty editor:
'I’ve had the Shark Hair Wrap for some time, and have only just upgraded to this version. Although I was a fan of the original I would say that I’d have to refresh frequently to ensure a blow-dry that really stays put. If you’re someone who can’t get their airwrap styles to stay then I suggest giving this one a whirl. Not only is it a simple way to easily flit between hairstyles - you can wear it smooth and sleek one moment a bouncy and curly the next - but the staying power is much improved thanks to the addition of the ceramic plates. I typically like to smooth my hair before curling it and as the straightening attachment is specifically designed for wet-to-dry styling, it cuts out a full step for me. And rest assured that the intelligent heat control helps to keep damage at bay– no stressful sizzle to be heard.'
Overall rating
I have rated the OG highly in the past, but it's fair to say that his one pips it to the post. All of the staying power of traditional straighteners and curlers, with less of the damage. Would recommend.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s beauty editor where she covers all things beauty, health and wellness.