How Multi-Styler Tools Are Changing At-Home Hair Styling

The rush to snap up discounted multi-styler tools each Black Friday – from the Shark FlexStyle to its rivals – reveals more than a passing trend. These multi-purpose gadgets are reshaping how many of us style our hair at home, promising salon-inspired looks with less heat and less faff. But beyond the sales hype, what do they actually offer, how do they compare with traditional tools, and how can you use them safely and effectively on real, everyday hair?

What Is a Multi-Styler – And Why Is Everyone Obsessed?

Multi-stylers are powered hair tools designed to create several styles – usually a smooth blow-dry, curls, waves and added volume – using a single base and interchangeable attachments. Think of them as a hybrid between a hairdryer, hot brush, curling tong and sometimes even a diffuser, all in one device.

While specific models vary, most modern multi-stylers share a few key features:

• Interchangeable attachments such as oval or round brushes, curling barrels, smoothing brushes and concentrator nozzles.
• Multiple heat and airflow settings to adapt to different hair types and levels of sensitivity.
• Air-driven styling technology that uses high-velocity airflow to shape the hair rather than clamping hot plates directly onto it.
• Compact design – ideal for small bathrooms, shared flats and travel.

For many UK consumers, the appeal is straightforward: one device on your dressing table that can take you from post-gym rough-dry to Friday-night waves without juggling a separate dryer, straightener and curling wand. It’s also a practical way to experiment with new styles if you don’t have the time (or budget) for regular salon appointments.

How Multi-Stylers Compare to Traditional Hair Tools

Classic hair tools – a reliable dryer, a ceramic straightener and a basic tong – are still the backbone of most styling routines. However, multi-stylers aim to streamline that line-up and, in some cases, reduce direct high-heat contact with the hair fibre.

From a professional perspective, stylists often consider the following when weighing up multi-stylers versus traditional tools:

• Heat distribution: A good multi-styler should offer even, controlled heat and airflow. This can reduce hot spots that typically contribute to dryness or breakage when tools are misused.
• Versatility: Attachments allow you to switch quickly between root lift, smooth mid-lengths and curled ends – something that usually requires several tools and more skill with a traditional kit.
• Learning curve: While a conventional dryer and round brush technique can take practice, many multi-stylers are designed to be more intuitive. For example, auto-wrap barrels help newer users create curls without complex wrist movements.
• Time efficiency: Being able to rough-dry and shape in one motion can speed up your morning routine, particularly on thicker or wavier hair types.

It’s worth noting that not every multi-styler will out-perform a professional-grade salon dryer in power or longevity. However, for everyday styling at home, many people find the combination of convenience and flexibility offsets any compromises.

Choosing the Right Multi-Styler for Your Hair Type

With big-name devices selling out during peak shopping events, it’s easy to feel pressured to grab whatever is left in stock. A more thoughtful approach is to assess your hair type, styling habits and long-term needs before investing. Hairporium’s stylists and educators often suggest considering the following:

• Fine or flat hair: Look for tools that include a round brush or hot brush attachment specifically designed for volume at the roots. Lightweight barrels and lower heat settings help prevent over-drying delicate strands.
• Thick or coarse hair: Opt for a device with a powerful motor and multiple airflow settings. A paddle or smoothing brush attachment can help stretch and smooth the hair before curling, reducing overall styling time.
• Curly, coily or textured hair: Many multi-stylers now offer diffuser attachments, which can be helpful for enhancing natural texture. For curls and coils, stylists frequently recommend using a lower heat setting and pairing with a curl cream or leave-in conditioner to maintain definition.
• Chemically treated or fragile hair: If your hair is coloured, bleached or prone to snapping, focus on tools that emphasise temperature control and gentle airflow. Dermatologists often advise limiting unnecessary heat exposure on compromised hair and prioritising conditioning treatments.

Whatever your hair type, a simple real-world step is to list how you actually style your hair in an average week – for example, two quick weekday blow-dries and one proper styling session at the weekend. From there, choose a tool that realistically supports those habits instead of one that promises styles you rarely wear.

Using Multi-Stylers Safely: Heat, Technique and Practical Tips

While multi-stylers are often marketed as kinder to the hair, they are still heat tools. How you use them will make the biggest difference to the condition and appearance of your hair over time.

Many UK stylists and trichology-informed professionals suggest the following best practices:

• Always prep with a heat protectant: A light spray or cream evenly distributed through damp hair can help minimise heat damage. Pay particular attention to mid-lengths and ends.
• Work with towel-dried, not soaking-wet hair: Gently squeeze out excess water with a towel or T-shirt first. This allows the tool to dry and shape rather than simply blasting off water for longer than necessary.
• Start on a lower heat and build up if required: Many stylists advise beginning with a medium setting and only increasing if your hair genuinely needs more power. Fine hair especially benefits from this approach.
• Use sectioning clips: Divide the hair into manageable sections – usually four to six – to ensure even drying and styling. This reduces the temptation to keep going over the same strands.
• Mind the scalp: Keep attachments moving and avoid holding hot airflow too close to the scalp. If your scalp feels uncomfortably hot, pull the tool slightly away and increase movement.
• Finish with a cool shot where available: A burst of cool air can help set the style and boost shine, particularly for curls and waves.

On a practical day-to-day level, one helpful habit is to schedule a weekly “no heat” day, where you let your hair air-dry and focus on masks or treatments instead. This gives the hair a break whilst still allowing you to enjoy multi-styler benefits the rest of the week.

Maximising Value: Attachments, Storage and Longevity

Multi-stylers are an investment piece, whether bought at full price or during a seasonal sale. To get the best long-term value, think beyond the initial purchase.

• Learn every attachment: Rather than sticking to the same brush head, set aside an evening to try each attachment properly. Many people discover that a lesser-used barrel or brush is actually the most flattering for their hair length and face shape.
• Keep filters and vents clear: Lint build-up can affect airflow and shorten the life of the motor. Most devices feature removable filters – a quick monthly clean can improve performance.
• Store safely: Avoid wrapping the cord tightly around the handle, which can damage internal wiring. Use a heat-resistant mat or pouch if you style on delicate surfaces.
• Register warranties: If your tool offers a manufacturer’s warranty, registering it is a simple, one-off step that can protect your investment if anything goes wrong later.

If you already own a traditional dryer and straightener, a sensible next step is to experiment with your existing kit – for example, using a round brush and lower heat settings – before upgrading. That way, if you do decide to invest in a multi-styler, you’ll have a clear sense of the features that genuinely matter to you.

Key Takeaways

• Multi-stylers combine several tools in one base with interchangeable attachments, making them ideal for compact UK bathrooms and busy morning routines.
• They can offer more controlled heat and versatile styling than a single-purpose dryer or tong, but technique still matters for maintaining hair health.
• Choosing the right device depends on your hair type, styling frequency and real-world habits, not just seasonal sales or social media hype.
• Heat protection, sectioning and regular “no heat” days are simple, practical ways to protect your hair while enjoying multi-styler convenience.
• Looking after filters, cords and attachments helps your tool last longer, stretching the value of any investment well beyond the Black Friday rush.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are multi-stylers better for hair than straighteners?
Multi-stylers and straighteners both use heat, so neither is automatically “better”. However, multi-stylers often rely on controlled airflow rather than clamping plates, which many stylists feel can be gentler when used correctly. Protecting the hair with a heat protectant and avoiding unnecessarily high temperatures remains essential either way.

Can I use a multi-styler every day?
You can, but it’s wise to be mindful. Many hair professionals recommend limiting high-heat styling where possible and building in at least one or two low-heat or no-heat days each week. If you do style daily, keep to moderate heat settings, use heat protection and focus on conditioning care.

Will a multi-styler work on very curly or coily hair?
Yes, provided you choose a device with enough power and suitable attachments. Diffusers can help enhance natural curls, while smoothing brushes can gently stretch the hair. For curls and coils, it’s often helpful to use hydrating products and work in small, controlled sections.

Is a multi-styler worth it if I already have a good hairdryer?
It depends on how much you style your hair. If you often reach for multiple tools to create volume, curls and smooth finishes, a multi-styler can simplify your routine. If you usually rough-dry and go, your existing dryer may be perfectly adequate, and you might prioritise treatments or cuts instead.

Do I still need other tools if I buy a multi-styler?
Many people find a multi-styler covers 90% of their everyday styling, but a separate straightener or tong can still be useful for very sleek looks or ultra-defined curls. Think of a multi-styler as your versatile workhorse; specialist tools can stay for specific occasions if you already own them.