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Shark SmoothStyle: A Game-Changer in Hair Drying
The Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb and Blow Dryer Brush, priced at $79 on Amazon, initially left me skeptical about its differentiation from other blow dryer brushes available in the market. Engaged in testing the SmoothStyle for the 2024 Healthy Beauty Awards—an event dedicated to celebrating standout products—I approached this tool with a critical mindset, eager for something extraordinary. However, as I used it more, I began to uncover its unique strengths.
Sleek Design and Versatile Functionality
The SmoothStyle features a unique four-sided head that combines the benefits of a brush and a heated comb. The broader sides host bristle-like structures similar to those found on traditional hairbrushes, while the slim edges incorporate heated combs engineered for styling.
This tool operates in two modes: “wet mode” and “dry mode.” In wet mode, users set one of three temperature options and glide the brush through damp hair, allowing hot air to circulate and dry the strands while adding volume. Dry mode employs the heated combs for smoothing, eliminating airflow to focus solely on styling. However, it is crucial to remember that the heated combs are intended strictly for use on dry hair, and while Shark does not provide specific temperature details, they claim that the SmoothStyle induces less damage compared to conventional dryer brushes or flat irons.
Initially, I was dubious about the effectiveness of the heated combs. My early attempts resulted in only mildly improved results, often leading me to rely on standard blow-drying techniques before using the combs. Yet, a simple approach change led to a revelation: by wrapping sections of my hair around the brush while simultaneously engaging the heated combs, I finally achieved the polished, bouncy style I had been seeking.
High-Performance Results
Remarkably, the SmoothStyle dries hair as efficiently as many other dryer brushes I have tested, despite its seemingly limited surface area due to the incorporation of heated combs. With long, curly, medium-fine hair that typically requires a rigorous drying and straightening routine, I’ve found success by allowing my hair to air dry partially or using a traditional blow dryer until it’s damp, then finishing the drying and styling process with the SmoothStyle.
The heated combs produce a silky, voluminous finish that has made my morning routine much smoother. Unlike many competing products, I frequently opt for the SmoothStyle over my standard flat iron, primarily due to the convenience and effectiveness of the comb feature.
Comparative Landscape
As a former beauty editor, my experience with various hair tools is extensive, particularly in the realm of blow dryer brushes. While I have tested high-end options like the Dyson Airwrap, I found it too intricate and space-consuming for my everyday use. Similarly, the Shark FlexStyle is an affordable alternative but often leaves me frustrated with the frequent need to swap attachments during the styling process.
Overall, the Shark SmoothStyle not only stands out in its design but also elevates the hair-styling experience with its innovative features, proving to be a valuable addition to any beauty enthusiast’s toolkit.
Source
www.self.com