Packing for a trip can be a puzzle, especially for those blessed with curly hair. We all know the struggle of wanting to maintain gorgeous curls while also trying to pack light. For years, my trusty BaBylissPRO dryer, though amazing at home, was simply too bulky for my travel bag. Its nearly 2-pound weight just wasn’t practical for jet-setting.
This led me on a quest: to find a lightweight, space-saving travel hair dryer that could still deliver beautiful, frizz-free curls without breaking the bank. And after much searching, I struck gold! I discovered an incredible mini travel hair dryer and diffuser combination that has become my go-to travel companion.
Quick Update: For those curious about long-term performance, keep scrolling to see my wash day results using this compact travel hair dryer over several months.
More diffuser curious? If you are interested in diffusers for home use, you might want to check out my Black Orchid Diffuser Review!
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Meet the Game Changer: BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer
My search culminated in the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer! This isn’t just a smaller version of my beloved BaByliss hair dryer; it’s a powerhouse in a petite package, delivering comparable performance. Let’s break down the pros and cons of this portable hair dryer:
Image: The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer in operation, showcasing its compact size ideal for curly hair travel.
Image: A side-by-side comparison of the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer folded and unfolded, emphasizing its portability for travelers with curly hair.
PROS
- Compact and Lightweight: This is the biggest win! It folds neatly and weighs significantly less than standard dryers, freeing up valuable suitcase space and reducing luggage weight. Perfect for carry-on only trips.
- Nano Titanium Technology: Just like its full-sized counterpart, this travel dryer utilizes nano titanium technology for even heat distribution, reducing hot spots and minimizing heat damage to delicate curls.
- Dual Voltage: Essential for international travel, the dual voltage feature (125/250V) means you can use it virtually anywhere in the world without needing a voltage converter (you may still need a plug adapter).
- Decent Power: Don’t let the small size fool you. This dryer still packs enough power to dry curly hair effectively, especially when paired with a diffuser.
CONS
- Noise Level: As expected with a small, powerful motor, this travel hair dryer is a bit noisy. However, for occasional travel use, it’s a manageable trade-off for its portability and performance.
- Diffuser Compatibility: Finding a diffuser to fit the small 1.5” barrel can be tricky. But fear not, I have the perfect solution detailed below!
- No Cool Shot: For those with heat-sensitive curls, the lack of a cool shot button might be a drawback. The low heat/low speed setting is available, but it will naturally increase drying time.
The Essential Companion: Segbeauty Universal Diffuser
The biggest challenge with travel hair dryers, especially for curly hair, is finding a compatible diffuser. Diffusing is crucial for curly hair as it distributes airflow, prevents frizz, and enhances curl definition. Thankfully, my search for the perfect travel diffuser led me to the Segbeauty universal diffuser.
This collapsible hair dryer diffuser is a game-changer for curly-haired travelers. Made from heat-resistant silicon, it’s designed to fit most hair dryers, including those with smaller barrels like the BaBylissPRO travel dryer. The universal fit is fantastic, meaning you can also use it on your full-size dryer at home if you love it!
collapsible diffuser for traveling with curly hair
Image: The Segbeauty universal diffuser in its collapsed, compact form, highlighting its travel-friendly design for curly hair.
Image: The Segbeauty universal diffuser expanding to fit a travel hair dryer, demonstrating its adaptability for curly hair styling on the go.
travel diffuser for curly hair review
Image: A close-up of the Segbeauty universal diffuser attached to the BaBylissPRO travel dryer, ready for styling curly hair while traveling.
Putting it to the Test: Travel Hair Dryer and Diffuser Performance
To truly assess this travel hair dryer and diffuser combo, I put it through my standard curly wash day routine. Attaching the Segbeauty diffuser to the BaBylissPRO mini travel dryer was straightforward. Pro Tip: Once you’ve placed the diffuser over the dryer nozzle, twist it clockwise to secure it tightly. This prevents it from detaching during use. Initially, the diffuser looked quite large in comparison to the petite dryer, which was a bit amusing!
travel hair dryer with diffuser
Image: The BaBylissPRO travel hair dryer with the Segbeauty universal diffuser attached, showcasing the full travel styling setup for curly hair.
I started diffusing with my head upside down on the low speed/low heat setting for 10 minutes. The hair dryer operated without any burning smell or overheating issues. After this initial diffusion, my hair was approximately 50% dry. I then applied a bit more gel (Smasters method) for enhanced definition. I followed this with another 10 minutes of diffusing on the high speed/high heat setting.
Despite its small size, the travel hair dryer delivered impressive heat output. I was initially concerned it might overheat and dry out my curls, but it surprisingly had the opposite effect. The dryer’s motor remained cool to the touch, the diffuser maintained its shape, and my curls dried beautifully with minimal frizz! In just 20 minutes total, my 2c/3a curls were about 90% dry, and I decided to stop there. The results were fantastic, as you can see below:
curly hair travel mini hair dryer review
Image: Beautifully styled 2c/3a curly hair after using the BaBylissPRO travel dryer and Segbeauty diffuser, demonstrating the effectiveness of the travel hair styling tools.
long curly hair style shoulder length 2c 3a
Image: Another view of the defined and voluminous 2c/3a curls achieved with the travel hair dryer and diffuser, highlighting the successful results for curly hair.
Quick Tip: Allow both the travel hair dryer and the universal curl diffuser to cool down for a few minutes before separating them, as the silicon diffuser can get a little warm to the touch after use.
Final Verdict: Your Perfect Travel Companion for Curly Hair
I am genuinely thrilled to have this curly hair travel duo in my arsenal. Finally, I can pack more clothes in my suitcase without sacrificing great hair days! Wherever my travels take me, I can be confident that my curls will look their best, thanks to the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer and Segbeauty Universal Diffuser.
Long-Term Updates: Consistent Curly Hair Success on the Road
February 26, 2019: To ensure a thorough review, I continued using the travel hair dryer over several months. Here are my wash day results from today, further demonstrating the consistent performance of this travel-friendly tool:
shoulder length natural curly hairstyle
Image: Updated photo of shoulder-length curly hair styled with the travel hair dryer, showcasing consistent results over time.
curly hair travel hair dryer results shinewithjl
Image: Another updated view of curly hair results achieved with the travel hair dryer, reinforcing its reliability for curly hair styling.
curly hair results travel hair dryer shinewithjl
Image: A final updated image highlighting the defined curls and overall style achieved using the travel hair dryer, demonstrating long-term successful use.
Curly Hair Products Used in this Wash Day:
- Cleanser: As I AM Coconut Cowash.
- Leave-In Conditioner: Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner/Detangler.
- Stylers: Curls Creme Brule Whipped Curl Cream and Kinky Curly Curling Custard.
- Finishing Oil: Righteous Roots RX Oil.
June 12, 2019: Ahead of my trip to New England this August, I wanted to practice styling with my travel hair dryer again. Since it lacks a cool shot like my full-size dryer, I’m adjusting my styling product combination for warmer weather. Here are my latest results:
2c 3a naturally curly hairstyle with green glasses
Image: Photo of 2c/3a curly hair styled with the travel hair dryer, incorporating green glasses as a style element, demonstrating versatility.
shoulder length curly hairstyle with glasses
Image: Another photo of shoulder-length curly hair, styled with the travel dryer and paired with glasses, showcasing a different look.
natural curly hairstyle wash day results with travel hair dryer
Image: Wash day results for natural curly hair styled with the travel hair dryer, emphasizing the effectiveness of the styling routine.
curly hairstyle with travel hair dryer shinewithjl
Image: Layered curly hairstyle achieved with the travel hair dryer, demonstrating its capability for different curly hair types and styles.
best travel hair dryer for curly hair results
Image: Final results showcasing 2c/3a curly hair styled using the best travel hair dryer, highlighting defined curls and volume.
Curly Hair Products Used in this Wash Day:
- Shampoo: Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Defrizzing Shampoo.
- Conditioner: SheaMoisture Low Porosity Protein-Free Conditioner w/Baobab & Tea Tree Oils.
- Leave-In Conditioner: Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner/Detangler.
- Stylers: Davines This is a Curl Building Serum and Eco Chic L.A. Natural Styling Gel.
- Finishing Oil: Organic grapeseed oil.
December 15, 2019: I brought my universal diffuser and mini travel hair dryer with me on my trip to Pink Gin Beach, Grenada this month. Read all about my experience in Curly Hair Travel: Humid Caribbean Weather .
