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Shark FlexStyle attachments explained

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In short

FlexStyle attachments cover curling (Auto-Wrap curlers, in 32 mm and sometimes 24 mm), blow-drying (oval brush for volume, paddle brush for smoothing), drying (concentrator, diffuser) and finishing (FrizzFighter). The 3-in-1 has curlers, oval brush and concentrator; 5-in-1 bundles add a paddle brush and diffuser or a FrizzFighter. Pick the bundle that matches your hair type.

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Shark sells the FlexStyle in many bundles, and the attachments in the box change from one to the next. A 3-in-1 might suit someone with straight hair who wants curls, while a 5-in-1 with a diffuser suits curly hair. This guide explains each attachment from the Amazon UK listings for the FlexStyle bundles in our guides, what it is for and which bundles include it, so you can buy the right one or add what is missing.

Which bundle includes what

BundleRated powerAttachments listed
FlexStyle 3-in-11,400 W2 Auto-Wrap curlers, oval brush, concentrator
FlexStyle 5-in-1 (HD446SLUK)1,650 W2 Auto-Wrap curlers, paddle brush, oval brush, concentrator, diffuser
FlexStyle 5-in-1 gift set (HD456TLUK)1,650 W32 mm and 24 mm curlers, oval brush, concentrator, FrizzFighter, clips, storage bag
FlexStyle IonCurl1,750 W2 x 32 mm Coanda curlers, FrizzFighter polisher, oval brush, paddle brush, curl-defining diffuser, storage case
FlexStyle bundles from the Amazon UK listings

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Auto-Wrap curlers

The curlers use the Coanda effect to draw hair around the barrel automatically, then a cool burst sets the curl. Shark's curlers are designed to work in both directions with a twist of the curler's end, so check the arrow before you start. The 32 mm curler gives looser curls and waves; the 24 mm in some gift sets gives tighter curls and suits shorter hair.

The FlexStyle IonCurl adds what Shark calls CoandaBoost for a stronger wrap force than the original FlexStyle, plus an AirSet button to pause airflow or release a cool burst. Our FlexStyle how-to covers curling technique.

Air slotsAirflow follows the curveHair strandBarrelDirection of wrap: the air pulls the strand round the barrel.
The Coanda effect: fast air leaving the slots clings to the curved barrel and pulls the hair round with it.

Brushes

The oval brush is a hot air brush for volume: it lifts at the root and adds bend through the lengths, giving a bouncy blow-dry. It is included in every bundle listed above and is the attachment many owners use most.

The paddle brush is for smoothing and a sleek, straighter finish. It is wide and flat, so it covers more hair per pass. It suits long or thick hair you want smooth. The 3-in-1 does not include it, which is worth knowing if sleek blow-dries are your aim. See how to straighten hair with a hair dryer for technique.

Concentrator, diffuser and FrizzFighter

With the handle twisted into dryer mode, the concentrator directs a narrow stream of air for smoothing with a brush or fast drying. The diffuser spreads the airflow to dry curls and waves without disturbing their pattern, which matters for curly hair. Our diffuser guide explains the technique.

The FrizzFighter finishing tool, called a polisher on the IonCurl, is used on dry hair to attract and smooth flyaways for a shinier surface. The gift set listing describes it as for dry, straight or straightened hair. Our FrizzFighter how-to covers it step by step.

ConcentratorNarrow slot, airspeed highbrush sectionDiffuserWide bowl, airspeed lowcurls
A concentrator focuses a fast jet onto one section; a diffuser spreads slower air over curls.

Which bundle suits your hair

Shark sells some attachments separately, so you can add a diffuser or paddle brush later. Check compatibility with your FlexStyle model on Shark's site. For other Airwrap-style options, see our guides to Airwrap alternatives and stylers for short hair.

  • Straight or wavy hair, want curls and volume: 3-in-1 covers the basics.
  • Curly hair to define: a bundle with a diffuser, such as the 5-in-1 HD446SLUK or IonCurl.
  • Shorter hair, tighter curls: a gift set with the 24 mm curler.
  • Frizz and flyaways: a bundle with the FrizzFighter.
  • Long, thick hair you want sleek: a bundle with the paddle brush.

Care and storage

Clean hair out of the brushes every few uses and wipe product film off the curlers. Most importantly, clean the filter at the base of the handle regularly; a blocked filter makes the FlexStyle run hot and can trigger cut-outs. Our FlexStyle filter guide shows how, and FlexStyle troubleshooting covers lights and cut-outs.

Keep attachments in the storage bag or case where one is supplied, and let them cool before packing away.

Note:Unplug the FlexStyle before cleaning the filter or attachments.

Frequently asked questions

Which Shark FlexStyle attachment is best? It depends on your hair. The oval brush is the most widely used for volume; curlers for curls; the diffuser for natural curls; the paddle brush for sleek finishes.

Does the FlexStyle come with a straightener? Not in the bundles listed here. The paddle brush smooths and the FrizzFighter tames flyaways, but there are no heated plates.

Can I buy a diffuser for the 3-in-1? Shark sells some attachments separately. Check that the diffuser is listed as compatible with your model.

Are FlexStyle and SpeedStyle attachments interchangeable? Do not assume so. They are different product lines; only use attachments Shark lists for your model.

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