AS someone who tried and failed for years to master the art of the at-home blowout, I have the rise of air tools to thank for my transformed hair styling routine.
Every hair tool under the sun promises “salon-worthy results at home,” and I’ve been testing the Shark FlexStyle hair tool for a year to determine if it can truly deliver.
TRENDING AMAZON DEAL
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £379.99)
The newest model of the Shark Flexstyle has been slashed by huge £100 in the Amazon Prime Day sale, but the deal is ending today.
Known originally for its popular vacuums, Shark branched out into the beauty tech space in 2022 with the launch of the FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System.
The beauty gadget features five different attachments, with an option to build your own bundle based on your hair type.
All of the FlexStyle attachments can also be bought separately on the Shark website for £24.99 each, so you can add to your collection over time.
Shark swooped in at a time when beauty enthusiasts were searching for a more affordable alternative to the £400+ Airwrap.
At £279.99, it’s still an investment, but it’s a fraction of the cost of a Dyson Airwrap i.d.
Is it worth ditching your current tools for an all-in-one gadget? Read below for my full Shark FlexStyle review.
Pros:
- Creates voluminous blow-outs
- Minimal heat damage
- Requires little effort (once you nail the technique)
- Multiple attachments included
- Option to build your own set
- Easy to switch between styler and dryer
- Cheaper than similar alternatives
Cons:
- Noisy
- Bulky for travelling
- Takes a while to master the technique
- Hot brush attachment can feel rough on the hair
Rating: 8/10
How I tested the Shark FlexStyle Air Styler
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
As The Sun’s Fashion and Beauty eCommerce Writer, it’s my job to try out products that are causing a buzz in the industry.
I’m obsessed with all things beauty, so I’ve tested my fair share of hair stylers over the years, including the best Dyson Airwrap dupe and my Dyson Airwrap i.d review, but it takes a lot for one to become a regular in my routine.
The hype around the Shark FlexStyle is still going, and I can confidently share my thoughts after trialling the tool for a year.
The Smoothing Concentrator (hair drying nozzle) and Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels are my go-to FlexStyle attachments, so I’ll be talking mostly about them.
But I’ve also tested the Paddle Brush, Oval Brush and Fizz Fighter heads.
For reference, I have long, wavy hair that can get frizzy after washing, and I have extensions.
Shark FlexStyle review: Quickfire Q&A
How much is the Shark FlexStyle? The beauty tech tool would usually set you back between £250 and £300, but the build-your-own version is currently on sale for £199.99 on the Shark website.
Who’s it best for? As it has multiple functions, all hair types are likely to benefit, although I’d say it’s most effective for those with long and thick hair because it speeds up drying time and holds a curl for longer on thick tresses.
What we loved: How efficiently it creates a voluminous blow-out without causing heat damage, and how the attachments can create a range of styles.
What we didn’t: The loud noise it makes during use, and the fact that it’s too bulky for travelling.
Shark FlexStyle attachments: In the classic set or build-your-own bundle, the following accessories are available: Paddle Brush, Oval Brush, Auto-Wrap Curlers, Styling Concentrator, Diffuser, FrizzFighter Finishing Tool and Wide Tooth Comb.
Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 air styler review: The Nitty Gritty
First impressions
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
Every beauty influencer in existence seems to own the FlexStyle, so I was pretty familiar with its appearance before trying it out.
While sleek in design, the cable and attachments together are on the bulky side (which is to be expected due to its multiple functions), but it’s meant I’ve avoided travelling with it so far.
When purchasing the FlexStyle, shoppers can select the five-in-one bundle, or mix and match their own (choosing four attachments).
I have the model that comes with five attachments: Auto-Wrap Curlers (one for each side of the head), a Paddle Brush, an Oval Brush, a Styling Concentrator, and a Diffuser.
My Fizz Fighter Finishing Tool is a new addition, which I bought separately to try and tame my frizz at my roots.
As I have attachments in my bundle that I don’t use (the diffuser, as it’s designed for curly/ coily hair), I would recommend the Build Your Own Hair Styling and Drying System to get the most for your money.
Does it deliver?
If you’re looking for a way to create bouncy blow-outs yourself, the Shark FlexStyle absolutely delivers, but it does take practice to perfect the process.
My biggest reservation about the FlexStyle before trying it was the drying system.
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
A multitasking styler runs the risk of being a jack of all trades but a master of none, but Shark has ensured its hair dryer doesn’t compromise on power.
I swear by my Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer for quick results on my long hair, and the FlexStyle pretty much matches its drying time.
Call me easily pleased, but the way the tool rotates between a dryer and a styler is one of my favourite features.
The fact that it twists into a right angle makes it so much easier to use, and — in a common theme with the FlexStyle — it never makes me feel like I’m overworking to get results.
There are three heat and power settings (I tend to use mine on full blast), and following the instructions of online videos, I always use the Cool Shot feature for locking the style in place.
The Paddle Brush (for straight styles) and the Oval Brush (for blow-outs) both have boar and plastic bristles that are great for gripping the hair, but I’d recommend being gentle to avoid snagging the hair.
The newest addition to my routine is the Frizz Fighter Finishing Tool.
Like the barrels, it attracts the hair, gliding from the root to smooth frizz and flyaways, essentially enhancing the effects of the other attachments.
Now, for quite possibly the main selling point — the Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels.
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
I have to admit, I was quickly humbled when I realised that the beauty influencers were making the process look far easier than it is.
The airflow technology makes the air wrap around the barrel automatically to create a curl, but I struggled with getting it to pick up the hair for the first few attempts.
And when I did, the curl would drop out within the first few hours.
After plenty of practice (and TikTok tutorials), I managed to master the method, but patience is needed.
I found the key is keeping the sections small as it makes it easier for the hair to wrap, and use a product to hold the curls (I swear by the Colour Wow XL Volumiser).
Unlike when I use curling tongs, the curls aren’t going to last me for days on end, but they do look great that day, and after sleeping on them, I’m left with a subtle wave that I’ll sometimes go over with the barrels.
I also find the whole process to be far more enjoyable than curling my hair with tongs (which could be down to years of the same routine) – and the airflow makes creating curls far more efficient.
The one thing I’d change about the FlexStyle is the noise.
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
When my roommate borrows it, I can hear the whirring from the other side of the flat, so it’s not one you could use while watching TV or late at night.
Keeping heat damage to a minimum is important to me as I already put enough strain on my hair with bleach, extensions and frequent styling.
Can I confidently say that the FlexStyle causes zero damage? No.
But can I confidently say that it creates a salon-worthy blow-out while causing far, far less damage than other hair tools? Absolutely.
Results aside, I can tell when I’m using the FlexStyle that it’s transferring way less heat than a tong or straightener (you can read my article on the best hair straighteners here).
There’s no burning smell (and if there is, you may need to clean the filter), and my hair has felt healthier since ditching the tongs for the FlexStyle regularly.
I love how my hair turns out every time I use the Shark FlexStyle, and it’s absolutely worth investing time to master the technique in order to get professional-looking results.
The verdict: Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Style
The FlexStyle is a great option for those who want to create bouncy blow-outs with minimal skill and effort.
It takes some practice to get used to, especially when using the curling attachments, and can be quite noisy, but for me, the pros far outweigh the cons.
For its price and versatility (it works as a dryer, brush and curling tool), the FlexStyle is a semi-affordable option – it’s cheaper than its competitors – that takes care of your whole haircare routine in one.
- Shark FlexStyle Build Your Own Styling and Drying System, £199.99 (was £249.99) – buy here
Shark FlexStyle FAQs:
Shark FlexStyle price
The Shark FlexStyle isn’t cheap, but if you’re keen to invest in a does-it-all hair tool, it’s more affordable than its competitors.
Shark’s 5-in-1 Hair Dryer and Air Styler with Storage Case is currently on sale for £229.99, while the Build Your Own bundle is slashed to £199.99.
Refurbished models are also available on eBay, a cheaper alternative to buying the FlexStyle brand new.
Shark released a 2025 edition of the FlexStyle earlier this year, which beauty fans can buy for £279.99.
Where to buy the Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 air styler and hair dryer?
The Shark FlexStyle is available to buy online at Boots, Amazon and of course, the Shark website.
Most major beauty retailers are also currently stocking the styler, including Sephora, Lookfantastic and Cult Beauty.
There are several colourways to choose from, including the limited-edition sparkle FlexStyle that comes in stunning champagne and black shades (and would be perfect if you’re buying the styler as a gift).
The full list of places to shop online:
Is the Shark FlexStyle worth it?
Using the Shark FlexStyle takes some practice to get it right, but once you get the technique down, it’s so worth it.
The styler works effectively on long and thick hair, but those with fine hair will need to work harder for long-lasting curls.
At over £250+, it’s not cheap, but if you blow-dry and curl your hair regularly, it’s an investment worth considering.
The best part about the FlexStyle?
It causes far less heat damage than tongs and conventional hair straighteners – not to mention that it’s significantly more enjoyable to use.
How to use Shark FlexStyle?
For best results, start with towel-dried hair and dry with the Smoothing Concentrator until your hair is roughly 80% dry.
You can use the Paddle Brush attachment to straighten your hair and add shine, or the Oval Brush to add bounce and volume.
The Auto-Wrap Curlers use a clever technology that wraps and curls your hair around the barrel automatically.
All you need to do is hold your hair in place for 10-15 seconds, and then use the shot button to lock in your curl before releasing.
Repeat across sections for a full head of soft, bouncy curls.
Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Style alternatives
It’s no secret that the Dyson Airwrap i.d is the FlexStyle’s main competitor (make sure to read our Dyson Airwrap i.d review).
Revlon, Bondi Boost and Silk’n all have similar hair tools, and the Sun Shopping team also tried and tested the Babyliss Air Style 1000 in a Dyson Airwrap dupe review.
Beauty fans who are mostly tempted by the Oval Brush attachment on the FlexStyle should also check out our round-up of the best hot brushes.
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