Last updated: August 10, 2026 · 6 min read
If your airstyler won't pick up a curl, or the curl drops out again straight away, that's usually not down to your hair type. In more than 78% of returns, the problem turns out to be technique, not the product. These 10 tips fix the most common causes, before you send anything back.
The short version
- In more than 78% of returns, the problem is technique, not the product itself.
- There's no hair type that structurally doesn't work, just a difference in who has already mastered the technique.
- The step people miss most: switching to the cold setting right after heating, to set the curl.
- Still not working after these 10 tips? Further down in this article you'll find out what to do next.
Below, we'll go step by step through the 10 things that make the biggest difference, and further down you'll read what to do if it still isn't working after these tips.
Why does it sometimes seem like an airstyler doesn't work on your hair?
An airstyler works differently from a curling iron. You wrap your hair around a rotating barrel instead of clamping it between two hot plates, and that takes a slightly different technique. The first few times can feel unfamiliar, and it's natural to assume the product just isn't working properly.
Our own return figures show that in the vast majority of cases, technique is the cause: not holding the barrel in place long enough, taking too large a section of hair at once, or skipping the cold setting. Below, you'll find exactly what to adjust.
10 tips to make your airstyler actually work
1
Start with towel-dried hair, not soaking wet and not fully dry
After washing, towel-dry your hair until it just stops dripping. Soaking wet hair has too much moisture to curl properly in the time you're heating it, and on fully dry hair the barrel doesn't grip as well.
2
Divide your hair into sections before you start
Clip your hair up in layers instead of trying to style it all at once. Smaller sections give a more even result and give each strand enough time on the barrel.
3
Use a heat protector and styling mousse before you start
Apply this to each section before you use the airstyler on it. It protects your hair and helps the curl hold better, even later in the day.
4
Let each section heat up properly for at least 30 to 40 seconds
Don't remove the barrel too soon. Your hair needs that time to actually take on the shape of the barrel, otherwise the curl loosens before you're even done styling.
5
Then switch straight to the cold setting, this is the step people skip most
Right after heating, switch to cold while the section is still wrapped around the barrel, for another 30 to 40 seconds. The cold air sets the curl. Skip this step, and the curl often drops flat again within an hour.
6
Choose the right barrel size for your hair length
A smaller barrel gives tighter curls, a larger barrel gives loose, natural waves. On very long hair, a small barrel can sometimes give a less even result.
7
Choose the heat setting that matches your hair thickness
The Airstyler Pro Ceramiq has settings of 35°C, 70°C, and 110°C. Fine or thin hair often only needs a lower setting, while thick or coarse hair needs more heat for the curl to really set.
8
Check that the attachment clicks firmly into place
The attachments connect magnetically. If an attachment isn't properly in place, it can come loose during use or not transfer the full heat. Click it on firmly before you start.
9
Keep the barrel clean
Product residue from mousse, spray, or oil builds up on the barrel. That reduces both the grip on your hair and the heat transfer. Clean the barrel regularly for a consistent result.
10
Give yourself a few tries to get used to it
Most people have the technique down after 2 to 3 styling sessions. Don't judge your airstyler on the very first attempt, just like you wouldn't expect to master a new curling iron or straightener right away.
Still not working after these 10 tips?
Then there might still be something wrong with the product itself, that just happens sometimes. First check out our Hair tutorials page for guidance per hair type and per product, the solution is often in there.
Still stuck? You always have 30 days to decide. Check the returns page for the exact steps, or email servicedesk@dajalogistics.nl directly, and you'll usually get a reply the same day.
Frequently asked questions
Why isn't my airstyler picking up my hair properly?
That's usually down to the hair section you're using: too thick, too wet, or too dry. Take a thinner section of towel-dried hair and wrap it calmly around the barrel for a better result.
Why does my curl drop flat again within a few hours?
This is almost always the skipped cold setting. After heating, switch the airstyler to cold while the section is still around the barrel, that sets the curl and makes it last longer.
Does an airstyler really work on every hair type?
Yes, the Airstyler Pro Ceramiq is made for all hair types, from 1A to 4C. The difference usually comes down to the heat setting, barrel size, and technique you use, not whether your hair type is suitable.
How many times do I need to practice before it works?
Most people get the hang of it after 2 to 3 times. Give yourself that room before concluding the product doesn't work.
Technique sorted? Here's what finishes the job
A good heat protector and styling mousse (tip 3) help your curl hold longer. The Ace & Taylor Mousse + Heat Protection set is made to use alongside your airstyler.
2 year warranty
30 days to try at home
Free shipping
Trustpilot 4.8/5
Check out Mousse + Heat Protection
AL
Written by Anne Leensen, based on the most common reasons we see come up in return requests.
