HD400 Series Shark FlexStyle™ Air Styling & Drying System - FAQs

This article contains the FAQs for the HD400 Series Shark FlexStyle™ Air Styling & Drying System. This supports the following model numbers: HD432CR, HD400, HD400BK, HD400BKCCO, HD410, HD420, HD430, HD430C, HD430REF, HD432EM, HD432PK, HD432PL, HD435, HD435REF, HD440, HD440BK, HD440BKCCO, HD442BK, HD442BP, HD442JS, HD442OR, HD442PL, HD450TL, HD450TLC, HD454CO, HD455CO, HD440JB, HD461BK, HD463H, HD401NV and HD432RS.

General Questions

What is the button on the middle of the handle with the blue dot?

This is the Cool Shot button. When you hold it down, it turns off the heater and blows room-temperature air. This helps close the cuticle and smooth the hair at the end of styling.

Use the Cool Shot button to finish the style. When diffusing curls or when using the curlers, press and hold the Cool Shot button for 10 seconds to help lock in your style and set the shape of your curls or waves. To tame frizz using the Concentrator or Styling Brush accessories, press and hold the Cool Shot button while moving downward from roots to ends. To shape ends using the Concentrator or Styling Brush accessories, wrap the ends of your hair around a round brush or around the bristles on the Styling Brush and hold the Cool Shot button for 10 seconds.

How do I know if the Cool Shot button is activated?

To engage Cool Shot, you must press the button and hold it down. The Cool Shot ends when the button is released. When the Cool Shot button is held down, you should feel the air turn from warm to room temperature in a few seconds, and the red LEDs will turn off. When you release the button, the temperature will return to the prior setting.

How do I switch between styling wand mode to hair dryer mode?

To change to hair dryer mode, slide down the hinge latch button on the back of the hair dryer and rotate the nozzle left until it clicks. (The nozzle is unlocked when the hinge latch button is held in the down position.) To change back to styling wand mode, slide the hinge latch button down and rotate the nozzle back up until it clicks into place.

My hair dryer is hot after use. How do I cool it down?

Try holding down the Cool Shot button for at least 10 seconds before turning off your hair dryer after styling to help cool it down.

Can I use the hair dryer outside North America?

This hair dryer has been designed for North American homes. Using it in other countries is not recommended and will void your warranty.

How to clean the filter

For consistent performance, you must regularly clean the filter in your Shark FlexStyle.
Click here to see a video about cleaning the filter.
Always make sure that your FlexStyle is turned off and unplugged before performing any cleaning or maintenance.                

1. To access the filter, gently pull off the filter cover on the bottom of the hair dryer.  
A person using a hair clipperDescription automatically generated

2. Use a dry cloth or a clean toothbrush to gently brush off all dust and debris from the mesh filter. Brush in a downward motion in the direction of the power cord. Use an alcohol cleaning wipe to remove any stuck-on debris.  
A person cleaning a light fixture Description automatically generated

3. When the filter is clean, brush dust and debris off the filter cover, then slide the cover back onto the bottom of the hair dryer until it clicks into place. Turn on the unit and allow it to run for a minute or two.  

Your Shark FlexStyle is now ready to start styling again! 

Does the Shark FlexStyle have an ionizer?

No, the Shark FlexStyle does not have an ionizer.

What is Coanda technology?

Coanda Technology is used by the Auto-Wrap Curlers to automatically wrap your hair around the barrels using airflow.

Why should I use the Cool Shot button?

Using cool air at the end of styling helps to seal the hair cuticle and lock in your style. When curling using the Auto-Wrap Curlers, using the cool shot button for 10 seconds after you have applied heat for 10 seconds helps to seal the cuicle as well an lock in your curls.

Is the surface of the FlexStyle Sparkle smooth or textured?

The FlexStyle Sparkle features a textured surface. Designed to dazzle, this limited edition Shark FlexStyle Sparkle in Black Diamond is bejewelled with over 20,000 shimmering crystals.

 

Product Care

How do I clean the filter?

For consistent performance, you must regularly clean the filter in your Shark FlexStyle.
Click here to see a video about cleaning the filter.
Always make sure that your FlexStyle is turned off and unplugged before performing any cleaning or maintenance.                

1. To access the filter, gently pull off the filter cover on the bottom of the hair dryer.  
A person using a hair clipperDescription automatically generated

2. Use a dry cloth or a clean toothbrush to gently brush off all dust and debris from the mesh filter. Brush in a downward motion in the direction of the power cord. Use an alcohol cleaning wipe to remove any stuck-on debris.  
A person cleaning a light fixture Description automatically generated

3. When the filter is clean, brush dust and debris off the filter cover, then slide the cover back onto the bottom of the hair dryer until it clicks into place. Turn on the unit and allow it to run for a minute or two.  

Your Shark FlexStyle is now ready to start styling again! 

How can I help maintain my unit's performance?

For consistent performance, you must regularly clean the filter in your Shark FlexStyle.
Click here to see a video about cleaning the filter.
Always make sure that your FlexStyle is turned off and unplugged before performing any cleaning or maintenance.                

1. To access the filter, gently pull off the filter cover on the bottom of the hair dryer.  
A person using a hair clipperDescription automatically generated

2. Use a dry cloth or a clean toothbrush to gently brush off all dust and debris from the mesh filter. Brush in a downward motion in the direction of the power cord. Use an alcohol cleaning wipe to remove any stuck-on debris.  
A person cleaning a light fixture Description automatically generated

3. When the filter is clean, brush dust and debris off the filter cover, then slide the cover back onto the bottom of the hair dryer until it clicks into place. Turn on the unit and allow it to run for a minute or two.  

Your Shark FlexStyle is now ready to start styling again! 

My hair dryer will not turn on. How do I fix it?

Press the reset button on the plug. If the dryer still will not turn on, check the circuit breaker.

Failure to turn on can also be due to overheating. If your hair dryer powers off during use, allow it to cool for 30 minutes before trying again.

What is the best way to clean the attachments?

You can clean the accessories by running them under warm water making sure not to use soap. Please let them dry completely before using. Hair can be removed by using you fingers or thin comb. 

 

Attachments

Are the Flex Fusion attachments compatible with my FlexStyle?

Due to the new Fusion technology, the Shark FlexFusion accessories are not compatible with any other hair dryers including the Shark FlexStyle and Shark SpeedStyle.

Shark FlexFusion is designed as a multi-styler and hot tool, with new technology that requires a different base design than FlexStyle. It also differs from Flexstyle as it is lighter, smaller and gives more styling options with the ability to style hair wet or dry!

 

Auto-Wrap Curlers

Why is there a new curler design?

We wanted to do a refresh of the FlexStyle curler to set ourselves apart in the market for Coanda curlers. There is no difference in performance.

How should I use the Auto-Wrap Curlers?
  1. Begin with slightly damp hair, 80-90% dry. Detangle and section top and bottom. Choose your barrel according to the side you want to curl.
  2. Hold the middle of a small section of hair and allow at least 10cm of your ends to line up with the arrow on the barrel. Make sure the wand is upright and your hair is in front of the curler.
  3. Turn on high heat and high air flow. The airflow will automatically pick up the ends of your hair. Move the wand towards your head as your hair wraps around the curler. Continue to use your hand to guide your hair through the barrel until it feels secure. Hold for 10 seconds.
  4. With hair securely wrapped around the barrel as shown in step 3, press and hold the Cool Shot button for 10 seconds to lock in your curl.
  5. Turn the unit off and pull the barrel straight down to reveal your perfect curl.
     
What are the recommended settings for the Auto-Wrap Curlers?

The recommended settings for the Auto-Wrap Curlers are high heat and high airflow.

The Auto-Wrap Curler keeps falling off. How do I keep it connected?

Make sure the Auto-Wrap Curler you are using is fully clicked into place before use. You will know the Auto-Wrap Curler is locked in when you hear or feel a click, and when the styler lock is positioned at the top of its slot. If needed, twist the Auto-Wrap Curler clockwise slightly as you push it on. If the Auto-Wrap Curler still falls off before or during use, please call a customer service representative for additional assistance.

I have straight or wavy hair. How do I make my curls last longer?

• Prep your hair for curling by adding lightweight products such as a curl-creating serum, curl mousse, or a texture spray made for your hair type. 

• Make sure your hair is slightly damp (80 to 90% dry) before curling.

• Use the high heat and high flow settings.

• Keep your hair on the barrel using high heat, high airflow for 10 seconds.

• Before removing your hair from the barrel, press and hold the Cool Shot button for 10 seconds.

• Repeat high heat, high airflow for 10 seconds and Cool Shot for 10 seconds until hair is completely dry.

• Roll each curl up to your roots and pin it in place while you continue to style the rest of your hair. Keep the curls pinned until they are fully cooled. 

• Allow curls to cool completely before running your fingers through them.

• Use a setting or holding spray after you create each curl.

I have curly or coily hair. How do I make my curls last longer?

• Prep your hair for curling by adding lightweight products such as a curl-creating serum, curl mousse, or a texture spray made for your hair type. 

• We recommend using the Paddle Brush or Oval Brush to dry, smooth and stretch your hair until it is slightly damp (80 to 90% dry) before curling.

• Use the high heat and high flow settings.

• Keep your hair on the barrel using high heat, high airflow for 10 seconds.

• Before removing your hair from the barrel, press and hold the Cool Shot button for 10 seconds.

• Repeat high heat, high airflow for 10 seconds and Cool Shot for 10 seconds until hair is completely dry. 

• Allow curls to cool completely before running your fingers through them.

• Use a setting or holding spray after you create each curl.

My curls come out in tight ringlets. How do I get a beachy wave?

Depending on your hair type, your hair may come off the barrel in a ringlet. Before breaking up the curl, we recommend using a hold spray. Once the hair is fully cooled and sprayed, rake your fingers through the ringlet to break it up into a wave.

How do I change the curl direction?

There are 2 curling barrels included in your model. The left barrel curls your hair in a counterclockwise direction, while the right barrel curls in a clockwise direction. To change the direction of your curls, simply switch barrels.

My hair isn't wrapping around the barrel when I hold the unit horizontally. Am I doing something wrong?

We suggest that you hold the Flexstyle vertically. This ensures you have the best experience every time you curl!  

My hair isn't wrapping around the barrel when I hold the unit over my head. Am I doing something wrong?

We suggest that you hold the Flexstyle vertically. This ensures you have the best experience every time you curl! 

My hair isn't wrapping around the barrel when I hold the unit vertically. Am I doing something wrong?

We suggest that you hold the Flexstyle vertically with your non-dominant hand guiding hair into the barrel. Try switching your hand placement on the unit. This ensures you have the best experience every time you curl! 

How do I create more consistent curls?

Separate the bottom and top sections of hair before curling. And make sure you are taking sections of hair that are the same length and size. Don't be afraid to take a smaller section of hair. 

How can I tell which direction the curls will bend?

The left barrel has an L printed on top, and the right barrel has an R on top.

The left barrel will create counterclockwise curls, and the right barrel will create clockwise curls.

I'm having trouble wrapping my hair around the barrel. What can I do?

Follow the step by step instructions on the Style Guide. 

  • Try taking a smaller section of hair to wrap.
  • Make sure the section of hair has the same length.
  • Test out different moisture levels with your hair. Different hair types may require more or less moisture for optimal curling. We recommend 80-90% dry.
  • Use your hand to guide the hair through the barrel until it feels secure. Hair will secure after 2-3 wraps around the barrel, shown in image above.
  • Make sure to bring the barrel behind the ends of your hair section and begin curling at the top of the curling barrel where the arrow pad print is located.
  • The ends will automatically begin wrapping.
I keep getting unwanted hair wrapped around the Auto-Wrap Curler barrel. How do I prevent this?

Use sectioning clips or hair ties to prevent unwanted hair from being wrapped around the barrel.

Do you have any tips for thick hair?

Try holding a smaller section of hair if you are having difficulty wrapping it around the barrel. We also suggest guiding the hair around the barrel until it is securely wrapped. Letting go of your guiding hand too early can cause hair to fall off the barrel.

Are there any tips for fine or straight hair that tends to resist being curled and styled?

• Before curling, try using lightweight products such as a curl-creating serum, curl mousse, or a texture spray. 

• Try holding smaller sections of hair to make it easier for your hair to wrap around the barrel.

Do you have any tips for curly or coily hair to help me prep my hair for curling?

Stretch and lengthen your hair using the Paddle Brush or Oval Brush prior to curling. Prep your hair for curling by adding lightweight products such as a curl- creating serum, curl mousse, or a texture spray made for your hair type.

Do you have any tips for short hair?

Manually wrap a half-inch-to-1-inch section of hair around the barrel and hold it in place. Turn on the styling wand while still holding your hair on the barrel. Hold hair in place for 10 seconds, then press and hold the Cool Shot button for 10 seconds to set your style. Repeat until your hair is completely dry. 

Turn off the styling wand, let go of your hair section, and reveal your curl!

Do you have any tips for long hair?

Try holding a smaller section of hair if you are having difficulty wrapping it around the barrel. We also suggest guiding the hair around the barrel until it is securely wrapped. Letting go of your guiding hand too early can cause hair to fall off the barrel.

How can I get a tighter curl?
  • Try holding a smaller section of hair.
  • After your hair has started to wrap, create tension around the barrel by pulsing it toward your face and then away, as you curl it in toward your roots. The pulses will wrap your hair tighter around the barrel, which will help create a tighter curl.
  • For longevity, roll each curl up to your roots and pin it in place while you continue to style the rest of your hair. Keep the curls pinned until they are fully cooled.

 

Oval Brush

How and when should I use the Oval Brush?

Attach this styler to the hair dryer and use it on all hair types to dry, smooth, defrizz, and add volume—all at the same time. Smoothing bristles enable grabbing, smoothing, and shining, while detangling bristles enable combing and detangling. Best for straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair.

What are the recommended settings for the Oval Brush?

The recommended settings for the Oval Brush are medium heat and medium airflow.

My brush keeps falling off. How do I keep it connected?

Make sure the Oval Brush is fully clicked into place before use. You will know the Oval Brush is locked in when you hear or feel a click, and when the styler lock is positioned at the top of its slot. If needed, twist the Oval Brush clockwise slightly as you push it on. If the Oval Brush still falls off before or during use, please call a customer service representative for additional assistance.

What material are the bristles made of?

The Oval Brush has two types of bristles. One type is a high-heat-capacity nylon, and the other is boar. The nylon bristles are larger and help in combing and detangling, while drying at the same time. The boar bristles are sourced from a natural material that promotes grabbing, smoothing, and shining, while seamlessly distributing your hair's natural oils.

How do I prevent frizz when using the brush?

If you find that you get frizz when using the brush, decrease the airflow. If you still get some frizz, finish styling by brushing down the outside of the hair and pulling the hair through the boar bristles, then use Cool Shot to relax the cuticle. Try using hair products made for your hair type that help to reduce frizz before and after styling.

Do you have any tips for fine hair?

Try reducing the airflow to help reduce frizz and improve smoothing. This will also help you to have better control over your styling. Use hair products made for your hair type that help to reduce frizz before and after styling.

Do you have any tips for thick hair?

Brush smaller sections of hair to allow the smoothing bristles to better grip your hair and create a smoother style.

Increase the heat and airflow to create a straighter style and to speed up your styling.

Do you have any tips for curly or coily hair?

Brush smaller sections of hair to allow the smoothing bristles to better grip your hair and create a smoother style.

Increase the heat and airflow to create a straighter style and to speed up your styling.

Use hair products that help to straighten or stretch your hair before styling.

Do you have any tips for long hair?

Try taking smaller sections of hair so you have better control during styling. This can also help minimize frizz and improve smoothing.

Do you have any tips for short hair?

Try reducing the airflow to help minimize frizz and improve smoothing. This will also help you to have better control over your styling.

How can I create even more volume with this accessory?

Split your hair into smaller sections to give better root access. Place the brush under the section of hair and brush in an upward motion to help build volume at the roots. 

Hold the brush at the root for 3 to 5 seconds before pulling it through the hair for even more volume.

 

Paddle Brush

How and when should I use the Paddle Brush?

Use on all hair types to dry, smooth, defrizz, and straighten—all at the same time. Smoothing bristles enable grabbing, smoothing, and shining, while detangling bristles enable combing and detangling. Best for straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair.

What are the recommended settings for the Paddle Brush?

The recommended settings for the Paddle Brush are medium heat and high airflow.

The Paddle Brush keeps falling off. How do I keep it connected?

Make sure the Paddle Brush is fully clicked into place before use. You will know the brush is locked in when you hear or feel a click, and when the styler lock is positioned at the top of its slot. If needed, twist the Paddle Brush slightly as you push it on. If the Paddle Brush still falls off before or during use, please call a customer service representative for additional assistance.

What material are the bristles made of?

The Paddle Brush has two types of bristles. One is a high-heat-capacity nylon, and the other is boar. The nylon bristles are larger and help in combing and detangling, while drying at the same time. The boar bristles are sourced from a natural material that promotes grabbing, smoothing, and shining, while seamlessly distributing your hair's natural oils.

How do I prevent frizz when using the Paddle Brush?

If you get frizz when using the brush, decrease the airflow. If you still get some frizz, finish styling by brushing down the outside of the hair and pulling the hair through the boar bristles, then use Cool Shot to relax the cuticle. Use hair products made for your hair type that help to reduce frizz before and after styling.

How to I access my roots and build volume?

Split your hair into smaller sections for better root access. Place the brush under the section of hair and brush in an upward motion to help build volume at the roots. 

Hold the brush at the root for 3 to 5 seconds before pulling it through the hair for even more volume.

Do you have any tips for fine hair?

Try reducing the airflow to help minimize frizz and improve smoothing. This will also help you to have better control over your styling. 

Use hair products that help to reduce frizz before and after styling.

Do you have any tips for thick hair?

Try brushing smaller sections of hair to allow the smoothing bristles to better grip your hair and create a smoother style.

Increase the heat and airflow to create a straighter style and to speed up your styling.

Do you have any tips for curly or coily hair?

Brush smaller sections of hair to allow the smoothing bristles to better grip your hair and create a smoother style.

Increase the heat and airflow to create a straighter style and to speed up your styling.

Use hair products that help to straighten or stretch your hair before styling.

Do you have any tips for long hair?

Try taking smaller sections of hair so you have better control during styling. This can also help minimize frizz and improve smoothing.

Do you have any tips for short hair?

Try reducing the airflow to help minimize frizz and improve smoothing. This will also help you to have better control over your styling.

Can I use the Paddle Brush on my coily hair?

The Paddle Brush can be used to stretch and lengthen coily hair to prep it for curling or additional styling. You can also use the Paddle Brush to stretch and lengthen hair for an everyday look.

 

Curl-Defining Diffuser

How and when should I use the Curl-Defining Diffuser?

Attach the Curl-Defining Diffuser for fast, consistent drying from root to tip. To enable curl perfection, our Curl-Defining Diffuser features retractable and extendable prongs. Retract the prongs for shorter, finer hair and less heat on the scalp. Extend the prongs for longer, thicker hair and to reach and lift at the root. Best for wavy, curly, and coily hair.

What are the recommended settings for the Curl-Defining Diffuser?

The recommended settings for the Curl-Defining Diffuser are low heat and low airflow.

Why do the prongs extend on the Curl-Defining Diffuser? When should I use each mode?

The prongs on the Curl-Defining Diffuser extend and retract to allow a customized diffusing experience. Slide the lever left or right to extend or retract. Extend the prongs for very thick, long, or coarse hair. They help reach the roots, and will help if you have a difficult time drying them. Retract the prongs for shorter or finer hair, or when you only want to dry the ends.

The Curl-Defining Diffuser keeps falling off. How do I keep it connected?

Make sure the Curl-Defining Diffuser is fully clicked into place before use. You will know it is locked in when you hear or feel a click, and when the styler lock is positioned at the top of its slot. If needed, twist the Diffuser slightly as you push it on. If the Diffuser still falls off before or during use, please call a customer service representative for additional assistance.

How do I help prevent frizz when using the Curl-Defining Diffuser?

Apply curly hair products such a leave-in conditioner or curl-defining cream to wet hair before drying to help define your curls and prevent frizz.

Make sure you are using the Curl-Defining Diffuser on the lowest airflow setting to help prevent frizz.

Do you have any tips for thick hair?

Try increasing the heat to help speed up the dry time for thicker hair.

Is the Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying and Styling Curl-Defining Diffuser compatible with any other hair dryer?

The Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying and Styling Curl-Defining Diffuser is not compatible with any other hair dryers including the Shark HyperAir™.

 

Styling Concentrator

How and when should I use the Styling Concentrator?

Attach the Styling Concentrator to dry and style in fewer steps. The Styling Concentrator rotates, so airflow is always in line with your round brush. Use the airpath for a quick, all-over dry, then finish with a round brush for smoothing, shaping, and bending. Best for straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair.

The Styling Concentrator keeps falling off. How do I keep it connected?

Make sure the Styling Concentrator is fully clicked into place before use. You will know the concentrator is locked in when you hear or feel a click, and when the styler lock is positioned at the top of its slot. If needed, twist the Styling Concentrator slightly as you push it on. If the Styling Concentrator still falls off before or during use, please call a customer service representative for additional assistance.

Do you have any tips for fine hair?

Try reducing the airflow to help minimize frizz and improve smoothing. This will also help you to have better control over your styling. Use hair products made for your hair type that help to reduce frizz before and after styling.

How can I add a bit of a curl when styling with the Styling Concentrator?

Wrap your hair around a round brush and dry it in place using the Styling Concentrator.

How can I build volume using the Styling Concentrator?

Place a round brush under the roots and brush upward while drying with the Styling Concentrator.

What are the recommended settings for the Styling Concentrator?

We recommended using the high heat and high airflow settings with the Styling Concentrator.

 

Wide tooth Comb

When and how should I use the wide tooth comb?

The Wide Tooth Comb is best for coily and curly hair types to help stretch and lengthen your natural curls from root to tip.

What length of hair do you recommend using the wide tooth comb ?

The Wide Tooth Comb works well on all hair lengths. 

Wide Tooth Comb Dimensions

Length: 1.7in; Width: 3.3in; Height: 3.85in

What are the recommended settings for the Wide Tooth Comb?

We recommended using the high heat and high airflow settings with the Wide Tooth Comb.

 

Round Brush

When and how should I use the round brush?

Use the round brush to create bouncy, voluminous hairstyles with lots of movement. This brush can be used on all hair lengths, but works best if you have bangs, short hair or medium length hair.

What length of hair do you recommend using the round brush?

Works great on bangs and short hair. 

Round brush product specification dimensions, material?

The round brush is 3.25" L x 3.25" W x 5.5"H. The round brush is made of plastic and metal.

When should I use the round brush versus the oval brush to style my hair?

If you have shorter length hair, we recommend using the Round Brush due to it's smaller diameter. The Round Brush can also be used to more easily create loose curls on the ends of your hair versus the Oval Brush which is best for creating rounded ends of your hair. Both the Round Brush and the Oval Brush are great at creating lots of volume, however some consumers find the smaller diameter of the Round Brush to be easier to use to access their roots.

What material are the bristles made of?

The Round Brush has two types of bristles. One is a high-heat-capacity nylon, and the other is boar. The nylon bristles help in combing and detangling, while drying at the same time. The boar bristles promote grabbing, smoothing, and shining, while seamlessly distributing your hair's natural oils.

 

Storage Case

What accessories fit in the storage case ?

The storage case is designed to fit your FlexStyle main unit and all of your accessories. 

What is the best way to configure the attachments in the storage case ?

The top half of the case easily stores your larger items such as your brushes and Curl-Defining Diffuser. The bottom sections can be used to store your main unit, and any smaller accessories such as the Auto-Wrap Curlers, Styling Concetrator and Wide Tooth Comb.

What are the dimensions of the storage case?

The storage case is 14.7" L x 6.9" W x 6.9" H.

What materials make up the storage case?

The exterior is made of vegan pu leather, while the interior is cushioned with a soft fabric material to help store and protect your tools between uses.

 

Product Specifications

What is the Wattage?

Depending on when your unit was purchased, the FlexStyle wattage may vary. Older units have a wattage of 1400W, while newer models have been upgraded to 1600W for improved performance. 

What is the Voltage?

120 volts

What is the cord length?

The cord is 8 feet long

What is the weight?

1.54 lbs

What are the dimensions?

1.8"(L)x1.8"(W)x13.5"(H)

What temperature are the heat settings?

High Heat: 95°+/- 5° C (194°F - 212°F)
Medium Heat: 75°+/- 5° C (158°F - 176°F)
Low Heat: 55°+/- 5° C (122°F - 140°F)
Cool shot: Ambient (room temperature)

 

Warranty

Warranty

The Shark FlexStyle has a 2-Year Limited Warranty.

You can view the warranty here