Hello Britt, this is Kelly with Dyson. We're sorry to hear that you're having such a disappointing experience with your Dyson Airwrap™ styler, especially with getting curls to hold.

The Airwrap does have a learning curve to it. For best results, start with freshly washed hair. All three brushes can be used on wet hair, but the barrels work best on damp hair. Use the Pre-styling dryer to dry hair to damp before styling with the barrels. When your hair is damp dry, it will look dry but feel cold to the touch. The strands of your hair will be separated, not clumped together. We have some helpful information and videos below. We hope this helps! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mI6YB4VFu_4

With regard to curls, wet or damp curls will not hold. The end result you can expect, varies and depends on a combination of factors – hair type, hair length, settings you use the product at or how wet the hair is before styling. If you're experiencing curls dropping out, a few tips to help improve would be ensuring the hair is damp before styling, that the barrels are held in place until the hair is dry, and to use the cold shot to set the curls.
 
If you begin your hair wet, and use the pre-styling dryer prior to curling, you may wish to not dry your hair as much, and then when using the barrels to curl, ensure the hair is completely dry before releasing. If you start with dry hair and use a spray bottle to dampen hair, you may not be getting the hair wet enough prior to using the barrels. You can also experiment with a styling/setting spray once complete to help hold the curls.

While I understand you are intending to return your purchase, we'd value the opportunity to learn more regarding your experience, as we're dedicated to customer satisfaction. Please consider emailing us directly at askdysonUS@dyson.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes,
Kelly
Dyson Customer Support