Style
A salon-level blowout, whether it's done at home or by a professional, starts with the right tools – and that doesn't just mean a high-quality blow dryer. The right brush can be the difference between a great blowout and a mediocre one. But the best brushes to blow dry hair aren't all alike. The right choice for you will depend on your hair type, your blowout goal, and your level of expertise.
In general, a round brush is the most classic shape for blowouts. It's what you will see most professionals using because it allows greater control and can create any shape or style one might desire. If you're not as experienced at blow-drying, or have super thick or wavy hair, a paddle-shaped brush might be a better choice, since they're a little easier to control. Size is another factor to consider when choosing a blow dry brush. Smaller brushes are better for shorter hair or tighter curls, while a larger brush can create mega volume on any length hair.
Lastly, take a look at what your brush's barrel and bristles are made of before you purchase. Ceramic brushes hold heat really well, vented barrels speed up drying time, and nylon or boar bristle mixtures are gentle and give shiny end results.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don't be — you can't go wrong with any one of these five, highly rated blowout brushes.
1
A Splurge-Worthy Mixed Bristle Brush With A Super Light, Cork Handle
Ibiza Hair G Series Brush, G4, $42, Amazon
When it comes to quality, Ibiza’s brushes are top of the line. This particular brush is ideal for creating volume near the root and smoothing and shaping medium to long hair. Its lightweight and heat-resistant cork handle and mixed boar and nylon bristles make this brush a luxurious choice for both professionals and at-home users.
2
A Ceramic Paddle Brush That's Great For Beginners
Moroccanoil Paddle Brush, $22, Amazon
With its large paddle shape and ceramic and ionic properties that allow for even heat distribution, Moroccanoil's paddle brush is ideal if you’re looking to speed up drying time without sacrificing shine. The shape also makes drying easier for beginners and works great for hair of all lengths and types — even wavy and thick — to smooth and straighten.
3
A Large, Round Brush With Plastic Bristles That Also Detangles
Tangle Teezer Blow-Styling Round Tool, Large, $35, Amazon
If you didn’t think plastic bristles could be used to create a salon-like blowout, think again. This detangling brush uses innovative teeth made from sturdy plastic that pick up the hair and create superior lift and bounce — without any pulling or tugging. The larger size combined with the tangle-free design is great for long or textured hair.
4
A Vented, Budget-Friendly Brush That Reduces Drying Time
Olivia Garden Nano Thermic Ceramic Ion Brush, $12, Amazon
As far as budget-friendly options go, this brush behaves the most like an expensive brush. It has large vents that allow for greater airflow (to reduce drying time) while the bristles and ceramic-coated barrel warm up quickly and hold heat for greater consistency when styling and shaping. The smaller barrel size is perfect for short hair and creating curls that look like they came from an iron.
5
A Curved Boar Bristle Paddle Brush For Easy Styling
Ineffable Care Vented Boar Bristle Hair Brush, $20, Amazon
With a combination of boar bristles, large vents, and a unique curved shape, this vent brush is one of the best out there for scalp health and stimulation. Boar bristles distribute your scalps’s natural oils to help treat dry hair and add shine while the curved shape follows the contours of your head so that every strand can be gripped and smoothed.
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments.
