What to look for in a blow dryer brush
When shopping for the best blow dryer brushes on the market, keep in mind all of the below:
Airflow
Most blow dryer brushes have two to three speed settings. When styling, it's important to adjust the airflow of your brush depending on the size of each section of hair and how thick your hair is. If your hair is on the thicker side, you'll likely want to use higher speeds, and for those with thinner hair, it's best to stick to a lower setting to lessen the possibility of flyaways.
Shape
The shape of the blow dryer brush directly impacts the type of result you'll get. For example, paddle dryer brushes, such as Dyson's flat attachment, are great for producing straight, sleek blowouts. On the other hand, round or oval-shaped brushes, such as the Revlon One Step and Drybar Double Shot, are ideal for bouncier, more voluminous blowouts.
Size
When it comes to finding the best blow dryer brush to suit your individual needs, size definitely does matter. Put simply, the smaller the barrel, the tighter the curl. Wider barrels, on the other hand, create loose waves and flips in a matter of minutes. In terms of range, the smallest barrels over around 1.25 to 1.5 inches while the largest ones — such as the Bedhead One Step Volumizer — clock in at 4.5 inches.
Ionic technology
While there are dozens of great options on the market, keep in mind that the best blow dryer brushes feature ionic technology, which is supposed to help minimize frizz and enhance shine. The result? Frizz-free, softer strands in mere minutes. Also, keep in mind that you don't need to shell out half a week's paycheck on a blow-dryer brush: There are plenty of great affordable options and dupes out there, too!
Bristle material
As you shop for the best blow dryer brush, consider the bristle material. It's also worth noting that some of the best blow dryer brushes contain a combination of different bristles. Nylon bristles are firm yet gentle (which means they won't cause tugging or tanging), while silicone bristles are more flexible. Boar bristles are made of — you guessed it — the hair of boars. These natural bristles easily glide through the hair while gently massaging the scalp. This can help minimize frizz, too. While different bristle types have different benefits, Toth recommends looking for a blow dryer brush that contains both boar and nylon bristles, which can be found in picks like the Conair Hot Air Spin Brush.
Voltage
If you're a frequent flier and always on the move, consider the voltage of your blow dryer brush, as some may not be suitable for travel. For example, some of the best blow dryer brushes on the market are only designed for domestic use. (The standard in the US is between 110 and 120V, while in Europe and Asia, the standard is 220-240V.) respectively Alternatively, should you be searching for a blow dryer brush that you can travel with, look for ones that are dual voltage.