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The best part about doing your hair is seeing the final curls fall alongside your face or the feeling of your perfectly layered strands bouncing with every step following a blowout. Of course, the worst part is the actual process of curling, straightening, and styling your hair, but beauty is pain, right? Not all styling sessions need to be painful or tiresome, especially if you invest in quality tools that take the guesswork out of the dreaded experience. Your beauty arsenal should at least have the basics: curling iron, blow dryer, flat iron, and styling tools (combs, brushes, clips, etc.). If you find yourself missing one of the staples mentioned, we curated a guide to the 15 absolute best hair styling tools to grab now. Happy styling!
1
Expert's Choice
Dyson Special Edition Airwrap™ Multi-Styler Complete Long
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2
3
Best 2-In-1 Design
Drybar The Straight Shot Blow Drying Flat Iron
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4
5
Best Viral Beauty Tool
Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying & Styling System
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6
Best Straightening Brush
Amika Double Agent 2-in-1 Straightening Blow Dryer Brush
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7
8
Best Flat Iron
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron
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9
Best Lightweight Dryer
Harry Josh Pro Tools Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer 3 piece
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10
Best Curling Iron
T3 SinglePass Curl Professional Ceramic Curling Iron
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1
Expert's Choice
Dyson Special Edition Airwrap™ Multi-Styler Complete Long
1
Expert's Choice
Dyson Special Edition Airwrap™ Multi-Styler Complete Long
Pros
- Works for all hair types
Cons
- Pricey
A must-have tool for novices and professionals alike, the Dyson has built a rabid fanbase for its exceptional technology. You can create various styles using its different attachments, and it works for all hair types, but consistency is the main reason celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena—who counts Mindy Kaling, Madelaine Petsch, and Jennifer Coolidge as clients—loves this investment tool. “It gives consistent heat to the hair and it’s easy for anyone at any skill level to use,” he says.
Sephora star rating: 4/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “Absolutely OBSESSED! I bought this after seeing all my friends loving theirs. It takes a few times to understand the best way for it to work - after you get the hang of it, it’s super easy. I’ve worked in the hair industry for years and always hated on these types of products since it takes away from the “blowout experience,” but it truly is a huge time saver. It also is so easy for anyone to use. So you can get that “after-salon look” at home. Definitely an investment, but worth it IMO.”
Pros
- Super affordable
Cons
- Will need to replaced
Perfect for braiders, this set of rat tail combs and hair clips allows for expert precision. These specific clips have spacing at the top to make sure parting is easy and clean, while the clips are durable enough to hold the thickest of hairs.
Amazon star rating: 4.7/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “These combs and clips are good for sectioning when doing hair. I regularly do twists in my boyfriends hair and these are a must-have. Good price for good stuff. Recommend!”
3
Best 2-In-1 Design
Drybar The Straight Shot Blow Drying Flat Iron
3
Best 2-In-1 Design
Drybar The Straight Shot Blow Drying Flat Iron
Pros
- Cuts down styling time
Cons
- Not best for curly hair
You get the best of both worlds with Drybar’s Blow Drying Flat Iron. The clamp design ensures your hair is straight without needing to follow up with another tool because, err, heat damage.
Sephora star rating: 4.3/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “Love it! It cut my hair styling time by half and is so easy to use. The effect was very shiny smooth hair [that] still retained good volume. This will be my go-to styling tool from now on. Plus the colors are so cute!”
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4
Best Round Brush
Wet Brush Volume & Body Round Brush
4
Best Round Brush
Wet Brush Volume & Body Round Brush
Pros
- Great for thicker hair
Cons
- May be too bulky for fine hair
If you prefer to go the traditional route and do your own blow-out, this round brush allows you to control your hair’s volume, designed specifically for those with thicker, coarse hair.
Amazon star rating: 4.3/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “The size of the brush is very good. It grabs my hair without tangling it. Finally a brush that works!”
5
Best Viral Beauty Tool
Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying & Styling System
5
Best Viral Beauty Tool
Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying & Styling System
Pros
- Four interchangeable attachments
Cons
- A bit pricey
The viral TikTok beauty gadgets world is chock full of hits and misses. This Shark styling system is one of the many hits—coming with four interchangeable attachments to help you create voluminous curls or sleek, straight styles frizz-free.
Shark star rating: 4.4/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “Prior to purchasing the FlexStyle, I was always looking for a hair tool and something that wouldn’t hurt my hair immensely. When I saw this release, I got extremely excited and purchased it without even second-guessing. My hair is fine and frizzy, and struggles to hold volume. Using the shark, I’ve found that it not only holds volume but has found new life and so much more shine than I have ever seen it have before. If you are even debating this, just get it, 100%!”
6
Best Straightening Brush
Amika Double Agent 2-in-1 Straightening Blow Dryer Brush
6
Best Straightening Brush
Amika Double Agent 2-in-1 Straightening Blow Dryer Brush
Pros
- Reduces frizz
Cons
- Will need to follow-up with a flat iron for straighter hair
Getting your hair as close to straight as possible is a crucial step when trying to achieve a sleek look. This Amika brush helps you reach your goal faster with three different thermal settings (including a no-heat option) and a ceramic base to reduce frizz.
Sephora star rating: 4.4/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “Worth the hype and $$$! I use this in the morning to quickly get ready or to freshen up my hair if I’m going out. 10/10”
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7
Best Edge Brush
BABY TRESS 3-in-1 Edge Styler™ Tool
7
Best Edge Brush
BABY TRESS 3-in-1 Edge Styler™ Tool
Pros
- Soft bristles
Cons
- Needs to be cleaned frequently
Smooth and slick your baby hairs down with this 3-in-1 tool from Baby Tress. One side has comb bristles to set the hairs in place, and the other side features a brush to mold and morph your baby hairs into whatever style you choose. Use the tail end to create intricate detailing. Of course, good edge control is needed to seal the deal.
Nordstrom star rating: 3.1/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “happy to support a black-owned startup, and I love the design of this product. It feels solid in the hand -- I used a similar product in the past that snapped in half because it was made of thin plastic. It works well, the silicone bristles are easy to clean, and the protective cap keeps product residue out of my toiletry bag as well.”
8
Best Flat Iron
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron
8
Best Flat Iron
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron
Pros
- Thin plates
Cons
- Pricey
The super-thin titanium plates get close to the root to flat iron the hair straight with one swipe and reduce frizz. Plus, the flat design allows you to create fluffy flat iron curls thanks to its extended plate design.
Ulta star rating: 4.2/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “I have a short bob haircut with thick, naturally curly hair that I blow out. This straightener is definitely high quality and only requires one pass to get it straight.”
9
Best Lightweight Dryer
Harry Josh Pro Tools Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer 3 piece
9
Best Lightweight Dryer
Harry Josh Pro Tools Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer 3 piece
Pros
- Can be loud
Cons
- Pricey
This blow dryer may be light in weight, but it packs a powerful punch. Designed by the hair pro himself, the Harry Josh dryer has 12 heat and speed settings, adjustable temperature control, and a lightweight design for seamless drying.
Dermstore star rating: 4.1/5
What reviewers are saying: “This is hands down the best dryer ever!!! It cuts down my dry time significantly and leaves me with the best blow out. You have to buy this!”
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10
Best Curling Iron
T3 SinglePass Curl Professional Ceramic Curling Iron
10
Best Curling Iron
T3 SinglePass Curl Professional Ceramic Curling Iron
Pros
- Curls in one pass
Cons
- Pricey
One pass is all you need to get the curl of your dream. In a time crunch? This curling iron heats up super fast and glides on your hair seamlessly, so you don’t experience painful tugging or snagging.
Ulta star rating: 4.1/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “Excellent quality. My dry, coarse hair just glides around the tube - very smooth. Curls are pretty. Multiple options for heat. Small but good benefit - there is a velcro tape attached to the cord, which makes it easy to fold up the cord when not in use. I recommend.”
11
Best Rotating Curling Iron
Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron - Midnight Rose
11
Best Rotating Curling Iron
Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron - Midnight Rose
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Pros
- Can curl hair in both directions
Cons
- Not best for shorter lengths
Here’s a hardworking curling iron that does all the work, so you don’t have to. Beachwaver’s fan-favorite curling iron does exactly what its title says—rotate. Yes, all you have to do is wrap your hair around the barrel, hold it firmly and allow the smart gadget to do its job.
Beachwaver star rating: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “I had my doubts. It looks too easy, and I am notorious for not being able [to] use tools correctly. And I thought for sure my hair would get stuck. But holy cow, was this simple to use! I’ve had it for two days, and everyone says how great my hair looks. Highly recommend!”
12
Best Travel Blow Dryer
T3 Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer
12
Best Travel Blow Dryer
T3 Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer
Pros
- Foldable design for easy packing
Cons
- Pricey
T3 created the perfect travel companion for those who like to pack their entire hair care routine. Hotel dryers are gross, so this compact tool fits perfectly in your carry-on thanks to its foldable design. Even better, it’s designed with dual voltage in case you frequent the EU.
Sephora star rating: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers are saying: “I absolutely love the T3 AFAR Blowdryer! I am having my destination wedding in a few months & wanted to get a travel-size blowdryer that actually works. The T3 Afar is 25% lighter & 30% smaller than a full-size T3 hair dryer, so it is perfect to pack in your suitcase or carry on! I love that it has two-speed settings and three heat settings, so it is super versatile. It dries my hair super quick, while leaving it looking smooth & shiny. It uses T3 IonAir Technology to smooth the hair cuticle to minimize frizz & enhance the shine!”
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13
Best For Short Hair
Wavytalk 3/10 Inch Mini Hair Straightener
13
Best For Short Hair
Wavytalk 3/10 Inch Mini Hair Straightener
Pros
- Thin design
Cons
- Short lifespan
If you recently got a pixie cut, purchase this mini flat iron to keep your soft waves crisp until your next salon visit.
Amazon star rating: 4.4/5 stars
What people are saying: “I was not sure that they would work for my hair, but needless to say that I love them 😍 They have great heat control and [are] easy to use.”
14
Best Curling Iron Set
Kiss Gold Edition 5-In-1 Curling Iron
14
Best Curling Iron Set
Kiss Gold Edition 5-In-1 Curling Iron
Pros
- Five different barrel attachments
Cons
- Gets super hot
Whether you’re looking to achieve tight, spring curls or old Hollywood waves, Kiss’s curling iron set gives you five different barrel attachments to choose from.
Amazon star rating: 4.2/5 stars
What people are saying: “Love these. Very convenient and it stays heated for a full set. I wish it came with a bag and the wires were longer.”
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What should you be looking for in a hair styling tool?
Ultimately, the hairstyle you’re trying to achieve is what helps you determine what tool to use. A heated curling iron is the best option if you want long-lasting curls. Celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena says when choosing a hot tool, pay attention to the heat settings. “The most important thing to look for with any hot tool is temperature control. Hair’s threshold for heat varies from person to person, so setting the temperature and administering the right amount of heat for your hair is really the key,” he explains.
17
How should you prep your hair for heat styling?
You should continually assess your hair’s needs to determine what tools to use and how much heat to apply to your hair. Protection is key. “A heat-protecting spray is a must-have item for anyone regularly styling their hair with heat. Also, a great conditioner that locks moisture into the hair,” Mena adds. Deep conditioning should also be a part of pre-heat styling to strengthen the hair.
18
Why are hair tools so essential in a routine (are they?)?
“A great blow dryer is the most essential tool to have in your arsenal because they are so versatile. You can create bouncy, voluminous curls with just your dryer and a ceramic metal brush or just blow out straight. If you’re looking for sexy curls and waves without heat, setting your hair with rollers works just as well as curling irons,” Mena says.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Hair Styling Tools
Hair styling tools are essential for achieving different hairstyles and looks. Whether you want to curl, straighten, or blow-dry your hair, having the right tools can make the process easier and more efficient. In this article, we will explore the concepts mentioned and provide information about each tool mentioned.
Dyson Special Edition Airwrap™ Multi-Styler Complete Long
The Dyson Special Edition Airwrap™ Multi-Styler Complete Long is an expert's choice and a popular tool among both novices and professionals. It has built a rabid fanbase for its exceptional technology and versatility. The Dyson Airwrap comes with different attachments that allow you to create various styles, and it works for all hair types. Celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena praises its consistent heat and ease of use [[1]].
Kunihiko Rat Tail Combs and Hair Clips
The Kunihiko Rat Tail Combs and Hair Clips are best for clean parting. These combs and clips are perfect for braiders and provide expert precision. The spacing at the top of the clips ensures easy and clean parting, and they are durable enough to hold even the thickest of hairs [[2]].
Drybar The Straight Shot Blow Drying Flat Iron
The Drybar The Straight Shot Blow Drying Flat Iron is the best 2-in-1 design tool. It cuts down styling time by combining blow-drying and straightening in one tool. The clamp design ensures straight hair without the need for additional tools, reducing heat damage [[3]].
Wet Brush Volume & Body Round Brush
The Wet Brush Volume & Body Round Brush is the best round brush for those with thicker, coarse hair. It allows you to control your hair's volume and is designed specifically for thicker hair types [[4]].
Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying & Styling System
The Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying & Styling System is the best viral beauty tool. This styling system has become popular on TikTok and comes with four interchangeable attachments. It helps create voluminous curls or sleek, straight styles without frizz [[5]].
Amika Double Agent 2-in-1 Straightening Blow Dryer Brush
The Amika Double Agent 2-in-1 Straightening Blow Dryer Brush is the best straightening brush. It helps you achieve straight hair faster with its three thermal settings and ceramic base that reduces frizz [[6]].
BABY TRESS 3-in-1 Edge Styler™ Tool
The BABY TRESS 3-in-1 Edge Styler™ Tool is the best edge brush. It features soft bristles and a comb on one side to set the hairs in place, while the other side has a brush to mold and style baby hairs. It is a must-have for achieving smooth and sleek edges [[7]].
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron
The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron is the best flat iron. Its super-thin titanium plates allow for straightening hair with one swipe, reducing frizz. The extended plate design also allows for creating flat iron curls [[8]].
Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer 3 piece
The Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer 3 piece is the best lightweight dryer. It is a powerful blow dryer with 12 heat and speed settings, adjustable temperature control, and a lightweight design. It provides a seamless drying experience [[9]].
T3 SinglePass Curl Professional Ceramic Curling Iron
The T3 SinglePass Curl Professional Ceramic Curling Iron is the best curling iron. It heats up quickly and glides smoothly on the hair, allowing you to achieve curls in one pass. It is known for its ease of use and effectiveness [[10]].
Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron - Midnight Rose
The Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron is the best rotating curling iron. It rotates to curl the hair in both directions, making it easy to achieve different styles. Simply wrap your hair around the barrel, hold it firmly, and let the curling iron do the work [[11]].
T3 Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer
The T3 Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer is the best travel blow dryer. It is compact and foldable, making it easy to pack in your carry-on. It also has dual voltage, making it suitable for international travel [[12]].
Wavytalk 3/10 Inch Mini Hair Straightener
The Wavytalk 3/10 Inch Mini Hair Straightener is the best for short hair. It is a thin and compact flat iron that is perfect for maintaining crisp waves in short haircuts [[13]].
Kiss Gold Edition 5-In-1 Curling Iron
The Kiss Gold Edition 5-In-1 Curling Iron is the best curling iron set. It comes with five different barrel attachments, allowing you to achieve various curl styles. It is a versatile tool for creating tight curls or loose waves [[14]].
Hair Styling Tips
When choosing a hair styling tool, it is important to consider the hairstyle you want to achieve. Heat settings and temperature control are crucial factors to look for in hot tools. It is also recommended to use a heat-protecting spray and a good conditioner to protect and nourish your hair before heat styling. Deep conditioning can help strengthen the hair as well [[16]] [[17]].
Remember, hair tools are versatile and can help you achieve different looks, from bouncy curls to sleek straight styles. It's important to choose the right tools for your hair type and desired hairstyle.