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The 15 Best Round Brushes For Salon-Worthy Blowouts

 

Big bouncy curls await.

While we love all of the fancy hair gadgets that have launched in recent years, most professional hair stylists will say that all you need for a beautiful blowout is a reliable blow dryer and a quality round brush. “A round brush glides through your hair with ease, creating shine,” says Cortney Crace, a stylist at Butterfly Studio Salon in NYC. “Its shape also allows for the brush to create a soft bend.”

The problem is, you can’t just grab any old brush off the shelf, whether it’s a paddle brush or a round one. Instead, it’s essential to consider your hair type, length, and the look you’re trying to achieve before clicking the checkout button. “When you’re looking to buy a round brush, hair length, barrel size, and volume come into play,” says Chicago-based hairstylist Raven Hurtado. While larger barrels help you achieve sleek, straight strands, smaller ones are needed to add waves or curls to your hair.

Even with those parameters in mind, picking a brush out of the sea of options floating around on the internet is nearly impossible without some guidance—which we’re here to provide. Guidance from a panel of pro stylists and insights from hundreds of customer reviews all factored into our decision to name the below the 15 best round brushes money can buy. Get ready to step up your at-home blowout game big time.

Best for Coarse Hair

Y.S. Park YS-60G1 Curl Shine Styler Super G Series

Pros

• Professional-approved
• Lightweight

Cons

• Some say the handle can be uncomfortable

“If your hair is more coarse, I love a dual bristle that has nylon and boar bristle mixed,” Crace says. She explains that the combination of the two will give you just the right amount of tension, and you’ll end up with smooth, detangled hair in a flash.

Materials: Boar and synthetic bristles

Best for: Thick, coarse hair

Barrel size: 2.36’’

Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “I like everything about this brush. The bristles are easy on my fine hair, and they do a great job turning the ends under. It is comfortable to handle as well. My hair stylist uses one and she gave me the info to buy it on Amazon. So glad I did!”

Best for Fine Hair

Olivia Garden HeatPro Round Thermal Hair Brush HP-42

Pros

• Works for a variety of hair types
• Does not get caught on tangles

Cons

• Handle not as ergonomic as others

According to Crace, if you have finer strands that go stick-straight no matter what you do, try a round brush with a metal handle. “The metal gets hot from the blow dryer and allows for finer hair to hold a shape without falling flat as quickly,” she says. Olivia Garden makes some of the best brushes in the biz, and reviewers love this copper one for its ability to smooth hair and add volume and bounce to stubborn, lifeless strands.

Materials: Synthetic bristles

Best for: Fine hair

Barrel size: 1.75’’

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “This is a high-quality brush that works well for curly and straight hair. Easy to clean off when too much hair gets stuck, and the bristles stay intact even after long-term use and use with a hair dryer.”

Best for Medium Textured Hair

Ibiza Hair Professional Round Boar Hair Brush G3

Pros

• Lightweight
• Comfortable handle

Cons

• May not be suitable for very thick hair

This hairbrush is Crace’s top pick of all time. “It’s the perfect size to create a bouncy blow dry or wavy blow dry,” she explains. “It’s also not too tense and not too loose. The cork handle is also easy to grip and maneuver, even for beginners.

Materials: Boar and nylon bristles

Best for: Curly, wavy hair types

Barrel size: 2.17’’

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “I tend to spend a bit of money on my hair (okay, I actually spend a shameful amount—it’s a sickness), and this is the best round hairbrush I’ve ever seen! The cork handle means that you never lose your grip on the brush, which makes it so easy to blow dry waves and curls into your hair; the stiff boar hair bristles also leave a nice shine. I use it to curl my bangs, straighten my wavy hair, and curl the ends. I believe I own four to six curling irons (I know, I know), and haven’t needed to use any of them since I’ve bought this brush. There's a reason Kate Middleton’s stylist uses this brush (check the social media photo she deleted, because this brush is on there). If you want shiny and bouncy, this brush is for you.”

Best for Smoothing Hair

Fagaci Professional Round Brush

Pros

• Comes with clips

Cons

• Hair can get tangled

This brush combines synthetic and boar bristle brushes and comes with handy clips to make styling super easy. The bestseller is ideal for those who have struggled with blowout-induced frizz in the past.

Materials: Boar and synthetic bristles

Best for: All hair types

Barrel size: 1.7’’

Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “The grip on the handle is comfortable; this brush doesn’t tangle my hair and leaves it shiny and silky smooth. It’s a huge perk that it’s got a separator at the end to limit the need for multiple tools while doing my hair. And the alligator clips work wonderfully and easily. I bought one as a present for my friend after she borrowed mine.”

Best Round Blow Dryer Brush

Ghd Duet Blowdry

$399 at Amazon$399 at Nordstrom$399 at Ulta Beauty

Pros

• Works quickly
• Adds shine

Cons

• Heavy to hold over long periods of time

Even though this brush isn’t a classic round brush, our beauty editors love it so much that we had to include it. “I’m the opposite of a hair prodigy,” says Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer. “I’m confident in all other areas of grooming, but styling my hair does not come naturally to me. But even novices like me will appreciate this foolproof blow dry brush, and I love how quickly it dries, styles, and adds shine to my hair. The last time I checked, it only took about 10 minutes for the device to do its job on my long bob,” says Lee. Ghd’s technology also ensures that there’s little to no damage to the hair with or without heat protectant, which is a boon for anyone who likes to style and straighten their hair on a daily basis.

Best for: All hair types

Barrel shape: Elliptical

Amazon rating: 4/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “A few months ago, I had never considered using a round brush. But when it was revealed that Kamala Harris uses a round brush to maintain her flawless blowouts, my interest was piqued. And because I exist in the context of all that came before me, I decided to give it a try and opt for a round brush that would give me the results I wanted without the hassle. This heated Ghd round brush is a great beginner friendly option that makes it super easy for me to get the same shiny blowout results that are always flooding my TikTok feed. Also, because this device is a three-in-one brush, blow-dryer, and straighter, it eliminates the need to use multiple tools to dry and style my hair. On my natural texture, I like to use it to really stretch and soften my blowout, and when my hair is straight, I use it to refresh my style for a voluminous ‘90s look.”—Tasha Smith, ELLE beauty assistant

Best for Fast Styling

Osensia Thermic Round Brush

Pros

• Easy to use

Cons

• The brush can get hot while styling

Say goodbye to hours-long styling sessions. This barrel evenly distributes heat from a blow dryer, which means your hair will dry quicker and more evenly than before.

Materials: Ceramic, ionic bristles

Best for: All hair types

Barrel size: 2.5’’

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “This brush is excellent. A little smaller than I’m used to using, but it does the work perfectly. The bristles feel stiff, but I had no issues at all with tangling, and it worked as promised—sleek and smooth. That’s no small feat with my hair, which borders on curly and is very fine. It’s easy to hold onto, and the 1.7-inch diameter is a great size for a nape-of-neck length.”

Best for Damaged Hair

Bestool Round Brush

Pros

• Strengthens hair

Cons

• The brush can shed bristles

Boar bristle brushes are known for their hair-strengthening benefits but often come with a huge price tag. If you have damaged hair and have always wanted to try a boar bristle brush without breaking the bank, this is the one to try.

Materials: Boar and nylon bristles

Best for: Medium to long hair

Barrel size: 2.8’’

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “For reference, my hair is naturally wavy, somewhat thick, and approximately 18 inches long. My hair is softer after styling with this round brush, straighter with a slight curl at the ends, and I don’t have as many flyaways. Buy it! You won’t be disappointed.”

Best Investment

Ghd Ceramic Vented Round Brush

Pros

• Easy-to-grip handle
• Lightweight

Cons

• May not be suitable for very thick hair

If you have long hair that’s constantly getting stuck on rubber handles, consider this ceramic round brush from Ghd. The no-slip handle won’t slide out of your hands and is also soft enough to prevent snags. One of the other highlights is the ceramic barrel, which heats up so that your hair dries faster and smoother.

Materials: Ceramic barrel, heat-resistant bristles

Best for: All hair types

Barrel size: 1.3’’

Ghd rating: 3.8/5 stars

A Ghd reviewer says: “As a hair stylist, I wouldn’t use any other brush. I use these brushes on a regular basis, and they last forever and always help me to achieve a stunning blow dry without fail!’’

Best for Frizzy Hair

Moroccanoil Moroccanoil Ceramic Round Brush

Pros

• Variety of sizes
• Reduces drying time

Cons

• Bristles may not feel sturdy enough for some

When you have a bob, wide-barreled ceramic brushes may come in handy for creating volume, but it’s good to remember that the smaller barrels are the ones that produce effortless-looking waves. Plus, heat activates this brush’s ionic properties, as it tames frizz and flyaways while you dry.

Materials: Ceramic barrel, heat-resistant bristles

Best for: Short hair

Barrel size: 1’’

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “If you’re looking for a hair brush that won’t burn or break your hair, this is it. Believe me. I blow dry my hair three to four times a week, so I needed a brush that protects my hair. This is the best option I have found so far.”

Best for Long-Lasting Curls

Drybar Double Pint Large Round Ceramic Brush

Pros

• Adds volume

Cons

• Some reviewers noticed static after use

Drybar’s iteration adds intense volume due to its uncanny ability to retain heat from the blow dryer. If you want to add bouncy curls to your style but don't want them to fall out by the night’s end, invest in this ceramic style.

Materials: Ceramic barrel, heat-resistant bristles

Best for: All hair types

Barrel size: 1.75’’

Ulta rating: 3.9/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says: “This brush is absolutely amazing. I have never successfully blow dried my hair in my entire life until now.”

Best for Professional Styling

T3 Volume 3" Round Brush

Pros

• Reduces frizz

Cons

• Some reviewers noted that it did not grip their hair

Whether you’re a professional hairstylist or an everyday user, you need a brush that can walk the walk. This large barrel will make styling quick and easy without sacrificing results.

Materials: Aluminum + ceramic-coated barrel, heat-resistant bristles

Best for: All hair types, especially long lengths

Barrel size: 3’’

Bloomingdale's rating: 4/5 stars

A Bloomingdale's reviewer says: “With my blow dryer, this barrel brush really gives me a wonderful blowout and straightens my naturally curly hair. Love it!”

Best for Drying Hair

Paul Mitchell Pro Tools Express Ion Aluminum Round Brush

Pros

• High quality

Cons

• Too small for some

The ventilated barrel on this brush helps evenly distribute the hot air from your blow dryer to speed up drying time. Plus, this brush has unique corkscrew-shaped bristles that make for a smooth look once you finish blow drying.

Materials: Vegan bristles, ion aluminum barrel

Best for: All hair types

Barrel size: 1.58’’

Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “The silicone/rubber handles are easy on the grip and comfortable for long use. My at-home blowout lasts about 45 mins each, so that’s a lot of gripping, pulling, and twisting. The bristles and aluminum exterior make for faster drying. I cannot explain this wizardry. I just have a head full of thick Asian hair that’s halfway down to my back, and this baby gets each section dried in record time. I’ve tried other combos like nylon bristles with boar. None gets it done as efficiently and smoothly as Paul Mitchell.”

Best Splurge

Oribe Medium Round Brush

Pros

• Adds volume and shine

Cons

• May not be suitable for very thick hair

We’re suckers for pretty beauty products, especially when they’re nice enough to display on our vanities. This editor-approved version passes the aesthetically pleasing test with its resin handle. Even better, it is ergonomically designed, which makes it easier to grip and maneuver as you blow out your hair. The brush also features boar bristles and soft nylon pins to maximize volume and shine. There’s a larger version that’s great for looser styles on longer hair, but the medium is perfect for adding bounce to waist-length hair.

Materials: Boar bristles, resin

Best for: All hair types

Barrel size: 2.3’’

Nordstrom rating: 3.7/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Excellent brush, gives the hair volume. I have short hair, and dry my hair around 75 percent before using this brush. Very well-made brush, would purchase another.”

Best for Creating Beach Waves

Sisley-Paris Hair Rituel The Blow-Dry Brush N°2

Pros

• Strengthens hair

Cons

• May not be suitable for very thick hair

We wouldn’t recommend a brush with a lofty price tag if it weren’t worth it. Sisley-Paris created the ideal size to create perfect beach waves without damaging or pulling too hard on the hair. It’s a super gentle design with a sleek wooden handle, which means less plastic in your styling routine.

Materials: Boar bristles

Best for: All hair types

Bloomingdale's rating: 3.9/5 stars

A Bloomingdale’s reviewer says: “Even though my hair is short and fine, this brush does wonders giving my hair waves and style that last more than just one day. Even though the brush is on the high price range, it’s well worth the splurge.”

Best for Staticky Hair

Cricket Technique Tourmaline Thermal Brush

Pros

• Offers even heating for smoothing

Cons

• Barrel can get hot

This is Hurtado’s favorite round brush because the tourmaline barrel offers even heat distribution on the strands. She adds that the nylon bristles are resistant to high heat and also imparts shine while decreasing static.

Materials: Nylon bristles, thermal barrel

Best for: All hair types

Barrel size: 2’’

Ulta rating: 4.4/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says: “Great brush for adding style and volume to your hair! Decreases drying time considerably. The hair pick in the handle is so convenient for separating hair into manageable sections. The bristles glide easily through your hair without tangling. 10/10 recommend!”

How do different round brush sizes affect styles?

“Different-sized round brushes will change the type of hairstyle you achieve,” says Liu. Liu recommends using a small barrel around the hairline to straighten curly roots or to create “tighter, bouncier, and voluminous curls that are fluffy.” Smaller barrels are also great to use for bangs. Medium barrels are ideal for medium to longer hair lengths that are looking for that bouncy ’90s blowout. And finally, a large barrel round brush can create smooth, straighter styles.

When should people use a round brush?

Depending on your desired style, round brushes are best for voluminous, bombshell blowout looks. “Round brushes are a quick and efficient way to style and dry your hair, which maintains bounce, volume, and shine,” says celebrity hairstylist Josh Liu. “Other traditional paddle and boar bristle brushes are more for smoothing and straightening when volume and bounce are less of a priority.” Simply put, you should use a round brush if “you want body, movement, and volume in your hair,” says Hurtado.

What kind of bristles do you recommend in a round brush?

“I prefer heat-resistant nylon bristles, as these don’t overwork or overstretch the hair; most boar bristles grip a little too tightly and are less versatile,” says Liu. “Heat-resistant nylon bristles, as on T3’s Volume round brush collection, are gentle and efficient for detangling and smoothing all hair types, and great for providing enough tension to add volume, bounce, curl, and a sleek touch.” Boar bristles have a place, though. Cavalcante says they’re typically the best kind of bristles if you have textured hair. Boar bristles are also beloved for their ability to spread natural oils through the hair, giving you a shiny, not greasy look.

How do you recommend using round brushes?

When the hair is damp but no longer dripping wet, you can use a round brush to add shape and volume. “I recommend rough drying your hair about 75 percent prior to styling with a round brush,” says Liu. “To maintain maximum volume, bounce, or curl, roll your hair up from the ends all the way into the base and hit it with a cool shot button and clip to set it. If you want a looser style, feel free to use the cool shot and let it drop—you know your hair best. If your hair holds a curl well, you can skip the setting clip and/or cool shot.”

Do you have any tips or tricks to make it easier for people to use round brushes?

“For beginners, practice rolling your hair using a round brush without the blow dryer first,” says Liu. Sectioning is also key: “Keep sections clean if you feel you are prone to tangling up your hair in round brushes,” he adds. Additionally, technique is important. “Start blow drying in smaller vertical sections at the root on a high heat low speed, smooth the root, and wrap it around the barrel one time. Heat up the hair. Then, twist and release the heated hair, move down the shaft a bit, wrap it, and heat it up, then twist again and release the heated hair and pull. Repeat until all the way down the hair shaft—this will create a twisty, bouncy, beachy blowout. You can imagine using the round brush as if it were a clamp barrel curling iron. This is a great technique for those with thin and fine hair who prefer fluffy, voluminous styling.”

Meet the Experts

• Josh Liu is a celebrity hairstylist whose A-list clients include Ariana Grande, Shailene Woodley, and Miranda Kerr.
• Raven Hurtado is a hair stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.
• Rogerio Cavalcante is a stylist, colorist, and owner of The Second Floor Salon in New York City.
• Sean Davis is a hairstylist and owner of the New York City salon, Tosler Davis.

Why Trust ELLE Beauty?

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, freelance writer Lisa DeSantis spoke with trusted hair experts about round brushes. She and beauty writer Carol Lee also searched the internet for the best round brushes, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.