Whether you use a traditional curling iron or a curling wand, your end goal is the same: To create gorgeous curls or waves that don’t fall flat the minute you leave the house. As much as we love them, curling irons and wands can be a bit cumbersome and we’re always on the lookout for tools that can make the process quicker and easier. Enter curling brush irons, the hair brush and curling iron hybrid that can help you achieve long-lasting, bouncy curls with half the effort.
Looking to learn more about how curling brush irons—also known as hot air brushes—can elevate your hairstyling? Read on for everything you need to know plus nine of our favorites to add to your collection.
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What does a curling brush iron do?
As much as we love traditional curling irons, let’s be real. They’re not always easy to use. Whether the clamp creates an awkward crease or you accidentally burn your hand getting too close to the barrel, there can be a bit of a learning curve. If these are problems you deal with all the time when you’re styling, you’re going to love curling brush irons.
Curling brush irons are essentially curling irons with bristles around the barrel. The bristles grab onto the hair and hold it in place while curling—so you have more control over your hair as you curl. They also don’t have a clamp, so you don’t have to worry about creases ruining your ringlets.
While these hot air brushes might make the styling process easier, you’re still applying heat to your strands, so be sure to use a heat protectant like Redken Iron Shape 11 Thermal Holding Heat Protection Hairspray. This lightweight, thermal heat protection hairspray is perfect for use with flat irons and curling irons up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to protect your hair, add shine, and reduce frizz.
Ready to upgrade your hot tool collection with a curling brush iron? Keep scrolling for nine of our favorites.
The Best Curling Brush Irons To Try Now
Bed Head Manipulator Ionic Hair Kit
If you want to invest in a hot tool that’s versatile, we recommend Bed Head’s Manipulator Ionic Hair Kit. The ionic technology helps to eliminate frizz and add shine. It also comes with two attachments, so you can create loose beach waves or tighter curls with a single tool.
Bed Head Manipulator Ionic Hair Kit, $29.99 MSRP
Hot Tools Ionic Tourmaline Hot Styler Thermal Hot Brush
The Hot Tools Ionic Tourmaline Hot Styler Thermal Hot Brush is made with super-fine bristles, so it grips thin and fine hair like a dream. The tourmaline barrel also emits far-infrared heat and negative ions, which help to seal the hair cuticle for a softer, shinier finish.
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Hot Tools Ionic Tourmaline Hot Styler Thermal Hot Brush, $49.99 MSRP
Ovonni Mini Travel Curling Iron Brush
If there’s one hair tool you need to keep your vacation hair on point, it’s the Ovonni Mini Travel Curling Iron Brush. This lightweight, ceramic tourmaline curling iron brush can easily fit in your travel bag and heats up in 30 seconds for quick and easy styling on the go.
Ovonni Mini Travel Curling Iron Brush, $18.99 MSRP
Revlon Long Lasting Curls Brush Iron
Have you ever left the house with perfect curls, only to watch them fall flat within minutes? Us, too. That’s why we love Revlon’s Long Lasting Curls Brush Iron. This thin-barrel curling brush iron heats up in 30 seconds and features a triple ceramic coating that promises long-lasting results.
Revlon Long Lasting Curls Brush Iron, $14.99 MSRP
InfinitiPro By Conair Hot Air Spin Brush
If you’re looking to give your arms a much-needed break, get yourself a tool that can cut your styling time in half. The InfinitiPro by Conair Hot Air Spin Brush allows you to dry and style your strands all at once. The ion generator also helps to give hair shine and prevent excess heat damage.
InfinitiPro By Conair Hot Air Spin Brush, $46.58 MSRP
CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush
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If you have fragile strands, the last thing you want it is to throw heat damage into the mix. That’s why you’ll want to look for a styling tool with adjustable heat settings like the CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush.
CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush, $59.50 MSRP
Revlon Heated Silicone Styling Brush
Can’t keep track of the number of times you’ve burned your hand on your curling iron? The Revlon Heated Silicone Styling Brush features soft, cool-to-the-touch silicone bristles, so you won’t need to worry about accidental scalding.
Revlon Heated Silicone Styling Brush, $20.39 MSRP
Instyler Freestyle Ionic Ceramic Styler
If you’ve been searching for a versatile curling brush iron for every hair type and length, look no further than the Instyler Freestyle Ionic Ceramic Styler. The ceramic heated bristles and barrel allow you to brush through hair effortlessly to eliminate tangles and frizz while adding shine.
Instyler Freestyle Ionic Ceramic Styler, $34.99 MSRP
Helen Of Troy Professional Brush Iron
We adore beach waves as much as the next girl, but when you want tighter curls, reach for the Helen Of Troy Professional Brush Iron. The half-inch barrel is perfect for creating bouncy, tight curls on long hair or short hair.
Helen Of Troy Professional Brush Iron, $17.46 MSRP
Interested in more expert product recommendations? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
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