Hair styling appliances help you create a straight blowout, voluminous curls, or any other look you desire with the power of heat. However, it can be difficult to narrow down the best options for your unique strands since each tool has its own set of advantages and drawbacks. But as long as you keep an eye on the nitty gritty details like heat technology and surface materials, you can find the right hair tools for your tresses.
One of the most versatile hot hair tools out there is the Dyson Airwrap, which dries and styles hair at the same time without the use of hot metal plates. Its Coanda effect technology focuses on smoothing out your strands instead of blowing your tresses with high heat, which reduces the risk of dry, damaged hair while giving you a lasting style.
Another top pick among beauty experts is the T3 Flat Iron, which also uses smart heat settings that adapt to your strands’ unique texture and thickness so you don’t have to worry about burning your locks or damaging your hair over time. It’s no wonder it’s a favorite of TikTok users, Cosmo editors, and professional stylists around the world.
If you want a wavy or curly style, try the BondiBoost Airburst Styler, which also looks like a flat iron but actually dries your strands with cool air, rather than using hair-frying heat. It’s a great option for textured and thick hair because it lets you get the waves and curls you want without adding too much heat damage, which is especially important for strands with more natural volume.
A hairbrush is a must-have tool for detangling neat and tidy hair, or untidy strands that have been exposed to high heat from hairspray or a hair dryer. The best brushes for your hair type have a sturdy, durable handle that can stand up to repeated contact with hot hair — and they’re often designed with high-quality, hair-healthy materials to protect your strands from heat damage.
Hair styling tongs are another hair appliance you can use to make your tresses curly or voluminous, but they’re more versatile than curling irons because you don’t have to wrap each strand tightly. Simply let your hair fall loosely around the wand when it’s warm, wait for a few seconds, then release the hairpin.
Aside from the obvious benefits of keeping your hair healthy with heat protectant, it’s also important to clean and maintain your hair tools to extend their lifespan. Use a cotton pad or swab soaked in alcohol to wipe your flat iron or curling wand after each use to remove any buildup of product and loose hairs that could cause them to burn up or start smoking. You can also use vinegar, which has antibacterial properties, as a hair tool cleaner to keep your favorites fresh and germ-free.