When Used Correctly, the Best Round Brushes Reduce Frizz and Add Volume

When you’re looking to turn a good hair day into a great one, the first step is choosing the right round brush. A high‑quality round brush can dramatically improve the texture and thickness of your hair, creating a smooth, frizz‑free finish that lasts all day. In this guide we’ll explore the essential qualities of a round brush, recommend the best brushes for different hair types, and walk you through a step‑by‑step styling routine that will give you salon‑grade results from the comfort of your own home.
Why a Round Brush Is Essential for Frizz‑Free Volume
Hair styling is a delicate dance between heat, tension, and movement. A round brush allows you to shape your hair while it dries, guiding the strands into the desired form and locking in moisture. When used correctly, a round brush can:
- Distribute heat evenly across your hair
- Control the direction of airflow for maximum volume
- Reduce frizz by smoothing cuticles
- Provide a natural finish that lasts for hours
Choosing the right brush is crucial. The wrong brush can lead to uneven drying, lack of volume, or even damage. The key is to match the brush’s size, material, and bristle type to your specific hair needs.
What Makes a Great Round Brush?
While many brands offer a range of round brushes, only a few stand out for their performance and durability. A top‑notch round brush typically features:
Key Components: Barrel, Bristles, Size, and Material
- Barrel: A smooth, rounded barrel helps guide hair as it dries. Look for a barrel that is wide enough to hold a generous amount of hair but not so wide that it becomes unwieldy.
- Bristles: Natural or synthetic bristles can both work well. Natural bristles offer a classic feel, while synthetic bristles are often more affordable and easier to clean.
- Size: For most users, a 9–12 inch barrel is ideal. Smaller barrels are great for precision work, while larger barrels give more volume.
- Material: Aluminum barrels are lightweight and durable. Plastic barrels are lighter but can be less durable over time.
In the following sections we’ll dive into the best round brushes on the market, sorted by hair type and styling goal.
Top Picks for Every Hair Type
Choosing the right brush depends on the texture of your hair and the kind of finish you want. Below you’ll find three of the best round brushes for dry & fine hair, finishing touches, and a professional blowout.
Dry & Fine: The Dry & Fine Brush
Experts say that a brush with a 9–12 inch barrel is perfect for those with fine, dry hair who want to add volume without weighing the strands down.
Features
- Barrel: 9–12 inches, smooth aluminum
- Bristles: natural or synthetic (choose based on preference)
- Weight: lightweight, easy to handle
- Heat-resistant: suitable for high‑temperature styling
Expert Review: Ebony Bomani, a professional stylist, notes that the Dry & Fine brush “provides a balanced airflow that lifts the hair from the roots, giving it a natural lift and shine.”
Finishing Touches: The Finishing Touches Brush
For those who want a quick, high‑impact finish, this brush offers a 12 inch barrel and a smooth, lightweight design.
Features
- Barrel: 12 inches, aluminum
- Bristles: synthetic or natural
- Weight: lightweight and ergonomic
- Heat-resistant: designed for high‑temperature styling
Expert Review: Samantha Draper, a seasoned stylist, says that “the Finishing Touches brush gives a sleek, professional look that lasts for hours.”
Professional Blowout: The Professional Blowout Brush
For a salon‑quality blowout, this brush offers a 9–12 inch barrel and a smooth, lightweight design that can handle even thick hair.
Features
- Barrel: 9–12 inches, aluminum
- Bristles: natural or synthetic
- Weight: lightweight and ergonomic
- Heat-resistant: suitable for high‑temperature styling
Expert Review: Willis Galbraith, a haircare specialist, highlights that “the Professional Blowout brush “creates a smooth, voluminous finish that looks and feels salon‑grade.”
Step‑by‑Step Styling Routine
Now that you’ve chosen the right brush, it’s time to put it to work. Below is a detailed guide that covers everything from prep to final polish.
Preparation
- Wash your hair with a volumizing shampoo to remove any buildup and open the cuticle.
- Towel‑dry your hair gently to remove excess moisture.
- Apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage from heat.
- Section your hair into two parts: top and bottom.
Blow Drying
- Set your dryer to a medium heat setting and attach the round brush to the nozzle.
- Start at the roots and work your way down, using the brush to guide the airflow.
- Use a small amount of tension on the brush to lift the hair and create volume.
- For the best results, keep the brush’s barrel slightly angled toward the hair’s natural direction.
Finishing Touches
- Once the hair is completely dry, use the brush to add a final polish to the ends.
- Apply a small amount of shine serum to add shine and reduce frizz.
- Use a fine-tip brush or comb to smooth any stray hairs.
Tips for Extra Volume
- Use a microfiber towel to remove excess water before drying.
- Apply a small amount of heat protectant before you start styling.
- Keep the barrel slightly angled toward the hair’s natural direction for maximum lift.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Ebony Bomani recommends using a heat protectant spray to protect hair from high temperatures.
- Samantha Draper suggests using a fine-tip brush for the final polish.
- Willis Galbraith advises keeping the barrel slightly angled toward the hair’s natural direction.
- Dimitris Giannetos stresses the importance of using a medium heat setting for best results.
- Merita Ibrahimi suggests using a microfiber towel to remove excess water before you start styling.
- Jack Luckhurst recommends using a fine-tip brush for the final polish.
FAQs
What’s the best barrel size for my hair type?
For most people, a 9–12 inch barrel works best. If you have thicker hair, go for the larger end of that range. If your hair is finer, a slightly smaller barrel may be easier to handle.
Can I use a round brush for all hair types?
Yes! A high‑quality round brush can be used for fine, medium, and thick hair, provided you choose the right barrel size and bristle material.
How do I keep my hair from getting frizzy during styling?
Use a heat protectant spray and a microfiber towel to remove excess moisture before you start styling. Keep the barrel slightly angled toward the hair’s natural direction for maximum lift.
Conclusion
Choosing the right round brush and using it correctly can transform your hair routine and give you a salon‑grade finish that lasts all day. Whether you’re looking for a quick boost of volume, a smooth finish, or a professional blowout, the brushes we’ve highlighted will give you the results you want.
Remember, the key to great styling is not just the brush itself, but also the technique you use. Follow our step‑by‑step guide, apply a heat protectant, and keep the barrel angled toward the hair’s natural direction. With practice, you’ll be able to create a flawless, frizz‑free look that looks and feels salon‑grade.
Happy styling!
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