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The 17 Best Hair Styling Tools, Tested and Reviewed by Editors
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Updated May 30, 2024: This article on the best hair styling tools was updated with new product selections after an additional round of testing by our WWD Shop editors. We are currently testing additional hair tools from brands like Hot Tools and Revlon for consideration in this guide.
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Perfecting your arsenal of the best hair styling tools is no easy feat. Similar to styling products like hair gel, mousse, and dry shampoo, it takes trial and error to find instruments and accessories that play well with your hair — though tools often come with higher stakes. A misstep can leave your hair brittle and broken, while gimmicky options may fall short on salon-quality claims and long-lasting results. And now that summer’s here, you may be in the market for quick-styling solutions that reduce heat exposure and are easy to pack on vacay. We took the guesswork out of your search by testing hair tools and techniques, including hair dryers, flat irons, hair wavers, heatless curling hacks, hair brushes, and everything in between, to pinpoint salon-worthy stylers for every hair type and texture.
No matter the hairstyle you’re going for, it’s important to pay attention to nitty gritty details before you take the plunge on a pricey tool, such as technology features and hair-healthy materials. “Quality really shows up in the heat technology and surface materials of hot tools,” says Nikki Lee, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of In Common Beauty. She stresses that it’s important to invest in any hot tools that directly interact with your hair as heat damage can impact short-term and long-term hair elasticity. “Quality matters with non-heat tools, too, because it really can help reduce breakage,” explains Lee, adding that some tools, like high-quality hair brushes, are specifically designed to protect hair while it’s wet and fragile.
There are so many ways to manipulate your mane, so make sure to consider your cut, intended results, and overall hair regimen before you dive into styling. If you love to create a bouncy blowout from your home vanity, a smoothing hair dryer brush or a combo of hair rollers and a shine-infusing curling iron will do the trick. Prefer to keep it sleek? Look to a holy grail flat iron that can last you for years to come. Or, if you change your ‘do like you change your clothes, choose a multi-function configuration like the Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler, Wavytalk 5-in-1 Curling Iron Set, or the Bio Ionic 3-In-One Styling Flat Iron. There are more effortless options, too, if you’re not a total pro, like goof-proof hair wavers or heatless hair curlers that give a whole new meaning to beauty sleep.
Whether you prefer to flip, twist, crimp, smooth, or straighten, our editors put 75 bestselling hair styling tools to the test to help inform your selection. We consulted 10 professional hair stylists and industry experts for tool recommendations and key hair health insight, along with our own extensive research on high-function hair styling tool designs, from hot tools, to heatless methods, and other essentials like hair brushes and clips. Our team compared customer reviews to determine the best user-friendly options on the market, and honed in on details that benefit the range of hair types, textures, and styling preferences.
Top Hair Styling Tools of 2024
Editor’s Choice: Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler Complete
Editor’s Choice: Shark SmoothStyle Hair Dryer Brush
Editor’s Choice: Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set
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Testing Verdict: Top 3 Hair Styling Tools
Hair styling tools entail a long list of subcategories, including hot tools, such as hair dryers, flat irons, wavers, and curlers, as well as heatless hair shapers and accessories like hair clips, hair brushes, and detailing combs. Within specified groups, each tool is not created equally, as some employ specialized technology and serve dual functions, while others stand out for their unique results and healthy hair benefits. To avoid comparing apples to oranges, our testers narrowed down our top three must-haves from our curated selection — all of which maintained their top status after a second round of hair styling tool testing:
Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler Complete: No other tool on the market can adequately compare to the renowned Dyson Airwrap. Our editors have tested it countless times and maintain that it’s a tool worth investing in because it covers every base, from curling to smoothing to drying and even fine-tune polishing. It also does wonders on every hair type, as it’s available in configurations for straight to wavy and curly to coily hair, and is equipped with damage-free technology that leaves strands silky soft and frizz-free.
Shark SmoothStyle Hair Dryer Brush: Looking for a serious bang for your buck? For beauty budgets that cap at $100, we recommend the Shark SmoothStyle for its two-in-one function of a volumizing hair drying brush and a smoothing straightener. It protects the hair from overheating with calibrated airflow and shine-boosting ceramic plates, while cutting down on pesky dry time in one compact, lightweight design.
Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set: Summer styling calls for less heat and more ease. Heatless curlers like this exceptional kit from Kitsch serve as one of the most hair-healthy styling options that doesn’t sacrifice on impressive ringlet results. These satin curling rods are incredibly gentle on the hair, easy to apply, require minimal to no additional product, and can effortlessly create long-lasting curls or big, bouncy blowouts. They do wonders on each and every hair type, length, and texture, and are a major-time saver when you’re in a pinch.
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler Complete
Best for: All hair types and textures
Settings: 3 heat settings and a cool shot
Attachments: Six attachments for different results per configuration
Special features: Negative ion airflow technology
$599.99
Buy Straight Configuration at Dyson
$599.99
Buy Curly Configuration at Dyson
$599.99
Buy BUY Straight CONFIGURATION
$599.99
Buy CURLY CONFIGURATION at Ulta
The Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler is not only one of the most coveted hair styling tools of all time, it’s also one of the best professional hair styling tools to have handy at your vanity. Despite it’s hefty price tag, our editors agree that it’s worth the splurge because it can virtually complete your entire hair tool lineup in a single purchase. Available in Straight and Wavy or Curly and Coily configurations, this all-in-one hair styling tool equips you to dry, curl, straighten, smooth, and volumize with an easy switch of six interchangeable attachments. While there are several worthwhile Dyson Airwrap dupes on the market, its airflow technology remains unparalleled, as it effectively manipulates strands for a long-term hold without the risk of heat damage.
Editor testing and review notes: “The Dyson Airwrap is the Swiss Army knife of hair tools — its multiple attachments allow you to curl, straighten, and add volume to your hair, all while drying it. Click on the round brush head, and the tool transforms into a hair dryer brush that’s ideal for all hair lengths and thicknesses. I have long, thick, and naturally curly hair, and the round brush takes my hair from 80 percent dry to smoothed and bouncy in 12 minutes. The two-inch barrel size is narrower than any other hair dryer brush head on the market — the smaller surface area required a few more minutes to dry my hair, but also adds more curl at my ends and lift at my roots. After two years of regularly using this tool and attachment, my hair hasn’t experienced any breakage or brittleness.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $599.99
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Shark SmoothStyle Hair Dryer Brush
Best for: Straight to wavy hair
Settings: 3 airflow settings and 1 heated smoothing comb setting
Special features: 2 straightening and volumizing functions; calibrated heat and airflow settings to prevent breakage and damage; ceramic-coated plates
$79 $99.99 21% off
$99.99
There’s more than meets the eye with Shark’s SmoothStyle Hair Dryer Brush — it offers two styling results in one: A drying, smoothing, a volumizing feature that harnesses powerful airflow, and a straightening function that smooths and combs the hair with heated plates. Precisely-calibrated air and heat settings reduce the risk of hot spots and damage, while ceramic-coated plates encourage sleek and glossy shine.
Chris Appleton, A-list celebrity hair stylist and Global Ambassador for Shark Beauty, notes that this careful design is what makes it unique. “Hair drying brushes are on the market, but we haven’t seen one with the added element of ceramic plates that smooth the hair,” he explains. “We did a lot of research on these types of tools, and while they give bounce, the tools often leave hair looking dry and a bit too fluffy. This tool’s heated element gives a polished finish.” Not only do editors deem the Shark SmoothStyle one of the best Shark Beauty hair tools and hair dryer brushes overall, it’s far more affordable compared to competitors at just under $100, while also serving as a trusty two-in-one tool.
Editor testing and review notes: “At first glance, I thought Shark’s SmoothSyle was simply a hair dryer brush. But no, this tool does more than dry and add volume to your hair; it also delivers glossy shine and bounce. I have naturally curly, thick hair, so while hair dryer brushes make my hair smoother, they typically leave it a little too voluminous — and frizzy. The Shark SmoothStyle’s heated comb setting comes in with a major win here: A quick turn of the handle transforms the Shark SmoothStyle into a gentle straightener that tamps down frizz for a polished effect. If you’re familiar with hair dryer brushes, the tool will come natural to you; it’s simple to use on either setting with a brushing, twisting motion. It also styles hair quicker than its competitors, thanks to Shark’s impressive airflow, so my arms didn’t get overtired while using it on either setting.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $79
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set
Best for: Damaged or healing hair
Includes: 1 8.5″ satin rod, 2 satin scrunchies
#1 Amazon Bestseller in Hair Rollers
$12.78 $18 29% off
$16
With these best heatless curlers, you can literally style your hair in your sleep. Heatless hair curling hacks are among some of the most viral beauty trends right now, with over 349 millions views on TikTok, and the Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set has become the gold standard. Its hype can be attributed to a few key benefits; Zero heat is applied with this method, so there’s no risk of damage or breakage, and the satin material on the flexible rods allows the hair to retain maximum moisture.
Additionally, this set is a serious time-saver, because, compared to hot tool styling, it takes a fraction of the time to twist your entire head of hair around the rod. There’s no extra product required for the process, besides optional leave-in conditioners for extra nourishment, or a dry texture spray for added grip. Just pop in the rods, seal the ends with the included satin scrunchies, and let the tool do all the work for you.
Editors testing and review notes: “I’ll admit that I had to watch tutorials over and over again to figure out how to use this heatless curling set. But once I finessed my technique — wrapping small pieces of hair outwards from my face — I finally nailed it. I mist some leave-in conditioner on nearly dry hair before using this set, and I wake up with healthy looking hair that requires no hot tools.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $15.98
BEST AFFORDABLE HAIR STYLING TOOL
Wavytalk 5-in-1 Curling Iron Set
Best for: All hair types, curly styling variety
Settings: 356℉ – 410℉ temperature range
Attachments: 0.5” small curling iron, 0.35-0.7” tapered curling wand, 1″ curling wand, 1.25″ curling iron; 1.5 ” curling brush
Special features: Ceramic-coated barrels, universal dual voltage
$39.19 $53.99 27% off
Wavytalk’s heat tools are among some of the most popular beauty products on TikTok, with views and searches climbing well above 749 million views on the app. While the brand’s Pro Thermal Brush is a viral sensation for blowout styles in its own right, the Wavytalk 5-in-1 tool offers four extra curling iron and wand barrels as a complete set. A following of nearly 75 million users on TikTok swear by this interchangeable tool, as it heats up in just 30 seconds and creates shiny coils that last all day. This wallet-friendly set, which also comes with a heat-proof glove and hair-sectioning clips, will have you stocked for a variety of looks and countless styling sessions.
Editor testing and review notes: “This all-in-one set is a steal given such an affordable price point — it’s hard to find a single high-quality curling iron for the price of this five-piece. I love that this kit gives me the option to use the heat brush to add lift to my curtain bangs and swap out the attachment for a bigger barrel on the rest of my strands. But I’m mostly impressed by how soft the ceramic barrels leave my hair, and how long the curls hold without feeling dry or needing a hefty dose of hairspray. The TikTok beauty community is absolutely on to something with this tool, per usual.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $48.99
Dyson Supersonic Nural Hair Dryer
Best for: All hair types
Settings: 3 airflow settings, 4 heat settings, cold shot
Attachments: Wave+Curl diffuser, flyaway smoother, styling concentrator, wide tooth comb, gentle air attachment
Special features: Scalp protection, fast-drying
Consider this hot new release from Dyson the smartphone of hair dryers. Dyson always takes hair tools one step further than you ever thought was possible, and this tool that homes in on scalp health is certainly no exception. It features all the powerful airflow settings with seriously low heat damage that’s beloved in the original Supersonic, with an additional scalp protection mode that allows you to get close to the root without the risk of hot spots.
It works like this: When you get in close, invisible infrared beams measure the distance between the nozzle and scalp to automatically activate the mode, where sensors intuitively alter heat levels to 131 degrees (the safest temperature for the scalp). Not only is this supremely gently on hair, it also promotes optimal hair growth in the long run and allows you to freely style without worry.
Editor testing and review notes: “This diffuser is groundbreaking for those with wavy or type 2 or 3 curls — rather than sending your hair up and out of the diffuser, it draws it into the bowl to set the hair pattern without creating frizz. I love to rough dry my hair with the dryer, tie the lengths into a few loose braids, then feed the plaits into the Wave + Curl diffuser set in Dome mode to get perfectly undone waves. My previous Supersonic hair dryer has lasted me three years without issue, so I know I can expect this dryer to outlast other options I’ve tested. It’s amazing for a French girl, lived-in hair look.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $499.99
BEST CURLING IRON
T3 Singlepass Curl X Curling Iron
Best for: Creating large curls; suitable for all hair types
Barrel size: 1.25”
Settings: 5 adjustable heat settings from 260-410°F
Special features: Ceramic-coated barrel
$149.99
“T3 Single Pass Iron is perfection,” says hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein. “You can get through a thick head of hair in no time.” As the name suggests, one pass is all you need, so whether you have long locks or only a few minutes of styling time in the morning, this curling iron helps to cut corners in your routine. It heats up fast but doesn’t skimp on heat-protection — the iron monitors heat output to deposit even temperature as you twist and curl, which helps to avoid hot spots and long-term damage. This tool comes in a range of barrel sizes, from 1-inch to 1.5 inches, so depending on your intended results, T3’s custom-blend ceramic technology will take you from shiny coils to blowout-level bounce.
Editor testing and review notes: “It’s all in the details with T3’s curling iron: The barrel maintains consistent heat while you’re styling to prevent damaging temperature spikes, a dial replaces buttons for easier adjustments during styling, and a cool tip on the end of the iron keeps burns at bay. But beyond the intuitive design, this iron impressed me with how it seemed to seal the cuticles of my hair, leaving it frizz-free and impossibly shiny.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $149.99
BEST HAIR DRYER FOR CURLY HAIR
Pattern The Blow Dryer
Best for: Drying curly hair
Settings: 2 speed, 3 heat, and cold shot
Attachments: Diffuser, brush, wide-tooth comb, and concentrator nozzle
Special features: AC motor and ionic technology
$189
$189
Tracee Ellis Ross’ hair care line, Pattern, offers one of the best hair dryers for curly hair, as it’s specially designed with curly girl-friendly attachments and features a powerful airflow motor that deposits smooth and gentle heat. Bundled with a wide array of essential and innovative hair dryer attachments, including an aluminum-plated bowl hair diffuser that heats up fast to shorten dry time and a detangling comb that works to define coils, The Blow Dryer is a must-have for curly hair types. The dryer also includes a setting to activate cuticle-smoothing ionic technology, which pairs seamlessly with the concentrator nozzle for sleek styling. Or, opt out to home in on volume with the coil-stretching brush attachment.
Editor testing and review notes: “A multi-styling hair dryer is only handy if the attachments work with your hair texture — any for those with curly hair, that can be tricky to find. After testing Pattern’s hair dryer, I can assure you that curly girls will find use for every attachment included. I found myself using each of the included attachments in Pattern’s hair dryer on my curly hair, whether it’s the wide-tooth comb that detangles while drying or the brush attachment that stretches out curls. Yes, the attachments are genius, but the hair dryer itself is, too. The heat and airflow settings cater to curly hair — I love that I have the option to use low, gentle heat with the diffuser to dry your curls without blasting them through the roof.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $189
BEST FLAT IRON
Ghd Platinum+ Styler 1" Flat Iron
Best for: Fine and color-treated hair
Plate size: 1″
Settings: 365°F temperature
Special features: Ultra-zone predictive technology
$179 $279 36% off
$289
Ghd’s Platinum+ Styler is our best flat iron because it simplifies sleek styling with one set temperature — 365 degrees. “You don’t need anything higher than that to achieve smooth hairstyles,” says celebrity hairstylist Scott King, who particularly recommends this gentle flat iron for fine hair types. Ultra-zone predictive technology embedded in the one-inch plates monitors heat deposits and hair thickness at 250 times per second — meaning the intensity of the iron adjusts for the safety of your hair to deliver a polished-looking mane and naturally strong strands over time. Plus, it heats up super fast for last-minute styling and automatically shuts off after 30 minutes of inactivity.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve tried dozens of the best straighteners during my time as a beauty editor. For my naturally curly, thick hair, Ghd’s Platinum+ Styler is the best of the best. I use mine at least three times a week to smooth out unwanted frizziness or throw in some messy waves — the tapered edges of the flat iron’s wand make it easy to twist through my hair. I love that it’s pre-set to 365 degrees, which is warm enough to quickly style my hair but not so hot that it scorches my strands.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $179
BEST DETANGLING BRUSH
Fhi Heat Unbrush Wet & Dry Detangling Hair Brush
Best for: All hair types; detangling wet hair
Special features: 105 long and short bristles
#1 Amazon Bestseller in Hair Brushes
$16.20 $18 10% off
The first step before you even pick up your styler? Detangling, of course. But some brushes can crush curls, causes breakage on wet hair, or fail to properly smooth every tiny tangle. The Unbrush is a universal solution, and is so beloved that it’s racked up over a billion views on TikTok. This best detangling brush is suitable for every hair texture, from tight coils to super straight hair types, as its innovative design effortlessly and thoroughly combs through all kinds of unruly strands. This brush is covered in a mix of long and mini bristles to smooth stubborn snags and leave the hair looking polished, and relieves the need for two different wet and dry tangle tamers in your hair styling routine.
Editor testing and review notes: “Ever since I began coloring my hair, tangles have been enemy number one in my hair styling process (blaming it on the bleach!). Depending on the state of my hair, it can take me a full seven minutes to fully detangle it when I hop out of the shower and towel dry it. After seeing rave reviews about this brush on TikTok, I cued up an order on Amazon to see what all the fuss was about. I’ve tested dozens of hair brushes and detangling combs, but this one takes the cake; the vented design, bristle placement, and smooth materials glide right through tangles and knots without tugging or breakage.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $18
BEST BARREL HAIR WAVER
Amika High Tide Deep Wave Hair Crimper
Best for: Fine to medium hair textures
Barrel size: 0.7 inch
Settings: 120°F-390°F temperature range
Special features: Negative ion technology
$120
If effortless beachy waves are calling your name, the Amika High Tide Deep Waver Hair Crimper will have you feeling like a mermaid that just washed ashore. Contrary to the name, this tool is no standard crimper. This best barrel hair waver creates smooth, voluminous ripples without harsh creases or dents, thanks to the brand’s custom molding, notes celebrity colorist Jeremy Tardo, who recommends it for fine to medium hair textures. Three 0.7 inch barrels style more hair in one press than a standard hair curling wand, and creates a naturally tousled and texturized look. Amika’s negative ion technology works to seal cuticles for extra shine, while fast-heating ceramic barrels preserve the hair’s natural moisture.
Editor testing and review notes: “Many hair wavers can feel clunky in the hand due to the large curling barrels, but Amika’s is manageable to use due to the balanced design — including a non-slip handle and a kickstand that prevents the hot barrels from singeing any surface you place it on. On top of a sleek build, this tool is a winner because it doesn’t leave crease marks, making it a great choice for beginners. As for results, expect beachy waves you can set in place or brush out for softer texture.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
BEST PROFESSIONAL HAIR DRYER
Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer
Best for: All hair types
Settings: 3 speed, 3 heat, and cool shot
Attachments: Traditional nozzle and long nozzle
Special features: Cool Air Flex Technology, Dual Ion Functionality, AC motor
$349
Alex Osorio Castro, hair stylist at Sally Hershberger NoMad, deems the Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer one of his all-time holy grail hair tools. “Hair dryers that have a long nose are not so easy to manage,” he explains, “but I recommend Harry Josh to all of my clients because it’s so easy to work with. Blow drying your hair should be quick and fun.” Weighing in under one pound, this powerful little tool offers a total of seven different settings, including a cool shot, with essential ionic technology that reduces both heat damage and dry time. Don’t let its high-grade professional design scare you — this handy tool is nothing less than “short, easy, and fun,” says Castro.
Editor testing and review notes: “If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact hair dryer to take on the go but one that can also serve as a daily hair dryer, Harry Josh’s Ultra Light Hair Dryer is for you. Many dryers are designed to be “lightweight,” but this one is noticeably lighter but still feels like it has substance. It’s easy to hold in the hand for an extended period and easy to maneuver. Even though it is compact, it has a very powerful motor, which makes for super-fast drying time. My only complaint is that since I have fine, slightly wavy hair that easily frizzes, I was hoping that the hair dryer would reduce some of the frizz, but compared to other similar tools, it did not.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $349
BEST DEEP WAVER
Bed Head Tourmaline Wave Artist Deep Waver
Best for: Quick waves; straight to wavy textures
Barrel size: 2.5″
Settings: Hear settings up to 400°F
Special features: Dual voltage, automatic shut-off, swivel cord, tourmaline ceramic coating
$23 $31.99 28% off
$34.99
This top-rated waver from Bed Head comes recommended from over 40,000 five-star Amazon reviewers and prominent beauty influencers like Alix Earle. It offers a different way to play with beachy texture compared to a barrel waver, as the molded plates bend the hair in a deeper kink. The tool utilizes tourmaline ceramic technology to leave strands shiny and frizz-free, while a temperature dial allows you to pace even heat deposits up to 400 degrees. It also features universal dual voltage and a plate-locking switch, making it super convenient for travel. The natural-looking, messy-chic results keep things uncomplicated, so you don’t have to section off the hair or be overly precise throughout the styling process.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve used this tool for years to effortlessly create textured waves and impressive volume in under 10 minutes. The tool heats up very quickly and works like a large, soft crimper. The best part is that I never need to use any hair spray to have my look lasting through the next day — and the waves can sometimes last through a third day of wear. This affordable tool is a great addition to your hot tool rotation if you’re looking to diversify your hair styling.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $23
Mason Pearson Hair Brush
Best for: Smoothing hair, exfoliating the scalp, distributing natural oils
$275
When it comes to a tool you likely use multiple times a day, it’s important to invest in a high-quality hair brush that is suited to your specific hair type and texture and promotes optimal scalp health. Britney Newville, the West Coast Manager of Education at Bumble and Bumble, always recommends Mason Pearson’s cult-favorite brushes. “I like the idea of boar bristles mixed with nylon in this brush because they help detangle and smooth,” she previously told WWD. “Boar bristles will help de-frizz as you’re blow drying and it encourages shine.”
Editor testing and review notes: “Yes, it’s a lot to spend on a hair brush, but they are designed to last a lifetime (I’ve been using mine since high school). The boar bristles are bendy to move with hair but still stiff enough to detangle knots. My hair looks noticeably shinier when I use it and the bristles also offer a nice scalp massage while you brush.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $275
BEST HAIR ROLLERS
Drybar High Tops Self-Grip Rollers
Best for: Adding volume and locking in curls
Includes: 6 velcro rollers in two sizes
$12
$12
Whether you’re locking in freshly-curled coils, heatless curling, or adding major lift to the root, Drybar’s High Tops Self-Grip Rollers do at-home blowouts best. This six-pack offers two different roller sizes so you have the option to create tighter curls on bangs or bump up the volume at the crown. Wrapped in velcro, these rollers hold tight to the scalp without a clip, and the tiny bristles of the material help to comb and detangle strands upon removal. These are a must-have styling accessory whether you prefer hot tools or heatless curlers, because they help reinforce shape and provide unparalleled volume in just a short amount of wear.
Editor testing and review notes: “I don’t go a day without reaching for these rollers. I change up my hair routine often, and bounce between my hair dryer brush, curling iron, and flat iron — but I always set my curtain bangs in two to three velcro rollers while I go about my morning routine. I even like to keep them in while I’m doing a sleep-in heatless curling method because they stay secure all night long. When it comes to styling hair, the little details can make the biggest difference, and this affordable set it not one to skip.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $12
BEST HAIR STYLING TOOL FOR TRAVEL
Bio Ionic 3-In-One Styling Flat Iron
Best for: Precise styling; straight to wavy hair
Plate size: 1.25″
Settings: 210°F to 430°F temperature range
Special features: Moisturizing Heat technology, three styling functions
$149
$149
If a curling iron and a flat iron had a baby, it would be the Bio Ionic 3-In-One Styling Flat Iron. This best hair tool for travel realizes the hair hack of curling your hair with a flat iron for loose ringlets, as a traditional-style curling wand unhinges to reveal clamp plates like a typical straightener. You can swiftly switch between the two options with a push of a button, or you can use them at the same time, by holding hair between the center clamp and rolling outwards to make a super smooth wave. A third way to play? Lock the tool and use it as a hair wand, by simply wrapping strands around the barrel with your finger. You can’t beat three styling capabilities in one, and it’s space-saving design and universal voltage makes it an ideal tool for travel.
Editor testing and review notes: “The plates on this Bio-Ionic hair straightener are longer than others on this list, however that’s part of what makes the tool a standout. That extra surface area allows you to straighten larger chunks of hair than you could with a standard flat iron, cutting down on styling time. On top of its efficiency for straightening hair, the tool has a smart design that allows you to use it as a curling wand or curling iron for ultimate versatility in your hair styling.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $149
Emi Jay Popstar Clips
Best for: Securing strands and velcro rollers while styling
Special features: Holds hair in place without creasing
$32
$22.95 $32 28% off
If you’re working with a lot of hair, these adorable crease-free clips from celeb-loved brand Emi Jay are a game-changer. They allow you to pin back strands or secure velcro rollers without ruining your style, and feel incredibly comfortable — practically nonexistent — against the scalp. They’re gentle on fine strands but can hold heft from thicker hair too, and are easy to pop in with one free hand while you’re styling with the other. The Popstar Clips are available in a wide assortment of fun and flirty colorways to match your vanity’s vibe, like this Crème Brulee option that comes decorated with diamonds.
Editor testing and review notes: “Every at-home hairstylist should be stocked with these creaseless hair clips, whether you’re a longtime pro or DIY novice. I use them every single day as I get ready. They come in handy for pinning back my bangs while I do my makeup, adding grip to my velcro rollers, holding hair sections as I style or curl, or even just correcting weird kinks that often occur on face-framing strands.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $22.95
BEST HAIR STYLING COMB
Sweet View Slick Back Hair Brush Set
Best for: Parting hair and smoothing flyaways
Includes: Edge brush, bristle brush, rat tail comb
$3.48
Slicked-back styles require a careful hand, so it’s important to have tools at-the-ready for precise detail work. This top-rated brush and comb set has everything you need to smooth flyways and cut clean parts, including a dual-sided edge brush, bristle brush, and rat tail comb. Whether you’re creating art out of your baby hairs or separating hair sections as you style, these essentials made of flexible plastic will have you set for success.
Editor testing and review notes: “I can’t believe I went so long without this handy little trio. As someone with a middle hair part and tons of unruly baby hairs, the fine-tooth rat tail comb has become my best friend. I love grabbing the bristly hair brush to slick back my buns, half-up ‘dos, and ponytails, while the edge brush bodes well for taming my brows. While the plastic is durable with no signs of cracking, make sure to rest these combs far away from your hot tools, as I made the mistake of resting an iron on top of the rat tail comb and the heat ended up warping its teeth.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $3.48
What to Consider When Shopping for Hair Styling Tools
Your hair type: Hair type refers to the length, texture, and thickness of your hair, all of which will determine the kind of tool that will suit it best. For instance, while flat irons generally perform the same across every length of hair, some may be too hot or harsh for those with fine strands, and vice versa for thicker textures. Larger barrels found in curling irons, hair dryer brushes, and wavers offer enough surface area to create curls on long and thick hair, whereas short hair will achieve defined coils with smaller barrels.
Your hair health: “Heat is one of the most important things to factor in when considering hair health,” says celeb stylist Laura Polko. “Investing in good hair tools is always worth it to ensure hair maintains its health inside and out.” With any hot tool you use, Larry Sims, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union, recommends using a heat protectant to help prevent damage. “Avoid applying heat to the hair every day and don’t overheat your tool,” he says. “Maintain moisture in the hair by applying some oil drops.” To determine the most healthy styling tool for your hair, consider your hair type and hair concerns. If your hair is color treated, previously damaged, or prone to breakage, or if your hair type is fine or curly, look to brands that are designed to be gentle on hair and boast-self regulating technology and a wide range of heat and airflow settings, such as Ghd, Dyson, Shark, Pattern, and Harry Josh. This will allow you the utmost control through the process, and remove the risk of damaging hot spots. Or, opt for a heatless curling options from Kitsch or Drybar, which invite the opportunity for nourishing leave-in hair care products and treatments to soak in while you style.
How you wear your hair: The tool you choose is all based on preference. Whether you love silky straight strands, a fresh, bouncy blowout, a slicked-back bun, or a mane of tousled waves — or all of the above — select an exemplary instrument for your styling goals. There are tools that serve versatile styling functions too, like the Wavytalk 5 in 1 Curling Iron Set, Dyson Airwrap, and Bio Ionic 3-In-One Styling Flat Iron, so it’s best to choose kits or devices that come with multiple attachments and accessories if you like to keep your options open.
Quality: While there are many affordable hair dryers, curling irons, straighteners, and stylers on the market, it’s important to keep in mind that the quality of a hair tool is of utmost importance when it comes to healthy hair, long-term use, and achieving your desired result. “Most high-quality heat tools will have the newest technology as far as heat regulation and reducing the recovery period on the temperature,” says Lee, “which affects the overall performance because you get less heat damage.” Lower-priced options can pose a high risk toward damage or breakage, since there is often less or no control over temperature settings or airflow, whereas investment tools put total authority to your fingertips. High-quality hair tools generally equate to a gentler approach to styling, and combine as nourishing materials, like ceramic plates or barrels, with moisture-retaining features such as negative-ion technology and calibrated airflow. Prioritizing quality will give you a better bang for your buck in the long-run too, as well-designed tools are made more durably with longer warranties.
What to Look for in Essential Hair Styling Tools
Hair dryers: Modern hair dryers come in a variety of iterations. They differ in key details, like ionic and ceramic materials, or high-powered airflow. Castro notes that the weight of a hair dryer is among the most important elements to look out for too. “It needs to be light and easy to handle in your hand,” he says. “As a professional, I’m standing above the hair, so getting the angle right is easy, but when someone’s doing their own hair, it’s such an uncomfortable position. It’s a workout, basically.” A high-quality blow dryer can prevent harmful overheating that causes dry brittle strands and bacteria build-up on the scalp, while they can also be utilized to create defined curls or smooth strands while drying your hair at home.
Hair wavers: Consider hair wavers a mix between a clamp straightener and a curling iron, as they often include a hinge and rounded plates to bend the hair. “Hair wavers come in several sizes with a varying number of barrels to help create different textural patterns,” says Tardo. Hair wavers often either come with three barrels or a single-barrel, which can result in tight waves or loose kinks. Tardo adds that these tools “add texture and volume to the hair, giving it a relaxed and effortless look.” They can be used on any hair type, but pay attention to barrel sizing and heat settings to best suit your hair length, texture, and concerns.
Flat irons: While flat irons or straighteners appear to serve one purpose, the technique in which you use the tool can garner a range of results. Flat irons can be used to flatten, elongate, and polish the hair, and they can also curl bangs and create textured waves with an artful flick of the wrist. Your hair type informs the type of flat iron that works best for you. Compared to fine hair, “thicker hair can tolerate higher temperatures and wider plates,” explains Los Angeles-based hair stylist Bradley Leake, and wider plates enable you to cover more surface area on long hair in one pass. “Shorter hair is more compatible with thinner plates as these can get closer to the scalp,” he says, and slimmer plates also offer more control when styling bangs. Brands like Ghd and Bio Ionic have developed flat irons with protection features like temperature regulation to prevent frizz and unnecessary damage, while the material of the heated plates, such as keratin or argan-oil infused ceramic and titanium, can aid in moisture retention for a glossy end result. However, the less heat you subject your hair to, the better, so opt for a flat iron that has multiple heat settings with a maximum of 450°F.
Hair dryer brushes: These hybrid tools perform as a blow dryer and traditional hair brush in one, which helps to simplify the blow dry process. They significantly cut down on styling time and the overall impact of heat, as compared to a traditional hair dryer, and can create waves, curls, or a smooth styles. “Blow dryer brushes are such an easy way to get a smooth, voluminous ‘blowout’ look,” says Chicago-based celebrity hairstylist Alex Brown, who’s worked with the likes of Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, and Bella Hadid. “They make it easier to tame frizzy hair, rather than managing a dryer in one hand and a brush in the other.” They bode well for all hair types and textures, though keep in mind that larger barrels are best for longer hair to create bigger curls and catch more hair in one pass. “Our favorite tool for touching up second-day styles are blow dry brushes,” says Lee. “They’re a quick and easy way to freshen up face-framing layers, smooth out your ends or add a little volume to the root.”
Curling irons: Classic curling irons are designed to curl the hair in ribbon-like ringlets, and can also be useful for “adding a bit of volume at the root if you hold it for a few seconds,” says Rubenstein. “You can also use a curling iron to smooth out a curl by placing hair between the clamp and the rod and running it straight down as if it were a flat iron.” When it comes to choosing the right barrel size, Brown recommends matching it to the density of your hair. “The smaller the barrel, the tighter of a curl it will be. If you have thick hair, you’ll want something that’s a little bigger in size so you’re not spending so much time taking smaller sections of your hair. My go-to barrel size is 1.25 inches or 1.5 inches, depending on the type of look you’re wanting to achieve.” She adds that the material of the barrel is just as important: “Ceramic curling irons help smooth hair and reduce frizz as well as reduce potential heat damage. Titanium curling irons are good for heating up fairly quickly and help retain the moisture in your hair strand.” If you’re looking for speedy results, opt for titanium, while damaged or dry hair will see the most benefits from ceramic models.
Heatless curlers: Heatless curling tools and techniques have seen a major surge in popularity thanks to TikTok, and they’re beloved for their ease of use and healthy-hair results. “Heat can be very damaging on your hair, especially for those who color or lighten their hair,” explains celebrity hairstylist Becca Mader. “Using heatless curl methods like braiding, velcro rollers, and finger coiling are all great ways to maintain the integrity of your hair’s natural texture and moisture level.” If you’re looking to create a frizz-free blowout with minimal effort, look to the satin-wrapped curling rods from Kitsch you can wear in your sleep, or consider velcro rollers for added lift at the root.
Hair brushes: The humble hair brush can have a large impact when styling your hair. A detangling brush should be suitable for wet hair, as typical hair brush bristles can cause breakage on vulnerable strands, while a styling brush should smooth the hair and effectively distribute natural oils. Consider wet hair-safe options like the Unbrush that serves both functions and protects the hair from damage and strain.
How We Tested & Reviewed the Best Hair Styling Tools
In order to curate out list of the best hair styling tools, a panel of five WWD Shop testers and editors with different hair types and textures — including short to long, fine to thick, and straight to curly hair — tested dozens of hair tools to determine which deserved a spot in our top list. On top of testing tools on our own hair, we also tools to the test on human hair wigs to evaluate tools on a full range of textures, from pin-straight to type 4c curls. Our testers evaluated each hair tool and category, including hair dryers, hair dryer brushes, curling irons, flat irons, hair wavers, heatless curlers, hair brushes, and styling accessories such as hair rollers and clips.
Since our initial round of testing in January 2024, we’ve conducted a second trial to assess our original selections in comparison to new discoveries that were either recommended by experts, our TikTok FYP’s, or boast glowing, best-selling reviews. Any previous recommendations that no longer lived up to new products were removed from the list, while most of our initial must-haves continued to make the cut. During our evaluation of over 75 tools, we paid attention to the performance on different hair textures, and whether the tools delivered on their result claims. We also took note of functional elements such as plate and barrel sizes, hair-healthy materials, and adjustable heat or airflow settings. Additionally, we assessed the durability of each tool by dropping them from countertop height to determine if they could hold up to common wear and tear, and analyzed their consistent performance over extended periods of time.
Below, our testing criteria we considered as we curated this shopping guide.
Size and design: Hair styling tools should be easy to use and comfortable to hold, as this largely impacts the hair styling experience and overall results. This entails a design that is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and doesn’t feel bulky. Throughout our evaluations, our testers took note of whether they experienced discomfort or unreasonable complications while styling their manes. We also considered size and design as it pertains to simple at-home storage and easy packing for travel.
Ease of use: The best hair styling tools should be easy to use, even when creating the most intricate results. We assessed the user-friendly quality of each tool based on straightforward settings and buttons, and whether they garnered excellent results in a reasonable time frame. We also took not of additional factors such as smooth hinges, rotating chords, automatic shut-off features, and overall convenience incorporated into their designs.
Safety and hair health features: We largely focused on hair health benefits as we selected our list of the top hair styling tools. Elements such as temperature range, self-regulating technology features, and settings that offered maximum control played a big factor in our testing, as well as hair-healthy materials used in heated plates or curling rods. We included options that went above and beyond the fray, that not only protect the hair from strain, but go on to nourish strands through long-term use.
Results: Among all of our testing criteria, there is a bottom line — whether or not the tool performed its styling claims. We assessed the results of each tool by paying attention to the time in which they took to achieve, whether they lasted through a typical eight-hour day (or longer), and whether they left the hair feeling soft, hydrated, smooth, and shiny, with minimal use of additional product.
How We Chose the Best Hair Styling Tools
Since there’s a wide array of hair styling tools to choose from, our editors performed hands-on testing on over 75 hot tools and heatless stylers to determine the best of the best. We selected bestselling and top-rated tools for our evaluations, while also revisiting old favorites, and considering options for a wide range of hair types, textures, styling preferences, and hair concern.
Our extensive product testing is based on extensive beauty market research, as well as expert insight and recommendations from nine professional hairstylists. We sifted through and compared customer reviews to determine the most user-friendly and satisfactory hair styling tools for a variety of hair goals. Our testers narrowed down 16 standout hair styling tools to simplify your search. Out of dozens of tools tested, below are our runner ups:
Hot Tools Professional Gold Curling Iron: This is an industry-beloved curling iron for creating long-holding ringlets and waves. It heats up quickly, has a wide range of temperature settings up to 430°F, and allows for a comfortable grip as you twist and flip. However, it didn’t leave our hair quite as shiny as the T3 SinglePass Curl Ceramic Curling Iron or the Bio Ionic 3-In-One Styling Flat Iron.
Wet Brush: One editor loved using this hair brush on wet and dry hair to tame tangles and organize strands. However, it has a tendency to collect lint and is not suitable for every hair type.
Revlon Airflow Control Dryer: This budget-friendly hair dryer has a uniquely chubby nozzle that caters well to curly hair types. However our testers found that with attachments clicked into place, the tool felt cumbersome to work around hair, particularly for those with short, fine hair.
Amika The Conductor Flat Iron: While this option is easy to operate and creates sleek, shiny results with just a few passes, our testers experienced issues turning on the flat iron after a just a few weeks of usage.
L’Ange Le Volume 2-in-1 Volumizing Brush Dryer: Our testers appreciate the details on this hair dryer brush, such as a bristle guard for easy storage, and a generous cord length. But while testing the tool, we noticed that the high heat setting was too hot, and caused 80 percent dry hair to release steam.
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Meet the Experts
Nikki Lee is a celebrity hairstylist, the co-founder of luxury haircare brand In Common Beauty, and co-owner of Nine Zero One salon in West Hollywood, California. She’s cut and colored some of the most famous heads of hair, from Selena Gomez, Hilary Duff, Camila Cabello, Emma Roberts, Sydney Sweeney, and more, and her work has been seen on the magazine covers of Glamour and Shape.
Chris Appleton is a celebrity hairstylist and Global Ambassador for Shark Beauty. Appleton is known for his work as a world-renowned conceptual hair stylist, highly sought after by some of the biggest names in music, entertainment, fashion, and advertising for his original and outstanding work. Named a “Hair Star” by Vogue UK, Appleton’s work has been showcased on covers and major features for the top-tier magazines across the globe, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, Grazia, L’Officiel Paris and Singapore. His red carpet clients include Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian West, Ariana Grande, and Katy Perry. Impeccable attention to detail, paired with enviable creative vision, has made Appleton into one of the most in-demand hairstylists today.
Scott King is a celebrity hair stylist based in Los Angeles, California. He has worked with Sabrina Carpenter, Jenny McCarthy, Lucy Hale and more.
Alex Brown is a celebrity hairstylist whose home base is her private hair studio in Chicago, where she works behind the chair in the ever-evolving West Loop neighborhood. Prior to relocating to Chicago, Alex spent 3 years as the right hand to celebrity renowned hairstylist, Jen Atkin, and has over 12 years of experience in the beauty industry.
Bradley Leake is a celebrity hair stylist based in Los Angeles, California. He has worked with Ariana Madix, Chrishell Stause, Hannah Godwin and more.
Alex Osorio Castro is a hair stylist at the Sally Hershberger Professional Hair Care salon in NoMad. His work has been seen in Calvin Klein campaigns and manes of models such as Anwar Hadid. His styling has also graced the cover of Marie Claire and walked the runways at NYFW.
Britney Newville is the West Coast Manager of Education for Bumble and Bumble.
Laura Polko is a celebrity hair stylist in Los Angeles, CA. Her client list includes names like Gigi Hadid, Maren Morris, Hailee Steinfeld, Alix Earle and many more. When she isn’t styling the hottest stars on your social feeds, she is making easy tutorial videos on Instagram for you to try at home.
Larry Sims is a celebrity hair stylist, who’s work has been seen across the entertainment industry, from television programs, such as Good Morning America, The View, The Today Show, and Entertainment Tonight, to the magazine covers of Vogue, Allure, Elle, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Essence. He’s responsible for Victoria Beckham’s iconic “bob” hairstyle, as well as looks seen on celebrities such as Janet Jackson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Kerry Washington, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys, Laverne Cox, and more.
Becca Mader is a celebrity hairstylist and has worked with clients including Kim Kardashian, Mindy Kaling, Charly Jordan, Kristi Howard.
Meet the Testers
A panel of five WWD Shop beauty testers lent their strands for this guide to the best hair styling tools. Our testers include Olivia Cigliano, the Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD and the author of this story, Claire Sullivan, the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, Adam Mansuroglu, the Director of Commerce for Fairchild Media Group, as well as three additional testers. Our test team represents each and every hair type from pin-straight to coily, as well as various cuts, styles, and sensitivities, like color-treated or damaged hair. We paid close attention to user-friendly design and long-lasting results, as well as tested each different hairdo against varying climates and conditions, such as a typical work day in the office and high-humidity levels outside in New York City, in order recommend standout tools that are universally satisfactory.
Meet the Author
Olivia Cigliano is the Commerce Writer and Producer at WWD and Footwear News. She is a New York City-based fashion and lifestyle writer, riding the pulse of trends and digital culture. Her previous bylines can be found on CR Fashion Book and Elite Daily. When she’s not writing shopping content at WWD and FN, she can be found searching for a holy grail in a Brooklyn thrift store or surveilling newsstands for fashion magazines. She’s undergone several phases of her haircare journey, from trendy cuts to bleach damage and everywhere in between, all while testing the gamut of hot tools and heatless curlers on the market. Her educated perspective and years of first-hand experience allow her to confidently recommend hair styling tools for different care concerns and high-style results. She updated this guide to the best hair styling tools in May 2024 with additional editor testing reviews and new tool releases.
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