HAIR STYLING TOOLS

The Ultimate Guide to Hair Styling Tools: Achieve Salon-Worthy Hair at Home

Whether you want sleek, straight locks or bouncy curls, having the right hair styling tools can make all the difference. With countless options on the market, selecting the best tools for your hair type and desired style can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential styling tools, the best brands, price ranges, and professional salon favorites.

1. Hair Dryers: The Foundation of Styling

A high-quality hair dryer is a must-have for any styling routine. Look for one with multiple heat and speed settings, as well as ionic technology to reduce frizz.

Best for: All hair types, especially thick or frizz-prone hair.

Best Brands: Dyson Supersonic ($429), T3 Cura Luxe ($285), BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium ($90), Revlon One-Step Volumizer ($60).

Salon Favorites: Dyson Supersonic, GHD Helios, and Parlux 385 PowerLight.

Pro Tip: Use a concentrator nozzle for smooth blowouts and a diffuser for defined curls.

2. Flat Irons: Sleek and Straight Perfection

A flat iron is essential for achieving smooth, straight hair. Choose ceramic plates for even heat distribution and titanium plates for quick, high-heat styling.

Best for: Wavy, curly, and frizzy hair.

Best Brands: GHD Platinum+ ($279), CHI Original Ceramic ($100), BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium ($150), Remington S5500 ($30).

Salon Favorites: GHD Platinum+, Bio Ionic 10X Pro, and Paul Mitchell Neuro Smooth.

Pro Tip: Always apply a heat protectant spray before using a flat iron to prevent heat damage.

3. Curling Irons and Wands: Waves and Curls for Every Occasion

Curling irons and wands come in various barrel sizes to create everything from tight ringlets to loose beach waves. A wand without a clamp gives a more natural, relaxed curl.

Best for: All hair types.

Best Brands: Hot Tools Pro Artist ($50), T3 Whirl Trio ($335), BaByliss

PRO Curling Iron ($70), Conair Infiniti PRO ($35).

Salon Favorites: T3 Whirl Trio, GHD Curve Classic Curl, and Harry Josh Pro Tools.

Pro Tip: For long-lasting curls, let them cool before brushing them out and use a light-hold hairspray.

4. Hot Rollers: Effortless Volume and Curls

Hot rollers are a great way to add volume and curls without using excessive heat. They work well for creating soft, bouncy waves that last all day.

Best for: Medium to long hair.

Best Brands: Conair Xtreme Instant Heat ($50), BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium ($85), Remington H9100 Pro ($45), T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers ($150).

Salon Favorites: T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers, Caruso Molecular Steam Rollers.

Pro Tip: Roll hair away from the face for a more natural and voluminous look.

5. Blow Dry Brushes: The Best of Both Worlds

A blow dry brush combines the power of a hairdryer with the styling abilities of a round brush. It’s perfect for achieving a salon-style blowout at home.

Best for: Fine to medium hair.

Best Brands: Revlon One-Step Volumizer ($60), Drybar Double Shot ($155), GHD Glide ($169), T3 Air Brush Duo ($190).

Salon Favorites: Dyson Airwrap, Drybar Double Shot, and T3 Air Brush Duo.

Pro Tip: Work in sections and start at the roots to create volume.

6. Crimpers and Wavers: Throwback Texture and Fun Styles

Crimpers and wavers are making a comeback, adding texture and unique patterns to your hair. They’re great for an edgy, voluminous look.

Best for: Medium to long hair.

Best Brands: Bed Head Wave Artist ($30), Hot Tools Deep Waver ($60), Amika High Tide Deep Waver ($120), Revlon Perfect Heat Crimper ($25).

Salon Favorites: Amika High Tide Deep Waver, GHD Professional Crimper.

Pro Tip: Crimp small sections for subtle texture or go bold with full crimped hair.

7. Professional Shavers, Beard Trimmers, and Razors

High-quality electric shavers and trimmers are essential for achieving precise grooming results, whether for clean shaves or detailed beard styling.

Best for: Barbershops and high-end salon grooming services.

Best Brands:

• Wahl Professional 5-Star Series ($75 - $130) – A favorite among barbers, known for durability and precision.

• Andis Professional Master ($80 - $150) – Powerful, adjustable blade clippers ideal for fades and trims.

• BaBylissPRO Barberology GoldFX Trimmer ($150 - $200) – Sleek, cordless, and powerful for precision cuts.

• Philips Norelco Multigroom 9000 ($90 - $130) – Versatile all-in-one grooming kit.

• Gillette Heated Razor ($200) – A premium razor that provides a luxurious shaving experience.

Salon Favorites: Wahl 5-Star Shaver, Andis Master Clipper, and BaByliss PRO GoldFX Trimmer.

Pro Tip: Use a pre-shave oil for a smoother shave and to minimize irritation.

8. Salon Mirrors: Essential for Styling and Precision

Mirrors are an integral part of any salon setup, providing visibility for stylists and clients alike.

Best Salon Mirror Brands:

• DIR Salon Furniture – High-quality wall-mounted and LED salon mirrors ($300 - $1,500).

• Kaemark Salon Mirrors – Custom-built and premium-grade options ($500 - $2,500).

• Minerva Beauty – Offers a wide range of stylish, modern mirrors ($400 - $2,000).

• SalonSmart – Budget-friendly yet durable mirror options ($250 - $1,200).

Pro Tip: Opt for LED-lit mirrors for better lighting and precision during styling.

9. Salon Chairs: Comfortable and Functional Seating

Professional salon chairs play a crucial role in enhancing the styling experience for both hairstylists and clients. Reclining chairs are particularly useful for hair washing and comfortable styling sessions.

Best Reclining Salon Chair Brands:

• Takara Belmont – High-end, luxurious chairs used in many top salons. Prices range from $2,000 to $5,000.

• Pibbs Industries – Offers durable, stylish reclining chairs at mid-range prices ($800 - $2,500).

• DIR Salon Furniture – Known for its ergonomic and modern designs, priced between $1,500 and $4,000.

• Collins Manufacturing – Customizable and made-in-USA chairs ranging from $1,000 to $3,500.

• Kaemark – Premium quality and durable reclining salon chairs, costing between $1,500 and $4,500.

Pro Tip: Choose chairs with adjustable height, sturdy hydraulic bases, and cushioned upholstery for maximum comfort.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right styling tools can transform your hair routine and help you achieve salon-quality styles at home. Whether you’re looking for hair styling tools, grooming essentials, or professional salon furniture, selecting high-quality brands ensures the best results and longevity.