Can’t decide between a curling brush or a curling iron? Why not have both? If you’ve always been annoyed by the amount of space you need for both of these tools, I’ve got some good news for you: brush curling irons exist!
Brush curling irons combine the best of both worlds. These devices are just curling irons with bristles and branches around the central iron. These branches latch onto your hair and hold it in place while you curl, allowing you to get the heat of a curling iron with the bristles of a curling brush.
You may like to read: 10 Best Hair Straighteners For Short Hair.
Brush Curling Irons for Short Hair Reviewed In This Guide
Best Brush Curling Iron for Short Hair List
There are many hairstyling tools online, and while more options are never wrong, it’s easy to confuse a brush curling iron for either a curling brush or a curling iron. Shopping for brush curling irons is in some ways similar to buying a curling iron, but there’s enough about them that’s different that you should know what to look out for. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of the ten best brush curling irons for short hair.
CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush
The CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush may look pricey at first glance, but I can vouch for its efficiency. This brush curling iron for short hair is well worth its price tag.
First things first – this brush curling iron was built as a curling iron first and then repurposed into a brush. It means that all the considerations that would go into a top-quality iron are present in this brush curler, notably its tough tourmaline ceramic barrel that provides even heat distribution while taming even the frizziest hair.
The CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush has an excellent temperature peak of 410°F, which is more than enough for your hair styling needs. A 15-second temperature lock ensures stable performance and output, helping you maintain a consistently beautiful hairstyle.
Finally, the CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush comes with its own safety features. This curling brush not only comes with a 1-hour auto shutoff feature for safety but as well as a 2-meter swivel cord.
Special Features
- Tourmaline ceramic barrel for optimal styling
- 15-second auto temperature lock
- Large barrel
Pros: Great maximum temperature, temperature lock is excellent, has added safety features.
Cons: Pricey
Bottomline: The CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush comes at a high price tag compared to its peers. But it is well worth every penny due to its quality and consistently excellent performance. If you’re going to get just one brush curling iron, this is the one.
Revlon Perfect Heat Ceramic Curling Brush Iron
The Revlon Perfect Heat Ceramic Curling Brush Iron is a fantastic, affordable hybrid styling tool that’s sure to be able to match your haircare needs.
This brush curling iron features a durable triple ceramic construction that improves its heat handling and gives it consistent performance without going into its maximum heat setting of 400°F. The Revlon Perfect Heat Ceramic Curling Brush Iron has 30 heat settings, and an ergonomic grip gives it unmatched safety.
One thing you really need to get used to when using this brush curling iron is the placement of the curling iron. Many customers – myself included – have found that it’s really easy to hit the power switch when you don’t mean to. This is more of an annoyance than an actual problem, but it does quickly get annoying.
Special Features
- Triple ceramic construction for optimal heat conduction
- 30-second heat-up time
- 400°F maximum temperature
Pros: Affordable, ergonomic handle, 30 heat settings for maximum control
Cons: Really easy to hit the power switch
Bottomline: The Revlon Perfect Heat Ceramic Curling Brush Iron is incredibly easy to use. With its numerous heat settings and excellent heat conduction, this brush curling iron for short hair is a sure keeper.
Conair Instant Heat Styling Brush
The Conair Instant Heat Styling Brush is a small yet powerful brush curling iron. Due to its small frame, dual voltage, ease of use, and multiple heat settings, this brush curling iron makes for an excellent travel companion.
This brush curling iron features the latest in Conair’s heat distribution innovations, boasting both Multi-Layer Technology and Smart Technology. These two systems work in tandem to distribute heat super evenly (allowing for perfect curls and waves) while having the unique ability to release a burst of heat to tame those super-stubborn strands.
Customers have expressed that while the Conair Instant Heat Styling Brush is an excellent brush curling iron, it doesn’t get quite as hot as other brush curling irons.
Special Features
- Multi-Layer Technology with heat-distributing barrel
- Advanced heat control technology for preventing hot spots and activating bursts of heat
- Dual voltage
Pros: 25 heat settings, 30-second heat-up time, affordable
Cons: Not as hot as other brush curling irons
Bottomline: The Conair Instant Heat Styling Brush is a small curling iron that packs a punch. What it doesn’t have in terms of heat, it makes up for in terms of portability and ease of use.
Salon Edition Hair Styling Brush Iron
Comfort-wise, the Salon Edition Hair Styling Brush Iron is one of the best brush curling irons you can get today.
This brush curling iron features soft ball-tipped bristles that allow for excellent styling without tangling up your hair. Its light construction and ergonomic grip keep your hands light and comfortable while reducing strain on your wrists.
While the Salon Edition Hair Styling Brush Iron scores really high on both comfort and ease of use, it doesn’t have a very high max temperature, and customers have noted that it takes a while to style with this curling brush. Its light construction also works against it, with its plastic frame being notably less durable than other brush curling irons.
Special Features
- Soft ball-tipped bristles
- Ergonomic design
- 338°F maximum temperature
Pros: Ergonomic design makes for excellent handling
Cons: Not dual voltage, only two heat settings, not very durable
Bottomline: Want light and comfortable? Hair doesn’t like rigid, stiff bristles? Go for the Salon Edition Hair Styling Brush Iron.
Helen of Troy Series Professional Brush Iron
If you want a fast brush curling iron for short grey hair, say hello to the Helen of Troy Series Professional Brush Iron.
The Helen of Troy Series Professional Brush Iron features a very light yet sturdy design. But what sets this brush curler apart from its peers is its speed. Seriously – this thing is fast, and the strip bristle design helps not only with its quick heating but also helps maintain the effects of your styling for long periods of time.
The bristles are nice, but they can also be a downside. Customers and I have noticed that the bristles can occasionally slide out, which can cause problems while styling.
Special Features
- Strip bristle design for fast heating and long-lasting results
- Ergonomic handle
- Cool tip for styling control
Pros: Light, affordable, heats up quickly
Cons: Bristles can slide out
Bottomline: Speed is the name of the Helen of Troy Series Professional Brush Iron’s game. If you want something that can style your hair quickly and effectively, this is the brush curling iron to get.
Phoebe Mini Curling Iron Brush
The Phoebe Mini Curling Iron Brush should be right up your alley if you’re looking for a compact travel buddy.
This curling iron brush features a super compact and lightweight design, with a tourmaline ceramic body for optimal heat conduction. The Phoebe Mini Curling Iron Brush has dual voltage, making it great for international travel.
Potential customers should watch out for the lack of temperature settings on the Phoebe Mini Curling Iron Brush. However, it does come with a lot of features, including an anti-scald and a maximum temperature of 390°F. The only issue is that there’s only a single on/off switch on this brush curling iron.
Special Features
- Nylon bristles and long cool tip to prevent scalding
- Super lightweight design
- Tourmaline and ceramic construction
Pros: Great for travel, one-year warranty, great anti-scald features
Cons: No heat control settings
Bottom line: The Phoebe Mini Curling Iron Brush is a solid and dependable partner for busy professional on the go. And it’s got more safety features than usual, to boot!
Revlon Silicone Bristle Heated Hair Styling Brush
The Revlon Silicone Bristle Heated Hair Styling Brush may not look like it can hold its own, but don’t be fooled: its soft silicone bristles are both comfortable yet flexible and sturdy enough for all your styling needs.
This brush curling iron also has many safety features, such as an ergonomic cool tip for fewer burns and a tangle-free swivel cord to prevent tripping.
One problem that the Revlon Silicone Bristle Heated Hair Styling Brush has is that it only has two heat settings – high and low. While both give off enough heat for styling and taming your hair, those that need more specific heat options may want to look for another brush curling iron.
Special Features
- Flexible and comfortable silicone bristles
- Ergonomic cool tip for comfort and control
- 30-second fast heat up
Pros: Easy to control and use, comfortable bristles
Cons: Only has two temperature settings
Bottom line: If you don’t like the feel of rigid brushes, give the Revlon Silicone Bristle Heated Hair Styling Brush a shot.
Conair Infinitipro Hot Curl Brush
The Conair Infinitipro Hot Curl Brush is a specialized product that’s made for taming and detailing short, curly hair.
This brush curling iron features an all-ceramic body which gives it good durability and even heat distribution. Its heat is easy to control thanks to 5 precision temperature settings and an LED temperature display.
Potential customers should be wary of the larger-than-usual gaps between the branches of this brush curling iron. These gaps make it great at managing and styling short, curly hair – anyone else might get scalded!
Special Features
- Ceramic construction
- Five precision LED temperature settings to a maximum of 395°F
- Great for short, curly hair
Pros: Even heat distribution, consistent heat
Cons: Branches are far apart
Bottomline: While it’s not for everyone, those with short and curly hair agree: the Conair Infinitipro Hot Curl Brush is a godsend.
GLAMGLIDER Curling Iron Brush
The GLAMGLIDER Curling Iron Brush is another excellent brush curling iron for short hair.
This brush curling iron for short hair comes in a tourmaline ceramic shell, which gives it great heat conduction and even heat distribution. It also features comfortable anti-scald nylon bristles, which, when coupled with its very high maximum heat of 480°F, is more than enough to curl and style even the most frizzy, stubborn hair.
One thing you need to look out for is the awkward placement of the GLAMGLIDER Curling Iron Brush’s power button. While this button is out of the way, it’s really easy to accidentally press it while styling, and there’s no way around this other than to get used to it.
Special Features
- Tourmaline ceramic design for minimizing frizz
- Anti-scald nylon bristles
- Dual voltage
Pros: Dual voltage, very high maximum heat, auto shutoff after 1 hour
Cons: Awkward power button placement
Bottomline: The GLAMGLIDER Curling Iron Brush is a solid, reliable choice for a brush curling iron for short hair.
Hot Tools Pro Artist Hot Air Styling Brush
The Hot Tools Pro Artist Hot Air Styling Brush is a great product that offers a good blend of quality and reliability.
This brush curling iron features a multi-vent barrel for quick and even heat distribution and ball-tipped bristles, making styling easier and less likely to trap your hair. In the rare event that hair does get caught on this brush curling iron, it also boasts a unique barrel release button, which will help you manually detangle your hair.
While this brush curling iron is hot, some may not like the only two heat settings on it. If you need more finely-tuned temperature settings, this one may not be for you.
Special Features
- Multi-vent barrel
- Barrel release button for easy detangling
- Ball-tipped bristles for gentle styling
Pros: The barrel release button is very nice
Cons: Only two heat settings
Bottomline: The GLAMGLIDER Curling Iron Brush is a solid product made even better thanks to its barrel release button – which makes it fantastic at styling and taming frizzy hair of all lengths.
Brush Curling Iron for Short Hair Buying Guide
What Is a Brush Curling Iron for Short Hair?
A brush curling iron is, in many ways, similar to both a curling iron and a curling brush. It combines the heated barrel of a curling iron with the branches and bristles of a curling brush into a single hybrid device, saving you space and offering you the convenience of both devices in an easy-to-carry package.
It’s important to note that brush curling irons made specifically for short hair are few and far between. Depending on the kind of short hair you have – straight, curly, kinky, or anything else – you may want to get a brush curler with larger gaps.
How Does a Brush Curling Iron for Short Hair Work?
Brush curling irons for short hair work by transforming electrical energy into heat via their heating elements. This heat is transferred to the brush curling iron’s central heating barrel and, by extension, its bristles. This heat makes hair loose and prevents it from bunching up, making styling a breeze!
What Is the Best Brush Curling Iron for Short Hair?
It’s hard to pinpoint just one “best” brush curling iron, so I’ve chosen three: the best overall, the best for people on a budget, and the best premium brush curling iron.
The best brush curling iron on this list is the Revlon Perfect Heat Ceramic Curling Brush Iron, due to its great functionality and ease of use.
The best budget brush curling iron on this list is the Conair Instant Heat Styling Brush, due to the amount of options it offers for its low, low cost.
The best premium brush curling iron on this list is the CHI Amplitude Ceramic Heated Round Brush – it’s pricey, but it’s got a quality and convenience that just can’t be beaten.
Types of Brush Curling Irons for Short Hair
Brush curling irons generally follow the same classification trend as regular curling irons in that they can be sorted via their heating element. Do note that most brush curling irons use tourmaline ceramic heating elements!
Titanium Element
Titanium brush curling irons use titanium as their primary heating element. This metal is especially potent for hair care as it heats up quickly and retains heat well. Its material is also its weakness: it’s incredibly easy to use heat that’s too much for your hair to handle, so I’d suggest leaving titanium tools in the hands of professionals.
Tourmaline Element
Tourmaline is a common gemstone that is used as a heating element. This is due to its property of generating negative ions when heated. These ions are fantastic at controlling and taming frizzy hair, and tourmaline brush curling irons tend to require fewer passes to get the styling job done.
Ceramic Element
Some hot tools use ceramic heating elements. When used as a heating element, ceramics heat up slower but safer. Ceramics also boast more even heat distribution, thus offering greater control than titanium brush curlers. If you want something fast, ceramics aren’t the way to go.
Tourmaline Ceramic Element
Most brush curling irons use a hybrid composition of tourmaline and ceramics. And much like how brush curling irons are a great fusion of two tools, so do these two materials combine their strengths into a solid heating element. Tourmaline ceramic brush curling irons are both thorough and safer than brush curling irons that use other heating elements.
Features to Look for In a Brush Curling Iron for Short Hair
While brush curling irons are the most complex devices in the world, they should ideally have these features to make them easier and safer to use. As you’re already shelling out money for a new device, you may as well get something high-end!
Temperature Control
The more heat settings a hot tool has, the better, and brush curling irons are no exception. Remember: heat is innately damaging, so the faster you can work at a lower temperature, the better off your hair will be. Brush curling irons with 10+ heat settings may seem like overkill, but trust me – greater control over your brush curling irons’ heat output yields more beautiful hair.
LED Temperature Display
While we’re on the topic of temperature control, it’s a good idea to get a brush curling iron that tells you precisely how hot it is via an onboard LED display. This will allow you to use the minimum amount of heat needed to style your hair, keeping it healthy and happy for longer!
Temperature Locks
Some brush curling irons come with a temperature lock feature. This means that after a certain amount of time, the brush curling iron will set itself to the temperature you end up with. In practice, this results in consistent heat, leading to consistent performance and easy-to-replicate styling.
Automatic Shutoff
Let’s not forget that hot tools are, well, hot. It’s easy enough for us to say that we’ll never forget to turn our devices off, but the reality is that accidents happen – in which case it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Try to get a brush curling iron with a one-hour or even 45-minute automatic shutoff. The peace of mind it affords will more than justify the cost.
Soft Bristles
The bristles of a brush curling iron can and will greatly affect how it styles your hair. And admittedly, sharp and rigid bristles can be annoying at best and harmful at worst. If your hair and scalp don’t play nice with solid bristles, look for a brush curling iron with soft material for its bristles, such as nylon or silicone.
Ergonomic Grip
A good grip is necessary for both great styling and keeping yourself safe and unburned. Some brush curling irons have indents or grooves that are perfect for your fingers, giving you better handling over the tool and thus allowing you to style better.
Cool Tip
Cooled brush curler tips help keep you safe, especially when you’re styling your hair with the steaming-hot barrel. A good tip should dispel heat well, keeping your scalp and hair safe from unintentional heat exposure.
Well-Placed Power Button
This might sound weird, but a well-placed power button goes a long way when it comes to brush curling irons. While styling your hair, you’ll need to reposition your grip and hands constantly. Some curling brushes are really easy to accidentally switch off due to the awkward placement of the power button. Whenever possible, try your prospective brush curling iron in your hands to see if you might accidentally hit the off switch.
Swivel Cords
Most brush curling irons are corded, so you’ll want to get one with a swivel cord. This not only prevents your brush curling iron from tangling up its own wires but also helps prevent accidents caused by tripping over the power cord.
Dual Voltage
Last but not least is the dual voltage feature. As you’re very likely getting a brush curling iron for convenience (over bringing both a curling iron and a curling brush), it’s important to have one that’s good to go, no matter where you are in the world. Dual voltage brush curling irons do just that – they’re compatible with voltage and sockets wherever you go.
Common Questions About Brush Curling Irons for Short Hair
How often can I use a brush curling iron for short hair?
As with regular curling irons, it’s a good idea to refrain from using your brush curling iron more than once a week. While the heat does make your hair easier to style, it will also make your hair more vulnerable to breakage and split ends, as well as drying up its natural oils.
Should I always use the maximum temperature when using a curling brush?
As much as possible, avoid going to the absolute maximum temperature that your brush curling iron offers. Like Goldilocks, the temperature for your hair has to be just right – anything more runs the risk of permanent damage. For most cases, the maximum temperature you should go to is the 300°F range, with 400°F reserved for professional stylists.
Should I use a heat protectant when using my brush curling iron?
Yes, you should always use a heat protectant. This goes doubly so if your hair is particularly stubborn or frizzy and needs high heat to be tamed.
Can I use my brush curler on wet hair?
No, and you should never do this. The rapid vaporization of water in your hair can do a lot of permanent damage, so always be sure to dry your hair before any heat treatment!
How long should I use my brush curling iron?
All hot tools should be approached with a “less is more” mindset. That said, five to eight seconds is the ideal use time for your brush curling iron – any more can result in heat damage.
Enjoy Your New Brush Curling Iron for Short Hair
Now that you know what to look for in the best brush curling irons for short hairs, fabulous hair and luxurious blowouts are just a touch away. Always remember, though: style with care, and listen to what your hair tells you is best for it!
Mel is a licensed Chemist in New Jersey who has worked in several cosmetics companies and has years of experience formulating hair care and beauty products. She uses her knowledge in cosmetics to distinguish and find the best products to recommend to Union Of Barber’s readers. When Mel’s not writing, you can find her walking her dogs or cooking and baking at home!
