Your Round Brush Size Guide for The Perfect Blowout
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through the link at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.
Ever feel lost in the sea of round brush sizes, wondering which one is right for your hair? You're not alone. As a hairstylist, I've seen so many clients struggle with finding the perfect round brush size. It's a common challenge—wanting that perfect bouncy blowout or swooped-back bangs but not knowing which brush to use. I totally get it; the right round brush can make all the difference in your styling routine.
Today, I’m excited to share my personal favorites from the Olivia Garden Ceramic+ion SpeedXL collection. I’ll guide you through choosing the best round brush sizes to suit your hair length and styling needs. Whether you want to add volume, create a stunning bouncy blowout, or achieve a sleek blowout, I’ve got you covered.
Top Picks
My top round brush brand: Olivia Garden
My top round brush collection from Olivia Garden: Ceramic+ion SpeedXL Extra-Long Barrel Round Brush
My most used and highly recommended round brush sizes:
Round Brush Size Guide Chart
When it comes to achieving salon-worthy hair at home, the right round brush can make all the difference. I’m obsessed with the Olivia Garden Ceramic+ion SpeedXL collection, and I’ve found that these three sizes—1 ⅜ inch, 1 ¾ inch, and 2 ⅛ inch—cover all my styling needs. Let me break down each size for you and show you how they work wonders for different hair lengths and styles, especially bangs!
1 ⅜ Inch Round Brush
I absolutely love this size for creating tight curls and adding detailed volume, especially if you have short to medium hair. It’s my go-to for styling front bangs and short curtain bangs. The smaller size really lets you get close to the roots for that perfect lift and volume.
1 ¾ Inch Round Brush
This one’s a fantastic all-rounder, ideal for medium to long hair. It’s perfect for those medium-sized curls and waves that add just the right amount of body and movement. I use this a lot for both short and long curtain bangs, and it’s versatile enough to handle various styling needs.
2 ⅛ Inch Round Brush
When I’m working with long hair, this brush is my best friend. It’s amazing for creating those big, loose, voluminous curls and waves that everyone loves. It’s also perfect for adding lots of volume to long hair and smoothing out long curtain bangs. If you’re aiming for a sleek blowout or glamorous waves, this is the brush to go for.
These brushes are my top picks for a reason—they deliver amazing results and make styling so much easier. Give them a try and see the difference for yourself!
If you want to find the perfect blow dryer and styling product that pairs well with my favourite round brush’s check out the blowout starter kit freebie!
| Brush Size | Hair Length | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 ⅜ inch | Short Hair (Pixie, Bob) | Tight curls, volume, short bangs |
| 1 ¾ inch | Shoulder to Medium Length | Bouncy blowouts, straight styles, long bangs |
| 2 ⅛ inch | Long Hair | Soft bends, volume, sleek looks |
FREE DOWNLOAD
THE ULTIMATE AT-HOME BLOWOUT STARTER KIT
Struggling to find find the right blow dryer, round brush, and hair products to give you that frizzy-free blowout? Don’t worry. This FREE starter kit has all my professional hairstylist hair tools and product recommendations!
How to Select a Round Brush Size for Your Hair Length
Choosing the right round brush size can feel overwhelming, especially when you're aiming for a specific style or dealing with hair length challenges. Using the wrong size can lead to limp curls, frizzy ends, or simply not achieving the look you desire. Let's dive into why size matters and how to pick the perfect round brush for your hair length, so you can achieve salon-quality results at home.
What Size Round Brush for Short Hair
If you have short haircuts like pixie cuts, chin-length bobs, or bobs that rest right above the shoulders, the 1 ⅜ inch (35mm) round brush is your best bet. This size is also perfect for short bangs and shorter curtain bangs. The smaller size gives you more control over your style and helps to hold more of a curl at the bottom of your hair, making it ideal for adding volume and definition to shorter hairstyles.
You can also try a 1-inch brush for even tighter curls and movement in the hair. Avoid using larger brushes as they can make it harder for you to get the hair onto your shorter hair properly.
What Size Round Brush for Medium Hair
For shoulder-length to medium-length hair, the 1 ¾ inch (45mm) round brush is perfect. It’s great for creating smooth, bouncy blowouts or sleek straight styles. This brush size works wonders on longer curtain bangs, giving them a nice volume and lift. It’s versatile enough to handle various styles, making it a go-to for medium hair lengths.
You might also consider a 1 ⅜ inch brush if you want tighter curls and more lift at the roots. Avoid very small brushes as they can cause too much curl and make your hair look shorter and more voluminous than desired.
What Size Round Brush for Long Hair
For those with long hair, the 2 ⅛ inch (55mm) round brush is a game-changer. It's perfect for creating a soft bend at the ends, adding maximum volume, and achieving that sleek, straight look. This larger size is all about giving you that glamorous, polished finish. It's my go-to for long hair to ensure a smooth and voluminous style.
A 1 ¾ inch brush can also be used for creating tighter waves and more defined curls, offering versatility in styling long hair. Avoid small brushes. They can be hard to use on longer hair because they can easily tangle around the brush.
What Size Round Brush for Blowouts
When it comes to achieving that perfect salon-quality blowout at home, the size of your round brush can make a huge difference. For blowouts, my top recommendation is the 2 ⅛ inch (55mm) round brush.
This size is ideal for creating voluminous, smooth, and sleek styles. The larger barrel allows you to lift the roots and smooth out the lengths of your hair, giving you that professional blowout finish with plenty of body and shine. It's especially effective for longer hair, as it can handle the volume and length, ensuring a flawless, frizz-free look.
FREE DOWNLOAD
Get the Perfect Blowout Every Time!
Ready to achieve salon-quality blowouts at home? This FREE kit includes my top picks for blow dryers, round brushes, and hair products to help you create that perfect, frizz-free style. Don't miss out!
What Size Round Brush for Bouncy Curls
For creating bouncy, lively curls, the 1 ¾ inch (45mm) round brush is your best friend. This size is perfect for achieving those medium-sized curls that add just the right amount of body and movement to your hair. Whether you have medium or long hair, this brush helps create defined, voluminous curls without weighing your hair down.
What Size Round Brush for Bangs
Styling bangs can be tricky! For shorter bangs, especially those that sit above the eyebrow, a smaller diameter brush like the 1 ⅜ inch (35mm) from the Olivia Garden Ceramic+ion-SpeedXL collection is perfect. This size provides precise control and helps create a subtle curvature that frames the face beautifully.
For longer bangs or curtain bangs that sweep across the forehead, a 1 ¾ inch (45mm) brush is ideal. This size allows for a smoother sweep and more volume, giving your bangs a bouncy, full appearance that integrates well with the rest of your hair.
| Brush Size | Bang Type | Styling Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 ⅜ inch | Short Bangs | Precise control, subtle curl |
| 1 ¾ inch | Long Bangs | Smooth sweep, voluminous bounce |
What Size Round Brush for Volume
For those looking to achieve maximum volume, the 2 ⅛ inch (55mm) round brush is unbeatable. This size is ideal for creating big, voluminous styles, especially in long hair. The larger barrel allows you to lift the hair at the roots and smooth out the lengths, giving your hair a full, bouncy look.
FAQs
How to measure the size of a round hairbrush?
Measure the size of a round hairbrush by checking the diameter of the barrel. This measurement is typically given in inches or millimeters.
What is the best round brush size for beginners?
The best round brush size for beginners is typically around 1 ¾ inch (45mm). This size is versatile and easier to handle, making it ideal for those just starting to use round brushes. Olivia Garden Ceramic+ion-SpeedXL brushes allow you to take wider sections with the longer brush size length.
Can I use the same round brush size for different hairstyles?
Yes, you can use the same round brush size for different hairstyles. It comes down to your round brush technique when trying to create a different hairstyle.
Can using the wrong size round brush damage my hair?
No, using the wrong size round brush cannot damage your hair. However, not knowing how to use the round brush properly can lead to hair damage. If you are not gentle, you can end up breaking your hair or drying it out.
Can I use a small round brush for thick hair?
Yes, you can use a small round brush for thick hair. A small round brush will give you a much more volumized curly look rather than a sleek, bouncy blowout.
Can I use multiple round brush sizes for different sections of my hair?
Yes, you can use multiple round brush sizes for different sections of your hair. For example, on short bob cuts, it’s easier to use a smaller round brush at the bottom because the hair is shorter. Then, once you get to the middle to the top of the hair, you can switch to a larger round brush. Also, using a smaller round brush for your bang section can give you more volume and movement than using a large round brush.
Conclusion
Choosing the right round brush size can truly transform your hair styling routine, whether you're aiming for voluminous blowouts, bouncy curls, or sleek bangs. But you're not alone if you're still struggling with using a round brush to get those perfect results.
Many people find it challenging to master the techniques needed for professional-looking hair at home. But don’t worry—I’ve got a solution for you!
My Blowout Basics Course is your ultimate guide to achieving salon-quality blowouts right at home. This value-packed 5-module course breaks down all the insider secrets into easy-to-follow steps.
