There’s no definitive right or wrong answer—it depends on your desired result and hair type. Let’s explore two main types of brushes for blow-drying and what you can achieve with each. In this blog I am going to talk about the reasons why someone would choose each technique and what they achieve, as a hairdresser who does both I thought it would be a good idea to explain why.
Vess Brushes
What Is a Vess Brush?
A Vess brush, also known as a Denman brush, is a 9-row flat brush. Unlike round brushes, it isn’t ceramic. The blow-drying technique associated with a Vess brush is called wrap drying, which follows the natural shape of the head and how the hair naturally falls.
Best Uses for a Vess Brush:
- Ideal for bobs and shorter haircuts, this is how I like to check short haircuts making sure every hair is sat in place.
- Great for managing “jumpy” fringes or taming cowlicks, I really like using this technique because it flattens the hair and helps fringes sit fuller.
Wrap Drying Technique Tips:
- Remove the nozzle from your hairdryer to allow better airflow and a more natural effect. With the nozzle on, airflow becomes too concentrated, and the desired result is harder to achieve.
- Focus on a flatter, natural look rather than creating volume or bounce.
Why Wrap Drying Is Popular
This technique was famously used by Vidal Sassoon. Sassoon salons still use this technique to this day! It’s perfect for achieving clean, natural looks that work effortlessly at home, especially for shorter cuts.
Round Brushes
What Is a Round Brush?
Round brushes come in various sizes and are often ceramic and designed to hold heat. This feature allows the brush to act like a roller when left in the hair to cool, helping to lock in shape and volume.
Best Uses for a Round Brush:
- Adds volume and creates a bouncy, polished finish.
- Ideal for making hair curly, flicky, or smooth, depending on technique.
- Works really well on frizzy or naturally curly hair when the goal is smoothness with volume.
Round Brush Technique Tips:
- Use a nozzle on the hairdryer to concentrate airflow for smoothing especially at the roots.
- For longer-lasting styles, leave the brush in place as the hair cools to enhance the shape and volume.
Why Clients Love Round Brushes:
Clients find it hard to create a salon look at home, making this technique a treat that could last a few days or even up to a week! When combined with tools like the Dyson Airwrap, clients can attempt similar results at home with some guidance.
I think as a hairdresser it’s such a good skill to have to be able to create a great bouncy blowdry with a hairdryer and a brush rather than heated tools – this can help build a good clientele.
Choosing the Right Technique
- Wrap Drying: best for short styles and precision cuts. This technique helps hair fall naturally into place without added volume, making it practical for both salon and at-home use.
- Round Brush Blow-Drying: perfect for frizz control, smoothing, and creating bouncy, voluminous looks.
As a hairdresser, mastering both techniques is essential to cater to a variety of client needs. Being able to recommend the right method ensures clients leave feeling confident and informed about how to maintain their desired look.