Hair Brush Sizes: Are You Using The Correct Size?

How many times have you wondered about the fact that there are different hair brush sizes in the market? The fact that there are different sizes of hair brushes to choose from is by design. 
When it comes to shopping for and using hair brushes, size definitely matters. Choosing the right size is key to achieving the perfect hairstyle and blow-drying effect. That’s why we’ve put together this hair brush size guide. We’ll help you choose the ideal size for short, medium, and long hair. You’ll learn other things to consider in picking the perfect brush as well. Here at My Haircare & Beauty you’ll gain access to all the different hair brushes you could need – shop now or reach out for a personalised recommendation!

How Are Hair Brushes Sized and Why Are There Different Sizes?

In particular, hair brush sizes are determined based on the diameter of each brush. You can choose the ideal size of brush according to the length of the hair. 
The idea is that the hair strands should be able to wrap itself around the entire diameter of the brush while you are styling in order to achieve the desired style. It also helps to add volume to the hair when blow drying.
Generally speaking, shorter-diameter brushes are best suited for shorter hair. On the other hand, the longer your hair is, the wider the diameter of the brush should be. 
You can check out below to learn more about choosing the right hair brush sizes and some recommended brushes for you to consider (according to your hair type).

Different Hair Brush Sizes for Different Types of Hair

Something as simple as the type and size of your hair brush can completely transform your styling experience. It makes it easier to achieve the volume, curl, or sleek look you desire without damaging your hair. 
So, what size round brush for shoulder length hair is best? What if you have long hair down to your lower back? We’ll break it down into three different sizes below.  

For Short Hair

If you have short hair or hair that is about chin length, you need to opt for hair brush sizes that are smaller in diameter – typically 15-25mm. 
This size is also ideal for those with bangs or layered styles, as it provides precision and lift at the roots. A small-diameter brush lets you create texture or flip ends outwards, giving volume without overwhelming shorter hair lengths.
Look for round brushes or thermal brushes in this size range if you want to add waves or a slight curl to your style.

For Medium Hair

Hair that falls around shoulder length requires a medium-sized brush with a diameter of 35-45mm. This balances control and volume, making it easy to style without risking tangles. Medium brushes work well for creating soft waves, loose curls, or a smooth blowout. 
Because shoulder-length hair has more length to work with, a medium-sized brush can wrap around sections comfortably, allowing for even heat distribution and control. 
This size also offers flexibility. With some practice, you can achieve both volume and sleekness depending on how you angle the brush and apply tension.

For Long Hair

For longer hair, larger brushes with diameters around 50-65mm (or even more) are your best choice. This size helps you work with more substantial sections of hair, reducing styling time while preventing tangling within the bristles. 
A large-diameter brush is essential for achieving volume, big bouncy waves, and smooth blowouts. The wider circumference helps pull the hair taut, ensuring even smoothing and reducing frizz, making it perfect for taming longer locks. 
Large brushes are also great for straightening long hair without creating tight curls, offering an ideal balance for maintaining sleekness and volume.

More Things to Consider in Choosing Hair Brushes

Size is certainly important when it comes to hair brushes, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle when striving to choose the perfect brush. Here are some other things to consider to pick the perfect types of hairbrushes.

Bristle Type

Different bristles interact with the hair in different ways. Boar bristles are excellent for distributing natural oils from your scalp through the hair shaft, which enhances shine and smoothness. They’re best suited for fine to normal hair, as they add volume without creating static.
On the other hand, nylon bristles work well for detangling thicker or textured hair as they’re stronger. They also offer more resistance, making them ideal for creating tension while blow-drying. Some brushes combine boar and nylon bristles to offer both shine and detangling power, which can be perfect for thick or long hair. Learn more about choosing between a nylon vs boar bristle brush in our blog.

Brush Shape and Purpose

The shape of the brush affects how it styles your hair as well. Round brushes are our recommendation for blow-drying and creating volume or waves. The larger the round brush, the bigger the curl or wave, while smaller ones provide tighter curls.
In contrast, paddle brushes are best suited for smoothing long, straight hair as they cover more surface area, which is ideal for everyday use on straight or slightly wavy hair.
There are also vent brushes with open slats that allow more air to pass through while blow-drying, making them a good choice for quickly drying fine hair or achieving a natural look with minimal frizz.

Material of the Brush Barrel

This is especially important if you’re using a brush while blow drying. Ceramic or tourmaline barrels distribute heat evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots that can damage hair. They also emit negative ions to fight frizz and add shine. Meanwhile, metal barrels are ideal if you want to create smoothness and volume quickly, as metal heats up fast when blow-drying. Just be careful with temperature to avoid heat damage. You may need a heat protectant.

Handle Comfort and Grip

Of course, you want a brush you enjoy using – which is why you should also think about the handle. Handles with a comfortable, non-slip grip reduce hand fatigue and give better control while styling.
Heavier brushes can be tiring, so try to find one with a balanced weight that feels comfortable for extended use.

Account for Hair Type and Density Too

In general, thicker hair benefits from firmer bristles and larger brushes while finer hair may need softer bristles to prevent breakage and snagging. If you aren’t sure what your hair type is we recommend our guide as a starting point. 
But regardless of hair type, the best hair brush is only a click away at My Haircare & Beauty!

The Perfect Hair Brush Size is a Click Away at My Haircare & Beauty!

Whether you’re looking for a brush for short hair or long hair, wet hair or dry hair, thick or thin hair – My Haircare & Beauty has you covered. We’re the #1 choice for all your hair accessories in Australia, including:

Since 2008 stylists and individual customers have sourced their haircare and beauty essentials from us. We stock more than 200 leading beauty brands that you’ve come to know and love, ranging from Davines to Kevin Murphy, evo, Keune, Muk, and many more.
If you still aren’t sure which hair brush size is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll talk about your needs and point you in the right direction so you can bring out the full potential of your hair. Shop now or get in touch to discover the difference the ideal brush can make!

Bringing Our Hair Brush Size Guide to a Close

Hopefully, you have a better understanding of which of the hair brush sizes is right for you after reading through this guide. Don’t forget to consider bristle types, materials, handle comfort, and more – along with your hair type.
Our blog has additional resources on everything from shampoo vs conditioner to types of shampoo, permanent vs semi permanent hair dye, hair dye cost, how to wash curly hair, how to style wet hair, and more.
But from the best products for thinning hair to the best shampoo for colour-treated hair, the best hair straighteners, and all the best hair brushes, remember that My Haircare & Beauty is your one-stop shop.
So, what are you waiting for? Discover brushes designed to match your hair length and type in our collection today and give your hair the care it deserves!