You want a salon-quality blowout at home without spending hours or damaging your hair. The Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus promises to deliver volume, soft waves, and a smooth finish in a single pass. But how does it stack up against other Revlon hot brush stylers? In this review, we assess the Volumizer Plus and three other models to help you pick the right tool for your hair length and styling goals. We have also reviewed similar tools like the ghd Duet Style if you want to explore more options.
Pros
- Dramatically reduces styling time compared to using separate blow dryer and brush
- Leaves hair noticeably smoother, shinier, and frizz-free with impressive volume
- User-friendly design requires no professional styling skills for salon-quality results
- Versatile three-heat-setting system works well for different hair types and textures
- Highly durable construction with many users reporting 7+ years of reliable performance
Cons
- Fixed barrel design offers less versatility than multi-attachment styling systems
- May overheat with heavy daily use over extended periods, potentially requiring replacement
- Larger 2.8-inch barrel may not be ideal for short hair or detailed styling work
The REVLON One-Step Volumizer is a hybrid hot air brush that combines the functions of a blow dryer and styling brush into one tool. It is designed for people with mid-length to long hair who want faster styling without the learning curve of managing separate tools. The 2.8-inch oval barrel is specifically engineered for maximum coverage and efficiency.
What sets this tool apart is its ability to deliver genuine salon-quality results in minutes. Users consistently report that hair dries faster, looks smoother and shinier, and holds volume without frizz. The nylon pins and tufted bristles provide the tension needed to style effectively, while the rounded edges help create volume and shape curled ends. The three heat settings (Cool, Low, High) allow customization based on hair type and desired finish, making it suitable for various styling needs.
The design is thoughtfully constructed for comfort and control. At just 1.5 pounds and measuring 4.1 x 11.4 x 10.1 inches, it is easy to hold and maneuver through hair without fatigue. The ergonomic shape fits naturally in the hand, and the fixed barrel eliminates the need to swap attachments, streamlining your routine significantly.
One consideration is that this tool performs best with consistent care rather than heavy daily use. While many users report enjoying this dryer for 7+ years, some note that intensive daily styling may cause it to overheat over time. Using a heat protectant product and varying heat settings can help extend its lifespan. Additionally, the fixed 2.8-inch barrel works best for mid-length to long hair and may be less practical for very short styles.
Overall, the REVLON One-Step Volumizer delivers exceptional value for anyone seeking to simplify their styling routine and achieve professional-looking results at home. Its combination of speed, ease of use, and consistent quality makes it a standout choice in the hot air brush category.
The REVLON One-Step Volumizer is best suited for people with mid-length to long hair who want to reduce styling time and achieve volume without frizz. If you currently use a separate blow dryer and brush, this tool will streamline your routine and likely cut your drying time in half.
Consider this tool if you have limited styling experience or want salon-quality results without professional techniques. The design is forgiving and produces great results even for beginners. However, if you have very short hair or need precise detail work, the 2.8-inch barrel may be too large for your needs. The smaller 2.4-inch Volumizer Plus or the 3-in-1 Multi-Styler with attachments might be better alternatives.
For best results, use this tool on damp (not soaking wet) hair. Apply a heat protectant product before styling to minimize heat damage and extend the tool's lifespan. Use the Low or Cool setting when possible to reduce stress on hair, especially if styling daily. This approach will help you achieve the healthiest, most stunning blowouts while maximizing durability.
Pros
- Dries and straightens in one step, saving time and reducing heat damage.
- Ionic technology effectively reduces frizz and adds glossy shine.
- Multiple heat settings provide control for different hair types and styling needs.
- Large paddle covers more hair per pass, speeding up the process.
- Lightweight design minimizes arm fatigue during styling.
Cons
- May not be effective for very thick or tightly curly hair that requires higher heat or more tension.
- The large brush head can be cumbersome for short hair or precision styling around the roots.
- No automatic shut-off feature mentioned, which could be a safety concern for some users.
The REVLON One-Step Straightening Brush is a 2-in-1 tool that combines the power of a blow dryer with the precision of a hot brush. It is designed for anyone with mid-length to long hair who wants to cut down on styling time without sacrificing smoothness or shine. Whether you are starting with damp hair or refreshing second-day strands, this brush aims to deliver salon-like results in a single step.
Its standout feature is the tourmaline ionic technology, which releases negative ions to seal the hair cuticle and lock out humidity. This reduces frizz and static while adding a healthy gloss. The large paddle shape and detangling bristles allow you to dry and straighten large sections at once, making it especially effective for those with thick or long hair. Users can expect a noticeable reduction in styling time compared to using a separate dryer and flat iron.
Build quality is solid, with a lightweight body that weighs just 1.65 pounds, reducing arm strain during use. The three heat settings (low, high, and cool shot) give you control over temperature based on your hair type and desired finish. The cool shot is particularly useful for setting the style and adding extra shine. The brush is easy to grip and maneuver, though the large head may feel bulky for short hair or detailed work around the ears and nape.
One potential drawback is that very thick or extremely curly hair might require multiple passes or a higher heat setting than this tool provides. Additionally, the brush lacks an automatic shut-off timer, which some users may consider a safety oversight. However, for most hair types and daily styling needs, these limitations are minor.
Overall, the REVLON One-Step Straightening Brush is a practical and effective solution for anyone seeking a faster, less damaging way to achieve smooth, shiny hair. It earns high marks for convenience, performance, and value, making it a strong contender in the hot brush category.
Brand: REVLON
Model: One-Step Straightening Brush Hair Dryer and Styler
Color: Black
Size: 1 Count (Pack of 1)
Dimensions: 4.1 x 11.5 x 10.25 inches
Weight: 1.65 pounds
Heat Settings: Low, High, Cool Shot
Technology: Tourmaline Ionic
Bristle Type: Detangling bristles
Recommended Hair Length: Mid-length to long
Suitable Hair Types: All hair types
Pros
- Ionic technology reduces frizz and static for smoother results.
- Ceramic coating helps protect hair from excessive heat.
- Three heat settings offer flexibility for different hair types.
- Swivel cord prevents tangling during styling.
- Compact 1.5-inch barrel ideal for volume at roots and styling layers.
Cons
- Best suited for chin-length to medium hair, not ideal for very long or thick hair.
- Only one barrel size (1.5 inch) limits styling options for larger curls.
- May not provide enough airflow for heavy, dense hair compared to traditional blow dryers.
The REVLON One-Step Root Booster is a hot air brush designed for quick blowouts on chin-length to medium hair. It combines a round brush and hair dryer into one, making it perfect for daily styling or touch-ups.
Its ionic technology reduces frizz and static, leaving hair shiny and smooth. The 1.5-inch ceramic barrel heats evenly to minimize damage while adding volume at the roots. Three heat settings let you customize airflow and temperature.
The brush features a 6-foot swivel cord for easy maneuverability. The barrel is coated with ceramic to distribute heat gently. The design is lightweight and easy to hold, though the barrel size limits its use to shorter hair lengths.
For those with long or very thick hair, the 1.5-inch barrel may not provide enough surface area or power. It works best on damp, not wet, hair. Some users might prefer a larger barrel for bigger curls.
Overall, the REVLON One-Step Root Booster is a solid choice for anyone wanting a quick, frizz-free blowout on shorter hair. It offers good value with its ionic technology and heat settings, though it is not a replacement for a full-sized hair dryer for all hair types.
Pros
- Precise root lift and volume for shorter hair lengths.
- Multiple heat settings for customized styling and reduced heat damage.
- Detachable design saves space and doubles as a handheld dryer.
- Charcoal bristles effectively detangle and smooth hair.
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
Cons
- Best for chin-length to mid-length hair; less effective on very long or thick hair.
- No separate concentrator or diffuser attachment included.
- May require multiple passes for full drying on damp hair.
The REVLON One-Step Volumizer Plus is a hot-air brush designed specifically for those with shorter hair lengths. Its smaller 2.4 inch oval barrel offers closer-to-root control, making it a great choice for adding lift and soft waves to chin-length or mid-length hair. This tool is ideal for anyone who wants precision styling without the bulk of a larger round brush.
Standout features include six heat settings that let you choose from Cool to High, giving you flexibility for drying, shaping, and refreshing your style. The detachable brush head is a thoughtful addition, allowing for compact storage when not in use and even enabling the unit to function as a regular hair dryer. During testing, the charcoal-infused pins and tufted bristles effectively detangled and smoothed hair, leaving a polished finish with minimal frizz.
Build quality is solid for the price point, with a lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver. The oval barrel shape helps create soft curls and flips, and the combination of bristles provides good grip for tension while styling. However, the plastic body feels durable but not premium, which is expected for a tool in this category.
One drawback is that the smaller barrel size is less effective for very long or thick hair, as it may not grab enough hair at once to create full volume. Additionally, there are no additional attachments like a concentrator or diffuser, which could limit versatility for some users. The lack of a cord swivel may also be a minor inconvenience during use.
Overall, the REVLON One-Step Volumizer Plus is a reliable and well-designed hot-air brush for its intended audience. It excels at adding root lift and waves to shorter hair, offering good control and storage convenience. If you have chin-length to mid-length hair and want a tool that combines drying and styling, this is a solid investment.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Revlon One-Step Styler
Barrel Size and Hair Length
The barrel diameter determines how close you can get to the roots and how much hair you can style at once. The Volumizer Plus has a 2.4-inch oval barrel, which is ideal for chin-length to mid-length hair. It gives you more control for root lift and precision curls. In contrast, the original Volumizer with a 2.8-inch barrel covers more surface area, making it better for longer hair. If you have short layers or want to create tighter waves, the smaller barrel is your friend.
Heat Settings and Versatility
Different hair types need different heat levels. The Volumizer Plus offers six heat settings, including Cool, Low, Medium, and High, plus a cool shot. This range lets you dry damp hair on high and set styles with cool air. The other models in this lineup typically have three settings. More options mean you can fine-tune the temperature to avoid damage. For more tips on styling tools, check our Beauty Tools category.
Bristle Type and Detangling
The bristles grip hair and help smooth it as you dry. The Volumizer Plus uses charcoal-infused pins and tufted bristles that detangle while guiding hair. The original Volumizer has nylon pins and tufted bristles. Both work well, but charcoal can help reduce odor and add a bit of grip. If you have fine or tangled hair, look for models with mixed bristles for gentle detangling.
Portability and Storage
The Volumizer Plus has a detachable brush head, which makes it easy to store and pack. You can also use the dryer without the brush for quick touch-ups. This feature is unique among the models we reviewed. If you travel often or have limited bathroom space, a detachable design is a big plus. For more comparisons, visit our Comparisons page.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating all four Revlon One-Step stylers, we believe the Volumizer Plus is the best choice for anyone with shorter hair who wants precise root lift and defined waves. Its smaller barrel, extra heat settings, and detachable design make it versatile and travel-friendly. If you have longer hair and prefer a classic full-bodied blowout, the original REVLON One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer and Styler is still a top performer. Both tools deliver salon results with less effort, so your choice really comes down to your hair length and styling preference. Whichever you pick, you will enjoy faster drying and smoother, shinier hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus differ from the original Volumizer?
The Volumizer Plus has a smaller 2.4-inch barrel that allows closer root styling and better control for shorter hair. It also offers six heat settings instead of three and has a detachable brush head for easier storage. The original Volumizer has a 2.8-inch barrel, which is better for longer hair and faster drying.
Can I use the Volumizer Plus on wet hair?
Yes, the Volumizer Plus is both a hair dryer and styler. You can use it on damp hair after towel drying. Start with the high heat setting to dry, then switch to a lower setting or cool shot to shape and set your style. Always use a heat protectant spray for best results.
Is the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus suitable for thick or coarse hair?
Yes, the multiple heat settings and ionic technology help smooth thick hair and reduce frizz. The charcoal-infused bristles grip hair effectively, making it easier to style even coarse textures. For very thick hair, you may need to section your hair for thorough drying.
How do I clean the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus?
Unplug the device and let it cool. Remove the brush head if possible. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove hair and dust from the bristles. You can wipe the barrel with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging in water. For more maintenance tips, visit our Blog.
