Straightening brushes that work on wavy hair without causing damage can be very challenging. And finding the right straightening brush is even more challenging. But luckily I can help as I have ton of experience testing many brushes and know all the secrets. OK, so let’s get one thing straight: I don’t have wavy hair. I’ve got the kind of fine hair that gives up halfway through a blow dry. But lucky for me (and you), the team at HairBrushy doesn’t stop at my scalp. I’ve tested straightening brushes on real wavy hair like 2A, 2B, and 2C all right here in the HairBrushy studio.
And let me tell you, if you’ve got waves that don’t know whether they’re coming or going, you already know the struggle. One pass of the wrong brush and you’ve either got a puffball or hair so flat it looks like you lost a bet, ha!
So I made it my mission: Find the best brushes that smooth waves without frying your hair.
Let’s get to it and tame those waves without killing the vibe.
Understanding Wavy Hair (Quick Breakdown)
But first I would like to explain the problem and that way I can easily show you the solution or at least give you some great options. I’ve found that understanding the problem leads to a much better solution and I’ll think you will agree.
| Type | Look | Needs |
|---|---|---|
| 2A | Loose, flat waves | Low heat, smoothing help |
| 2B | More defined S-shape | Frizz control, lift |
| 2C | Coarse waves, slight curls | Gentle heat, smoothing & hold |
Wavy hair isn’t straight, well that sounds like of silly, right? Of course its not, ha! . It’s not curly either. It’s the beautiful, unpredictable in-between zone, and it needs its own rules. In my experience I have found if you try to treat wavy hair like straight hair, you’ll end up with limp, frizzy strands. Treat it like curly hair, and you might overload it with heavy products or heat that’s too intense.
Wavy hair falls into three subtypes: 2A, 2B, and 2C. And yes there is a difference.
2A Hair is the flattest of the bunch. Think gentle bends starting around your ears. This type is usually fine and straightens easily but it can lose volume fast and gets oily at the roots. You’ll want low heat and lightweight tools here.
2B Hair steps it up a bit. These are defined S-shaped waves that start closer to the roots. It’s a little thicker, a little frizzier, and a lot more stubborn when it comes to smoothing.
2C Hair is where waves flirt with curls. It’s coarse, it’s voluminous, and it tends to get frizzy just by thinking about humidity. This type needs smoothing, yes, but also a brush that won’t yank or over-dry it.
If you’re unsure where you land, here’s my secret I’ll giveaway:
“If your waves lose their shape when you brush them dry but come back after a little water or product, you’re in the 2A–2C club.“
The trick is choosing a brush that respects your wave pattern, smooths without flattening, controls frizz without frying, and works with your texture, not against it. Sound easy, right, well hold on.
What Wavy Hair Needs From a Straightening Brush
So after trial and error here is what I found works the best. These are features I look for in a straightening brush and you should too if you have 2A, 2B or 2C hair.
- Low to medium heat (250°F–350°F)
- Ion technology to reduce frizz
- Wide paddle shape for smoothing large sections
- Lightweight build to prevent tugging
- Rounded bristles for detangling without pulling
Side-by-Side Test Results
Here are the brushes I tested and have the most experience using:
- TYMO Ring
- Revlon One-Step Plus
- GHD Glide
- Drybar Brush Crush
| Feature | TYMO Ring | GHD Glide | Revlon One-Step Plus | Drybar Brush Crush |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Range | 266°F–410°F | 365°F (fixed) | 250°F–400°F | Up to 450°F |
| Bristle Type | Ceramic/Nylon | Ceramic | Nylon w/ airflow | Ionic/Ceramic |
| Good for 2A? | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Good for 2B? | ✅✅ | ✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ |
| Good for 2C? | ✅ | ⚠️ too hot | ✅✅ | ✅✅✅ |
| Frizz Control | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅✅ |
| Overall Score | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Brush And Serum Combos That Work
I found out the hard way that even the gentlest straightening brush can do damage if you’re going in bare. Heat protectants and serums don’t just protect, they optimize the results, sealing in your wave pattern while taming frizz and flyaways.
I’ve seen this firsthand while working with the HairBrushy crew. Every time we skipped the protectant, the difference was obvious: frizzier, drier ends and way less shine. But with the right combo? Silky waves, zero crunch, and less breakage over time.
Why Use a Heat Protectant or Serum?
- Seals the cuticle – Prevents heat from cracking or drying the hair shaft
- Reduces frizz – Especially crucial for 2B and 2C waves
- Adds slip – Helps the brush glide without snagging
- Enhances shine – Locks in moisture and gives a healthy finish
- Preserves your wave pattern – So your hair doesn’t end up flat or fried
My Favorite Brush + Serum Pairings (By Hair Type)
Amazon affiliate links below:
| Brush | Best for Hair Type | Serum/Protectant | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| TYMO Ring | 2A, 2B, 2C | Color Wow Dream Coat | Feather-light, humidity-proof, and keeps waves frizz-free for days |
| GHD Glide | 2A, 2B | Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector | Strengthens while protecting; great for color-treated or aging hair |
| Revlon One-Step Plus | 2B, 2C | John Frieda Frizz Ease Serum | Affordable and effective for taming puffiness and adding softness |
| Drybar Brush Crush | 2C | Verb Ghost Oil | Ultra-light and smoothing—great for coarse waves that need control, not weight |
Tip: If you’re using a protectant spray, apply it to damp hair, then wait until it’s completely dry before brushing with heat. This avoids steam damage (yep, that sizzle sound is moisture escaping, and it’s not good). For serums or oils, warm a few drops between your palms and smooth it over your hair just before brushing. Focus on mid-lengths and ends, not your roots.
Final Thoughts – Smooth, Not Straight
Wavy hair shouldn’t have to choose between frizz and flatness. The right straightening brush will smooth and define without frying your strands or killing your texture.