Faster Blowouts, Easy Lift, Sleek Ends Without the Juggle
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Price Tier: Budget to mid
Best for: Straight to wavy, fine to normal hair that wants quick smooth volume with minimal effort
Introduction
If round-brushing with a dryer feels like a circus act, the REVLON One-Step Volumizer Plus solves the coordination problem by combining hot airflow and a brush in one hand. You dry and smooth at the same time, so mornings move faster and arms stay fresher. The “Plus” version uses a slightly slimmer oval brush head than the original, which helps you reach the roots for more lift and get closer to shorter layers.
This review breaks down real-world performance, who it suits, and how to use it so you get salon-style bounce without crispy ends. We focus on everyday owner reports and stylist tips rather than a single hands-on demo. Ratings reflect a summary of owner feedback and stylist commentary.
What it is
A hot-air brush with an oval barrel that combines airflow vents, heat, and mixed bristles to dry and style simultaneously. Multiple heat and speed settings plus a cool option let you rough-dry, smooth, and set. The oval shape helps create tension along the edges for a slight bend at the ends and lift at the roots.
Why people like it
- Speedy blowouts. You can go from damp to styled hair in one tool, often in 10–20 minutes depending on length and thickness.
- Beginner friendly. One hand, one tool. If you can brush, you can blowout.
- Root lift and soft bend. The oval edges and bristle mix make it easy to get volume without a curling iron.
- Shinier finish than air-drying. Consistent airflow helps seal the cuticle for smoother ends.
Where it can disappoint
- Very thick or long hair may still need a separate round brush or a traditional dryer to rough-dry first to 70 to 80 percent.
- High heat on fine hair can cause dryness if you linger. Keep it moving and use a protectant.
- Not a flat-iron. It delivers a bouncy blowout, not pin-straight glass hair.
How to use it for best results
- Prep with a light heat protectant and detangle thoroughly.
- Rough-dry to 60–80 percent with a towel or a regular dryer if hair is thick.
- Section into top, middle, and bottom. Work 1–2 inch sections.
- Lift and roll. For roots, place the brush under the section, lift upward, hold a beat, then glide down while turning slightly for a soft bend.
- Cool to set. Use the cool setting on each finished section for longer-lasting volume.
- Polish with a tiny drop of lightweight serum on the outer veil if needed.
Performance by hair type
- Fine/straight-wavy: Great match. Use low to medium heat, keep passes moving. Expect smooth volume without collapse.
- Normal/straight-wavy: Sweet spot. Two slow passes per section give a salon-style blowout.
- Thick/wavy: Works best if you rough-dry first. Smaller sections improve tension and dry time.
- Curly worn natural: Can stretch curls into a blowout look. If you want defined clumps, choose curl-friendly products and diffusing instead.
Pros
- Quick, one-tool blowouts with lift
- Easier learning curve than a dryer + round brush
- Slimmer oval head reaches roots and shorter layers
- Good value for results and time saved
- Cool setting to help set the finish
Cons
- Can feel hot on fine or fragile hair if you linger
- Heavier than a paddle brush; long sessions can tire arms
- Very thick hair may still need a partial rough-dry first
Rating: 4.5/5
Who should buy it
- You like a bouncy blowout with soft bend at the ends.
- You want a fast, simple routine before work or school runs.
- Round-brush coordination is not your favorite skill.
Who should skip it
- You want glass-straight finishes or tight curls from one tool.
- Your hair is very short with layers that the barrel cannot grip.
- You avoid hot tools entirely.
Alternatives to consider
- Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex Hair Dryer if you prefer a traditional dryer with smart attachments.
- Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler for hot-air styling with more attachment options and price to match.
- Olivia Garden Ceramic + Ion NanoThermic Round Brush plus a regular dryer if you want classic control.
Verdict
The REVLON One-Step Volumizer Plus earns its spot as an affordable blowout shortcut. It will not replace a flat iron or a pro dryer for every scenario, but if your goal is smooth, lifted hair in less time and with less fuss, it delivers. Use a heat protectant, keep sections moderate, and set with a cool pass. For many straight-to-wavy hair types, it is the quickest route to a presentable, soft-bend blowout.
See also
For the smoothest, quickest blowouts, your wash-day basics matter. The Ultimate Hair Care Guide (2025) lays out shampoos, conditioners, heat protectants, and tools by goal, and Best Heat Protectant for Fine Hair: Shield Without Weight is a safe starting point if you want protection without flattening. When your hair is prone to frizz or needs more slip before styling, Best Conditioner for Damaged Hair: Strength, Slip, and Less Breakage helps brushes and hot-air tools glide.
If you want other routes to smooth shape, check Best Brush for Straight Hair for paddles and boar-mix finishers that pair well with hot-air tools. Prefer to add bend first and then smooth? Best Brush for Curling Hair: Round, Hot-Air, And No-Heat Options That Hold covers tools and techniques so a light mist of Best Hairspray for Fine Hair or Best Hairspray for Curly Hair can lock the look without crunch.
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FAQ
Can I use it on soaking wet hair?
No. Towel-dry first. If hair is thick, rough-dry to about 70 percent before styling.
Will it damage fine hair?
Any hot tool can. Use lower heat, keep the brush moving, and apply a heat protectant.
Does it work on very curly hair?
It smooths and stretches curls for a blowout look. For ultra-sleek, a flat iron gives stronger tension.
How long does a blowout last?
Usually a day or two. Boost longevity by finishing with a cool shot and a light flexible hairspray.
