The hair tools and products I simply refuse to be without

The haircare market can be a daunting one, with so many formulas to navigate, and new tools, products, and technologies launching in spades.

It can often feel easier to tap out entirely and stick to the basics, but trust me when I say that when you find the right products, that light at the end of the hairy tunnel becomes oh, so clear!

All it comes down to is trial, error, and a few helpful recommendations from people like me who have put their hair through its paces for you.

From the best dry shampoo to the straightener I swear by, here are seven of the best hair tools that will be on high rotation this year.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

Matomage Hair Styling Stick

$6.89 | Beauty Amora

After discovering this on a trip to Japan, I'm afraid I can't go back to slicking my hair any other way.

As a slick-back lover, the Matomage Hair Styling Stick is simply magic. It holds down all my flyaways without leaving a trace of grease, tackiness, or crusty product buildup that traditional gels can.

I personally am yet to finish one of these because they last that long. And coming in at under $10, this might just be the greatest haircare steal of all time.

Dyson Supersonic Origin Hair Dryer

Here for $499

Sure, everyone always raves on about how much they love the Airwrap, and sure, it's great, but in my humble opinion, the trusty Dyson Supersonic is my go-to tool of choice, giving me a silky smooth blow-dry every time.

I've had mine for well over five years now, and it still looks and performs as good as the day I got it, so you can bet I will have this on heavy rotation again in 2026.

With a range of colour options on the market, I opted for this all-over pink colourway, but if I had to choose again, I'd go for something like the Nickel/Copper for a super sleek and chic look.

Evy Professional IQ-OneGlide 1.5" Hair Straightener

$315 | Price Attack

Another trusty hair tool that I am constantly reaching for is the Evy Professional IQ-OneGlide 1.5" Hair Straightener for pin-straight hair, loose waves, and everything in between.

What I love most about this straightener is how my hair never seems to look or feel dry after each use. This is thanks to the special mineral-infused technology that helps to deliver flawlessly styled hair with added hydration and shine.

Oh, and it has an auto shut-off feature, which activates after 60 minutes, so you never have to worry about whether you remembered to turn it off or not.

Drybar High Tops Self-Grip Rollers

$25.54 | Amazon

It took me a while to get on the big velcro roller trend, but late last year I decided to give it a go, and the results were so good I am absolutely bringing these into 2026 with me.

These ones from Drybar are perfect for longer or thicker hair, as the wide roller has enough space to wrap the entire length of your locks.

I wasn't looking for a super tight curl, just something subtle that had some body, and in my opinion, these rollers delivered absolutely that.

Metal Duck Billed Hair Clips

Here for $10.99

These go hand in hand with the rollers, because if your hair is anything like mine (thick, frizzy, medium to long length), you'll need something sturdy to hold it in place.

The good news is these Metal Duck Billed Hair Clips are the perfect tool for the job, easily clipping onto the roller to secure it in place, or for wrapping your hair in pin curls.

A 24-pack of these will only set you back $10.99, and you'll be so glad you had them when it comes time to style your hair.

Solar Eclipse Handpainted Acetate Hair Brush

$82.41 | Anthropologie

This might just be the best hairbrush I have used. Ever.

The Solar Eclipse Handpainted Acetate Hair Brush is a two-in-one, featuring a multi-layered mix of synthetic boar-bristles and traditional hairbrush bristles. This means it is not only great for detangling, but also for slick and smooth styling, no matter if you're brushing out curls, or trying to perfect your slickback.

Not to mention, it looks absolutely stunning sitting on a vanity with the beautiful hand-painted acetate design.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day

Was $52, now $42

As someone prone to oily hair, having a good dry shampoo on speed dial is essential.

But often I find most to leave my hair feeling crusty, full of product, and looking just as bad as it did when it was greasy! That was until I picked up the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day, which claims to not only absorb the oil, but actually clean the hair too?!

Full of intrigue (and low expectations), I picked up a bottle, tried it out and lo and behold, it did everything it said it would, and more. Not only was my hair looking and feeling clean, but it had a burst of volume that I typically struggle to achieve.

So if like me, you struggle with oily hair, then look no further because this is the product for you.

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