We all know and love hot air brushes, so much so, in fact, that we've even memorised this entire list of the best (and most affordable) Dyson Airwrap dupes in Australia. Call it our specialty subject, if you will. 

So imagine our surprise when the term 'thermal brush' started being bandied about in conversations between beauty enthusiasts on various social media platforms and in forums. Initially, we presumed that it was just another name for a hot air brush, but after a quick bout of Googling we quickly came to realise the hot air brush and the thermal brush are not the same at all. 

Here, BEAUTYcrew shares everything you need to know about thermal brushes, including how they compare to hot air brushes and where to shop the new Mermade Infrared Thermal Brush, which hits shelves this weekend.

Can you use a thermal brush on wet hair?

While a hot air brush effectively combines the powers of a hair dryer and a round brush, allowing you to streamline your wet-to-dry styling routine — a thermal brush is like the love child of a round brush and a curling tong and cannot be used on wet hair. The barrel and the bristles of a thermal brush are heated much like the plates of a hair straightener or the barrel of a curling tong, however they don't tend to be as hot, and therefore are less damaging to the hair. 

Is a thermal brush better than a hot air brush?

A thermal brush isn't necessarily better than a hot air brush, they serve different functions and therefore cater to different hair types. If you like to use both, there's nothing wrong with using both of them in your routine too.

A thermal brush is a fantastic option for hair types prone to frizz and flyaways as it can smooth and enhance shine as it styles. Plus, if you have thicker hair that doesn't hold an air-styled blow wave or curl very well, then a thermal brush is a great alternative to ensure longevity. 

However, if you have fine hair or hair that lacks volume, then a hot air brush would work best for your hair type. 

Mermade Infrared Thermal Brush
from $129 at Mermade

Mermade's new Infrared Thermal Brush doesn't just boast a heated barrel for a bouncy, shiny and voluminous finish — it also utilises Infrared light technology to enhance shine, reduce frizz and lock in moisture. The flexible bristles easily glide through the hair during styling, preventing tangling, whilst the bristle-free zones of the barrel allow more heat to penetrate the hair, promoting a more defined curl and shape that lasts throughout the day.

Key features:

Infrared technology gently heats hair to minimise heat damage
Negative ion technology seals the hair cuticle, reduces static and frizz, and enhances shine
Flexible bristles detangle
Bristle-free zones define curls and promote style longevity
32mm ceramic curling barrel
Customisable heat settings (80°C - 210°C)
Automatically turns off after 60 minutes
Universal voltage
Two Year Warranty and Quality Check Guarantee
Money Back Guarantee
Designed and engineered in Australia

Available at:

• $129 from Mermade

Main image credit: @jastookes

Still not sure how to nail a bouncy '90s blowout at home? We asked an expert for tips.