BaByliss Big Hair Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.0/10
Best for: Drying and styling in one step for a smooth, volumised finish
Not for: Anyone wanting the absolute cheapest basic dryer, or salon-only power on a budget
Bottom line: A practical hair dryer (ionic, dryer brush) for quicker, kinder drying at home.
Overall, the BaByliss Big Hair 2885U is a hot-air rotating hair dryer brush that dries and styles in one step, which can reduce the need for separate tools. It is designed to rotate while blowing hot air to help create volume and smoother results during one pass. There are 2 speed settings and an alternating direction function, so the brush can be matched to different hair lengths and styling preferences. Results vary with hair thickness, and the grip and angle require some practice, making it best suited to everyday blow-dry styling.
Key specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Drying method | Hot-air rotating brush |
| Frizz control | Ionic |
| Speeds | 2 speeds |
| Directions | Alternating directions |
Pros
- Ionic to reduce frizz and damage
- Dries and styles in one step
- Faster, kinder drying than a basic old dryer
Cons
- Premium models cost much more than a basic dryer
- Highest heat settings can still stress hair if overused
- Attachments included vary, so check what's in the box
Power and Motor
Power and Motor for this hair dryer matter because it is a hot-air rotating hair dryer brush. The rotating barrel works alongside the airflow to help dry hair while shaping it in one step, as indicated by the product title. Two speeds likely allow airflow to be matched to different hair thicknesses, while alternating rotation direction can help reduce tangling risk. Without specified wattage or motor performance details, the quality of the power delivery cannot be assessed, but the core requirement is consistent airflow paired with stable barrel rotation.
Heat and Speed Settings
Heat and speed settings on the BaByliss are straightforward. It offers 2 speeds and uses hot-air styling to dry and shape hair in one step. Choose either the lower or higher speed, then move the rotating brush through the hair while heated airflow styles it. The lower speed is better suited to fine hair or when extra control is needed, while the higher speed can shorten styling time, particularly for thicker hair. The brush rotates with alternating directions to help spread tension evenly.
Ionic, Ceramic and Hair Care
Ionic and ceramic-style features can affect how a rotating hair dryer brush feels and performs, particularly for frizz control and a smoother finish. The hair dryer is described as offering ionic, frizz-control styling designed to deliver a dry-and-style result in one step. As the 50mm barrel rotates with heat and airflow, ionic styling is intended to help reduce flyaway hair, while ceramic-style surfaces (if present) typically support more even heat distribution. The outcome can still vary by hair type and product buildup, so light finishing may be needed after drying.
Attachments and Cool Shot
Using the built-in rotating brush design, the BaByliss is intended to dry and style at the same time, so it relies on the main barrel rather than separate styling attachments. The product title specifies a 50mm barrel, which indicates a wider brushing surface for smoothing and shaping. It includes 2 speed settings and alternates directions, which supports control as the brush is worked through the hair, including near the roots. Ionic frizz-control may reduce flyaways during styling, but results depend on hair type and technique.
Weight and Handling
Also the hair dryer is a hot-air dryer brush, so its real feel depends on how the barrel sits in the hand and how the rotating 50mm barrel is balanced during use. Grip shape and barrel balance affect comfort during longer strokes, particularly when the brush changes direction. A steadier hold helps keep the airflow aligned, which reduces the need to keep re-centering the brush. Two speed settings also matter, because higher airflow can encourage quicker arm movement. If the balance feels slightly forward, a slower pace and shorter sections can help maintain control.
Who Is This Hair Dryer For?
Who the BaByliss Big Hair 2885U is most suitable for depends on how someone wants to dry and style at the same time. It is designed for users who prefer an all-in-one approach, combining an ionic hot-air dryer brush with a 50mm barrel to smooth hair while drying. With 2 speeds, it suits people who want control over airflow, and the alternating directions can help when changing how the brush moves through the hair. It may be a good fit for medium to long styles that benefit from more lift, but anyone after very precise, pin-point finishing may find the brush format restrictive.
Where to Buy in the UK
The BaByliss is available in the UK via mainstream electrical and beauty retailers. It is typically listed as the BaByliss Big Hair 2885U Hair Dryer Brush - Dry and Style in One Step, 2 Speeds & Alternating Directions, Ionic Frizz-Control, 50mm Barrel, Black, 2885U. For UK availability, shoppers can check Amazon UK, Currys, AO, John Lewis and Argos, then compare listings online against the exact model number 2885U and the included bundle items. Delivery and returns policies vary by retailer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BaByliss worth it?
For faster, more comfortable drying with less heat damage than an old basic dryer, the hair dryer with ionic technology does the job well. Check the current Amazon UK price, as hair dryers go on deal often.
Is this hair dryer a hair dryer or a styling brush?
The BaByliss is a hot-air dryer brush - it dries and styles in one step, giving a smooth, volumised blow-dry finish without juggling a separate dryer and round brush. It's slower for a quick rough-dry than a standard dryer, but far easier for styling.
What wattage hair dryer is best?
For home use, around 1,800-2,200W dries most hair quickly; salon and thick-hair users often want 2,000W+. More watts isn't automatically better - motor quality and airflow matter too.
What does ionic/ceramic mean on the BaByliss Big Hair 2885U?
The hair dryer uses ionic technology. Ionic drying helps break up water droplets to dry faster and cut frizz and static; ceramic/tourmaline give gentler, more even heat. Together they help reduce heat damage and leave hair smoother.
Is this hair dryer good for curly or frizzy hair?
For curly hair, look for a diffuser attachment to define curls; the BaByliss has ionic technology that helps tame frizz. A cool shot to set the style helps too.
Is an expensive hair dryer like Dyson worth it over a cheap one?
Premium dryers (Dyson, ghd, Shark) dry faster, run quieter, are lighter and manage heat better to reduce damage - noticeable if you dry your hair daily. For occasional use, a good mid-range or budget dryer does the basics well; spend more if drying speed, weight and hair health matter to you.