Drybar Hair Straightener Review: Why The Tress Press Is Worth Your Money
The Drybar Tress Press Straightener has gained popularity among hair styling enthusiasts for its professional performance and versatility.
In this review I will share everything you need to know about this popular styling tool and help you decide if it deserves a place in your hair care collection.
The bright yellow Drybar Tress Press promises to transform even the most stubborn hair into sleek straight styles or beautiful curls with minimal effort.
Key Takeaways
- The Drybar Tress Press Straightener features titanium technology that seals the hair cuticle reducing frizz and increasing shine
- Advanced infrared technology heats hair from inside out for less damage and more effective styling
- Digital temperature controls allow you to select the perfect heat level (up to 450°F) for your specific hair type
- The dual-purpose design allows both straightening and curling with the same tool
- Floating plates and rounded edges help prevent hair pulling and snagging during styling
- Quick heat-up time lets you start styling almost immediately
- Negative ion technology helps smooth hair and eliminate frizz by sealing the cuticle
- The Tress Press provides one-pass straightening for most hair types
- $169 price point positions it as a premium styling tool comparable to professional-grade options
- Works exceptionally well on thick and coarse hair types
- Many users report significantly reduced styling time compared to other straighteners
- Auto shut-off feature provides safety and peace of mind
- Versatile styling options let you create straight looks, waves, or curls with the same tool
- Available in two sizes: 1-inch for precision styling and 1.25-inch for faster styling of thick or long hair
- Recommended to pair with Drybar Hot Toddy Heat Protectant for best results and hair protection
What Is Drybar?
Drybar started as a specialized salon focused on blowouts. The brand quickly grew popular for its exceptional hair styling services and expanded into creating professional quality hair tools and products for home use. Drybar stands out in the market for its focus on creating salon quality results at home with well designed styling tools.
The bright yellow color has become the signature look for all Drybar products making them instantly recognizable.
The company developed a loyal following of customers who praise their tools for being professional grade yet user friendly for everyday styling. The Tress Press straightener represents one of their flagship styling tools designed to deliver the same results as their popular salon services.
Technical Specifications of the Tress Press
The Drybar Tress Press comes packed with features that set it apart from standard hair straighteners on the market. Here are the detailed specifications that make this tool stand out:
The straightener features titanium plates that heat evenly and maintain consistent temperature throughout styling. The plates measure 1 inch in width (with a 1.25 inch option available) making them versatile for different hair lengths and styles.
With a digital temperature control system the Tress Press heats up to 450°F with precise settings for different hair types. The tool incorporates infrared technology that heats hair from the inside out helping maintain hair health while styling efficiently.
The floating plate design ensures even pressure on hair strands preventing pulling or snagging during use. The rounded edges of the barrel allow for versatile styling options including curling and waving. The ergonomic design makes the tool comfortable to hold at 7.4 x 2.9 x 15.5 inches and weighs approximately 1.97 pounds.
For safety the Tress Press includes an automatic shut off feature that turns the device off after a period of inactivity. The 9 foot professional length cord provides ample movement range while styling.
Design and Build Quality
The moment you pick up the Drybar Tress Press you notice its premium construction. The bright yellow color makes it stand out among other styling tools and gives it a fun yet professional appearance.
The straightener feels substantial and well made with a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during lengthy styling sessions. The buttons and digital display are positioned to prevent accidental temperature changes while using the device.
Users frequently comment on the high quality materials used in construction with the titanium plates feeling smooth and gliding easily through hair without catching or pulling. The long professional cord rotates 360 degrees preventing tangles and allowing for easy manipulation while styling.
Unlike cheaper straighteners that often feel flimsy the Tress Press has a solid durability that suggests a long lifespan with proper care. The heat resistant exterior stays cool to the touch even when the plates reach maximum temperature.
Performance on Different Hair Types
One of the most impressive features of the Tress Press is how well it performs across diverse hair types and textures. For those with fine or damaged hair the lower temperature settings provide gentle styling without causing additional damage.
Users with thick curly hair praise how the titanium plates quickly tame even the most stubborn strands often requiring just one pass to achieve straight sleek results. The ability to dial in precise temperatures allows you to use only the heat necessary for your specific hair type minimizing potential damage.
Those with long hair appreciate the efficiency of the straightener noting that it significantly reduces styling time compared to other models. The plates heat evenly avoiding the common problem of inconsistent results that many straighteners have.
For coarse or resistant hair types the maximum temperature setting provides enough heat to effectively style without repeated passes. Even those with extremely frizzy hair report smoother longer lasting results compared to previous straighteners they have used.
Heat Technology and Hair Protection
The Tress Press uses advanced heating technology that sets it apart from standard straighteners. The titanium technology helps seal the hair cuticle resulting in less frizz and noticeably more shine while styling.
The innovative infrared technology heats hair from the inside out rather than just the surface. This approach is gentler on hair while still providing effective styling results. It helps maintain hair health by preserving moisture and reducing the risk of heat damage.
With negative ion technology the straightener smooths hair and eliminates frizz by sealing the cuticle. This creates a sleeker finish that lasts longer even in humid conditions. The digital temperature display allows for precise heat control letting you select the exact temperature needed for your hair type and desired style.
Many users report that despite regular use their hair remains healthier looking compared to experiences with other straighteners. The ability to style effectively at lower temperatures contributes to overall hair health maintenance.
Versatility and Styling Options
Unlike many straighteners that excel at only one task the Tress Press truly functions as a multipurpose styling tool. The primary function as a straightener delivers smooth sleek results that users consistently praise.
The rounded edges of the barrel allow you to create beautiful curls and waves by simply wrapping hair around the tool. This versatility eliminates the need for multiple hot tools saving both money and storage space.
Users report successfully creating beachy waves soft curls and flips with the same tool they use for straightening. The plates glide smoothly through hair allowing for fluid styling movements whether straightening or curling.
The straightener works well for quick touch ups or complete styling making it practical for daily use or occasional styling. Many reviewers mention they no longer need separate curling irons since purchasing the Tress Press simplifying their styling routine.
Ease of Use and User Experience
Even styling beginners find the Tress Press intuitive and easy to use. The straightener heats up remarkably fast usually within 30 seconds allowing you to start styling almost immediately.
The digital temperature display is clear and easy to read making temperature adjustments simple. The buttons are positioned to avoid accidental changes while styling a thoughtful design feature users appreciate.
The comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue making it possible to style even long thick hair without discomfort. The swivel cord provides freedom of movement preventing tangles and allowing you to style from different angles with ease.
Many users mention the smooth glide of the plates through hair noting that it never pulls or snags even on tangled sections. The straightener cools down quickly after use making storage safe and convenient.
Value for Money
With a price point of $169 the Tress Press sits in the premium category of hair straighteners. However users consistently report that the investment is worthwhile for the quality and performance delivered.
When compared to other professional grade straighteners in the same price range the Tress Press offers comparable or superior features and performance. Many reviewers mention previously purchasing multiple cheaper straighteners that quickly broke making the Tress Press more economical long term.
Users frequently comment that the versatility of being able to both straighten and curl with one tool provides additional value justifying the higher price point. The durability and consistent performance over time make it a worthwhile investment for those who style their hair regularly.
Those who previously spent money on salon blowouts or professional straightening services mention significant cost savings over time by being able to achieve similar results at home with the Tress Press.
Comparing Drybar to Competitors
When placed side by side with popular competitors like CHI and GHD the Drybar Tress Press holds its own in both features and performance. Compared to the CHI Original Ceramic Iron priced at around $99 the Tress Press offers more advanced technology with its infrared heating and digital temperature control.
Against the premium GHD Platinum+ which costs approximately $289 the Tress Press provides similar performance at a significantly lower price point making it a better value for most users. The titanium plates of the Tress Press heat up faster than many ceramic competitors providing quicker styling sessions.
Users who have switched from other high end brands frequently mention the superior glide and even heat distribution of the Tress Press as notable improvements. Many report achieving their desired styles with fewer passes through the hair resulting in less potential damage.
While some competitors offer similar features the combination of versatility performance and moderate premium pricing makes the Tress Press an attractive option in the crowded straightener market.
Maintenance and Longevity
Proper care of the Tress Press helps ensure its longevity and consistent performance. Users should always unplug the straightener after use and allow it to cool completely before storage.
The plates can be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth when the straightener is cool removing any product buildup that might affect performance. Most users report their Tress Press maintaining consistent performance for years with proper care representing good value for the investment.
The auto shutoff feature provides peace of mind and contributes to the tool’s longevity by preventing overheating if accidentally left on. Many reviewers mention their Tress Press showing minimal signs of wear even after years of regular use.
For travel the straightener is relatively compact and lightweight making it convenient to pack though users recommend waiting until it fully cools before placing it in luggage. Some users mention purchasing a heat resistant case separately for safer storage and transport.
Who Should Buy the Drybar Tress Press?
The Drybar Tress Press is ideal for anyone who regularly styles their hair and wants professional results at home. It particularly benefits those with thick coarse or frizzy hair that proves challenging for standard straighteners.
People who value versatility in styling tools will appreciate the ability to create multiple looks from sleek straight styles to curls and waves with just one device. Those who have experienced hair pulling or snagging with other straighteners will likely find the smooth gliding plates of the Tress Press a significant improvement.
The straightener makes an excellent choice for those willing to invest in quality tools that perform consistently over time rather than replacing cheaper options frequently. Anyone looking to reduce their styling time while achieving better results will likely find the Tress Press worth the investment.
Those with very short hair might find narrower straighteners more suitable for their needs though many short haired users still report positive experiences with the 1 inch model.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Drybar Straightener
To maximize the performance of your Tress Press always use a quality heat protectant before styling. Drybar’s own Hot Toddy Heat Protectant works well but any good quality product will help shield your hair from heat damage.
Start with fully dry hair for best results and divide hair into manageable sections for more efficient styling. For most hair types the temperature range between 350°F to 375°F provides effective styling with minimal damage.
When creating curls with the Tress Press hold the ends of your hair section as you wrap it around the barrel for better control. Allow styled hair to cool completely before brushing or touching to help the style set and last longer.
Clean the plates regularly when cool to remove product buildup that can affect performance and potentially damage hair. For maximum longevity avoid dropping the straightener as impact can damage the internal heating elements.
FAQs
How long does the Drybar Tress Press take to heat up?
The Tress Press heats up very quickly usually within 30 seconds.
Does the Drybar straightener have an auto shutoff feature?
Yes it automatically shuts off after 60 minutes for safety.
Can the Tress Press be used on wet hair?
No never use on wet hair as this can cause serious damage.
What temperature setting is best for fine hair?
Use lower settings around 280°F to 320°F for fine or damaged hair.
How does the Tress Press compare to CHI straighteners?
The Tress Press offers more advanced technology with digital temperature control and infrared heating.
Can I create curls with this straightener?
Yes the rounded edges make it excellent for creating various curls and waves.
How long is the cord on the Drybar Tress Press?
It features a professional length 9 foot swivel cord.
Is the Tress Press dual voltage for international travel?
No it operates on standard 120V/60Hz and would require a converter for international use.
What size should I choose 1 inch or 1.25 inch?
Choose 1 inch for shorter hair or precision styling and 1.25 inch for faster styling of thick or long hair.
How often should I replace my Drybar straightener?
With proper care it should last several years most users report 3+ years of consistent performance.
