A £50 hot brush has delivered bouncy, glossy waves in 20 minutes, challenging a £179 premium rival. The Flikt Thermal Hot Brush, reduced from £75, was tested against the ghd Rise and left its user seriously impressed.
Flikt vs ghd Rise: key differences
The Flikt Thermal Hot Brush is designed to boost volume, sleek hair, combat frizz and deliver curls with the right technique. It styles and smooths hair simultaneously, removing the need for straighteners or curling irons and saving time and counter space.
The most significant advantage over the ghd, aside from price, is heat control. The ghd Rise operates at a single optimal styling temperature of 185°C, using ultra-zone technology to maintain consistent heat. The Flikt offers adjustable heat from 80°C to 220°C, with the temperature shown on an LCD display.
Temperature control and barrel size
Adjustable temperature provides greater control, with lower settings suited to fine hair and higher settings potentially beneficial for thicker or unruly hair. The buttons are easily knocked, however, and the heat was inadvertently reduced below what was needed during testing.
The Flikt features a marginally larger 38mm barrel compared to the Rise's 32mm. Slightly looser, more relaxed curls were anticipated, though no substantial difference was seen in the end result. For shorter hair or tighter curls, the TRESemme Ceramic Hot Brush is available on Amazon for £15.99, with a 19mm barrel, though it only offers one heat setting.
Results and drawbacks
Styling was completed within 20 minutes, achieving a bouncy, effortless wave. The hair looked glossy and sleek thanks to the ceramic-glaze barrel, which distributes heat evenly while minimising frizz. The tool also features 30 Million+ Negative Ions for smoother, shinier locks, while Anti-Scald Nylon Bristles protect the scalp and avoid catching on hair strands.
The sole other drawback, aside from the easily bumped buttons, is the cable length. The cord measures 2.5m, versus the Rise's 2.7m, and the 20cm difference meant marginally less manoeuvrability during styling.
At £50, the Flikt Thermal Hot Brush left its tester seriously impressed, delivering the desired finish with an adjustable temperature feature valued for fine hair. For a limited period, customers can purchase the Flikt Thermal Hot Brush for £50.
