10 Must-Have Salon Tools You Can Use at Home (All Under $20!)

Because Great Hair Shouldn’t Require a Paycheck Advance

You know that feeling when you leave the salon looking like a shampoo commercial — and then three days later your hair says, “She’s not here right now, please leave a message”?
Yeah. That.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need a salon’s budget to keep your hair happy. I’m Yoli Cantu, co-owner of Shear Illusions Hair Studio in San Antonio and your friendly neighborhood stylist-turned-blogger. After years behind the chair (and a few late-night Amazon scrolls), I’ve rounded up 10 salon tools under $20 that actually make a difference.

A Friendly Note

Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a tiny commission if you buy through them — at no extra cost to you. Think of it as tipping your stylist without having to leave the house 💕

1️⃣ Sectioning Clips — Because Chaos Isn’t a Styling Technique

Taming tangles and dividing hair neatly is the secret to pro-looking results. These little clips keep your sections clean while you style, color, or pretend you’re on a makeover show.
🔗 Shop Salon Sectioning Clips on Amazon

2️⃣ Detangling Brush — The Drama-Free De-Knotter

Perfect for kids, curls, and anyone who’s over the “ouch.” Flexible bristles glide through knots like gossip through a beauty shop.
🔗 Shop Detangling Brush on Amazon

3️⃣ Fine Mist Spray Bottle — Hydration Station

A spritz here, a spritz there — it’s like therapy in a bottle. Great for reviving curls, re-wetting sections, or watering the one plant you haven’t killed yet.
🔗 Shop Fine Mist Spray Bottle on Amazon

4️⃣ Heat-Resistant Glove — Because Burnt Fingers Aren’t Cute

We’ve all touched the barrel “just for a sec.” Protect those hands while curling, straightening, or using your hot tools like a pro.
🔗 Shop Heat-Resistant Glove on Amazon

5️⃣ Wide-Tooth Comb — Post-Shower Peace Maker

When hair is wet, it’s fragile — this comb keeps it smooth without breakage. Bonus: it doubles as a fantastic back-scratcher.
🔗 Shop Wide-Tooth Comb on Amazon

6️⃣ Edge Brush & Comb — Small Tool, Big Impact

Perfect for sleek ponytails, laid edges, and detail work. It’s the unsung hero of the “I-put-effort-in-but-not-too-much” look.
🔗 Shop Edge Brush on Amazon

7️⃣ Microfiber Hair Towel Wrap — Frizz’s Worst Enemy

Traditional towels rough up the cuticle; microfiber keeps your hair smooth and shiny. Plus, you’ll look like a spa goddess while folding laundry.
🔗 Shop Microfiber Hair Towel on Amazon

8️⃣ Rat-Tail Comb Set — Precision Parting Power

Need razor-sharp parts for your color or braids? These combs are the MVPs of clean lines and dramatic flips.
🔗 Shop Rat-Tail Combs on Amazon

9️⃣ Velcro Rollers — Old-School Volume Never Goes Out of Style

The ‘80s called — and they’re proud of you. Add bounce, lift, and confidence without frying your hair.
🔗 Shop Velcro Rollers on Amazon

🔟 Scalp Massager — Self-Care for Your Roots

It boosts circulation, feels heavenly, and makes your shower a full-body experience. Your shampoo just got an upgrade.
🔗 Shop Scalp Massager on Amazon

Final Thoughts

Hair styling shouldn’t feel like a luxury — just smart choices and the right tools. So grab a few of these affordable essentials, throw on your robe, and tell everyone you’re “fully booked” tonight.

Because honestly, you deserve a little salon magic without the salon bill.