What type of brush is best for smoothing and straightening curly hair?

A paddle brush is particularly effective for smoothing and straightening curly hair due to its flat, wide surface and firm bristles. This shape allows for maximum contact with larger sections of hair, making it easier to distribute heat from styling tools evenly across the strands. The paddle brush's design facilitates a straightening effect when used in conjunction with a blow dryer. It gently detangles curls without causing excessive pulling or breakage, making it an excellent choice for those with thicker, curlier hair textures.

In contrast, round brushes are generally used for creating volume and curl; they are not as effective for straightening. Vent brushes, designed for faster drying, have widely spaced bristles and are best suited for working with finer hair or for providing lift, rather than smoothing. Bristle brushes might provide some smoothing benefits but often do not have the same degree of effectiveness on tighter curls as a paddle brush does. Thus, a paddle brush stands out as the most suitable option for achieving a sleek look on curly hair.