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The 9 Best Curling Irons That Won’t Damage Hair (Too Much), According to Stylists

 

In breaking news to exactly no one, it can be damn near impossible to find a curling iron that won't damage your hair. Too much heat can crack your cuticle (the outermost layer of a strand), which can result in proteins leaching out, leaving hair dry, frayed, and brittle. And yet, nothing quite says "I spent $60 on a professional blowout" (without actually having to spend $60 on a professional blowout) like knowing how to curl your own hair. Once you know how to give yourself effortless bends or bombshell waves, you'll want to style your hair yourself all the time. (For free!) And with the right curling iron on hand, that newfound hobby doesn't have to wreak havoc on your hair.

Experts In This Article

Aaron Grenia, co-founder and master stylist at IGK Soho
Bradley Leake, Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist
Emily Boulin, professional hairstylist and color expert for Sally Beauty
Giovanni Vaccaro, co-founder of Glamsquad
Jenna Spino, stylist at Maxine Salon
Linsey Barbuto, owner of Perlei Salon
Millie Morales, celebrity hairstylist and brand ambassador for Garnier
Nunzio Saviano, stylist and owner at Nunzio Saviano Salon
Stephanie Brown, master colorist at IGK Soho

 

 

While you'd be hard-pressed to find a hot tool that's actually good for your hair—some damage is bound to come along with any sort of heat styling—there are certain things you can look for to lessen that damage. Keep scrolling for the best ways to protect your hair from heat, plus our top picks for curling irons.

Best curling irons that won't damage hair

Best for thick hair: Bio Ionic Stylewinder 1” — $145.00

For thicker hair, try titanium. “Since titanium is a lightweight metal, it heats more quickly and evenly,” says Barbuto. “This means you get to hold your hair on the iron for less time for the same style.” And of course, when it comes to preventing damage, the less time you’re spending with a hot tool, the better. Stylists recommend titanium irons for thicker hair types, since they distribute heat faster. It’s also extra long, which is helpful for those who have hair past their shoulders.

What reviewers are saying:“There is a learning curve, but once you figure it out, it’s pretty simple to use. Beware: it gets HOT very quickly. It comes with a little stand so make sure you use it or you’ll burn your counter like I did! I have medium length, thick hair, which usually holds curls for like an hour. I put a little hairspray and my curls will hold fairly well, even for a few days! They’re limp by the end of the day/next day, but just a quick touch up and they’re good as new.“

Key features:

Automatic shut-off after 1 hour
Adjustable heat
Moisturizing heat technology
9-foot cord

Pros:

• Self-rolling barrel
• Locks in hair moisture
• Digital temperature control up to 440°F

Cons:

• Reviewers say it may make a while to learn how to use it

Best fast heating: GSQ by Glamsquad Adjustable Curling Wand — $51.00

This adjustable titanium wand heats up quickly (in under 30 seconds, according to the brand), and combines a titanium barrel with a ceramic heater for uniform heat throughout the iron. Pro tip: For natural-looking waves, start your curl in the middle of your head, hold for a 10-count, and release.

Key features:

Ceramic heater
Adjustable heat
Automatic shut off
Includes protective glove and heat-protective pouch

Pros:

• Tapered from 1″ to 1.25″
• Heats up in 30 seconds
• Heats up to 400°F

Cons:

• Reviewers say it may make a while to learn how to use it

Best for thin hair: BaBylissPRO Porcelain Ceramic Spring Curling Iron — $50.00

If your hair is on the finer side, you’ll want to look for something with a ceramic barrel. These don’t get as hot as their titanium cousins, and stylists say they’re safer for thin or processed hair that might suffer when coming into contact with excess heat. BaByliss’s techy irons have been favorites among stylists for years. This one, in particular, combines the heat distribution capabilities of ceramic with infrared and ionic technology to cut down styling time while still being kind to your hair.

What reviewers are saying: “I never used to curl my hair with anything, because my rather course, long hair has never held a curl for more than a few hours. However, this product has changed all that. I love it! My hair holds curl for more than a day—a little touch up the next morning, & I’m good to go again.“

Key features:

Porcelain ceramic barrel
30 adjustable heat settings
8-foot cord

Pros:

• Even heat distribution
• Reduces static electricity
• Heats up quickly
• Heats up to 430°F

Cons:

• Reviewers say it may be hard to maneuver and easy to burn your fingers
• No automatic shut off

Best lower temperature: GHD Curve Wand — $205.00

“I love GHD irons, they are extremely user friendly and the curling irons slide through the hair so easy because there is low tension in the hair clamp,” says Aaron Grenia, co-founder and master stylist at IGK Soho. This tool in particular uses ultra-zone technology, which keeps the heat consistent throughout the iron for an even curl pattern. It also goes into “sleep mode” after 30 minutes of non-use, so you’ll never have to stress about leaving it on after you’ve left the house for the day.

What reviewers are saying: “It glides so beautifully! Also, the tip of the iron shape makes it so easy two work the clamp and loosen curls.“

Key features:

Ceramic coated barrel
Swivel cord
Protective cool tip
Sleep mode after 30 minutes of non-use

Pros:

• Spring-activated lever
• Heats up in 25 seconds
• 365°F across the entire barrel

Cons:

• No temperature control

Best splurge: Dyson Airwrap — $599.00

For all types of hair, you can’t go wrong with the Dyson Airwrap. It’s one of the few curling devices on the market that doesn’t use an actual iron to get the job done.

“It uses air [like a blow dryer] instead of heat to style and shape your hair,” says Vaccaro, who calls it one of his “favorite tools for women to use at home.” The price tag is undoubtedly hefty, but you can’t beat the safety it gives strands. Plus, you’re technically getting eight hair tools for the price of one (in case you need more of a reason to invest).

What reviewers are saying: “Amazing! I find it hard to keep my hair styled for long without it turning dry/frizzy, and this product not only keeps my hair fabulous with salon-quality + shine, but it also eliminates frizz & maintains all day long. My hair is much healthier now than other hair tools which overheats and dries my hair out. It’s a one-stop shop for everything you need, without a doubt worth the splurge. The only hair tool I use now!“

Key features:

Includes 6 attachments, storage case, and cleaning brush
Adjustable airflow speed
Three heat settings
Cold shot
Intelligent heat control

Pros:

• Multiple functions in one: Curls, dries, smooths
• Doesn’t use extreme heat
• Multiple attachments available for different hair types, lengths, and styles
• Airflow attracts hair to the tool
• Can use on wet hair

Cons:

• Expensive

Best lightweight: T3 Singlepass Curl — $170.00

The T3 Singlepass Curl comes in different size barrels, from 0.5″ to 1.5″ and uses technology to keep your curls lasting all day long. The iron has five heat settings controlled by a microchip to keep temperatures from fluctuating. “This is helpful because you won’t accidentally have it set too high causing damage,” says Jenna Spino, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. “The barrel is ceramic which is more gentle on the hair keeping hair shiny,” she adds.

What reviewers are saying: “This is hands down the most versatile curling iron I have ever owned. It smoothes my flyaways, adds volume, and creates beautifully long lasting curls and waves. Since getting this lightweight curling iron, I do not need to travel with several styling tools anymore. It heats up very quickly and it is very easy to use.“

Key features:

Ceramic barrel
5 adjustable heat settings
8-foot swivel cord
Cool tip

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Single pass technology
• Microchip for consistent heating

Cons:

• Expensive

Best affordable: ion Titanium Pro Curling Iron — $45.00

Boulin recommends this ion titanium curling iron, which has ceramic heaters inside and an extended barrel. “It comes with temperature control and you can choose from a variety of diameters for your ideal curl size,” she says. It automatically shuts off after 60 minutes, and the extra long 360° swivel power cord will let you use the iron from almost anywhere in your house.

What reviewers are saying: “Works great, heats up quick, perfect size. Nice swivel cord.”

Key features:

Titanium barrel
Automatic shut off
Adjustable heat settings

Pros:

• Extended barrel
• Extra long, swivel power cord
• Heats up to 450°
• Even heat distribution

Cons:

• Some reviewers say it’s heavy

Best interchangeable: Trademark Mood — $99.00

If versatility is what you’re looking for, this Trademark Mood delivers. With three different barrels, it’s a 3-in-1 tool to let you style waves, or loose or tight curls. “This interchangeable iron has ceramic attachments to ensure the hair is protected. I also love the digital temperature control function so it’s very easy to set to the right temp and not get it too hot. This one also offers a lot of styling versatility based on preference as it transitions from a curling iron, to a waver, to a wand,” says Spino.

What reviewers are saying: “Such a great multi-use tool. Easy to switch out and to adjust the temperature. It’s one of those must have tools. Can pack easily if traveling and the carrying case makes it so much easier to store. Leaves hair beautiful every time.”

Key features:

Interchangeable barrels
Automatic shut off
Adjustable heat settings
Includes heat-resistant glove, carrying case, and sectioning clips

Pros:

• Three interchangeable barrels
• Heats up to 210°
• Lightweight
• Ergonomic handle

Cons:

• Pricier

Best high heat: BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron — $60.00

This Nano Titanium coated curling iron uses far-infrared heat, which heats from within the hair shaft and is less likely to damage hair strands. “For those who need more heat this ceramic coated titanium iron is the way to go. Titanium gets hotter which some textures need, but this barrel is then coated in ceramic keeping hair shiny. This iron has 50 heat settings so you can control the heat with the wide range of settings. ” says Spino.

What reviewers are saying: “One of my favorite curling irons. I have a few I swap out between but always go back to this one. I use it as a wand and hold the clamp open and wrap my hair around the barrel. I have long thick hair and it usually takes me 10-20 minutes.”

Key features:

Nano titanium/ceramic coated barrel
Turbo heat button
Adjustable heat settings

Pros:

• Heats up to 450°
• Lightweight
• Far-infrared heat

Cons:

• Heat-resistant tip is small so easier to burn your fingers

Are curling irons bad for hair?

In a word, yes. No matter how careful you are or what type of tool you're using, heat styling can wreak havoc on your hair. Our strands are primarily composed of a protein called keratin, which is held together by hydrogen bonds. Applying heat to our hair (like with a curling iron) temporarily breaks those bonds, which is what allows them to be shaped into curls and waves. "However, high temperatures can also damage the hair’s cuticle, which is the outer protective layer," says Helena Gibson, trichologist, hairstylist, and founder of Unveil Restorative Hair Care. "When the cuticle is compromised, the hair becomes more susceptible to breakage, split ends, and frizz."

Additionally, heat can lead to the loss of moisture within the hair shaft, causing strands to become dry and brittle. "This is particularly problematic because healthy hair relies on a delicate balance of moisture to maintain its strength and elasticity," says Gibson. "Repeated exposure to high temperatures can result in cumulative damage, leaving hair looking dull and lifeless."

How do I keep my curling iron from damaging my hair?

With that in mind, even the safest curling irons on the market still run the risk of doing some damage to your strands, so it's important to take certain precautions during the styling process.

1. Prep ahead of time

"If you know that you are creating a hairstyle that uses hot tools like a curling iron, you should prep your hair the day before to avoid heat damage," says Garnier hairstylist Millie  Morales. "I always recommend applying a hydrating mask and blowdrying hair the day before to have it ready for the curling iron." Her pick? Garnier Fructis Hydrating Treat 1 Minute Hair Mask + Aloe Extract ($6), which she says will leave hair "soft and hydrated" even after it goes under the iron.

2. Use a heat protectant

Putting a curling iron on raw, unprotected hair is going to garner the same results as trying to cook something in a non-greased pan—there's a potential for it to stick to the rod and burn. "Heat protectant is a must,” says Perlei Salon. "Many people don’t realize how much heat damage your hair takes with hot tools. Using a heat protector will not only help keep your hair healthy, but it will prevent breakage." Apply a serum like Oribe Royal Blowout ($72) or IGK Thirsty Girl ($32) before you blow dry to make sure your strands are protected.

3. Make sure your hair is completely dry

It doesn't take a haircare wizard to know that the crackling sound a curling iron makes when it comes into contact wet hair is not good news. "Make sure your hair is completely dry with zero dampness," says Glamsquad Creative Director Giovanni Vaccaro. "This will protect your hair follicle, as hair is most vulnerable and prone to damage when wet."

4. Don’t go too hot

"A lot of people put their curling iron on too hot, you do not need to put the curling iron all the way up to the highest heat,” says Stephanie Brown, NYC Master Colorist at IGK Soho. Gibson notes that those with fine or damaged hair should stick to lower temperatures (250°F to 300°F), while those with coarser textures can handle a bit more heat (300°F to 400°F). The general rule is the thicker hair is, the more heat it can tolerate; however, the more processed it is, the easier you need to be with it.

5. Don't hold for too long

If you've seen that video, you know what can happen when you hold a burning hot iron on your hair for too long (spoiler alert: it can burn it clear off of your head). Stylists suggest wrapping your hair, counting for five to seven seconds, then moving onto the next section.

How to find a curling iron that won't damage hair

A harsh truth, straight from Vaccaro: "There are no curling irons that are actually good for your hair," he says. That said, "there are definitely irons that are less damaging to your hair than others." To ensure you're getting something that will protect the integrity, there are a few key elements you can look for—namely, the right materials and temperature controls.

"Don’t go cheap on your blow dryer, flat iron or curling iron," advises Brown. "The cheaper tools don’t usually have temperature settings or a lot of power, so you are using them longer and over-heating." Here, the stylist-approved picks for the best curling irons that won't damage hair.

What to look for in a curling iron that won't damage your hair

While there's no such thing as a curling iron that won't damage your hair, there are a few things you can look for to minimize that damage as much as possible.

Temperature control

"When searching for a curling iron, one of my biggest tips is to find a curling iron that allows you to control the temperature," says Emily Boulin, a professional Hairstylist and DIY color & styling expert for Sally Beauty. "Having the ability to turn down the heat will help avoid hair breakage long term." As TK puts it: Never use a heat tool without a temperature display and the ability to change it.

Ceramic and tourmaline plates

Gibson recommends looking for irons made with either ceramic or tourmaline plates. "These materials distribute heat more evenly and emit negative ions, which help to seal the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and reducing frizz," she says. Titanium, which is another common material found in curling irons, heats up faster and can be great for thick, coarse hair that needs a little more heat to hold their styles, but may cause damage on finer textures. "All three of these materials ensure even heat distribution and minimize hot spots that can burn hair," says Gibson.

Signs a curling iron may damage your hair

Now that you know what type of curling iron is worth your investment, it's also helpful to keep in mind the factors you should steer clear of for the sake of your hair health.

Cheap metal irons

Hot tools are one of the few things in your beauty routine that are actually worth investing in. Gibson recommends steering clear of any cheap irons that are made from materials other than ceramic, tourmaline, and titanium, as "these often lack even heat distribution, leading to hot spots that can scorch hair."

Irons without temperature control

On the wrong heat setting, any iron can damage your strands—which is why it's so important to invest in one that puts temperature adjustments in your control. "Styling tools that only have one heat setting often operate at temperatures that are too high for many hair types, increasing the risk of damage," says Gibson.

Old or worn-out irons

Curling irons are meant to last a long time, but not forever—so it may be time to part with the one you've been styling with since high school. "Over time, the protective coatings on curling irons can wear away, exposing hair to uneven heat and increasing the likelihood of damage," says Gibson. With that in mind, make sure you swap out your hot tools every few years.

A note on heat protectants

Even the "best" curling irons for your hair still come with a risk of damage, which means a heat protectant is an absolute must. "Heat protection will keep your hair shinier, healthier, and less prone to breakage," celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons previously told Well+Good.

These types of products work by "coating the proteins in your cuticles, helping them to resist thermal damage," says Dominic Burg, PhD, chief scientist, hair biologist, and trichologist at Évolis Professional.

For one that really works, look for silicones (like dimethicone and cyclomethicone) in your product. "The most important thing to look for on a label is a guarantee that the product provides heat protection up to 450 degrees," says Fitzsimons "And moisturizing ingredients like oils and reparative proteins can help nourish your hair to a healthier state."

Final takeaway

So is there a curling iron that doesn't damage hair? Sadly, no. "The bottom line is that no curling iron can be completely damage-free," confirms Gibson. But there's still hope yet. "Choosing the right tool and using it correctly can significantly reduce the risk of harm to your hair," she says. "By selecting irons made with quality materials, utilizing adjustable temperature settings, and incorporating protective measures such heat protectants, you can enjoy beautiful curls without compromising your hair’s health."