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The 20 Best Curling Irons, According to Experts

 

Create waves, spirals, and everything in between.

Unless you’re very lucky, you likely don’t wake up with gorgeous beach waves or shiny curls. Most of us have to take the time to swirl our strands around a barrel to achieve our desired waves, but even those who don’t care for curls can benefit from using one of the best curling irons. In fact, you can do quite a lot with a curling iron, aside from just shaping bouncy curls. You can also create mega volume, next-level shine and smooth out any frizzies — all with a quick flip of the wrist.

With a curling iron, “you’ll always have a way to look good quickly,” says Leigh Hardges, hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. “It’s a pretty fast way to enhance body in the hair and create lift around your face.”

And, it’s worth investing in one that works well, as it “will show in the smoothness and overall polished style of the hair,” notes Alex Brown, who’s also a hairstylist in Chicago.

 

What Does a Curling Iron Do?

A curling iron is a hair styling tool designed to curl the hair and provide lasting results, but that’s not where it ends. “A curling iron can be used for adding a bit of volume at the root if you hold it for a few seconds in the place you would put a Velcro roller,” says hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein.

“You can also use a curling iron to smooth out a curl by placing hair between the clamp and the rod and running it straight down as if it were a flat iron.” So, if you’ve created a curl that’s too tight and want to relax it into a wave, you can use a curling iron to do both.

Consider one of the best curling irons below.

Ghd Curve 1” Classic Curling Iron

Best Curling Iron for Beach Waves

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel cord: Yes
Max heat: 365 degrees
Automatic shut-off: After 30 minutes
Cord length: 9 feet

You can’t go wrong with Ghd’s curling irons, which tend to carry a heavier price tag for their unmatched innovations. “They’re made so well technology-wise, and glide easily on your hair strand to achieve a polished, frizz-free look,” says Brown.

This one, for instance, features six intelligent sensors that guarantee a constant temperature of 365 degrees (the sweet spot for most hair types) across the barrel. That ensures even heat, seals in moisture and sets the pattern for long-lasting curls. Plus, it also features universal voltage for travel, a generous nine-foot cord and an automatic shut-off function which powers down the device after 30 minutes of inactivity.

Hot Tools Professional Gold Curling Iron

Best Curling Iron for Beginners

 

Barrel size: Available in 0.5”, 0.625”, 0.75”, 1″, 1.25”, 1.5”, 2″
Swivel cord: Yes
Max heat: 430 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: No
Cord length: 8 feet

If you’re new to curling your hair, you’re in luck. “Hot Tools has great options, especially for those new to the game of trying to curl your own hair and need a basic curling iron to start,” says Brown. This no-frills model offers everything a newbie may need without the complicated bells and whistles. It features heat settings that go up to 430 degrees Fahrenheit (the thicker or more coarse your hair, the higher the heat), a swivel cord, and a supremely comfortable grip. It’s also available with four different barrel sizes, so you can choose what works best according to your hair length and texture.

Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron

Best Curling Iron for Fine Hair

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 375 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: Yes
Cord length: 5 feet

This curling iron from Conair offers an impressive 30 heat settings to accommodate all hair types — though those with fine hair should stick with settings one through five to avoid singeing their strands. Its ceramic barrel offers consistent heat, which can help minimize damage from overdoing it and creates curls that last for days.

Per one reviewer, “I was pleasantly surprised by this iron. It’s easy to handle because it’s super light, heats up quickly, and the size is perfect for barrel curls, or beach waves. I have super fine hair and the curls last all day, which rarely happens with my hair. I would order this brand again.”

Hot Tools Signature Series Gold Curling Iron

Best Curling Iron for Thick Hair

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 430 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: No
Cord length: 6 feet

It’s not all about looks for this gold-plated model. “This is a good, sturdy iron,” says Hardges. “There’s a thermostat to prevent overheating hair, and it also has a nice, tight clamp for holding onto a thicker section at once.” (Those with thick hair can benefit from curling larger sections in one pass, which can help save time.) Not only that, but it also has a convenient swivel cord, a cool-touch tip and comfortable grip for easy wielding.

Babyliss Pro Titanium Curling Iron

Best Curling Iron for Textured Hair

 

Barrel size: Available in 0.75”, 1”, 1.25”, 1.5”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 450 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: No
Cord length: 8 feet

Textured hair types tend to be more coarse, so they require a higher level of heat application. That’s why Hardges considers this a winner. “The heat is very even, and the clamp delivers great tension so it helps smooth textured hair,” says Hardges. “Bonus, there’s a turbo heat button so you can move that process along.” The titanium barrel also delivers negative ions to enhance shine, and the minimalist design keeps this one relatively lightweight. It also has an eight-foot cord on a swivel base for easy navigation in any space.

Trademark Beauty Babe Waves Hair Waver

Best 3-Barrel Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 450 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: No
Cord length: “Extra-long”

Those seeking beach waves should look no further than this hair waver, which is a three-barrel curling iron that quickly creates a summer-ready look no matter the season. The ceramic barrels work with all hair textures, heat up quickly and are paired with crease-free clamps to prevent a crimped look, which is why Hardges keeps this one in her arsenal. And, with three barrels, it gets the work done quickly. “You can use larger sections so styling is quicker,” she says. “Just be sure to let the hair cool completely before manipulating the waves.”

Bestope Curling Iron Set 6-in-1 Curling Wand

Best Interchangeable Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 0.35” to 1.25”
Max heat: 410 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 8 feet

Seeking a variety of styles? Consider this set of six curling wands, which can create a wide number of looks and accommodate a range of hair lengths, ideal for the person who loves to experiment with dramatic chops. “The three-fourths-inch barrel is for short to medium-length hair, a one-inch is great for shoulder-length hair, and the 1.5-inch or larger barrel is for long hair,” says Hardges. The barrels heat up within 30 seconds, and even come with a heat-protective glove for safe, comfortable styling.

Kristin Ess 1” Curling Iron

Best Affordable Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 425 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 30 minutes
Cord length: 9 feet

Celebrity hairstylist Kristin Ess is known for her supremely pretty (yet wallet-friendly) hair-care products, and the same goes for her tools. “Kristin Ess’s curling irons are really good,” says Brown, “They’re reasonably priced and also have adjustable heat settings.”

This one offers a digital display so you don’t have to guess the temperature and a smooth barrel that prevents friction (and therefore minimizes frizz). It’s also comfortable to use, with a heat-resistant cool tip and an ergonomic thumb grip that keeps cramped hands at bay. And let’s not forget the titanium barrel, which helps retain moisture in the strands.

Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Marcel Curling Iron

Best Professional Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: Available in 0.37″, 0.5”, 0.6”, 0.7”, 1″, 1.25”, 1.5”
Swivel head: No
Max heat: 430 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: No
Cord length: 8 feet

For those comfortable with curling hair, take things to the next level with a marcel curling iron. A favorite among pros, these don’t have springs. Rather, they’re constructed more similarly to scissors, making them more ergonomic and generally comfortable on the hands and wrists. Take it from a reviewer who stuck with it despite the learning curve: “The difference is huge. First, a spring iron is actually a lot of work to use after getting used to a marcel. Second, the control and quality of curl with this iron is so much better. It’s definitely worth the cost. If you don’t curl your hair a lot or aren’t comfortable with a normal iron, a marcel might not be worth it. But if you curl your hair regularly and have decent coordination and hand dexterity, this is a great iron.”

The Beachwaver Co. Beachwaver Pro 1

Best Curling Iron for Long Hair

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 450 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 30 minutes
Cord length: 9 feet

Curling long hair can take days — or so it feels — but this innovative tool has figured out a shortcut. With the push of the button, the barrel spins either to the right or the left, taking the hair with it and making it easier to create a variety of waves and curls. The extra-long, 6.5-inch barrel can also accommodate very long hair without having to double-wrap it, so each section of hair gets an equal amount of heat from root to end. It also heats up in 30 seconds, has a nine-foot cord and delivers up to 450 degrees of heat — allowing it to handle even thick, long hair.

T3 Lucea 1” Professional Straightening + Styling Flat Iron

Best Flat Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 8 feet

A flat iron that can also curl? It’s possible with this model, which has floating plates that allow the user to create bends and waves in the hair. It’s a safe bet for those who want more versatility from a styler without needing two separate tools. Not only that, but it also features nine heat settings, an insulated clamp for greater comfort and a microchip that monitors and regulates heat to guarantee an even temperature while styling.

Drybar The 3-Day Bender 1.25″ Digital Curling Iron

Best Automatic Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1.25”
Swivel head: No
Max heat: 440 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 9 feet

Bringing the Drybar salon to your home, this curling iron does all the work for you. The rotating clamp pulls the section of hair as it spins, so you don’t have to twist your wrist around the way you would with a stationary barrel. As one reviewer puts it: “This iron is so easy to use. The little paint knob makes it so simple to twist the barrel without having to twist your entire wrist. Makes incredible curls quickly. Highly recommend!”

Revlon Perfect Heat Ceramic Curling Iron, 1”

Best Curling Iron for Frizzy Hair

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 400 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: Yes

With not one, not two, but three layers of ceramic coating, Revlon’s curling iron boasts evenly distributed heat, which minimizes overstyling, and helps keep hair smooth. It also has a built-in sensor to monitor the heat at all times, keeping it at a consistent temperature for efficient styling. It’s those features in particular that keep customers happy, evidenced by the more than 4000 five-star reviews on Amazon. “This has to be my most favorite thing I’ve ever ordered off of Amazon. I absolutely love this curling iron,” says one Amazon.com reviewer. “My hairstyle holds forever and when you wake up in the morning you still have some curl in your hair. This curling iron is awesome.”

Bio Ionic 1-Inch Long Barrel Curling Iron

Best Curling Iron for Straight Hair

 

Barrel size: 1”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 430 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 9 feet

For straight hair, a few features are key: “You need some higher heat and to go on the smaller side to allow the curl to relax a bit without falling out,” says Rubenstein. This long-barreled iron from Bio Ionic allows for both, which encourages straight hair to better retain its curl. Not only that, but it can save time, too. Just take it from an Amazon.com reviewer: “I’m a hairstylist and this curling iron is worth every penny. If you want those long beachy curls but don’t want to spend a lot of time on curling your hair, just buy this.”

Amika The Autopilot 3-in-1 Rotating Curling Iron

Most Versatile Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1.5”
Swivel head: Yes
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 9 feet

Not content to be just a rotating curling iron, Aminka’s iron borrows the best from a variety of models, serving as a curling wand, a curling iron with a iron, and a pro-level marcel iron, so you can pick and choose what you prefer (or experiment with other ways of using it). With a ceramic barrel and far-infrared technology, it actively seals the cuticles to keep hair smooth. Last but not least? It’s just cute. “Heats very quickly & leaves hair smooth,” says one Amazon reviewer. “Like the option to rotate the barrel for soft curl or lock it for smoothing affect. The cord is substantial and doesn’t tangle or twist.”

T3 SinglePass Curling Iron

Fastest Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1.25”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 410 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 8 feet

Just like the name implies, this curling iron gets the job done in one pass — just spritz on hairspray to finish and go on your way. The tool monitors the heat output to guarantee an even temperature and helps create everything from loose waves to defined curls. “T3 Single Pass Iron is perfection,” says Rubenstein, adding that it heats up fast. “You can get through a thick head of hair in no time.” The reviews are just as enthusiastic — take it from this Amazon fan: “This has to be, hands down, one of the BEST curling irons I’ve ever purchased. It does a fabulous job of heating up and staying hot, allowing me to straighten or curl my hair in one quick pass.”

Bio Ionic OnePass Oval Wand 

Best Oval Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1.25”
Swivel head: Yes
Max heat: 400 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 9 feet

If you’ve never encountered an oval-shaped curling iron (versus the typical round barrel), like this one from Bio Ionic, it’s worth trying out, especially if you’re seeking waves or a ton of volume. It has silicone strips on either side so hair stays put, no clamp needed, which minimizes creasing. It also has an extended barrel, making it ideal for either curling hair quickly or styling long hair — or, of course, both. One superfan reports that it’s hands-down worth the hype: “I have been testing out different wands for awhile now and this is the winner!!! It gives the *perfect* wave shape [undone & beachy]. It is made with the awesome quality that Bio Ionic is known for! Love the silicone strips on the sides! They keep your hair gripped to the wand, unlike any other wand I’ve seen! You definitely have to know how to use a wand to love this, but all it takes is practice!”

Belisa by Lunata Cordless Curling Iron

Best Cordless Curling Iron

 

Barrel size: 1.25″
Max heat: 450 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: No

Forget messing with a long cord with this entirely cordless model, which runs for up to 40 minutes at high heat on a single charge. Although it does come with a clip, which turns it into a straightening iron, giving you a two-in-one tool. This curling iron offers a titanium barrel for quick heat distribution and reaches up to 450 degrees, making it a fab option for travel and touch-ups alike.

Dyson Airwrap Multi Styler

Best Curling Iron for Damaged Hair

 

Barrel size: Available in 1.2” and 1.6”
Max heat: 302 degrees
Cord length: 8.5 feet

Dyson’s Airwrap and Supersonic hair dryer were game-changers for a reason and their brand new Multi Styler took it to the next level. Instead of manually wrapping your hair around a barrel or having the barrel rotate, this tool uses air to gently pull the section around the barrel. Its intelligent heat control is smart, too, measuring air temperature more than 40 times per second to prevent heat damage while you’re styling. Plus, it’s one of the best hair dryer brushes — so you don’t have to bother with blow-drying it first, either.

Chi Lava Ceramic Hairstyling Wand

Best Curling Iron for Short Hair

 

Barrel size: 3/8”-3/4” tapered
Max heat: 410 degrees
Automatic turn-off setting: After 60 minutes
Cord length: 11 feet

This super-skinny wand allows you create curls from a cropped cut, so those with bobs and lobs can still get movement and bounce. The tapered design can create a variety of curl sizes, and the blend of volcanic lava and ceramic in the wand offers gentle, consistent heat — while also allowing for adequate styling at a lower (and thus less damaging) temperature.

“I used this curling wand to fancy up my naturally curly hair and it did the job perfectly,” says one reviewer. “In about 10 minutes, I had touched up my hair that is a little past shoulder length. Curls were smooth and still there after sleeping on them.”

What to Look for in the Best Curling Irons

Barrel size: “The right size all depends on the density of your hair,” says Brown. “The smaller the barrel, the tighter of a curl it will be. If you have thick hair, you’ll want something that’s a little bigger in size so you’re not spending so much time taking smaller sections of your hair. My go-to barrel size is 1.25 inches or 1.5 inches, depending on the type of look you’re wanting to achieve.”
Barrel material: You should consider the material of the barrel itself, as they’re not all created equal. “Ceramic curling irons help smooth hair and reduce frizz as well as reduce potential heat damage,” says Brown. “Titanium curling irons are good for heating up fairly quickly and help retain the moisture in your hair strand.” Seeking speed? Go with titanium. Those looking to smooth damaged hair are best left to ceramic models.
Temperature settings: Most curling irons come with a range of temperatures, which usually max out at 450 degrees (although some come in lower). The harder hair is to curl, the more heat it needs, while those with damaged or colored hair should play it safe and dial it low.
Safety features: Automatic shut-off, a built-in stand, and a cool tip on the end allow for greater safety from the heat since irons can reach pretty high temperatures. The automatic shut-off typically happens between 30 to 60 minutes to give you a peace of mind when you leave the house. A built-in stand keeps the tool propped up and away from your vanity or surface.
Cord length: A longer cord length means you don’t have to be limited by the location of your outlets. “Ease of use should be first,” says Hardges. “No matter how much you spend on something, if it’s a hassle, you won’t use it.”

How to Find the Right Curling Iron for Your Hair

Straight hair: It can be hard for straight hair to hold onto a curl, so a curling iron with a higher maximum heat and a smaller barrel — which allows the curl to relax without falling out entirely—is ideal.
Fine hair: This hair type requires a gentle touch, but enough heat will allow for some hold — think low and slow.
Curly hair: For existing curls, consider a brand that comes in multiple barrel sizes to accommodate and touch up a range of curl and coil sizes.
Textured hair: Even heat is the most important factor for curling textured hair. Use a curling iron that has consistent heat and smoothing properties.
Damaged hair: If hair is already damaged, whether with color treatments or regular heat styling, applying high heat will only make matters worse. Consider a curling iron that uses lower heat, and take your time.
Long hair: For those with hair past the shoulders, look for a curling iron with a long barrel, which will allow you to curl hair faster and more consistently.

Curling Iron vs. Curling Wand

While a curling iron is technically a wand, they’re not interchangeable. “An iron has a clip, whereas a wand doesn’t and is designed to be used with a wrapping technique,” says Rubenstein.

With a clip, you’ll only need one hand to hold the tool. While there’s less likely to be any creasing with a wand, both hands are needed — one to hold the wand, and the other to hold the end of the section of hair wrapped around the barrel.

How to Use a Curling Iron

Whether you’re a newbie or a curling iron pro, a few pointers from the experts can deliver even better results. Below, learn exactly how to use a curling iron after blow-drying or diffusing hair.

Step 1: Apply heat protectant. “Think of reaching in your oven without a mitt on — you wouldn’t do it or you’d burn your hand,” Hardges says. “I do a light misting of heat protectant throughout the entire head before styling, and I suggest using one with some hold.” (Pro tip: Some leave-in conditioners and styling products have built-in heat protection, too.)
Step 2: Section hair evenly using a hair brush or clips. It’s worth the extra effort. “I know it seems as if it takes more time to section, but isolating your work area effectively is a time saver,” says Hardges.
Step 3: Working section by section, wrapping hair around the barrel and holding for 10 seconds. The curl won’t last unless your hair is as hot as the iron — meaning that holding your hair taut for only five seconds may not do the trick. “If your hair is fine, it will heat very quickly, but if your strands are coarse, it takes more time,” Hardges says.
Step 4: Hands off your curls. “Always let the curls cool and set before disturbing them,” says Hardges, comparing touching hot curls to cutting a steak before letting it rest. Otherwise, the curl can loosen or become fuzzy.

How to Care for Your Curling Iron

A generous cooldown is key for storage — you don’t want to inadvertently melt other products! Store your curling iron in a sleeve or bag, which often comes with the curling iron, to keep the coating from getting scratched. It’s worth allowing it to cool fully before putting it away. Taking care of a pricey investment will pay off over time and could even extend its lifespan beyond the average seven to 10 years, according to Hardges.

How do you know when it’s time to swap in a new model? “When your old curling iron’s original coating starts to wear off or if product build-up on the iron isn’t possible to remove anymore,” says Brown.

How to Clean Your Curling Iron

Cleaning your curling iron properly is essential for keeping it in good shape for years to come. Here’s what Rubenstein recommends:

Step 1: Let your iron cool completely, and make sure it’s unplugged.
Step 2: Use a warm, damp cloth to wipe the iron’s barrel.
Step 3: If there’s still build-up, dip the cloth into rubbing alcohol and spot-treat the iron.

Meet the Experts

Alex Brown is a celebrity hairstylist whose home base is her private hair studio in Chicago, where she works behind the chair in the ever-evolving West Loop neighborhood.  Prior to relocating to Chicago, Alex spent 3 years as the right hand to celebrity renowned hairstylist, Jen Atkin, and has over 12 years of experience in the beauty industry.  

Leigh Hardges is a stylist with over 15 years of professional experience. Her style mantra is “effortlessly chic and classic with an edge.” 

Clariss Rubenstein is a celebrity hairstylist and owner of the Beverly Hills salon, Gloss. Her clients include Jennifer Garner, Dakota Fanning, Mindy Kaling, Kaley Cuoco, Leighton Meester, Allison Williams and Alison Brie. Her work has been featured in editorials for Vanity Fair, Jalouse and LadyGunn, while her advertising work includes James Perse, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Tommy Hilfiger.