Whether you’re looking for tight ringlets, loose waves, or something in between, a curling iron is an essential tool for creating any number of curly hairstyles. But with so many curling irons on the market, it can take time to know which one is right for you. That’s where we come in. We’ve researched and rounded up the best hair curling irons on the market so you can find the perfect one for your hair type and needs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular curling irons on the market and help you decide which one is right for you. We’ll also share some tips on how to use your curling iron to create your favorite curly hairstyles.
A quick look at Best Hair Curling Irons
- Overall Best Hair Curling Irons, Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Curling Irons for All Hair Types, HOT TOOLS Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Curling Irons made of Ceramic, Conair Double Ceramic 1-inch Curling Wand. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Curling Irons for use on short to medium hair, Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Curling Irons for Curly Hair, INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Curl Secret. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Curling Irons made of Stainless Steel, Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron. Skip to Review
Overall Best Hair Curling Irons
Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron
- Material: Ceramic
- Brand: Conair
- Hair Type : Curly
Product Review
Its 1-inch barrel makes it suitable for creating classic curls on various hair lengths. The higher ceramic content ensures even heat distribution, resulting in long-lasting styles with minimal frizz. Its 30 heat settings, quick heat-up feature, and Turbo Heat boost make it perfect for all hair types, including those tricky spots. Safety is a priority with the unique cool tip and auto-off feature, while the dual voltage adds travel convenience.
Conair, a trusted name in hair care since 1959, continues to impress with their innovative products. The Double Ceramic Curling Iron is no exception. Its advanced ceramic technology offers superior heat protection, ensuring your hair stays healthy and frizz-free. The recessed buttons prevent accidental shutoff, providing hassle-free styling.
Pros
- Versatile: Suitable for short, medium, and long hair, making it versatile for different hair lengths.
- 1-Inch Barrel: Produces classic curls, ideal for achieving timeless hairstyles.
- Double Ceramic Technology: Provides even heat distribution to hair.
- Quick Heat-Up: Heats up rapidly, saving time when styling your hair.
- Affordable: Offers a budget-friendly option for those looking for a reliable curling iron.
Cons
- Corded: Requires an outlet for power, limiting portability.
- Not Suitable for All Hair Types: There may be better choices for very thick or coarse hair types.
- Product Name: Conair Double Ceramic one-Inch Curling Iron
- Barrel Size: 1-inch, perfect for creating classic curls on short, medium, and long hair
- Ceramic Technology: Higher ceramic content for even heat distribution, resulting in long-lasting styles with reduced frizz
- Versatile Heat Settings: Offers 30 heat settings with instant heat up to 375°F and a Turbo Heat boost for tackling difficult-to-style sections
- Cool Tip: Features a unique cool tip for safe and easy handling
- Auto Off Feature: Includes an Auto Off feature for added safety and peace of mind
- Easy Operation: Recessed buttons to prevent accidental shutoff and dual voltage for international travel convenience
- Innovative Styling Tools: Part of Conair’s lineup of high-quality styling tools, including curling irons, flat irons, hot air brushes, and more
- Conair Hair Care Legacy: Providing innovative small appliances and hair styling tools since 1959, including hair dryers, brushes, styling tools, and hair accessories.
Best Hair Curling Irons for All Hair Types
HOT TOOLS Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Brand: HOT TOOLS
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
HOT TOOLS Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron’s versatile design makes you effortlessly create tousled curls suitable for various styling preferences. What sets this curling iron apart is its ability to deliver long-lasting results; it heats up quickly, maintains consistent heat distribution, and works beautifully on all hair types, from thin to coarse.
In addition to its impressive performance, the Signature Gold Curling Iron offers practical features for everyday use. The foldaway safety stand makes storage a breeze, and the 6ft. tangle-free swivel cord provides the freedom of movement you need when styling your hair. HOT TOOLS remains a trusted and stylist-recommended brand with its legacy rooted in the professional hairstyling community since 1990.
Pros
- Professional-grade quality for salon-like results at home.
- 24K gold-plated barrel provides even heat distribution and reduces hair damage.
- Quick heat-up time, saving you valuable styling minutes.
- Long-lasting, defined curls that hold throughout the day.
- Versatile 1-1/4 inch barrel size suitable for various curl styles.
- Comes with a comfortable, easy-to-use ergonomic handle.
- 9-foot swivel cord for flexible styling without tangling.
Cons
- 1-1/4 inch barrel may not be ideal for very short hair.
- Limited availability of temperature settings may not suit all hair types.
- Product: HOT TOOLS Pro Signature Gold Curling Iron (1-1/4 in)
- Brand: SIGNATURE GOLD
- Professional Stylists’ Choice: Preferred tool for professional stylists.
- Barrel Style: Versatile design for creating tousled curls.
- Long-Lasting Results: Heats up quickly and maintains even heat distribution for locked-in curls.
- Versatile Styling: Can be used as a traditional curling iron or as a wand.
- Suitable for All Hair Types: High heat up to 430℉ for beautiful results on thin to coarse hair.
- Easy Storage: Features a foldaway safety stand for convenient storage.
- Tangle-Free Swivel Cord: Enjoy 6ft. of free movement with a tangle-free cord.
- Stylist-Recommended: Trusted brand in the professional hairstyling community since 1990.
Best Hair Curling Irons made of Ceramic
Conair Double Ceramic 1-inch Curling Wand
- Material: Ceramic
- Brand: Conair
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
Conair Double Ceramic 1-inch Curling Wand’s clamp-free design eliminates the risk of kinks or creases, making it easy to achieve flawless, natural-looking curls. With 30 heat settings and a rapid heat-up feature reaching up to 400°F, you have full control over your styling preferences. The Turbo Heat boost is perfect for tackling stubborn sections, while the cool tip ensures safe and comfortable handling. Plus, the auto-off feature adds a layer of convenience and safety to your styling routine.
This innovative styling tool showcases Conair’s commitment to delivering high-quality hair care solutions. The double ceramic technology ensures even heat distribution for fast styling and long-lasting waves. By reducing stress on your hair, the conical barrel helps minimize damage, allowing you to enjoy beautiful, beachy curls without compromising your hair’s health.
Pros
- Double ceramic technology for even heat distribution.
- 1-inch barrel creates versatile curls and waves.
- Quick heat-up time for convenience.
- Five temperature settings for customization.
- Auto-off feature for safety.
- Long-lasting, frizz-free results.
Cons
- Limited temperature range compared to some high-end models.
- Cord may not be very long, limiting mobility.
- Product: Conair Double Ceramic 1-inch Curling Wand
- Curling Wand Type: Straight wand for creating flawless waves
- Wave Style: Produces free-flowing beachy waves
- No Kinks or Creases: Clamp-free design prevents kinks and creases in your hair
- Double Ceramic Technology: Provides even heat distribution for fast styling and long-lasting waves
- Heat Settings: Offers 30 heat settings with instant heat up to 400°F
- Turbo Heat Boost: Helps tackle difficult-to-style spots
- Cool Tip: Ensures safe and easy handling during use
- Auto Off Feature: Prevents accidental shutoff for added safety
- Barrel Shape: Conical barrel creates loose, natural, beachy curls and waves
- Stress-Free Hair Styling: Clamp-free design reduces stress on hair, minimizing damage
- Innovative Styling Tools: Conair offers a range of high-quality styling tools for all hair types
- Trusted Brand: Conair has been providing innovative hair care solutions since 1959
- Product Range: Includes hair dryers, brushes, styling tools, and hair accessories
Best Hair Curling Irons for use on Short to Medium Hair
Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron
- Color: Black
- Brand: Conair
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron 30-second heat-up time and Multilayer Barrel Technology ensures even heat distribution for consistent results. The 25 heat settings and Turbo Heat Button offer precise control, while the extra-long cool tip and auto-off feature enhance safety. Whether you have short or medium hair, this curling iron is a reliable companion for easily achieving tight curls and various hairstyles.
Conair’s commitment to innovation shines through in this product, catering to the needs of those who value both performance and safety in their styling routine. With a range of barrel sizes to choose from and the convenience of dual voltage for international travelers, the Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron is a dependable choice for achieving salon-worthy curls and waves.
Pros
- Quick Heat-Up: Heats up rapidly, saving time.
- Versatile Barrel Size: Suitable for short to medium hair lengths.
- Tight Curls: 3/4-inch barrel creates tight and defined curls.
- Adjustable Temperature: Allows for precise heat control.
- Auto Shut-Off: Enhances safety by turning off when not in use.
- Affordable: Offers good value for the price.
- Long Cord: Provides flexibility during styling.
Cons
- No Digital Display: Lacks a digital temperature readout.
- Heat Distribution: May have uneven heat distribution in some cases.
- Product: Conair Instant Heat 3/4-Inch Curling Iron
- Barrel Size: 3/4-inch for tight curls on short to medium hair
- Quick Heat Up: 30 Second Heat Up for instant styling
- Multilayer Barrel Technology: Ensures even heat distribution
- Dual Voltage: Suitable for international travel
- Pinpoint Styling: 25 heat settings and Turbo Heat Button for extra heat
- Extra Long Cool Tip: Provides easy handling
- Convenient Power Cord: 5ft power cord for flexibility
- Auto Off Feature: Enhances safety
- Versatile Styling: Create curls, waves, and various styles
- Wide Range of Barrel Sizes: Including extra large diameters
- Innovative Styling Tools: Offers a variety of high-quality hair styling tools
- Conair Hair Care: A trusted brand since 1959, providing innovative hair care products and accessories.
Best Hair Curling Irons for Curly Hair
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Curl Secret
- Material: Ceramic, Tourmaline
- Brand: Conair
- Hair Type : Curly
Product Review
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Curl Secret’s innovative Auto Curl technology gently draws your hair into the curl chamber, eliminating tangles and ensuring each curl is perfectly timed and heated. With two heat levels and three timer settings, you have complete control over your styling, allowing you to achieve a range of beautiful curl styles, from medium waves to tight spirals. The high-performance heater heats up in just 30 seconds and maintains even heat distribution for consistent results.
Its professional brushless motor, designed for longevity and precision, sets this styling tool apart. The motor features a safety sensor to prevent tangles, giving you peace of mind while creating your curls. The Conair Curl Secret also incorporates safety features like an Auto Beep Indicator and automatic shut-off for worry-free styling. With Conair’s decades of expertise in hair care products, this innovative curling tool is a reliable choice for those seeking salon-worthy curls at home.
Pros
- Automated curling: Easy to use, as it curls hair automatically.
- Consistent results: Produces uniform curls for a polished look.
- Safety features: Built-in safety sensors to prevent hair from getting tangled.
- Versatile: Offers multiple heat and timer settings for different curl styles.
- Time-saving: Faster curling compared to manual methods.
- Suitable for various hair types: Works on different hair textures and lengths.
Cons
- Potential hair damage: Excessive use at high heat settings can damage hair.
- Hair length limitations: Not ideal for very short or extremely long hair.
- Product Name: INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Curl Secret
- Revolutionary Curling Technology: Auto Curl tangle-free technology draws hair into the curl chamber, where it is gently held, timed, and heated to create perfect curls.
- Professional Brushless Motor: Features a long-life motor with a safety sensor for tangle-free curls and precise styling.
- High-Performance Heater: Provides 30-second heat up, even heat distribution, and instant recovery for efficient curling.
- Styling Control: Offers 2 heat levels and 3 timer settings, allowing you to create a range of curl styles from medium to tight curls.
- Maximum Heat: Heats up to 400-degrees Fahrenheit with an Auto Beep Indicator to signal when it’s safe to release the curl.
- Auto-OFF Feature: Ensures safety by automatically turning off the device.
- Innovative Styling Tools: Part of Conair’s high-quality line of styling tools, including curling irons, wands, flat irons, hot air brushes, and more.
- Trusted Brand: Conair has been providing innovative small appliances and hair care products since 1959.
- Household Use: This styler is designed for household use and operates on 120V AC with a polarized plug for safety.
- Safety Reminder: If the plug doesn’t fit in the outlet, reverse it, and if it still doesn’t fit, consult a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to bypass the safety feature.
Best Hair Curling Irons made of Stainless Steel
Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Brand: HOT TOOLS
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron 24K gold barrel ensures you can effortlessly create precise and defined curls. What sets this curling iron apart is its ability to deliver long-lasting results. It heats up quickly, distributes heat evenly, and maintains that heat consistently. Whether you want classic curls or prefer a wand-like effect, this versatile tool covers you.
With a maximum heat setting of up to 430℉, it’s suitable for all hair types, from fine to coarse. The foldaway safety stand ensures easy storage, and the 8ft. tangle-free swivel cord allows you to move around while styling. Trusted by hairstylists since its inception in 1990, Hot Tools has established itself as a reliable and stylist-recommended brand.
Pros
- 24K gold-plated barrel for even heat distribution.
- Creates long-lasting and defined curls.
- Multiple heat settings for versatility.
- Fast heat-up time for quick styling.
- Durable and reliable build quality.
- Extra-long barrel suitable for longer hair.
Cons
- Some users may find it heavy during extended use.
- May not work well for very fine or extremely thick hair types.
- 24K GOLD BARREL: The Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron boasts a versatile gold barrel that’s a favorite among professional stylists for creating defined curls.
- LONG-LASTING RESULTS: This curling iron heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring faster styling and curls that stay in place all day.
- VERSATILE STYLING: Use it as a traditional curling iron or wrap your hair around the barrel for a wand-like effect, giving you endless styling possibilities.
- SUITS ALL HAIR TYPES: With a high heat reach of up to 430℉, it delivers beautiful results for all hair types, from thin to coarse and everything in between.
- EASY STORAGE: The foldaway safety stand makes storage a breeze, and the 8ft. tangle-free swivel cord allows you to move while styling.
- STYLISTS PREFERRED: Trusted by professionals since 1990, Hot Tools is a brand that hairstylists recommend and rely on for exceptional styling tools.
FAQS
Hair curling irons work by applying heat to the hair, temporarily breaking the hydrogen bonds in the hair strands. Once the hair cools down, it retains the shape of the curl or wave created around the heated barrel.
Yes, there are various types of curling irons, including clipless wands, curling wands with clips, and automatic curling irons. They come in different sizes and materials, such as ceramic, tourmaline, and titanium.
The curling iron barrel’s size determines your curls’ size. Smaller barrels (around 1 inch) create tighter curls, while larger barrels (1.5 inches or more) produce looser, wavy curls. Choose the size that matches your desired curl style.
If your hair gets stuck in the curling iron, carefully unwind it without pulling or tugging to avoid damaging your hair. Turn off the iron and allow it to cool if necessary.
It depends on the type of synthetic hair. Some synthetic hair extensions can handle low heat settings, but others may melt or become damaged. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations.
The longevity of curls depends on your hair type, the products used, and environmental factors. Generally, curls can last from a few hours to a couple of days, but using a quality hairspray can help prolong their hold.
Factors to consider when buying Hair Curling Irons;
- Hair Type: Consider your hair type (fine, thick, curly) to choose an iron with appropriate heat settings.
- Barrel Size: Smaller barrels create tighter curls, while larger barrels produce loose waves or curls.
- Material: Ceramic or tourmaline irons distribute heat evenly, reducing hair damage compared to metal.
- Temperature Control: Look for adjustable temperature settings to cater to your hair’s specific needs.
- Safety Features: Opt for irons with auto-shutoff and heat-resistant gloves to prevent accidents and burns.
- Brand Reputation: Research and choose reputable brands with good customer reviews for quality and durability.
No matter what your hair type or needs, there’s a curling iron out there that’s perfect for you. With so many options available, finding one that fits your budget and lifestyle is easy. So what are you waiting for? Start shopping for your new curling iron today!