AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
Whether you’re a hairstylist or just looking to add a new hair tool to your hair care repertoire, a curling iron can help. However, with so many curling irons on the market, it may feel overwhelming to peruse them all to see which best fits your needs (and hair).
“There are numerous styles that can be created with a curling iron to add texture and volume,” says Lauren Niekamp, hairstylist at The Equestrian Hotel’s Calluna Spa. “Curling irons change a look from small spiral curls to fun, natural beach waves to add versatility to your look.”
To find the best curling irons, I consulted with Niekamp and other hairstylists working in salons across the United States. They shared their recommendations and additional information about what people should look for when shopping for curling irons, including barrel size, material and temperature settings.
What to consider when buying the best curling irons
Barrel size
Not all curling irons are the same when it comes to their barrel size. When selecting the best curling iron for you, consider the kind of curls you want to achieve, as different barrel sizes produce different curls. Tina Malhotra, New York City-based hairstylist of Hair By Tina M, notes that the bigger the barrel, the looser the appearance of the curls or waves produced.
With that in mind, “For tightly spiraled or curled hair shoot for ⅜-inch to 1-inch barrels,” says Niekcamp. “One-inch to 1 ½-inch barrels are more versatile and can be combed out with a wide tooth comb to create bigger beach waves. Two-inch barrels are typically designed for longer hair and will create bigger waves. That said, it’s hard to go wrong with a 1-inch barrel.”
Temperature settings
Rogerio Cavalcante, owner and stylist at The Second Floor Salon in New York City, advises searching for curling irons that offer a variety of temperature settings. "It’s nice to look for some range, especially if you know you will share the curling iron with someone with a different hair texture,” says Cavalcante.
Although this is a feature related to temperature settings, Lauren Kunijo, co-owner, master stylist and extension specialist at Kenna Kunijo, advises purchasing curling irons that have temperature locks. “Heat locks maintain your desired heat temperature the entire time your curling iron is on,” she says. “For example, without a heat lock, you could set the temperature to 300 degrees and a few sections later the heat will have lowered to 250 degrees, thus causing either your hairstyle to fall out or lead you to have to keep your hair on the heat longer than before, which can cause damage.”
Material
Material is an important consideration to keep in mind when shopping for curling irons because each material has its pros and cons. Many hairstylists recommend ceramic curling irons due to their gentle nature and the fact that they evenly distribute heat on hair from inside the hair shaft, according to Malhotra. However, ceramic curling irons may take longer to heat up and are often accompanied by higher price tags, she adds.
Cavalcante notes that titanium curling irons work well on thicker hair and heat up faster as they tend to be lighter. That said, titanium may be more damaging to the hair and potentially result in frizz.
Our top picks for the best curling irons
Best rotating curling iron: Chi Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin ‘N Curl
Best rotating
Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin N Curl 1 Inch
This rotating curling iron delivers when it comes to creating bouncy curls quickly. Even though the ceramic tool rotates, it offers many customization options for heat-up time — 15 seconds, 17 seconds and 19 seconds — and temperature — 370 F, 390 F and 410 F. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the temperature changing during your styling session because it features a temperature auto-lock tool. Note: This curling iron operates differently than many others on the market, and it may require some learning (especially if you haven’t used a rotating curling iron before).
Specifications:
- Barrel size: 1 inch.
- Temperature settings: Three (370, 390 and 410 F).
- Material: Ceramic.
- Price on publish: $149.99.
What we like:
- Can adjust heat-up times.
- Temperature auto-lock.
- Multiple heat settings.
What we don’t like:
- Big learning curve (for most).
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Despite the learning curve this curling iron can present for some, it comes equipped with many customizable features for an increasingly personalized style session.
Get it here: Chi Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin ‘N Curl
Best automatic curling iron: Shark FlexStyle
Best automatic
Shark Beauty Shark FlexStyle Hair Blow Dryer & Multi-Styler for Straight & Wavy Hair
Looking for an automatic curling iron? Look no further than the Shark FlexStyle. This automatic curling iron is compatible with thick, medium and fine hair so it’s suitable for many individuals. When it comes to actually curling your hair, this gadget does all of the heavy lifting so all you have to do is hold it for about 10 seconds on each strand to see results. Make sure to note that this gadget can be loud, especially if you’re sensitive to noise or looking for a quieter tool.
Specifications:
- Barrel size: 1.25 inch.
- Temperature settings: Four.
- Material: Metal.
- Price on publish: $299.99.
What we like:
- Compatible with fine, medium and thick hair.
- Four temperature settings.
- Intuitive.
- Works quickly.
What we don’t like:
- Loud.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Those looking for an automatic curling iron should consider this tool because it’s compatible with most hair types and produces results in about 10 seconds.
Get it here: Shark FlexStyle
Best ceramic curling iron: Hot Tools Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Iron For Smooth, Shiny Hair
Best ceramic
Hot Tools Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Irons For Smooth, Shiny Hair
Searching for a ceramic curling iron? Malhotra recommends the Hot Tools Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Iron For Smooth, Shiny Hair. This curling iron includes three barrel sizes and is made with nano-ceramic technology, designed to keep hair gliding and frizz away when applying heat up to 450 F. It also comes with a swivel cord that won’t get tangled when moving — I can’t think of anything better!
Specifications:
- Barrel size(s): 1 inch, 1.5 inches and 1.25 inches.
- Temperature settings: 280 – 450 F.
- Material: Ceramic.
- Price on publish: $64.99.
What we like:
- Three barrel sizes.
- Nano ceramic technology.
- Affordable.
What we don’t like:
- May produce an unpleasant odor.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Since this ceramic curling iron is made with nano-ceramic technology, it’s a great option for those looking for a tool that will smoothly glide on hair, while also reducing frizz.
Get it here: Hot Tools Pro Artist Nano Ceramic Curling Iron For Smooth, Shiny Hair
Best curling iron for beach waves: Mermade The 1.25-inch OG Waver
Best for beach waves
Mermade Hair Pro Hair Waver
If you’re looking for a curling iron to create those perfect beach waves, the Mermade 1.25-inch OG Waver is a great option. Made with three extra-large 1.25-inch barrels, this ceramic curling iron is designed to create voluminous and bouncy waves in three to five seconds. Despite this iron’s larger size, it takes a minute (or less) to heat up before you can begin styling and is equipped with a heat-resistant handle to keep your hands safe during the process.
Specifications:
- Barrel size: 1.25 inches.
- Temperature settings: Up to 410 F.
- Material: Ceramic (barrels).
- Price on publish: $79.
What we like:
- Three large barrels.
- Heats up within one minute.
- Heat-resistant handle.
What we don’t like:
- May not be the most travel-friendly.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Even though this curling iron is on the bigger side, its three 1.25-inch barrels quickly form bouncy curls in seconds.
Get it here: Mermade The 1.25-inch OG Waver
Best affordable curling iron: BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Reverse Taper Curling Wand
Best affordable
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Reverse Taper Curling Wand
For a curling iron that won’t break the bank, Shelly Aguirre, stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, Illinois, recommends an iron from BaByliss, such as the BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Reverse Taper Curling Wand. Unlike some of the other curling irons on our list, this iron — made with nano titanium — contains a unique barrel, sized differently throughout, with a 0.8-inch tip, a 0.5-inch midsection and a 1-inch base. Despite its lower price, this curling iron has five heat settings and digital temperature control for a straightforward experience.
Specifications:
- Barrel size: 0.8 inch (tip), 0.5 inch (mid-section) and 1 inch (base).
- Temperature settings: Five heat settings: 285 F, 320 F, 355 F, 395 F and 420 F.
- Material: Nano titanium.
- Price on publish: $52.50.
What we like:
- Less than $100.
- Digital temperature control.
- Built-in stand.
What we don’t like:
- Packaging may be confusing.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For a budget-friendly curling iron, opt for this titanium one from BaBylissPro for less than $100.
Get it here: BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Reverse Taper Curling Wand
Best curling iron for fine hair: Kristin Ess Hair 1 Inch Ceramic Curling Iron
Best for fine hair
Kristin Ess Hair 1" Curling Iron (Ceramic)-No color
The 1-inch curling iron from Kristin Ess is a great option for those with fine hair because of its smoothing ceramic barrel. When you use this curling iron, you can select a temperature preset from one of the tool’s four options (up to 425 F). If you’re someone who tends to move your fingers a lot when doing your hair, this tool has a thumb grip to keep your hands safe during the process and prevent unwanted burns.
Specifications:
- Barrel size: One inch.
- Temperature settings: Four temperature presets (up to 425 F).
- Material: Ceramic.
- Price on publish: $60.
What we like:
- Thumb grip.
- 30-minute automatic shut-off.
- Four temperature presets.
What we don’t like:
- Limited color options.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This ceramic curling iron is one of the better options for fine hair because of its smoothing barrel and temperature settings.
Get it here: Kristin Ess Hair 1 Inch Ceramic Curling Iron
Best curling iron for thin hair: Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long
Best for thin hair
Dyson Airwrap multi-styler and dryer Complete Long Nickel/Copper
If you’re looking for a curling iron for thin hair, it doesn’t get much better than the Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long. With two barrels (1.2 inch and 1.6 inch), three speeds and three heat settings, you can curl your hair in both directions — at the same time — and in whichever way you prefer. Additionally, this tool doubles as a hair dryer, drying damp hair so you don’t have to spend too much time drying before styling.
Specifications:
- Barrel size(s): 1.2 inch and 1.6 inch.
- Temperature settings: Three heat settings (less than 302 F).
- Material: Aluminum.
- Price on publish: $599.99.
What we like:
- Comes with six attachments.
- Weighs more than 2 pounds.
- Three speed settings.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Despite the investment, this curling iron can dry and curl hair simultaneously using a combination of its two barrels and six attachments.
Get it here: Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long
Best curling iron for beginners:
Best for beginners
Drybar The Wrap Party Styling Wand
Looking for a beginner-friendly curling iron? Cavalcante recommends The Wrap Party Curling & Styling Wand from Drybar. “I would recommend a curling iron like this one for beginners because it doesn’t have a clamp,” says Cavalcante. “I think it’s easier for people to use it and the hair won't get stuck and pulled on the clamp.” With the ability to reach up to 450 F, this curling iron with a reverse taper is suitable for a variety of hair types. It's also equipped with a 9-foot cord for flexibility.
Specifications:
- Barrel size: Barrel reverse tapers from 1.5 inches to 1 inch.
- Temperature settings: Up to 450 F.
- Material: Plastic, ceramic (barrel).
- Price on publish: $169.
What we like:
- 9-foot cord.
- No clamp.
- Automatic shut-off.
What we don’t like:
- Feels heavy.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Beginner hair curlers will appreciate this curling iron because it’s made without a clamp and does not easily slip when in use.
Get it here:
Best curling iron for long hair: T3 Singlepass Curl X
Best for long hair
T3 Singlepass Curl X
Aguirre recommends the T3 Singlepass Curl X for long hair. “This is one of the irons I use at the salon,” says Aguirre. “I like the heat adjustment options and the fact that it glides through the hair seamlessly.” Since this 6.5-inch curling iron is made with T3 SinglePass Technology, each strand doesn’t have to undergo multiple passes to keep curls even and healthy. Plus, this lightweight curling iron has nine heat settings, which you can choose from depending on your hair type and preferred style.
Specifications:
- Barrel size(s): 1 inch, 1.25 inches and 1.5 inches.
- Temperature settings: Nine heat settings.
- Material: Ceramic.
- Price on publish: $149.99.
What we like:
- Advanced technology.
- Lightweight.
- Extra-long barrel.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This curling iron is a solid pick for those with long hair because it’s lightweight and made with a 6.5-inch barrel.
Get it here: T3 Singlepass Curl X
Best curling iron for all hair types: Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron
Best for all hair types
Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron
Regardless of your hair type, Beachwaver’s B1 Rotating Curling Iron can help you style it. With three temperature settings, its 1-inch barrel can be used to style your hair at home or on the go. It’s travel-friendly and has simplified arrow buttons for a user-friendly rotation experience.
Specifications:
- Barrel size: 1 inch.
- Temperature settings: Three (290 F, 350 F and 410 F).
- Material: Ceramic.
- Price on publish: $99.
What we like:
- Rotating arrows.
- Works on all hair types.
- Travel-friendly.
What we don’t like:
- Doesn’t have a reset button.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This ceramic iron is designed to work well on all hair types because of its three temperature settings.
Get it here: Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron
How we selected the best curling irons
Expert advice and online research
I selected the best curling irons after interviewing Lauren Kunijo, co-owner, master stylist and extension specialist at Kenna Kunijo; Tina Malhotra, New York City-based hairstylist of Hair By Tina M; Shelly Aguirre, stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, Illinois; Lauren Niekamp, hairstylist at The Equestrian Hotel’s Calluna Spa; and Rogerio Cavalcante, owner and stylist at The Second Floor Salon in New York City. I considered their insights and recommendations to help inform my online research and supplement their recommendations with additional picks.
Material
Since most of our experts note that ceramic curling irons are better, a majority of the picks here are made with ceramic barrels.
Safety features
Since safety should be a priority when using any appliance, and especially one involving heat, I included many curling irons on this list with an automatic shut-off feature, thumb grips or built-in safety stands (or a combination of all three).
Curling iron maintenance and care
Maintaining and caring for a curling iron isn’t too demanding, but it will make all of the difference when it comes to longevity and keeping your hair safe and healthy. After unplugging your curling iron and allowing it to cool, “it’s a good idea to wipe down your curling iron with a damp towel to remove products, like hair spray,” says Niekamp. “Then, store in a safe, dry area for longevity.”
Make sure you remove any product sprays or dry shampoos, too.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is a ceramic or titanium curler better?
All of our experts agree that ceramic curling irons are generally better because they tend to be gentler on the hair. “Ceramic irons are gentler since they heat the hair from inside the shaft as opposed to just on the surface,” explains Malhotra. Furthermore, ceramic curling irons heat hair evenly. One of the only downsides to ceramic curling irons is that they take longer to grow warm. “Ceramic curling irons take a little longer to heat up — around 35 seconds — whereas titanium curling irons heat instantly,” says Niekamp.
Which curling iron is least damaging to hair?
Since any tool that applies heat can be damaging to hair, curling irons that offer a variety of heat settings — and those with lower heat — are typically less damaging to hair. However, everyone’s hair is different and damage usually depends on the frequency of use and how long heat is applied to hair with each use.
What type of curling iron is the healthiest for hair?
When it comes to the type of curling iron that is least damaging to hair, Cavalcante recommends opting for a ceramic curling iron. That said, the temperature at which a curling iron is kept can dictate the amount of damage, so the temperature should be selected depending on the hair type being treated. Niekamp advises applying heat-protect hair spray to the hair before using a curling iron, regardless of your hair type and the curling iron type used, to keep your hair as safe as possible.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
