Of all the hair tools on the market, few are as polarizing as the curling iron. Choosing the best curling iron is just as important as learning how to use one properly—whether you’re creating subtle waves, tight coils, or flatiron curls.
“What makes a great curling iron is heat-protecting technology, so that the hair isn’t burned or damaged, [as well as] ergonomic control so that it’s comfortable and practical for the user,” says celebrity hairstylist Erinn Courtney, who adds that high enough temperatures are key too.
Celebrity hairstylist Larry Sims, who counts Gabrielle Union, Regina King, and Kerry Washington as clients, shares guidance on choosing the right model for you: “To sum it up, go for a ceramic curler if you have hair that holds a curl easily or is fine and prone to damage. A titanium curling iron is better for coarse, thick, or curly hair.” According to Courtney, a ceramic barrel takes longer to heat up and heats hair from within, so it’s gentler on thin or damaged hair.
While both Sims and Courtney prefer traditional curling irons over wands or other tools, it’s worth exploring all the options available for your post-shampoo look. In fact, Courtney says that finding the most suitable iron is all about trial and error.
To help inform your buy, we’ve curated this edit of the best curling irons to add to your beauty arsenal.
Dyson Airwrap Styler
“I love the Dyson Airwrap Styler. It works like magic,” says Courtney. “It gives the bounciest curls and waves with so much body. I’ve never experienced heat damage using this iron.” The styler uses the brand’s airflow technology to attract and wrap the hair around the barrel to curl, wave, smooth, and dry without extreme heat—much like the coveted blow-dryer. Stay tuned for its next generation launching summer 2022.
Harry Josh Pro Tools Travel Curling Iron 1.25”
On-the-go styling requires a tool that makes traveling that much easier, like the Harry Josh Pro Tools Travel Curling Iron, which is lightweight and features a ceramic tourmaline barrel that’s visibly shorter than traditional models. Even more: It heats up in only 30 seconds, with adjustable temperature settings from 325 to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.