7 Best Curling Irons For Beginners, Recommended By A Hairstylist (2024)
Master the secrets of salon-perfect curls with these beginner-friendly curling tools.
Jessica ShultsLicensed Hairstylist
Jessica is an expert hairstylist with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in all areas of hair color and is exceptionally skilled at balayage and best-in-class gray blending techniques. After two decades of hairstyling, she launche... more
oyendrila kanjilalMA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Women with curly hair look at straight hair like it’s divine and women with straight hair think that curly hair is the most attractive type of all. This is exactly why straightening and curling devices are so popular. So, if you are a straight-haired woman looking for the best curling iron for beginners, we have got you covered! Whether you have wavy hair or finer hair, these tools can work wonders. Over-styling your hair can cause damage to your tresses so it is understandable if you are a little apprehensive about dipping your toes into the world of curling. But worry not, because the best hot tools for long-lasting curls come with inbuilt protective mechanisms that won’t cause harm. They can also help you tame your coarse hair. You need to find something that heats quickly, curls fast and, comes with adjustable heat settings.
Let us help you make the best choice with our list of the top 7 curling irons for beginners.
In This Article
7 Best Curling Irons For Beginners
1. Best Rotating Curling Iron:Kiss Instawave 101 Ceramic Automatic Rotating Curling Iron
Kiss Instawave 101 Ceramic Automatic Rotating Curling Iron is one of the best curling irons for beginners. It features Pearl Ceramic Ionic Technology that does not strip away the natural oils and essential moisture from your hair. The ions it emits act as a hair-smoothening agent and prevent frizz and split ends. This automatic curler reaches the highest temperature (400°F) in about 60 seconds. However, Jessica Shults, a licensed hairstylist, advises, “Only professional stylists should use 400° heat on hair. The customer should keep the setting closer to 200° for fine or damaged hair. 350° is a more ideal temperature for medium to coarse textured healthy hair.” It offers multiple heat settings to prevent hair damage. This curling iron comes in two barrel-size options for beginners – a 1-inch wand and a 1¼-inch wand. For short to medium-length hair, use the 1-inch barrel, and use the 1¼-inch barrel for medium-long hair.
Push the power button and place your hair around the curling barrel and tongs. Select the direction in which you want the curls by pushing the directional button. The patented dial will automatically wrap your strands around the wand. This video detailing a tester’s experience of using the curling iron will give you more insights into the product.
Barrel Size: 1.25 inches | Weight: 1.07 lb | Adjustable Temperature: Up to 400°F | Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 9
Pros
- Prevents frizz and split ends
- Multiple heat settings
- Heats up quickly
- Prevents hair damage
- Suitable for long and short hair
- 90-minute automatic shut-off feature
- Light indicator
Cons
- None
Quick Tip2. Best Auto-Off Feature:Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron
The 1-inch Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron is suitable for all hair lengths and types. The ceramic body heats up evenly and offers gorgeous curls without frizz. This curling iron features 30 heat settings and instantly heats up to 375° F. It is equipped with a unique cool tip for safe and easy handling and an auto-off feature. But if you still wish to go through some unbiased reviews before purchasing, then check out the product on Amazon as well! Moreover, Kelly, a personal blogger, is happy with the product as well. She writes, “This iron gave me perfect smooth curls and is easy to use. The cord doesn’t twist and kink so I can easily move around my head without having to stop and fix the cord. I didn’t even use the highest heat setting and my curls held all day even with me playing with them (i).”
Barrel Size: 1 inch | Weight: 0.14 lb | Adjustable Temperature: Up to 375°F | Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 30
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Budget friendly
- Recessed buttons
- Turbo heat boost
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 66,662 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
3. Best For Different Types Of Curls:VODANA Professional GlamWave Ceramic Curling Iron
The VODANA Professional GlamWave Ceramic Curling Iron helps you create different types of curls, from tighter curls, and full ringlets to relaxed and loose waves. The ceramic-coated curling barrel keeps your hair protected from heat damage and frizz. The quick heat-up technology with adjustable temperatures up to 200° C provides long-lasting curls. The swivel cord enables easy and comfortable styling time at any angle. The product has multiple positive customer reviews online as well to further assure you of its quality and results. Check them out!
Barrel Size: 1.4 inches | Weight: 1.65 lb | Adjustable Temperature: Up to 400°F | Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 5
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- 6 color choices
- 3 sizes of the curler
- Prevents split ends
- Helps create tight as well as loose curls
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- Expensive
| Kiss Instawave 101 Ceramic Automatic Rotating Curling Iron | Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron | VODANA Professional GlamWave Ceramic Curling Iron | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Ceramic | Ceramic | - |
| Hair Type | Fine | Curly | - |
| Shape | Barrel | - | - |
| Dimensions | 5.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches | 12.4 x 1.2 x 2.2 inches | - |
| Weight | 1 Pounds. | 12.8 Ounces. | - |
| Color | - | White/Rose Gold | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 122 | 66,662 | - |
| Price | $29.99 | $16.99 | $99 |
4. Best Dual-Voltage Facility:L’ANGE HAIR Le Perlé Titanium Bubble Curling Wand
The L’ANGE Hair Titanium Bubble Curling Wand comes in a unique bubble design enabling you to achieve N-type curls, from smaller tight to relaxed ones. This titanium wand takes 1 minute to heat up to 410°F, which is ideal for all kinds of hair. It comes with a 360° swivel cord that helps you achieve tangle-free, smooth curls and a dual-voltage facility suitable for traveling. The curling wand is designed with a hanging loop ideal for storage and has a soft-touch rubber finish. The product also comes with heat-resistant gloves to prevent burns.
Apply L’ANGE heat protectant to your hair and section it. Wrap a 1-inch section of hair around the barrel, wait for one minute, and gently release the barrel to create bouncy curls and waves. Check this video to watch an honest review of the tester’s experience of using this bubble wand.
Barrel Size: 1 inch | Weight: 0.63 lb | Adjustable Temperature: Up to 410°F | Material: Titanium | Heat Settings: 1
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Tangle-free swivel cord
- Travel-friendly
- Heats up in one minute
- Easy to store
- Offers quick styling
Cons
- Might dry the hair
5. Best Heat Sensors:Revlon Salon High Heat Hair Curling Iron Ball Wand
Revlon Salon Hair Curling Iron Ball Wand is devoted to creating gorgeous curls. It is undoubtedly one of the best and easiest curling irons for beginners. Be it vibrant curls, full ringlets, or soft, romantic waves – this curling wand does it all. It has a novel ball-shaped barrel that you can wrap your hair around for loose waves or tight curls. The tourmaline-ceramic coating delivers even heat and gives you professionally-styled hair without tangling or pulling it. It heats up to a maximum of 420°F. Once it reaches the maximum temperature, the High Heat and Constant Heat sensors of this quick heat-up curling iron for beginners monitor the temperature to quickly restore heat to the best styling level. Click here to check out this YouTuber’s unbiased review.
Barrel Size: 1 inch | Weight: 0.88 lb | Adjustable Temperature: Up to 420°F | Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 30
Pros
- Creates tight and loose curls
- Even heat distribution
- Comes with a heat-resistant glove
- Adjust the temperature to optimum styling level
Cons
- A bit tricky to use
Quick Tip6. Best Adjustable Temperature:Lily England Deluxe Curling Tong
Transform your lifeless strands into voluminous, bouncy tresses with the Lily England Deluxe Curling Tong. It comes with six adjustable temperature settings and optimum temperature control for beginners and making it suitable for all hair types. The advanced ceramic-coated 1.25-inch barrel releases negative ions that nourish the hair, and seal cuticles, and has frizz-control features that also prevent heat damage. The 360°swivel rotatable cord allows easy movement and flexible styling. The dual-voltage facility of the tong makes it ideal for traveling. This easy-to-use curling ceramic iron is designed with a 60-minute auto-off mechanism for ultimate user safety. Claudia Laxton, a personal vlogger, loves how effortlessly she can make curls using this product. She says, “I’m very pleased and I love the size of the barrel. I feel like my hair became soft, bouncy, and full. I’m loving it [the hairstyle] so much (ii).” The product is perfect for gifting or simply testing it out yourself! It comes at an affordable price too.
Barrel Size: 1.25 inches | Weight: 0.87 lb | Adjustable Temperature: Up to 424°F | Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 6
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- 6 heat settings
- 360°swivel cord
- 60-minute auto-shut off facility
- Easy to use
- Travel-friendly
- Heats up quickly
- Durable
Cons
- None
7. Best For Traveling:TYMO Interchangeable Curling Iron
The TYMO Interchangeable Curling Iron comes with three ceramic barrels that help achieve multiple hairstyles. It features five different temperature settings suitable for all hair types. This versatile curling iron features an advanced NTC control system designed with gold-plated internal wire and a thick ceramic coating that distributes heat quickly and evenly on your hair while precisely controlling the temperature and preventing heat damage. The built-in ionic system makes your hair smooth and tames frizz, making the tool suitable for frizzy and damaged hair. It keeps your hairstyle in place for hours. The 60-minute auto-off system safety feature offers better heat protection, and the 360°swivel power cord enables easy handling. This curling iron comes with a safety heat-resistant glove and a dual-voltage facility suitable for traveling. It comes with two hair clips, and one leather bag. The temperature is clearly visible on the LCD screen and the settings are ideal for all types of hair – be it damaged, dyed, thick, or thin. And, if you still are not quite sure about the product, then check it out on Amazon for some positive reviews that are sure to convince you!
Barrel Size: 0.5, 1, and 1.5 inches | Weight: 2.13 lb | Adjustable Temperature: Up to 430°F | Material: Ceramic | Heat Settings: 5
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- LED temperature display
- Durable
- 60-minute auto-off
- Easy to handle
- 360°swivel power cord
- Comes with 3 ceramic barrel
- 5 temperature settings
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- None
Pro TipInfographic: Curling Iron: Buying Guide And Tips To Use
Curly hair never goes out of style, even though sleek, shiny hair might rule the runways. Hence, curling wands are always in demand. Using heat tools might appear easy, but there is always the risk of burns and hair damage. If you are a beginner wondering how to use a curling iron, we have you covered. Check the infographic below to learn what to look for when buying curling irons and the tips to use them. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
There are many perfect curling wands for beginners. You can choose from a variety of brands that offer different features, like automatic shut-off, dual voltage, or quick heating. These curling irons help reduce frizz and split ends while also helping nourish your tresses. For effortless curls, the Kiss Instawave 101 Ceramic Automatic Rotating Curling Iron is a convenient choice. For versatile curls and waves, the L’ANGE HAIR Le Perlé Titanium Bubble Curling Wand delivers excellent results, while the Lily England Deluxe Curling Tong offers sleek and polished curls for a glamorous look. Choose the one that suits your curling preferences. With the help of these curling irons, you can style your straight hair in any way you want to! Curling irons with hassle-free swivel cords are best to use, as they provide complete protection while you are styling your hair. This way, you can avoid mishaps when in a hurry. Also, you should steer clear of curling irons that are not lightweight or portable. And, opt for expert-recommended or professional-grade curling rods that promise good results with minimal hair damage. If you need help with using these irons, check videos of professional hairstylists or celebrity hairstylists giving tutorials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are curling wands easier to use than curling irons?
Both curling wands and curling irons are similar in many aspects. However, though a curling wand helps you curl your hair quickly, using one can be difficult as it requires the use of both your hands. It does not have a clamp like a curling iron, which holds your hair in place and allows you to use only one hand. A curling iron is also more suitable for short hair.
What product should I put in my hair before curling?
Always apply a heat protectant cream or spray before curling your hair.
Should I use hairspray after curling?
Yes, you should apply hairspray after curling your tresses. This helps set the curls in place and keep them well-defined for a long time.
What size curling iron do hairdressers use?
This depends on the type of curls the customers want, but most hairdressers prefer a ¾ or 1 inches curling iron.
How long do you hold a curling iron in your hair?
Depending on how hot your curling rod is, you should hold your curling iron for not more than 6-10 seconds.
Why won’t my hair hold a curl with a curling iron?
There can be multiple reasons your hair is not holding the curls. Some of the most common reasons are:
• Your hair is not completely dry before curling and still has moisture.
• Your shower products have not washed off completely.
• The heat setting on the curler is not enough.
• Application of too much silicone product on the hair before curling.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author of this article, is a hair care enthusiast. She is well-versed in people’s requirements regarding curling irons after scouring numerous product quality reviews. She understands that an ideal one should be non-damaging to the hair, easy to handle, and efficient. Therefore, she has included premium quality products in this list of the best curling irons for you. You can go through the details of each product she has listed before picking the right one.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i) Kelly Marie
https://kellymariebeauty.wordpress.com/2019/12/17/my-new-favorite-curling-ironthe-conair-double-ceramic-curling-iron/
(ii) Claudia Laxton
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_5GEA95N3E
