Titanium heats up faster than other options, which may pose a challenge for fine hair. “However, it is a suitable option for those with thicker or coarser hair, offering efficient heat distribution while minimizing the risk of damage,” Cavalcanta adds. A tourmaline curling iron is a styling tool designed with tourmaline-infused ceramic plates. “Tourmaline, a semi-precious gemstone known for its unique properties, produces negative ions and infrared heat when incorporated into hair tools. This feature contributes to smoother, shinier, and less frizzy hair,” he says. Cavalcante likes to use tourmaline for individuals with frizzy hair due to its efficient heat distribution and its ability to reduce damage compared to traditional styling tools.
Barrel Size
Different barrel sizes yield various styles, allowing you to choose based on the desired look. Thinner barrels, ranging from ⅜ to ½ inch, create tight curls that, when brushed through, achieve a voluminous ’70s aesthetic, explains Cavalcante. Medium sizes, between ¾ and 1 ½ inches, produce curls reminiscent of Sarah Jessica Parker in her Sex and The City days. Larger barrels, on the other hand, result in waves rather than curls. (You’ll love these for a natural wedding guest hair styles; they’re great for styling long hair as well, including creating some of the best long hairstyles for women over 50.) He suggests breaking the waves with a finger or comb after cooling to achieve a soft, natural wave look. Alternatively, gently organize them with your fingers for a more polished appearance. “While there isn’t a strict rule about which hair length pairs best with a specific barrel size, shorter hair, particularly above the neckline, tends to fare well with smaller wands. This is because there may not be enough length to wrap the hair around a larger curling iron,” Cavalcante says.
Temperature
Temperature also plays a major role in styling and maintaining the health of your hair! For individuals with fine hair, there are fewer layers to protect the strands, so you should use less heat when styling. Tara Simich, founder of Mermade Hair, recommends lower heat (250F - 300F) for fine hair, as each section will shape much quicker than the same section of denser/thicker hair. “Normal hair is best styled with medium heat of 350F, while thick hair can be styled with 375 F-450F. The thicker the hair, the more heat is needed to penetrate and create shape and curl in the hair,” she adds.
How to best use a curling iron
Regardless of your hair type, it’s always important to apply the best heat protectant spray to safeguard the cuticle. When it comes to whether your hair is wet or dry, it depends on the tool itself. “Always use hot electrical curling tongs on completely 100% dry hair, while heatless curls and air-styling tools should be used on damp or 90% dry hair,” warns Simich. She explains that hair generally curls better with hair tongs the next day, as the hair cuticle will be open and will have some natural oils that will add grit to help the curl hold. This is why sometimes your hair falls out after it's freshly washed. If you can’t wait until the next day to curl or wave your hair, use a texturizing spray. “If your hair is too clean or slippery, a texturizing spray can provide grip and help the curls hold.”
Meet the Hair Experts
- Erinn Courtney is a Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist whose clients include Eva Marcille and Trevor Noah.
- Graham Nation is a celebrity hairstylist and educator who counts Venus Williams, Emma Chamberlain, and Maddie Ziegler as clients.
- Nikkia Nelson is a celebrity hairstylist and barber who has worked with Ruth E. Carter, Angela Simmons, and Brandy.
- Mideyah Parker is a celebrity hairstylist whose clients include Precious Lee, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Naomi Campbell.
- Angie Perrantes is a pro hairstylist and natural hair specialist whose clients include Paige Hurd and LisaRaye McCoy.
- Laura Polko is a celebrity hairstylist whose clients include Madelyn Cline, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Hailee Steinfeld.
- Sal Salcedo is a professional hairstylist and founder of Nova Arts Salon in Los Angeles
- Ashley Stewart is a celebrity hairstylist whose clients include Simone Biles and La La Anthony.
- Larry Sims is a celebrity hairstylist who counts Gabrielle Union, Regina King, and Kerry Washington as clients.
- Rogerio Cavalcante, stylist and owner of The Second Floor Salon in New York
- Tara Simich, founder of Mermade Hair
