The Best Curling Irons We’ve Tested (2025)

FAQs

What curling iron do most salons use? ›

What curling iron do stylists use? There's a lot of debate around whether ceramic or titanium is better for heat styling tools, but when it comes to the in-salon choice, Toye says, "Titanium would be the most preferred by stylists, and tourmaline and ceramic are more popular among the average consumer.

Ceramic Curling Iron

Collins recommends a curling iron with a full ceramic plate, rather than one that just has a ceramic coating. "The infrared heat goes deep into the hair quickly, so it locks in the moisture to create less damage," he explains. "Heat will be even and create a smooth, shiny surface."

While titanium curling irons may be the way to go if you're in a rush (since they heat up faster), consider reaching for your ceramic tool on all other occasions; your strands will thank you in the long run.

Hair length plays a role in choosing the right wand size, too, says Cleveland. “Smaller barrels are best for shorter hair styles to give volume as well as curl,” she says. The 1-1 ¼-inch wands are ideal for medium length hair; anything larger is best for long hair.

If you're looking for a curling iron that creates defined, long-lasting curls, we recommend the ghd Classic Curl Curling Iron. But if you prefer something that creates gorgeous beach waves and has adjustable temperature settings, go for the T3 SinglePass Curl Professional Ceramic Curling Iron.

If you want to create silky-smooth curls without damaging your hair, consider using a ceramic curling iron. The ceramic curling irons are famous for their smooth barrels, quick heating times, and evenly distributed heat.

1-inch barrel curling irons are not only the most universal for creating various looks, but they also work best for creating tight, bouncy curls.

Your curling iron must have an adjustable temperature. Usually, an iron that can have a maximum temperature ranging from 300 to 400°F is good to have. If you want a looser curl, choose a larger barrel, and smaller ones for tighter curls. If you desire waves and looser curls, choose barrels that are 1.5 - inches.

The iron heats up incredibly fast and I love the auto-off safety feature. There are a ton of different heat settings to choose from. My hair is fine and naturally wavy, but I use the 13 setting and it does great. It doesn't have any kind of nonstick coating on it, but it's never been an issue.

The Beachwaver Co. S1 Rotating Curling Iron is ideal for beginners because the buttons are intuitive — left and right — and the other mechanics like temperature and the clamp to hold your hair in place are easy to figure out.

What curling iron do professionals use? ›

Professional stylists, however, tend to gravitate toward titanium irons, especially for thicker hair, since the material is more durable and able to style curls at higher temps for longer.

Ceramic curling irons are the least damaging.

Though they may not get as hot as other materials like titanium, they are able to distribute heat more evenly. This helps keep your hair gorgeous and healthy as you curl it.

Ceramic is an excellent choice for shine, protecting the hair from heat damage, and shielding against frizz. It does this through sealing moisture within the hair leaving a shiny finish. Tourmaline is a gem; it helps provide moisture also and enhances shine. Your hair will appear healthier, bolder, and sleeker.

Ceramic curling irons are the least damaging.

This helps keep your hair gorgeous and healthy as you curl it. Other curling iron materials that can curl your hair without too much risk of heat damage include tourmaline and gold-plated curling irons.

But the most obvious difference between the two is that a curling iron has a clamp, while a wand doesn't. Curling wands are generally harder to master compared to curling irons and have higher burn risks. If you're wondering how to get big curls, choose the curling iron for more definition and control.

Ceramic is an excellent choice for shine, protecting the hair from heat damage, and shielding against frizz. It does this through sealing moisture within the hair leaving a shiny finish. Tourmaline is a gem; it helps provide moisture also and enhances shine. Your hair will appear healthier, bolder, and sleeker.