Curling long hair can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding the right curling iron that suits your locks. Most irons are designed for average-length hair, leaving those with mermaid-esque tresses feeling frustrated and defeated. But fear not, curly-haired divas! There are curling irons specifically designed for long hair, and today we’re taking a closer look at some of the top picks on the market.
When shopping for a curling iron, there are several factors to consider, including material, barrel size, and heat settings. Once you’ve got your new iron in hand, it’s time to explore the world of curling, from achieving the perfect spiral to avoiding unwanted hair crimpage. Whether you’re dealing with color-treated locks or struggling with curls that seem to fall out at the slightest movement, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the wild world of curling irons for long hair.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Curling Iron for Long Hair
When it comes to curly locks of longer length, finding the right curling iron can be a daunting task. One crucial consideration is that long hair typically has a greater surface area than its shorter counterparts. This means that an iron designed for shorter hair may not provide the desired results, potentially leaving your tresses looking frizzy and unruly instead.
Material
Curling irons are constructed from various materials, such as ceramic, tourmaline, titanium, and gold. Each material boasts unique advantages, prompting some users to prefer one type over others. Let’s delve into the characteristics of each material and their benefits. The popularity of ceramic curling irons stems from their ability to minimize frizz and static while heating evenly across the barrel. This gentle approach makes them ideal for thin to normal hair types.
Ceramic irons are also less prone to collecting dust or debris, simplifying cleaning. Their negative ion technology emits negatively charged ions that curl hair without drying it out or stripping natural oils from the strands. Titanium curling irons heat up rapidly and distribute heat evenly across their barrels, similar to ceramic models. They reduce the likelihood of snagging as you release your hair from the iron, thanks to polished surfaces.
Titanium irons excel at retaining moisture in hair, resulting in shiny, healthy-looking curls. Their performance on fine, hard-to-curl hair is particularly impressive. Tourmaline curling irons are versatile and effective across all hair types. The combination of negative ion technology and far-infrared heat yields smooth, frizz-free curls with a radiant sheen. These features smooth the cuticle, lock in moisture, and reshape the hair without damaging it.
Gold curling irons cater to users with ultra-thick, coarse hair. They can maintain high heat levels over extended periods, allowing for longer-lasting curls. However, they may not balance heat as evenly across the barrel as other materials, potentially leading to hot spots that could damage hair.
Barrel Size
When choosing the right curling iron barrel size for your long locks, consider the following: smaller barrels are better suited for finer hair and tighter curls, while larger barrels can accommodate thicker hair and produce looser waves. A good starting point is to opt for a 1¼-inch barrel, which provides enough surface area to wrap hair around and heat it evenly. However, not all curling irons produce the same type of curls, and individual preferences vary widely.
Here’s a breakdown of typical barrel sizes and the kinds of curls they yield:A 1¼-inch barrel is ideal for thinner hair, producing tighter ringlets that are perfect for those with finer locks. On thicker-haired individuals, this size will result in looser waves, as thicker hair requires more heat to curl tightly. Our top pick, the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron, excels at delivering those iconic Shirley Temple curls.
The 1½-inch barrel is a versatile and popular choice for long hair of varying thicknesses. With enough surface area to evenly heat long locks, these barrels produce curls that are both tight and loose – a perfect blend. We recommend the Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron for its reliability and ease of use. For relaxed, beachy waves, look no further than a 2-inch barrel. Unless you have extremely coarse or thick hair, this size will yield effortless, wavy locks.
Those with finer hair can also opt for a 2-inch barrel to add some subtle texture and movement. Our top pick in this category is the Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Curling Iron.
Heat Settings
When it comes to curling irons, having multiple heat settings is a game-changer. Lower-end models tend to offer just a few options, whereas high-end models can boast up to 50 adjustable heat settings or more, as seen in the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron. If you have fine or damaged hair, investing in an iron with multiple heat settings is crucial for preserving your locks. With this understanding, let’s explore our top picks for curling irons that cater to long hair.
Each listing includes a rating, Amazon link, and quick facts to help you quickly determine which type of hair each product suits best.
Top 10 Best Curling Irons for Long Hair 2024
Best Overall Pick: BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron
This curling iron excels at delivering smooth, shiny, and frizz-free curls on hair of all thicknesses, textures, and damage levels. Its versatility is unmatched, thanks to its 50 adjustable heat settings that cater to various hair types. The nano-titanium technology and far-infrared heat ensure even heating, while the negative ion emission smoothes hair and locks in moisture. One notable feature is the turbo heating option, which rapidly heats up the curling iron in under a minute.
Additionally, the eight-foot-long, tangle-free swivel cord allows for effortless movement as you style your hair. While it may not offer dual voltage or automatic shutoff features, this curling iron’s numerous pros far outweigh its cons. The nano-titanium technology emits negative ions to smooth and hydrate hair, while the 50 heat settings provide precision styling. The turbo heating option and tangle-free cord further enhance the user experience.
Best Premium Pick: InStyler MAX 2-Way Rotating Iron
Get ready to achieve salon-quality curls at home without breaking the bank. This innovative 2-in-1 hair straightener and curling iron combines a two-way rotating ceramic-tourmaline barrel with ionic bristles for smooth, frizz-free results. With four heat settings that can be reached in just 30 seconds, it’s perfect for all hair types, including thin or color-treated locks. The automatic shutoff feature also eliminates the risk of accidental overheating.
While some may find the design a bit complex, experienced users will appreciate the level of control and precision offered by this curling iron. On the other hand, beginners may want to look elsewhere as it’s geared more towards those with some prior experience. In terms of negatives, the bristles can become loose over time with heavy use, and it lacks dual voltage. Overall, this product is a great option for those seeking high-quality curls at an affordable price.
Best Budget Pick: Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron
Conair’s affordable curling iron is a hidden gem that delivers top-notch performance without breaking the bank. For just under $15, you’ll get 25 heat settings, turbo heating, and an auto shutoff feature – all wrapped up in a sturdy construction that can handle thick, textured hair with ease. The slightly larger barrel size makes it perfect for thicker locks, but it’s not limited to just those hair types; thinner hair can also benefit from its versatility.
A minor drawback is the lack of negative ion technology, which means you may need to supplement with products for silky, frizz-free curls. On a more positive note, this curling iron has a non-slip grip handle and dual voltage capabilities, making it travel-friendly. The only caution is to be mindful when releasing your curls from the barrel, as the resting kickstand can get hot and snag on hair.
Overall, this curling iron provides great value for its price point and is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable way to achieve beautiful curls.
Best Curling Iron Set: Xtava 5-in-1 Curling Iron and Wand Set
This curling iron set boasts an impressive array of features that make it a standout in its class. With five differently-sized barrels to choose from, including two tapered wand barrels, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect curls for your hair type. The smaller barrel sizes, ranging from ¾ to 1¼ inches in thickness, are particularly well-suited for thinner, more delicate locks. The tourmaline-ceramic barrels feature negative ion technology, which helps to smooth and shine your tresses.
With nine adjustable temperature settings, you’ll be able to find the perfect heat setting for your hair type. The set also comes with a host of extras, including auto-shutoff, turbo heating, dual voltage, an eight-foot swivel cord, and a zip travel case. While this curling iron set is ideal for thin-haired individuals, those with thicker locks may find that it doesn’t quite deliver the same level of performance.
However, when used on thinner hair, the result is a silky-smooth finish with minimal frizz. In terms of pros, this set offers an impressive range of barrel sizes and styles, as well as nine adjustable temperature settings. The inclusion of auto-shutoff, turbo heating, and dual voltage also make it a great option for those who plan to use their curling iron on the go.
On the downside, thicker-haired individuals may find that the thinner barrels don’t quite provide the same level of volume or texture. Overall, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add some extra oomph to their hairstyle.
Best Tourmaline-Ceramic Curling Iron: INFINITIPRO Nano Tourmaline Curling Iron
Conair’s latest offering is a game-changer for those with normal to thick hair. This tourmaline-ceramic curling iron delivers silky, frizz-free curls that can be maintained all day long. What sets it apart from the rest is its impressive array of features, including turbo heating, auto-shutoff, an LED temperature display, and four high-heat settings that cater specifically to thicker locks.
The addition of negative ion technology ensures your curls are not only smooth but also bouncy and full of life. While this curling iron excels in many areas, it’s important to note its limitations. Those with finer hair should exercise caution, as the higher temperature settings may cause damage. Additionally, the lack of dual voltage means you won’t be able to take it on your next international getaway.
On the flip side, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks for those who fall within its recommended hair type range. The four high-temperature settings work wonders on normal to thick hair, producing luscious curls that will last throughout the day. When you factor in the extra goodies, such as turbo heating and auto-shutoff, it’s clear why this curling iron stands out from the crowd.
Best Spinning Curling Iron: CHI Spin N Curl
The CHI Spin N Curl stands out for its unique spinning mechanism that takes the hassle out of curling your hair. By drawing your locks into a tangle-free chamber, this curling iron delivers just the right amount of heat to achieve beautiful curls on thin to normal hair. The ceramic barrel emits negative ions, resulting in silky smooth strands. We appreciate the quick heating time – up to 370°F in mere seconds – making it an excellent addition to a fast-paced morning routine.
Other useful features include dual voltage, auto-shutoff, and an LED display showing temperature and direction, ensuring safe and easy use. While it may not be ideal for thicker or thinner hair due to its limited chamber size and high temperature settings, the CHI Spin N Curl is well-suited for normal hair that can withstand the heat and fit comfortably within the spinning mechanism. Some notable pros include fast heating, tangle-free curling, ceramic barrel benefits, and practical features.
On the other hand, it may not be suitable for all hair types due to its limitations.
Best Multi-Barrelled Curling Iron: MODVICA 3-Barrel Ceramic Hair Crimper
This tourmaline-ceramic, triple-barrel styling tool is more accurately described as a crimper than a traditional curling iron. Despite its unconventional nature, it produces stunningly smooth and silky waves that are perfect for normal to thick hair. The high temperature settings and 1¼-inch barrel size make it an excellent choice for thicker locks, which can be notoriously difficult to style.
One of the standout features of this product is its ability to quickly heat up and produce beachy waves that are reminiscent of a day spent lounging by the ocean. The tourmaline-ceramic blend used in the barrels helps to seal in moisture and keep hair looking healthy and shiny, while the triple-barrel design enables fast styling times.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some other curling irons on the market, this product does offer a few convenient features, including dual voltage and rapid heat-up times. However, it’s worth noting that the high temperature settings may not be suitable for those with thinner hair, and there are no extra features like turbo heating or auto-shutoff to speak of.
Ultimately, this styling tool is best suited for normal to thick hair, and its ability to produce silky waves and beachy textures makes it a great choice for anyone looking to add some effortless charm to their look.
Best Extras on a Curling Iron: Furiden 2-in-1 Hair Straightener and Curler
This two-in-one titanium hair straightener and curling iron is a powerhouse of efficiency and convenience. Within just 15 seconds, it can heat up to its maximum temperature, making it perfect for those who value speed and quick results. The titanium barrel not only heats quickly but also preserves the integrity of your hair, locking in moisture and minimizing snags as you style.
With 20 adjustable heat settings, this tool is ideal for thin to normal hair, particularly for those with finer or color-treated locks. Additionally, it comes packed with an impressive array of extras, including dual voltage, turbo heating, a 60-minute auto-shutoff feature, a 360-degree swivel cord, an LCD temperature display, a safety and travel lock, and even a complimentary hairbrush.
While it excels in most areas, the only drawback is its limited ability to style thicker or coarse hair types. For those with tougher locks, we recommend exploring other options, such as our premium pick: InStyler MAX 2-Way Rotating Iron.
Best Curling Iron for Thin Hair: Revlon Perfect Heat 1-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron
This 1-inch ceramic curling iron excels at handling fine and delicate hair. Its 20 adjustable heat settings, combined with a ceramic barrel that seals in moisture, make it an excellent choice for those with thin locks. The extra features like dual voltage, auto shutoff, and a tangle-free swivel cord add to its convenience. While this model shines when it comes to thin-haired heads, it’s not the best fit for thicker hair.
The clamp, although decent, could be stronger, which may cause frustration over time. Additionally, figuring out the temperature setting might take some trial and error, as there is no LED or LCD display. On the plus side, the 1-inch barrel and heat settings make it ideal for creating shiny, bouncy curls on fine hair. The ceramic barrel also helps to lock in moisture, leaving your locks feeling soft and manageable.
Best Curling Iron for Thick Hair: Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Curling Iron
Want to tame your unruly tresses? This 2-inch, gold-barreled curling iron is designed specifically for coarse, ultra-thick hair. Its large barrel size and maximum temperature of 430°F make it perfect for creating bodacious, voluminous curls that last. The editor’s top pick for thick-haired folks who struggle to achieve a lasting curl, this iron offers seven heat settings to customize your style.
While it may not be suitable for thinner hair types, which can fry in the heat, this iron is an excellent choice for those with coarse, ultra-thick locks. And at its core, it’s a straightforward tool that gets the job done – no frills or fancy extras needed.
Guide to Buying the Best Curling Irons for Long Hair
When first-time users of curling irons encounter difficulties, it’s not uncommon. To help alleviate this frustration, we’ll delve into the most prevalent problems and queries surrounding the proper maintenance and operation of these popular styling tools.
Can I Curl Long Hair Without Heat?
For those who don’t want to dedicate extra time to styling their locks in the morning, there’s a classic heat-free solution: pinning up your hair overnight and allowing it to set naturally. Begin by dividing your hair into sections and gently braiding each one, taking care not to pull too tightly on the strands. Once you’ve braided your entire head, twist these braids into small balls resembling Bantu knots and secure them snugly to your scalp using pins.
Not only will you wake up with beautiful, effortless waves, but this technique also helps protect your hair from drying out or sustaining damage during the night.
What Is Hair Oil and Why Should I Use It on Long, Curly Hair?
When it comes to curly hair, think of the hair shaft as a complex network of roads. On straight hair, oil from the scalp can effortlessly travel down the hair shaft, delivering essential moisture. In contrast, curly hair presents a much greater challenge, with its twists and turns making it difficult for oil to reach the ends of the hair. Fortunately, hair oils exist to address this issue.
A variety of oils are suitable for curly hair, including jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oil, Jamaican castor oil, argan oil, almond oil, and avocado oil. These oils can be used in different ways to benefit curly locks. For instance, using them as a pre-shampoo treatment helps retain moisture, while applying it as a deep conditioner restores the hair’s natural lipid layer. Additionally, massaging the scalp increases circulation, which can stimulate hair growth.
In general, one to two weekly oil massages are ideal for curly hair, and this practice is an excellent way to maintain shiny and healthy waves for several days.
What Size Curling Iron Is Best for Long Hair?
When it comes to choosing the right curling iron size, the thickness of your hair plays a significant role. For those with long locks, a larger barrel – such as 1¼-inch or bigger – is often the most effective. However, fine hair requires a more delicate approach, and a smaller barrel of around one inch can be used to achieve the desired look. We recommend the Revlon Perfect Heat 1-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron for those with fine hair.
On the other hand, exceptionally thick tresses require barrels that can thoroughly heat and curl them, typically a two-inch barrel is sufficient. For thick hair, we suggest the Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Curling Iron, which is designed to handle even the most robust manes.
Should I Get a Curling Iron or a Curling Wand?
When it comes to choosing between a curling iron and a curling wand, the key difference lies in their design. Curling irons typically feature clasps, whereas curling wands are characterized by tapered barrels. If you’re seeking defined curls or pronounced waves, an iron is likely your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer loose, tousled waves, a curling wand might be more suitable for your needs.
The good news is that some products, such as the Xtava 5-In-1 Professional Curling Iron and Wand Set, offer both options in one convenient package, eliminating the need to choose between the two.
How Do I Clean My Curling Iron?
When curling irons accumulate residue from frequent use of heat protection sprays, a thorough cleaning is necessary to restore their performance. Begin by briefly heating the tool to soften any stubborn grime. Once it’s reached a comfortable temperature, turn off the curling iron and wait for about 60 seconds to allow it to cool down completely. This crucial step prevents accidental burns during the cleaning process.
With the iron now cool enough to handle, use a slightly damp cloth to gently scrub the barrel. The residue should easily wipe away without leaving any streaks or marks behind.
How Can I Avoid Unwanted Hair Crimpage?
While the urge to crimp your hair may not be as prevalent as it was during Lizzie McGuire’s heyday, accidental crimpage can still occur when using a curling iron. The clamp can sometimes work a bit too well, leaving you with unsightly creases. To avoid this, one solution is to remove the clamp altogether, although this does increase the risk of burns.
An alternative method is to clamp your hair as close to the ends as possible, where the natural thickness of your hair is less pronounced, resulting in a more subtle crimp.
Can I Curl My Hair When It’s Wet?
While it’s technically possible to use heat styling tools with wet hair, doing so can lead to serious damage and an unflattering, frizzy finish. To preserve your locks, make sure to dry your hair completely before attempting to curl it, as moisture makes it more susceptible to damage. When curling, take regular breaks – about 15 seconds or less for thin or damaged strands – to minimize exposure to heat. The goal is to use the least amount of heat necessary to achieve your desired style.
What’s the Best Way to Curl My Hair?
When it comes to achieving the perfect curls, technique plays a significant role in determining the outcome. Depending on your desired style, you can employ different methods to produce varying textures and levels of definition.
For tight, ringlet-like curls, curl smaller sections of hair at a time, as larger segments will yield more voluminous waves. This approach may require more patience, especially with thicker locks.
On the other hand, for spiral curls, twist each strand before wrapping it around the barrel and securing it in place.
For a sexier, tousled look, alternate the direction of your curls to achieve beachy, romance novel-inspired waves. This effect can be easily achieved using tools like the CHI Spin N Curl, which features a spinning chamber that automatically alternates directions.
To extend the life of your curls, it’s essential to curl your hair as close to the root as possible.
However, this approach requires caution to avoid weighing down your locks. To add volume to hair curled closer to the root, clip each strand after curling, allowing it to set and cool before releasing.
Ultimately, mastering the perfect curl technique takes practice, patience, and an understanding of how different approaches can produce varying results.
My Hair Is Color-Treated – Can I Still Curl It?
When working with color-treated hair, it’s crucial to exercise extra caution when using heat styling tools. The chemicals used in dyeing process have opened up the hair cuticles, making them more susceptible to damage. To prevent frizz and damage, use the lowest heat setting when curling color-treated hair.
For added protection, consider investing in a curling iron specifically designed for delicate tresses, such as Revlon’s Perfect Heat 1-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, which is engineered to cater to the unique needs of colored locks.
My Curls Seem to Fall out Easily – What Gives?
When it comes to achieving luscious, long-lasting curls, there are a few common pitfalls that can prevent your hair from holding onto that gorgeous shape. Perhaps you’re not using any products to prime your locks for curling, or maybe you’re simply not applying enough heat. One of the most effective ways to overcome these issues is by utilizing a multi-functional product like White Sands Liquid Texture Firm Hold.
This innovative formula serves as a heat protectant, flexible firm-hold hairspray, and volumizing curl enhancer all in one. To get the best results, spray it onto your hair when it’s slightly damp and style away. By incorporating this product into your routine, you’ll be able to create curls that truly last. Of course, even with the right products, there’s still a need for adequate heat to set those curls in place.
One technique is to hold your hair against the iron for several seconds after releasing the clamp, allowing it to cool and set as you go. This simple trick can make all the difference in ensuring that your curls remain intact throughout the day.
Before You Go A – Curlin’…
Mastering the art of curling long hair requires finesse and attention to detail. From avoiding damage to selecting the ideal barrel size for your tresses, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process. But fear not! Our extensive guide to the top curling irons for long hair is designed to walk you through the best options and ensure you achieve the perfect locks.
