Spiral curls have the power to add volume, texture, and versatility to your hair, making them a great option for anyone with long or short locks. With the right tools, you can create a variety of spiral styles that suit your hair type and personal aesthetic. To achieve these coveted curls, a high-quality spiral curling iron is essential. A dedicated spiral curling iron allows you to precision-craft tight ringlets, unlike larger, bouncier curls.
This specialized tool not only saves time but also offers a more precise way to style your hair into spirals. If you’re someone who regularly wears their hair in different spiral styles, investing in a quality spiral curling iron is a worthwhile investment. Navigating the vast market of spiral curling irons can be overwhelming, which is why we’ve taken the liberty of compiling a list of the top 10 best products available today.
Our comprehensive guide breaks down what sets each product apart, helping you find the perfect spiral curling iron for your hair and budget.
What You Should Know About Curling Irons for Spiral Curls
As we dive into the world of spiral curling irons, it’s essential to understand the key characteristics that make them truly effective. Before we share our curated list, let’s take a closer look at the features that set these styling tools apart from others in the market.
Traditional vs. Spiral Curling Iron
While traditional curling irons and dedicated spiral curling irons share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart. One of the most notable distinctions lies in their barrel design. Traditional curling irons typically feature larger, uniformly round barrels, whereas spiral curling irons are characterized by a bubble or ridged design.
This unique shape enables users to create tightly wrapped spiral curls or looser, wavy spirals, with a compact clamp that doesn’t extend the length of the hair. In contrast, traditional curling irons often have longer clamps that can lead to crimped lengths and compromise the effect of spiral curls.
Some spiral curling irons may not exhibit this bubble design, instead featuring thinner, tapered barrels perfect for crafting tight spiral curls on short hair – albeit requiring a bit more finesse in use. For instance, the KIPOZI Thin Curling Wand is an exemplary model that embodies these characteristics.
Barrel Size
When it comes to spiral curling irons, the barrel size refers to the thickness of the heated area. Typically, most barrels range from 1 inch to 1/2-inch thick, catering to different hair types and lengths. If you have shorter or thinner locks, a thinner barrel might be more suitable, while thicker hair requires a larger, 1.5-inch barrel like the one found on the BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Conicurl Iron.
Barrel Material
When it comes to spiral curling irons, the type of material used in the barrel can significantly impact the final look and feel of your style. Some irons may feature a single material, while others combine multiple types for enhanced performance. One of the most popular materials is ceramic, which is often found on budget-friendly options. While effective on many hair types, ceramic plates may not be as durable as other options and may have a shorter lifespan compared to premium products.
For more professional or salon-grade curling irons, titanium is a common choice. This material offers strength, reliability, and the ability to work well with very thick or hard-to-curl hair. However, it’s often one of the pricier options. Tourmaline, a mineral often blended with ceramic, emits negative ions that interact with positive ions in hair as you curl. This reaction helps create styles that are smoother, less frizzy, and more sleek than those achieved with plain ceramic plates.
Like titanium, this technology can be slightly more expensive, but it’s a good choice for individuals struggling with dry or damaged hair.
Temperature Settings
When selecting the perfect spiral curling iron for your tresses, it’s crucial to consider the available temperature settings. A suitable temperature is essential, regardless of whether you have finer or thicker locks. For instance, irons with adjustable temperature controls offer greater flexibility, whereas those that maintain a constant higher heat setting can be just as effective for tackling more stubborn curls.
Price
When it comes to spiral curling irons, prices vary significantly, spanning from budget-friendly options to high-end professional tools. It’s essential to note that you can find reliable and effective curling irons across all price ranges, and spending a lot doesn’t necessarily guarantee a better product. A thoughtful approach is to consider your budget and shop accordingly, as this will help you find the perfect tool for your needs.
Having covered the key factors to consider when selecting spiral curling irons, we can now move on to our curated list of top-notch products available in the market.
Top 10 Best Curling Irons for Spiral Curls 2021
Best Overall Spiral Curling Iron: Conair Instant Heat Spiral Curling Iron
The Conair Instant Heat Spiral Curling Iron is a standout product that boasts a turbo heat boost and simplicity of use. Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths, making it an excellent choice for those new to spiral curling. The iron’s design features a subtle ridge that allows you to wrap sections of hair between, effortlessly crafting perfectly formed spirals. The added heat boost proves particularly useful when working with stubborn strands that refuse to curl.
This versatile tool is suitable for all hair types and lengths, generating a range of spiral curls that complement most face shapes. Whether you’re aiming for an elegant updo or a show-stopping party look, the Conair iron offers endless styling possibilities. While its 360-degree swivel cord does provide greater mobility, it can become entangled, which may slow down your styling process if you need to spend time untangling.
Overall, this product’s pros far outweigh its cons, making it an excellent investment for anyone seeking a reliable and easy-to-use spiral curling iron.
Best Premium Spiral Curling Iron: PARWIN PRO 7 in 1 Curling Wand Set
The PARWIN Pro 7 in 1 Curling Wand Set is a top-of-the-line, professional-grade tool that allows users to achieve salon-quality hairstyles from the comfort of their own homes. The set’s versatility is its greatest strength, as it comes with multiple interchangeable heads that cater to different curling styles and preferences. The tapered iron and bubble iron are particularly useful for shaping spiral curls, making this a must-have for those who take pride in their locks.
The tourmaline ceramic technology used in the plates is also noteworthy, as it effectively combats frizz and leaves curls looking soft, smooth, and luscious. While the set does come with a premium price tag, its high-quality construction and performance make it well worth the investment for those who are serious about their hair. However, beginners may find the array of options overwhelming, making it better suited for more experienced users.
In short, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their curling game and achieve professional-looking results.
Best Budget Spiral Curling Iron: SexyBeauty Professional Spiral Curling Iron
The SexyBeauty Professional Portable Spiral Curling Iron is a budget-friendly option that offers great value for those on a tight budget. Its ceramic barrel and multiple heat settings make it easy to achieve uniformly beautiful spiral curls, while the plastic heat protection guard ensures your fingers remain safe from burns.
This product excels at creating natural-looking spirals across the entire head, thanks to its uniform spiral interior and protective guard that keeps hair in place and heats strands evenly. However, its design may not be as effective for short hair, as the plastic guard can make it difficult to precision curl bangs or other short fly-away hairs. In this case, we recommend considering alternative options like the KIPOZI Thin Curling Wand.
Best Spiral Curling Iron Set: BESTOPE Curling Iron Wand Set
The BESTOPE Curling Iron Wand set offers a versatile solution for creating multiple textured spiral curls. With five different wand types, you can achieve the perfect look without breaking the bank. The value-packed set includes heat-resistant gloves and hair clips, providing added convenience. Moreover, the product comes with a one-year warranty and responsive customer service, giving you peace of mind.
While this curling iron excels in terms of value for money, it has a drawback – the irons don’t get very hot, making it challenging to style thick or coarse hair or maintain spiral curls for an extended period. If you’re looking for a reliable product that performs well on thicker locks, consider the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Conicurl Iron instead. Overall, this set is a good choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with multiple styling capabilities.
Best Basic Spiral Curling Iron: Bed Head Rock N’ Roller Curling Wand
The Bed Head Rock N’ Roller Curling Wand is a straightforward and easy-to-use product that’s perfect for beginners and those who prefer uncomplicated curling solutions. With its 1-inch tourmaline ceramic barrel, this iron is designed to create tighter spiral curls or looser wavy spirals. The unique bubble design allows for effortless styling, while the long cord with swivel feature ensures tangle-free movement. Notably, the product heats up well and produces curls that can last all day.
Although it may not be ideal for precision styling due to its larger barrel size and unique design, it’s a great option for those who want a simple and effective curling solution. The only drawbacks are its slightly heavier build and potential difficulty in maneuvering until you get used to using it. If precision is your top priority, you might consider the KIPOZI Bubble Curling Wand as an alternative.
Best Spiral Curling Iron for Short Hair: KIPOZI Thin Curling Wand
The KIPOZI Thin Curling Wand is a standout tool in the world of curling, and its unique features make it a go-to choice for creating small, intricate spiral curls. One of its greatest strengths lies in its ability to work wonders on short hair, from pixie cuts to bangs, adding definition and precision to even the most stubborn strands. This wand is particularly well-suited for afro-textured hair, where its ceramic barrel and compact size make it easy to style and define curls.
Of course, its small size also means it’s not ideal for longer or thicker locks, but for shorter styles, this iron is a game-changer. While it may take some time to work through very long hair, the results are well worth the effort. With its impressive range of uses and versatility, the KIPOZI Thin Curling Wand earns high marks as a valuable addition to any styling arsenal.
Best Spiral Curling Iron for Thick Hair: BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Conicurl Iron
The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Conicurl Iron is a top-notch choice for those with thicker and coarser hair. The titanium barrel, which can reach extremely high temperatures, quickly spirals curls while providing unparalleled control through its 50 heat settings. This feature-rich iron is particularly well-suited for individuals seeking a high-end styling experience at home or in the salon.
Its durability stems from its sturdy plastic exterior and rust-resistant titanium barrel, ensuring it withstands regular use without compromising performance. While this product excels with thicker hair types, those with finer locks may find it too hot and damaging to their strands. Additionally, the larger barrel size can be a bit tricky to navigate initially, but with practice, users will become more comfortable styling with it.
Overall, its pros far outweigh its cons, making it an excellent investment for anyone seeking long-term performance and versatility from their curling iron.
Best Spiral Curling Iron for Volume: Bed Head Curlipops Spiral Curling Wand
The Bed Head Curlipop Spiral Curling Wand is a game-changer for those seeking effortless spiral curls with impressive volume. Its unique ripples allow for easy manipulation of hair into beautiful, bouncy spirals that neither overwhelm nor underwhelm. With an intuitive design, even novices can master the wand and achieve salon-quality results without requiring extensive styling expertise.
This product is versatile enough to suit both shorter and longer locks, making it an excellent choice for those with fine or thinning hair seeking added drama or a bold new ‘do. However, users should be aware that the heated portion of the wand can reach scorching temperatures, rendering it essential to invest in heat-resistant gloves for safe use.
While the Curlipop excels at creating voluminous curls, it may not be the best option for tight, corkscrew spirals due to its rippled design limitations.
Best Spiral Curling Iron for Travel: KIPOZI Bubble Curling Wand
We’re big fans of the KIPOZI Bubble Curling Wand because of its versatility and ease of use. Its lightweight design and dual voltage capability make it a great companion for travel, allowing you to style your hair with confidence wherever you are. The compact size means it fits easily in most bags or travel cases, making it a must-have accessory for any curl-loving traveler.
The iron’s LCD screen displays the current temperature, giving you precise control over heat settings and ensuring that your locks turn out perfectly. And with its 60-second quick heat-up time, there’s no need to wait around for your styling session. One feature we appreciate is the lock button, which lets you keep your curls in place – just be mindful of where you place it, as it can be prone to accidental activation while curling your hair.
On a related note, the included heat-resistant gloves don’t quite live up to their promise, so be careful when handling the iron. Despite this minor quibble, we think the KIPOZI Bubble Curling Wand is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable spiral curling iron that’s easy to use and great on-the-go.
Best for Hard to Curl Hair: L’Ange Hair Le Perle Bubble Curling Wand
The L’Ange’s Hair Le Perle Bubble Curling Wand is a standout product for those with coarse or hard-to-curl hair textures. One of its most notable features is its ability to reach high temperatures, making it effortless to create curls on even the most resistant locks. The titanium barrel not only adds durability but also helps tame unmanageable hair, leaving you with a sleek and polished finish.
The ergonomic handle, crafted from comfortable rubber, makes it easy to maneuver while styling your hair. The 1-inch bubble design of the barrel is particularly impressive, allowing for the creation of bouncy, natural-looking spiral curls or waves. However, one drawback is that this product only features a single heat setting, which may not be ideal for those who prefer adjustable heat options.
Additionally, the high temperature setting makes it less suitable for fine or thin hair, which requires lower heat settings to prevent damage. For those with finer locks, we recommend exploring alternative options like the Conair Instant Heat Spiral Curling Iron.
Your Full Guide to Curling Irons for Spiral Curls
For a comprehensive understanding of spiral curling irons, turn to our extensive resource, packed with essential insights and expert knowledge. Whether you’re looking to master the art of styling or simply seeking to inform yourself on the ins and outs of these innovative tools, this guide has got you covered.
Benefits of Using a Spiral Curling Iron
When it comes to achieving high-quality spirals, a dedicated spiral curling iron is the way to go. The key to success lies in the design of the spiral itself – a curling iron optimized for spiral curls produces longer-lasting and more polished results. With this type of iron, you’ll enjoy increased efficiency as well, as it allows for faster curling and more precise styling compared to traditional curling irons.
Furthermore, a spiral-specific iron makes it much simpler to achieve any desired spiral look, giving you greater creative control over your hairstyles.
Types of Spiral Curls
Spiral curls are a versatile styling option that can add volume, texture, and visual interest to various hair types. There are several popular spiral curl styles, each with its own unique characteristics. One of the most popular styles is the small spiral, also known as a spiral perm. This look adds volume to both long and short hair and can be flattering on people with longer face shapes.
However, it may not be as suitable for rounder face shapes or those with thicker hair who want to avoid looking voluminous. For kinkier textures, kinky spirals are a great option. This style works well on natural afro-textured hair of any length and can add definition and texture to locks that don’t naturally form spirals. Like small spirals, kinky spirals are more flattering on people with longer face shapes and can suit both fine and thick hair types.
Wave spirals are a take on the beachy wave look, adding loose volume to both short and long hair. This style is great for casual or formal wear and can enhance thicker hair types, although it may not provide enough volume for fine or thinner hair. To achieve this look, use a spiral curling iron with a 1-inch barrel like Bed Head’s Rock N’ Roller Curling Wand. Plain spirals involve curling the midshafts and ends of your hair while leaving the top section untouched.
This style is great for adding layers and creating more formal looks, particularly on people with prominent jawlines and cheekbones who want to soften their facial features. A spiral curling iron with a 3/4-inch barrel like Conair’s Instant Heat Spiral Curling Iron is ideal for this look. Lastly, multi-textured spirals involve using spiral curling irons with different sized barrels to create two distinct sizes of spirals.
This layered voluminous look works on all hair types but may be more challenging to achieve on finer hair that doesn’t hold curls well. To create this look, use a set of spiral curling irons with different sizes like BESTOPE’s Curling Iron Wand Set.
How to Use a Spiral Curling Iron
Mastering the art of spiral curling requires some practice, but with our step-by-step guide, you’ll be styling like a pro in no time. Before you start, make sure your locks are squeaky clean and free of built-up product residue. Shampoo and condition your hair to ensure a smooth, shiny finish. Additionally, don’t forget to apply a heat protector to prevent damage and dryness. To begin, separate your hair into manageable sections – four or more if you have thicker or coarser strands.
For tighter spirals, use the inner part of your bubble curling iron and work with small sections (less than half an inch). If you’re aiming for looser waves, opt for the outer part of the iron. When using a tapered curling iron without a bubble design, wrap your hair tightly around it, starting from the bottom up to achieve the spiral effect. Once you’ve curled all your hair, resist the urge to brush through it – this will undo the curls and leave them looking flat.
Instead, gently tousle your locks to distribute the spirals evenly, giving them a more natural, effortless look. Finally, set your style in place with a light hold hairspray for a day of bouncy, beautiful curls.
How Long Will Spiral Curls Last?
The longevity of curly locks hinges on individual factors, including hair type and post-curling care. Generally, spirals can sustain themselves for 12 hours up to a day, with the potential for additional extension through product application and proper maintenance. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that wearing curls in the same style for more than seven days may not be ideal.
This is because prolonged wear can lead to buildup from dirt, oil, and products, resulting in an unflattering greasiness or compromising hair integrity over time.
Making Your Spiral Curls Long-Lived
When you’ve finally achieved the perfect spiral curls after a long styling session, only to have them droop and lose their shape hours later, it’s a frustrating experience. To help extend the life of your curly locks, follow these expert tips. Firstly, consider using a light-hold hairspray to set your curls in place. This will help solidify your style as you touch up and arrange your hair throughout the day.
Just be mindful not to overdo it with too much product, as this can leave your hair feeling sticky. In fact, adding excessive product can have the opposite effect, weighing down your hair and causing your curls to fall out faster. If you’re someone who struggles with oily locks, dry shampoo can be a lifesaver when it comes to extending your curl style. This miracle product absorbs excess oil and grease, allowing you to go an extra day or two without washing out your look.
However, do remember that dry shampoo can build up on your scalp if used excessively, so be sure to wash it out within three days to keep your hair healthy and looking its best.
Can You Create Spiral Curls Without Heat?
If you’re looking to bypass heat-styling tools and still achieve spiral curls, there are several alternatives worth exploring. While these methods might not yield the same level of hold or longevity as traditional heat styling, they can be a great way to give your locks a break from the heat. For instance, you could try embracing natural texture by allowing your hair to air-dry with a bit of product for added definition, then using your fingers to gently coax out loose, spiral-like curls.
How Often Can You Spiral Curl Your Hair?
While a spiral curling iron can create stunning styles, it’s essential to use it responsibly to avoid causing long-term damage to your locks. Daily or frequent use can lead to heat-induced dryness and brittleness, so it’s crucial to adopt a more moderate approach. Instead of styling your hair every day, try limiting yourself to once or twice a week, and make sure you’re giving your strands some TLC in between sessions by using nourishing treatments and deep conditioning products.
Curling Your Way to a Spiral Style
Achieving stunning spiral curls can breathe new life into your hairstyle. If you’re eager to try this captivating look, a spiral curling iron is an essential tool to help you get there. When shopping for the ideal spiral curling iron, consider factors such as barrel size, material, and temperature settings that suit your preferences. By doing so, you’ll be able to find a product that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine, allowing you to effortlessly create beautiful spiral curls.
