What to Consider When Buying a Curling Iron?
1. Which material curling iron?
If you plan to use your curling iron several times a week, it is advisable to purchase a 100% ceramic curling iron or titanium curling iron. These are stronger materials. A ceramic curling iron is suitable for fine to normal hair, as it is somewhat gentler. If you have thick hair, it's best to go for a titanium curling iron, as these are even sturdier.
If you plan to use your curling iron less frequently, a ceramic coating is sufficient. These are often also more affordable. They work the same as a curling iron made of 100% ceramic, but wear out a bit faster. Replace your curling iron immediately when you notice that your ceramic coating is worn out, as the aluminum under the coating can damage your hair.
2. Which curling iron is suitable for my hair length?
When choosing a curling iron, it can be practical to consider the length of your hair. The narrower the barrel, the more suitable for short hair. A thicker barrel, on the other hand, is more suitable for long hair. Some guidelines for different hair lengths:
- Short hair? Opt for a barrel with a diameter of 0.95 cm or 1.27 cm.
- Medium-length hair? Opt for a barrel with a diameter of 1.27 cm, 1.90 cm, 2.54 cm, 3.18 cm, 3.81 cm, or 5.08 cm.
- Long hair? Opt for a barrel with a diameter of 3.18 cm, 3.81 cm, or 5.08 cm.
3. What type of curl do you want to create?
The curling iron you choose also depends on the type of curls you want to create. For curls of equal size, choose a barrel that is the same size everywhere. If you want to create curls of different sizes, it's best to use a curling iron with a tapered barrel. Beachy waves are also very trendy now! For this, you can use, for example, a "wave" curling iron. For a subtle wave in your hair, you can use a curling iron with a medium-sized cylinder. If you want coarser, loose curls, use a curling iron with a larger barrel. This will provide more volume and texture.
Which curling iron is not bad for your hair?
There are curling irons on the market that may be less harmful to your hair than others, but it's important to know that when you use styling tools with high temperatures, you can cause some degree of damage to your hair. Heat can remove the natural oils in your hair, making your locks look dull. This can result in split ends, breakage, and dryness. Therefore, always apply a heat protection product before you start styling.
Heat protection acts as a kind of barrier between your hair and the intense heat, minimizing the damage. Choose a curling iron with adjustable temperature settings so you can adjust the heat to your hair type. Set your curling iron to the lowest temperature and increase if necessary. For example, finer and thinner hair requires less heat than thicker hair. Don't let your hair come into contact with a curling iron for too long and use this hair tool in moderation to prevent excessive damage.
Which curling iron for beginners?
There are different curling irons made of different materials, thicknesses, price ranges, and curl types. Are you buying a curling iron for the first time? Take a look at a curling iron without a clamp, also known as a "wand" or clipless curling iron. These curling irons are generally easier to use and as a beginner, you have less risk of kinks in your curl. The result is smooth and even curls. We have listed a few tools for you:
- Babyliss Pro Curling Iron Cone 25/13mm: This is a curling iron with an increasing taper. Handy when you want to create a variation in curl sizes.
- CHI 2-in-one interchangeable curler: A two-in-one curling iron, for when you want to experiment with curl sizes and types.
- Babyliss Pro Mira Curl MKII: An automatic curling iron that can create up to three different curl shapes.
The best curling irons at Beauty Plaza!
