Hair Curler Buying Guide

Do you need a new hair curler but aren’t sure which one to buy? You aren’t alone. Finding the perfect hair curler can feel impossible; with so many options on the market claiming to be the best, how can you narrow down your choice and find the perfect curler for your hair? Well, you can turn to us for some guidance. Our brief guide shows you what to consider when choosing your next hair curler.

What to consider when choosing your hair curler

When purchasing your hair curler, there are several features you need to consider to help you make the right choice. You will want to consider the type of the curler, barrel size, material, and heat index. All of these features determine how well the curler works and the results you get, so by paying attention to these features, you can narrow down your choice and find the perfect hair curler.

The type of curler

First, you need to consider the type of curler you are choosing. Each curler delivers different results and looks slightly different. First, you have a curling tong, which comes with a clamp. You open the clamp, wrap your hair around the barrel, and then close the clamp over your hair, locking it in place. Doing so helps you achieve defined and long-lasting curls.

Your other option is a wand, which features a long barrel with no clamp. You will wrap your hair around the barrel yourself and hold it in place with your hand. The barrel will be the same width from top to bottom, which is a great way to create natural waves or beachy curls.

You can also choose a tapered wand. You use it like you would a curling wand, but the barrel tapers at the top into a skinny point. This allows you to create relaxed waves and curls with more texture. You can also wrap your hair only around the tapered end to create a tighter curl if you wish.

Barrel size

The size of a curler barrel also impacts the final result of your curls. You can choose from the following sizes:

• 14 mm barrel – which creates even and high-definition curls around your head. You can leave them as ringlets or brush them out for bolder curls
• 26 mm barrel – is perfect for a classic look, creating glamorous and defined curls
• 32 mm barrel – is ideal for looser curls, giving you a faux blow-dry finish
• 28 – 23 mm barrel – allows you to choose between bouncy curls or gentle waves
• 28 – 23 mm barrel – features a tapered end that allows you to create beachy curls and waves on any hair length and type

When considering the size and thickness of the barrel, it’s also worth considering your hair length and type, ensuring you choose a barrel that has enough space to curl all of your hair. 

The material

Another factor to consider is the material that the barrel is made from. The material determines how well the curler heats up and maintains its heat, delivering different results depending on your hair type. Hair curlers are commonly made with the following materials:

• Titanium – which holds heat well and helps to curl straight hair and keep it in place
• Tourmaline – which evenly distributes heat and manages frizz for thick hair
• Ceramic – works well with thin, curly and coily hair, locking in moisture and reducing damage

Heat index

The heat index shows you how hot the curler will heat up to and is a factor you should consider when making your purchase. You want a curler that heats up hot enough to curl your hair and ensure the curls stay, but not too hot that you damage your hair. When using a hair curler, we recommend using heat defence spray before adding heat to protect your hair.

Typically, the following heat indexes are offered:

• 300 to 380 degrees Fahrenheit – for healthy or medium-textured hair
• Up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit – for chemically treated or fine hair
• 350 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit – for curly, coarse, or thick hair

Additional features

No two curlers are made the same, and many will come with different features that set them apart from each other. It’s worth considering these features to see if they appeal to you. For example, some curlers come with an automatic shut-off design that kills the curler’s power after inactivity. For many, this is a vital feature, as you are never left worrying if you forget to turn your curler off before you leave the house.

Other additional features can include a cool touch tip, making it easier to hold the curler in your hair without burning yourself. Rotating systems can also help to curl your hair easily without needing to move the wand yourself, but you will need to be careful that you have not wrapped too much hair around the wand.

Another additional feature we recommend keeping an eye out for is a ceramic barrel. Ceramic or ceramic-coated barrels have better heat distribution, making it easier for you to curl your hair and see the results you want.

Find your hair curler today

With many features to consider and different types of curlers, there is an option for everyone. You can use the features we have outlined to narrow your choice or head to GHD to compare hair curlers and see which curler is right for you.