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3 tips when shopping for a curling iron
When it comes to curling tongs, there are many factors to consider such as weight, size, and ergonomics. The size of the heating surface also plays a role in achieving your desired curls with ease.
Slim curling tongs are perfect for creating corkscrew curls, and they work well for short hair as it allows you to have a better grip.
Large barrel curling tongs are great for thicker or longer hair and can help create volume effortlessly.
For those with mid-length hairr, a medium-sized curling tong can be a good choice.
There are also many models with interchangeable heads where you can easily vary the size and type of heating element.
If you're looking for a curling tool to add some flair to your hair, there are a few options to consider:
- Classic curling tongs have an even shape and holds the hair in place with a nip grip.
- Tapered curling tongs allow you to adjust the size of your curls for a more relaxed and natural look.
- Waffle and wave iron with wave-shaped plates can help create a tousled look with lots of texture.
- Rotating cord with a swivel mechanism can prevent the cord from twisting during use.
- Cool tip reduces the risk of burning yourself at the tip.
- Built-in support allows you to place the curling tongs on any surface.
- Long cable length is a good idea, especially if you don't have a power socket right next to the mirror. Go for a cordless option if you want more flexibility.
FAQ
You should only curl your hair when it’s dry. Apply heat protection to protect it from potential damage caused by heat. Divide your hair into sections, working from the bottom layers first.
If your iron has a clamp, clamp it at the ends of your hair and roll it up all the way to the roots.
If you’re using a wand, you start at the roots and then wrap the section around the barrel. Hold the hair wrapped around the barrel for about 10-20 seconds. Repeat across all sections and then finish off with hairspray so your curls stay nice and bouncy all day!
There are loads of styles, models and types of curling irons. The three most common types of curling tools are:
- Curling iron - This is the traditional model that comes with a clasp that creates polished ringlets. A curling iron should be used with the cord facing down.
- Curling wand - Without a clasp, the wand gives you a more natural look. You can find wands in many different shapes; straight, tapered and inverted. To correctly use a wand the chord should be facing up when in use.
- Automatic curling iron - This iron spins by itself, removing the need to know how to curl your hair. This makes the process easier, but gives you less control over the types of curls you get.
The ponytail trick is a quick, simple and gorgeous way to get big and loose curls in no time. Put your hair up in a high ponytail. Then heat up your curling iron and begin to curl half to one-inch sections of the ponytail. Once all the hair has been curled, remove your hairband and set your curls with a high-hold hairspray.
When talking about the size of a curling iron, it’s referring to the size of the barrel, the cylindrical part that heats up. Some curling irons have interchangeable barrels, giving you the flexibility to style your hair in a range of styles.
- 10mm: Ideal for short cuts and gives fine or thin hair volume. However, if your hair is very thick and has natural kinks, this size isn’t optimal.
- 19mm: Great for tight spiral curls and ringlets. This size works well for naturally kinky, thick and curly hair.
- 25mm: This size is known as the ‘universal curling iron’ as it works for all lengths. If you want beach waves – this is the size for you.
- 32mm: If you’re after loose spirals, rather than defined curls, while still maintaining a styled look this size is spot on.
- 38mm: This size gives you long, bouncy spirals and is a good fit for someone with quite long hair.
There are different ways to help your hair stay healthy when using straighteners.
- Always use heat protection spray or serum – creating a barrier against damage and protecting your colour.
- Use a curling iron with adjustable temperature – it might cost a bit more, but looking after your hair is often worth the price.
- Avoid curling the same area twice – This limits the damage done to your hair.
- Air dry your hair as often as possible – Try heatless hairstyles as often as you can to give your hair a chance to repair.
- Give your hair extra TLC – Hair masks are a brilliant way to boost your hair’s health, especially if your curling iron is a part of your daily routine.
The texture of your hair, your budget and your desired style will dictate which curling iron is best for you. There are models for different types of hair, varying materials and functions. We tested different curling irons to find out which one is best in test.