• Background information

    Across the hair cosmos with a hair scientist

    by Natalie Hemengül

Curling irons

Curling irons are treasured styling tools in the beauty industry, transforming straight strands into luscious curls or waves to enhance looks for various occasions. Customers ranging from styling professionals to beauty enthusiasts utilize these devices to achieve salon-grade hairstyles at home. Their daily use includes crafting soft waves for a natural look, tight ringlets for a more defined style, or voluminous curls for a glamorous effect, making them versatile for multiple hair types and lengths.

The selection of curling irons can seem endless, but some of the most sought-after subtypes include the Hair Waver Iron, perfect for creating beachy waves with its distinctive triple-barreled design. Curlers, noted for their simplicity and effectiveness across all hair types, stand as the staple in curling tools. The Multistyler offers a versatile solution with interchangeable barrels to customize one's curling experience. Conical curling irons narrow towards the end, giving a natural, tapering effect to curls. Bubble curling irons, with their unique bead-like barrel, help guide the hair for consistent waves. Auto curlers automate the curling process, providing uniform curls with minimal effort. Lastly, the Standard Curling Iron remains a beloved classic due to its reliability and ease of use for creating timeless styles.

When selecting a curling iron, the key properties to consider include the barrel size and material. Smaller barrels typically produce tighter curls, while larger ones are ideal for loose waves. Materials like ceramic, tourmaline, or titanium contribute to even heat distribution and reduced frizz. Users should also factor in temperature settings suitable for their hair type: lower temperatures for finer hair and higher for thicker hair. Adjustable heat controls and safety features like auto shut-off are also valuable considerations.

Leading the curling iron market are brands such as Dyson with its Airwrap Complete Long, renowned for harnessing air to curl hair with minimal heat damage. BaByliss offers the Curl & Wave Trio, a versatile option for creating various curl sizes and shapes. Philips presents the StyleCare, embodying both functionality and user-friendly features. Shark enters the fray with FlexStyle, acclaimed for its adaptability and performance. ghd stands out with the Curve Creative Curl Wand, catering to those seeking professional curls and waves. Each brand brings its distinct approach to curling technology, providing a range of options to suit any styling preference.