Curling irons are used to create beautiful, shiny curls and waves in the hair. In this article, we’ve curated a comprehensive guide on the best curling irons that won’t damage the hair and are the perfect solution to getting gorgeous blowouts, enviable beach waves, or tight ringlet hair to complete the look. They are versatile hairstyling tool that allows individuals to transform their straight hair or naturally textured hair into various curl patterns – from soft waves to tight curls. Curling irons work by applying heat to the hair, which temporarily changes its shape, creating the desired look when the hair cools down.

No matter who you are – whether you’re new to curling or a seasoned pro, this article will cover everything you need to know about choosing the right curling iron, mastering different curling techniques, and creating a wide range of hairstyles. Get ready to elevate your hairstyling game with our expert tips, product recommendations, and step-by-step tutorials. Let's dive into the world of curling irons and unlock the secrets to flawlessly curly hair that turns heads wherever you go.

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  Best Overall

  BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron

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Exclusively made by the well-reputed BaBylissPRO company, this curling iron is crafted with a sol-gel nano titanium ceramic-coated barrel that evenly distributes the heat for smooth and bouncy curls. It uses far-infrared heat that can go up to 450 degrees F to offer long-lasting curls without causing any damage. With a slim, lightweight, and convenient body design, and an 8 ft long, 360-degree swivel chord, these hot tools offer maximum comfort to the user. Plus, these titanium curling irons have five different heat settings and a turbo heat button that caters to different hair types, providing frizz-free, shiny, and sleek results.

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Best Travel-friendly Design

NFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Curl Secret

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Approved by celebrity hairstylists, this INFINITIPRO curling iron by Conair will help you create beautiful curls. It features a revolutionary auto-curl technology that offers tangle-free curling by safely drawing small sections of hair into a V-shaped tourmaline ceramic curl chamber where it is gently held and heated by two heaters. The long-running brushless motor and high-performance heater allow for precise and even heating of your hair without the use of any additional products. Featuring two heat levels and three timer settings, you can create any type of curls, from medium to tight. Also, this curler has an auto-off switch and a heater that goes up to 400 degrees F along with an auto beep Indicator to let you know when it is safe to release the curl. Therefore, it is extremely safe for the hair and convenient for long hair styling sessions.

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Most Versatile

5-in-1 Professional Curling Iron and Wand Set by Xtava

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Discover the secret to effortless hairstyling with the Xtava 5-in-1 kit containing hair tools that include a 0.3–0.75 inch tapered clipless barrel, a 0.7–1 inch tapered clipless barrel, a 0.7–1 inch barrel with a clamp, a 1-inch curling iron with a clamp, a 1.25-inch barrel with a clamp, and a heat resistant glove. Unlike common curling irons, these do not have a cool tip, providing more surface area for heating and maximum curling. You get shiny, healthy, and frizz-free curls with the help of the tourmaline ceramic-coated irons that seal moisture and protect the cuticles without any pulling or tugging. It also comes with a digital LCD screen that displays the temperature between 250–410ºF degrees, making it suitable for different hair types. The user-friendly curling iron uses a dual voltage of 110–240V AC that automatically adjusts to the proper voltage, according to the compatible adapter. Plus, the set has it all – a 60-minute automatic off function, quick heating technology, and an 8-foot 360-degree swivel cord for you to have a seamless styling experience.

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Best Coating Material

CHI Tourmaline 1in Ceramic Curling Iron

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With this curling iron from CHI, you can create beautiful hairstyles in a minute. It is equipped with cutting-edge technology that helps reduce static electricity and distributes heat evenly to protect your locks from heat damage and deliver the perfect style. It has a 1-inch smooth ceramic barrel that glides smoothly through the hair to help you get the perfect waves and curls. Don’t worry about using it on short or long hair, as it is made for all hair lengths. This chic-looking curling iron is a perfect go-to product to create luxe waves and curls and add beauty to your locks. 

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Best for a Soft Finish

T3 Singlepass Curl

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The T3 Singlepass Curl curls the hair beautifully and adds a glamorous touch to your hairstyles. It features Digital T3 SinglePass® Technology to create beautiful curls and waves that last all day. Equipped with 5 heat settings, it keeps the temperature in check to avoid your tresses getting damaged due to heat. Plus, it has a long barrel with a ceramic surface that is easy to grip and glides smoothly to give you voluminous curls. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your bestie, and you carry it everywhere you go to get stunning hair. 

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ELLA BELLA® Curling Iron

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With this curling iron from ELLA BELLA, you can switch up your look in just minutes! Thanks to its innovative ceramic technology, you will get the most amazing results without compromising your hair health. The ceramic barrel guarantees that heat is distributed in an even manner, preserving your hair's natural shine and preventing you from worrying about heat damage. Additionally, it comes with a digital display that lets you personalize the temperature according to your hair type, while the included styling glove, heat-resistant carry case, and mat prioritize your safety and convenience. When we tried the product, we also noticed that it was gentle on the hair and provided frizz-free results.

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Terviiix 3/4'' Curling Wand

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Introducing Terviiix’s game-changing 16mm curling wand that’s designed to create glamorous retro style and long-lasting curls. Whether you want corkscrew curls or natural-looking bouncy ringlets, you can easily achieve it using this tool while also getting great hair texture and volume. The barrel wherein you wrap hair for styling, is made with argan oil, keratin, and tourmaline ceramic coating that helps to lock in the moisture for a shiny, frizz-free finish, causing minimal damage to your tresses. Also, the unique handle design and the 6.8ft extra-long swivel cord of this thin and lightweight curling wand offer superior comfortable and convenience while styling. Plus, your hands and fingers are well protected by the anti-scald and 60-minute auto-off feature. You can achieve a temperature ranging from 250°F to 450°F which is ideal for all hair types.

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Hoson Curling Iron

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Professionally designed with cutting-edge technology, this 9mm(3/8 inch) curling iron by Hoson with a tourmaline ceramic coating barrel will help you achieve smooth and hydrated curls. It reduces static by releasing a large number of negative ions that make the hair soft and frizz-free for the whole day. With a dual PTC heater and an on button, you can rapidly achieve heated barrels up to 225°F in just 60 secs – this is usually suitable for instantly styling short and medium hair. The design includes an LCD display control function to achieve stable and even heating, a precise temperature range from 225°F to 450°F, and 60 mins auto shut-off which will help in styling any type of hair conveniently. The curling iron also comes with an anti-scald insulated wand tip, a 360° swivel cord that offers flexibility, and a built-in clip holder that makes your styling sessions easier and safer.

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Best Value for Money

Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron

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Revlon curling iron is a perfect styling accessory to achieve a desired look without the help of any professional hairstylists. It comes with a triple ceramic coating designed for delivering safe, consistent, and optimal heat, thus reducing heat damage during styling. Their new and improved design includes a thumb rest,  a stay-cool tip, a heat dial with resistance that prevents accidental changes in temperature, and an easy-to-grip ergonomic handle. The multiple heat settings go up to 400° F high heat which has an auto-shut off technology to prevent overheating while ensuring there is a minimal cooling period between. This curling iron requires dual universal voltage and a built-in prop to keep the barrel off the bathroom counter making this tool extremely convenient for traveling too.

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Best Quick-heating Curling Iron

VAVOOV Curling Wand

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VAVOOV’s curling iron features a 1-inch (25mm) barrel, that can create salon-like curls easily. With instant heating settings, you can achieve smooth hairstyles by adjusting the temperature according to your hair type – it ranges from 180℉ to 450℉. Additionally, it has an MCH heater that can quickly heat up to 450 °F in 30 seconds and it evenly heats for precise curling. Made with innovative ceramic technology, these barrels allow for easy gliding of hair strands, avoiding any form of snags or pulls. It has been equipped with safety features like an anti-scald insulated wand tip design and 30 mins auto shut-off, preventing heat damage. The package also contains a pair of heat-resistant gloves and a safety stand for safe and convenient operation. The dual voltage (100 V-240 V) and 9ft long, 360-degree salon swivel cord doesn’t tangle, making it the perfect travel companion or a great gift too.

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Most Customizable Curling Iron

MICSTA Professional Curling Iron

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Micsta’s curling iron rapidly reaches temperatures up to 450°F within just 30 seconds, ensuring quick and efficient curling. The ceramic construction guarantees a smooth operation, preventing hair-pulling during the styling process. With 5 adjustable settings ranging from 300℉ to 450℉, this versatile curling iron suits all hair types, including coarse, thick, thin,  bleached, and finer hair. The 360° no-tangle swivel cord allows for easy maneuverability, and the built-in stainless steel support lets you safely place the curling wand to cool down. Safety features include a thermally insulated wand tip and the inclusion of a heat-resistant glove and mat to prevent scalding accidents. Furthermore, this curling iron is compatible with worldwide dual voltage (100V-240V) and comes with a US plug, backed by a 1-year limited warranty.

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Most Innovative Curling Iron

BIO IONIC Stylewinder Rotating Styling Iron

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Experience the unique Moisturizing Heat feature introduced by Bio Ionic which is a revolutionary approach to heat styling your natural hair. This innovative technology locks in your hair's moisture and conditions each strand as you style them. Our cutting-edge heat-conducting elements that are powered by negative ions from our proprietary natural mineral complex have transformed the world of heat styling. Plus, the self-rolling barrel makes it a breeze to achieve your desired looks. With our patented rotating clamp technology, you can effortlessly create cascading waves or classic curls in just three easy steps – clamp, wrap, and roll. The cylindrical barrel is infused with Nano Ionic technology which promotes healthier, more conditioned curls, leaving you with stunning results.

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Most Easy to Use

Ceramic Tapered Hair Curling Wand

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Effortlessly create flowy beach waves by wrapping your hair around the ceramic tapered barrel, crafting various twisted spirals without any kinks or creases. Embrace loose, natural, beachy curls and waves with our 19-32mm oval hair curling iron. It boasts a higher ceramic content for even heat distribution and long-lasting styles with reduced frizz. The precise temperature setting is displayed on the HD LCD display, ensuring optimal results while protecting your hair. Thanks to the rapid PTC heating elements, this curling wand heats up in just 30 seconds, eliminating long waiting times. With a maximum temperature of 220℃, styling becomes faster and more enduring, allowing you to finish your entire hair in just 10 minutes. For added convenience, the curler features an anti-scald insulated wand tip and a 360° swivel cord for flexible curling. Safety is a priority, as demonstrated by the 60-minute auto shut-off function that gives you peace of mind during and after use.

Now that we’ve gone over the best curling irons available on the market, let’s take a look at a few other important factors.

To choose the best curling iron that will not damage your hair, consider the following factors:

1. Coating Material: Curling irons come in different materials such as ceramic, tourmaline, or titanium coating. Ceramic irons provide even heat distribution, minimizing hot spots that can be damaging hair. They also help to seal the hair cuticle, taming frizzy hair and enhancing shine. Tourmaline emits negative ions that neutralize static and frizz, resulting in smoother, healthier-looking curls with less heat exposure. Titanium heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature, reducing the time the hair is exposed to heat.
2. Barrel size: Choose a barrel size based on your hair length and the type of curls you want to achieve. Larger barrel diameters create loose curls for longer hair, while smaller barrels produce tighter curls for shorter hair. Opt for a curling iron with interchangeable barrels or an adjustable barrel size. This allows you to create various curl styles and adapt to different occasions.
3. Heating: Select a curling iron with adjustable temperature settings. Fine or damaged hair requires lower heat, while thick or coarse hair types benefits from higher heat settings. Customizable temperatures help prevent excessive heat exposure and minimize hair damage. Look for curling irons with rapid heating capabilities. A quick heat-up feature reduces the amount of time your hair is exposed to heat, minimizing the risk of damage. Some curling irons also feature advanced heat protection technology to maintain a consistent temperature, preventing overheating and damaged or brittle hair.