14 Best Flat Irons for Curling Hair to Get Gorgeous Locks

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Feb 07, 2024
best flat irons for curling hair
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Your hair is one of the first things that people look at and there is no denying that nothing rocks like a curly or wavy hairstyle. But, those who would like to experiment with different looks when they style hair, can get their hands on the best flat irons for curly hair.  With professional-grade flat irons with the right styling temperature, you can say goodbye to expensive and time-consuming salon visits as well as damaged hair.

Flat irons have come a long way since the time you could smell your hair singeing or were left with unsightly crimp marks. Today’s top rated flat irons for curling hair have revolutionary features like premium quality plates and smart technology which can add volume to your hair by curling it. These flat irons are amazingly versatile and something you should seriously consider owning if you like to experiment with a variety of hairstyles.

We have researched myriad flat irons for curling hair that may range from thin and fine hair to thick and coarse hair. There’s something there for everyone. These innovative flat irons do not snag or tug at your hair but glide across it like silk. They feature rounded edges so they don’t leave creases in your hair. And all this in a matter of minutes and that too without stepping into a hair salon. There are a plethora of options available to you and drawing from our experience we have curated a list for you to make the job a tad easier.

14 Best Flat Irons for Curling Hair

Ditch numerous arsenals and opt for this easy-to-use styling iron by T3. This flat iron can be used to create multiple hairstyles including beach waves, coils, and wavy ends. The ceramic flat iron gives you a glossy sheen without pulling your hair. It softens coarse hair, adds density to fine hair, and instantly gives you a glam look. Just one pass is all it takes to put an end to frizz and damage. 

Pros
  • Doesn't pull hair
  • Ceramic plating
  • Suitable for all hair types
  • Suitable to try numerous hairstyles
Cons
  • Power cord can be troublesome
  • Best for Daily Use

    HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron

    HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron
  • Whatever hair type you have — straight as a board or absolutely frizzy — HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron flips and curls your hair in minutes with its quick heating. Featuring premium quality ceramic plates, it is fitted with 8 HeatBalance micro sensors that ensure that heat is evenly distributed and regulated to prevent heat damage. These plates help you enjoy smoother and shinier hair and the temperature can be adjusted between a range of 140°F to 450°F. The ceramic plates are infused with tourmaline crystal ions that produce numerous negative ions and reduce frizz. This flat iron for curling hair is extremely durable and has long-lasting results and the floating plates allow you to use a single tool to flip, curl or straighten your hair.

    Pros
    • Heats quickly
    • Ceramic and tourmaline plates
    • Travel-friendly
    • Glove and silk case for easy storage
    • Value for money
    • 1-year warranty
    Cons
    • Some feel the swivel cord could be improved
  • Best in Safety

    Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

    Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron
  • Get frizz-free and shiny curls with the double ceramic technology of Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron. The higher ceramic content of the 1-inch coated plates ensures gentle and uniform heat distribution for minimal damage to your hair. It features extra long floating plates for quicker styling and better contact with the hair. It comes with 5 different temperature settings which are displayed on a digital screen and takes just 30 seconds to heat. Its digital touch controls enable you to select and lock the heat setting with 410°F being the highest setting. So whether you want absolutely straight hair or a wavy style with volume, this flat iron for curling fine hair, thick hair or textured hair  is the one for you. 

    Pros
    • Fast heating
    • Minimal damage
    • Efficient plates
    • 5 temperature settings
    • Safe to use
    • Suitable for all hair types and textures
    Cons
    • The power button may not turn on / off easily
  • Most Efficient Plates

    Nition Platinum Professional Styler - Champagne Gold

     Nition Platinum Professional Styler - Champagne Gold
  • The upgraded and unique Nition Platinum Professional Styler is the perfect 2-in-1 styling tool for straightening and curling your hair without crimping. The innovative 4.1 inches flexible, floating heating plates are ceramic coated with added benefits of nanosilver, tourmaline, argan oil, and titanium. Together they lock in the moisture of the hair and prevent frizzy hair as well as pulling and damaging your hair. Its amazing design just requires you to rotate the end of the straightener clockwise to put on the power. It has 6 different temperature settings ranging between 265°F to 450°F which are displayed on a digital LCD screen. This flat iron for curling hair includes a travel pouch, a heat-resistant glove, a salon comb, and 2 salon hair clips. 

    Pros
    • 6 temperature options
    • Extra long plates and power cord
    • Auto temperature Calibration
    • Suitable for all hair types
    • 60 minutes auto shut down
    • 360° swivel power cord
    Cons
    • Some may not find the design ergonomic
  • Best Curved Flat Iron

    Furiden Professional Salon Quality Hair Straightener - Gold

    Furiden Professional Salon Quality Hair Straightener - Gold
  • Rock your curls with Furiden Professional Salon Quality Hair Straightener which features MCH, a new heating standard for hair styling tools. It takes just 15 seconds to reach the desired temperature and saves more energy and time than other hair straighteners. In minutes you have super soft and silky hair and the style lasts for a long time. It features a long 360°swivel cord to avoid tangling and curved floating plates that heat evenly. Our research indicates that this curved flat iron for curling hair adjusts its angle continuously to avoid snagging your hair and gives you more control. So whether you are going for beachy waves, beautiful curls, or silky straight smooth hair, this flat iron does it all for you. 

    Pros
    • Instant heating
    • Durable
    • Long-lasting effect
    • No snagging or pulling
    • Safety lock design
    • Suitable for traveling
    Cons
    • Temperature control feature could be better
  • Most Long-lasting Curls

    AmoVee 2-in-1 Travel Curling Flat Iron - Black

    AmoVee 2-in-1 Travel Curling Flat Iron - Black
  • AmoVee 2-in-1 Travel Curling Flat Iron requires the press of one button to switch from a straightener to a curler, so you can choose sleek, straight hair or cascading curls. It features a black titanium barrel and heats fast with PTC heating which saves time and causes minimal damage to your hair as you don’t have to leave the plates on your hair for too long.  The plates have innovative ceramic tourmaline technology that ensures uniform heating and offers a durable and smooth styling surface. It features a tangle-free 360° swivel power cord so you can say goodbye to painful snagging. The well-designed exquisite bag of this flat iron for curly hair makes it a good travel companion and perfect gift.

    Pros
    • Even heating
    • Ceramic tourmaline plates
    • Titanium barrel
    • 360° swivel power cord
    • Includes diamond pattern carry bag
    • Dual voltage
    Cons
    • Some feel it doesn’t heat sufficiently
  • Best for Protective Hair Style

    TYMO Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler - Light Pink

    TYMO Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler - Light Pink
  • Equipped with 32 heating modes that range from 140℉ to 450℉, TYMO Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler boasts fantastic straightening and curling results for almost all types of hair. The 1-inch 3D floating plates of this nano titanium flat iron for curling hair have a heating time of just 10 seconds. Its advanced MCH heating technology ensures even heating so that it glides through your hair smoothly. It features a groundbreaking patented gravity sensor so you just have to sway the iron to activate it and it will automatically shut off in 5 minutes. Extremely user-friendly, it features a tangle-free swivel cord and an automatic 30 times per second temperature calibration to avoid hair damage by high temperatures. 

    Pros
    • LED display
    • Fast heating
    • LED display
    • Blinking light reminder
    • Anti-scald design
    • Automatic shut off
    Cons
    • Some may find the plates short
  • Most Ergonomic Design

    AZUF Professional Flat Iron for Curling Hair - Pink

    AZUF Professional Flat Iron for Curling Hair - Pink
  • The 1-inch long premium quality ceramic plates of AXUF Professional Flat Iron for Curling Hair offer complete control and are ideal for detailed styling of hair. It glides smoothly through your hair and gives you bouncy curls in no time. You can flaunt shiny and gorgeous hair thanks to this flat iron for curling hair as it produces high levels of negative ions with its ionic technology. It features 5 temperature settings that range from 270°F to 450°F. Its dual voltage compatibility makes it travel-friendly and the 360° swivel power cord enables you to move freely while styling hair. Based on our observations, we concluded that the double ceramic coating and 3D floating plates design delivers 50 percent less static and fewer flyaways.

    Pros
    • Ergonomic design
    • Auto shut off
    • High-grade salon performance
    • Anti-scald design
    • Smooth glide floating plate
    • Rotating cord
    Cons
    • May not be suitable for thick hair
  • Best Innovative Design

    MSTECH Hair Straightener and Curler

    MSTECH Hair Straightener and Curler
  • All you need is a pull and a twist of MSTECH Hair Straightener and Curler to give you gorgeous curls or waves. Its innovative twisted plates have a guide that combs along the edge of the plates to prevent your hair from slipping and the round exterior cools the hair immediately for long-lasting curls. The 3D floating ceramic plates heat up instantly and glide smoothly through your hair. It is equipped with 14 temperature settings between 210°F to 450°. This flat iron for curly hair has a heat control sensor especially for protecting colored hair. It has dual voltage compatibility along with a 360° swivel power cord. It includes a heat-resistant carry bag, glove, salon comb and 2 salon clips.

    Pros
    • Digital display
    • Dual voltage compatible
    • 60 minutes auto shut off
    • Suitable for color-treated hair
    • Features plate lock
    • Smooth glide design
    Cons
    • Sides of the plates may cause snagging
  • Most Versatile

    Kristin Ess Hair 3-In-One Titanium Flat Iron

    Kristin Ess Hair 3-In-One Titanium Flat Iron
  • Fulfill all your hair styling dreams with Kristin Ess Hair 3-In-One Titanium Flat Iron Hair Straightener, Curler, and Waver that offers you an option of sleek straight, flat iron waves, S-waves, and polished curls. Its 1 ¼ inch gold metal titanium floating plates heat fast and adjust to your hair texture. It features 4 digital heat settings with a maximum temperature of 440°F. The plates emit multiple negative ions that help lock in moisture for shinier and healthier hair without frizz. This flat iron for curly hair includes a heat-resistant travel cap for protection. It also features a rounded body and 9 feet long swivel cord for easy maneuverability. Its temperature-sensing rapid heat technology delivers uniform heat, for longer-lasting curls.

    Pros
    • Titanium plates
    • Pocket-friendly
    • Digital display
    • Customized temperature settings
    • Dual voltage compatibility
    • 30-minute automatic shut off
    Cons
    • Protective outer cover may heat up
  • Sunmay Voga Cordless Hair Straightener and Curler - White

    Sunmay Voga Cordless Hair Straightener and Curler - White
  • Choose whether you want sleek hair, textured waves, or bouncy curls with Sunmay Voga Cordless Hair Straightener and Curler. It's the perfect touch-up tool for your hair as you can carry it anywhere without being hassled by long, inconvenient cords. This portable flat iron for curly hair features extremely smooth 3D titanium-coated ceramic twist plates. These cause minimal damage as they heat up fast and uniformly while gliding effortlessly through your hair. Its USP is its precise and intelligent temperature control technology which adjusts the temperature at a speed of 120 times/second. Fitted with a 4800 mAh rechargeable battery, it runs for  40-45 minutes at a low temperature. It’s ideal for short, thin, fine hair and bangs, and bobs.

    Pros
    • Floating titanium plates
    • LCD screen
    • Lock button
    • USB type C charging port
    • One key operation
    • Easy to use
    Cons
    • Has a short charge life
  • IG INGLAM Flat Iron for Curly Hair

    IG INGLAM Flat Iron for Curly Hair
  • IG INGLAM Flat Iron for Curly Hair boasts a sleek and rounded shape to temper and wrap your hair to meet different styling requirements. This flat iron for curling hair takes 30 seconds to heat up and the temperature is controlled thermostatically with a 60-minute auto shut-off. Get straight or curly hair in minutes and it features an anion outlet that gives out multiple negative ions which reduces moisture loss and saves time. Our team discovered through using this product that its ceramic, tourmaline, and infrared plates ensure smooth gliding through your hair and mobilize water molecules to repair hair scales which makes your hair shiny and soft. It ihas 11 adjustable temperatures between 250℉ to 450℉ for all hair types and textures. 

    Pros
    • Safe and efficient
    • Suitable for all hair types
    • 60-minute auto shut off
    • LCD screen
    • Tangle-free 360° swivel cord
    • 1-year warranty
    Cons
    • May tug at the hair
  • Wavytalk Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler

    Wavytalk Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler
  • With just a pull and twist, Wavytalk Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler offers you professional-level frizz-free curls. Its 3D floating 1-inch plates have better contact with the hair and glide smoothly through it. The nano-titanium plates heat up quickly thanks to PTC Heat Technology which distributes heat uniformly and seals in moisture for a smooth finish. The round-edge plates of this flat iron for curling hair ensure you have gorgeous waves and loose curls which works for all hair types. It features 11 temperature settings depending on your hair type with the highest temperature being 450°F which are displayed on a LCD screen. This ergonomic tool has a 60-minute auto shut-off function with an 8 feet long 360° swivel cord.

    Pros
    • Nano titanium plates
    • LED display
    • Twist lock design
    • 60 minutes auto shut off
    • Dual voltage compatibility
    • 8 feet 360° swivel power cord
    Cons
    • Plates may not glide smoothly
  • VAV Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler

    VAV Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler
  • VAV Flat Iron Hair Straightener and Curler is equipped with 1.25-inch wide plates with a push switch button so it can be used either as a flat or curling iron. Its tourmaline ceramic-coated plates generate negative ions when heated which keeps your hair shiny and smooth. Its PTC fast heating system requires just 30 seconds to reach a temperature of 275℉. There are 7 temperature settings which are displayed on an LCD digital screen. It features a 60-minute auto shut-off when not in use for added protection. You can say goodbye to frizz with this amazing flat iron for curling hair. It boasts of an ergonomic handle, a tangle-free 6.5 feet long 360° swivel cord and a button lock.

    Pros
    • Eliminates frizz
    • Ceramic coated plates
    • Fast heating
    • Button lock
    • Adjustable temperature
    • Dual voltage compatibility
    Cons
    • Curls may not last

    The best flat iron for curling hair is a very versatile hair styling tool that can do wonders with your hair. To make their use a more satisfactory and rewarding experience for you, we have listed a few pointers that you can keep in mind while picking one up for yourself.

     

    How to Choose the Best Flat Irons for Curling Hair?

    Your hair type, the plate material, and a whole lot of other factors play a large role in determining whether you have picked out the best for yourself.

    Hair Type and Temperature

    Celebrity hairstylists feel the temperature for every hair type differs so no one temperature works for all hair textures and types. Talking on the same lines, our contributor Yvey Valcin, Founder & Master stylist at Yvey Salon says, “This is dependent on your individual hair texture. As a general rule, I recommend using a medium heat, this can achieve the desired straightening without doing too much damage to the hair.”

    All hair types should try that the heat they apply to their hair should not exceed 365°F. For those with color-treated hair, the temperature should be even lower or you risk the stripping of color. For fine hair, use a temperature of 250°F to 300°F to prevent breakage and damage. If you have thick hair and want absolutely straight hair, you might have to bump up the heat to 450°F but it’s recommended not to go higher than that to prevent damage. It is best to go for a flat iron that offers you a range of adjustable temperatures.

    Plate Material 

    The 3 main plate materials are ceramic, titanium, and tourmaline. 

    • Ceramic is the most common as it distributes heat evenly and does not snag hair, or cause dryness, or split ends. They are great for light, short, curly, and coarse hair.
    • Titanium plates are made from lightweight material and are strong. They heat fast and maintain temperature consistently. They are good for people with thick or coarse hair as they can withstand high temperatures.
    • Tourmaline plates work best for those with fine or thin hair or those who use them on an everyday basis. They are the most gentle as they trap moisture within the hair and give out negative ions on heating which prevents frizz and static and adds luster and keeps your hair smooth.

    Styling Goals

    How you would like to style your hair determines the flat iron you would choose as they are very versatile. If you hold it horizontally, you can add waves or fully curl it too. 

    Plate Size

    Sharing some information about the plate sizes, our contributor, Yvey Valcin, says, “It's best to use different plate sizes in accordance to the amount of hair or the density of the hair. For example: a smaller size of iron will help get closer to the roots, this is good for those with curly hair. While a bigger plate size will help finish straightening faster as it can cover larger sections of hair.”

    Flat irons come in different sizes with 1-inch plates being the most common as they are perfect for straightening as well as creating waves and tight curls. The larger the plate gets, ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches, the easier it is to style curly, long, thick, and coarse hair in less time. For shorter hairs and to style bangs, a plate size of less than an inch works well as it gets closer to your scalp. If you are not sure of the size, it’s best to go for the versatile 1-inch option.

    Shape Of The Iron

    The edges of a flat iron plate also matter while styling your hair. For curling your hair or if you want wavy hair, go for one with rounded edges. 

    Additional Features

    There are several models of flat iron plates for curling hair that comes fitted with accessories that make the styling of your hair much simpler.

    • Auto shut-off is a feature you should go for as no one wants to return to see their house in ashes. It is very common to forget to switch off your flat iron when not in use. This button usually switches off the power of the flat iron if it has not been used for 5 minutes or more. 

    • Dual voltage support is important as they can be used anywhere in the world and are travel-friendly.
    • Cord length should be long enough as it ensures that you have mobility and don’t have to pull your flat iron while styling your hair.
    • Accessories also make your flat irons more convenient to use and these include things like a carry bag, heat-resistant gloves as well as clips and combs. 

    Conclusion

    The best flat irons for curling hair are the perfect choice when it comes to beautiful, long-lasting curls. And what makes it a so very amazing must-have is that you can do it yourself in the comfort of your home and that too without paying an arm and a leg for it. They are extremely easy to use and durable and also come with multiple heat settings depending on your hair type and the style you are going for.
    They cause minimal damage to your hair and feature a tangle-free swivel cord that gives you mobility without pulling at it or getting entangled. Several models come with additional features like auto switch-off and dual voltage support. We are sure that our curated list will help you perform magic on your hair whether it is cascading curls or beachy waves.

    Contributor: Yvey Valcin, Founder & Master Stylist at Yvey Salon

    FAQ's

    Are flat irons good for curling hair?
    Yes, they are, and make a very good alternative to a curling iron. All it needs is a bit of practice and the correct method on sections of hair depending on whether you have short, medium, or long hair.
    Do curling irons damage hair?
    Research has shown that flat irons and curling irons can damage up to 85 percent of your hair's keratin proteins. This can cause dry hair and make it brittle as the hair cuticle breaks down. But titanium curling irons and ceramic curling irons cause the least damage of all the options. You can also use a heat protectant spray.
    Can I use a hair curler every day?
    It’s advised not to use a hair curler every day as the heat strips the hair of its natural moisture causing it to get dry, brittle, and eventually break. It’s best not to use them more than a few times every week.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our in-house haircare expert Alvira decided to try her hand at the best flat irons that she can use to curl her hair. She has scoured the web, stores, and countless reviews and found the best ones to help in creating beautiful curls. These flat irons don’t need professional expertise or a learning curve. Just like she prefers, this is for a quick and easy hairstyling routine that you can do at your home.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More