There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to finding the best curling iron. Like a , the size (and shape) make a world of difference in achieving the type of curl you’re looking for—and so do factors like your hair type, hair length, the products you use (don't forget the !), how hot the barrels get, and even how you hold the tool. To make your journey easier, we asked hair experts for tips on how to get the perfect curl (or wave, depending on your preference) and to share the ones they use every day.
We also tapped our team of editors, contributors, and our network of testers to find out what they love. After evaluating close to two dozen of the most highly-rated options for attributes like material, heat settings, ease of use, and final results, we narrowed the list down to 11 curling wands you can rely on. Nordstrom If you love the Dyson Airwrap, but cringe at the price tag, T3 is the answer.
The brand’s new Aire 360 is a fantastic dupe, created by a brand that focuses solely on hair products. Although it’s about half the price of the Dyson, we found that the Aire 360 works just as well—if not better. When you turn it on, the air-powered tool picks the hair up and wraps it around the wand to style blowout-style curls without the heat damage.
In evaluations, curls were sleek and shiny, which the brand says is thanks to the CeraGloss ceramic surface of the curling wands. Testers told using this hair tool felt like a luxury experience from start to finish. “Everything from the unboxing to the end style is super sophisticated,” says contributor .
It comes in this beautiful hexagonal box that opens to reveal a pouch rather than a bulky, hard-to-store box that other similar tools come in. The curling wand itself is lightweight and easy to use too. “It was super intuitive—you simply use the wand head with the proper arrow, so you can curl both sides away from your face without struggle,” says Earley.
“I couldn’t believe that I was able to get such a sleek style on my very long hair in less than 15 minutes.” Glamour’s Calle is also a fan and says she likes to use it when she has to rush out the door. “I have thick, coarse hair so curling it takes forever which is why this styler is perfect for quick and easy styling.
And it lasts, too. The next day I wake up with wavy strands.”.
