Unless you've got your styling routine down to a T, knowing what hair tools to invest in to achieve a specific look can feel like taking a stab in the dark. If you want to get gorgeous curls, you'll need to know about the best curling irons by length, because when it comes to hairstyling, there's no point wasting time guessing which tool will do the job properly when you can actually find out the answer for yourself.
If you're into heated hair tools, you'll probably know that they often don't come cheap; IMO, the phrase "you get what you pay for" has never been truer when discussing hair tools, especially the heated variety. So you don't want to waste your hard earned dosh on something that doesn't do what you expected.
Of course, different types of hair tools do different jobs and there isn't a one size fits all when it comes to heated styling tools. Within the categories of curling tools, straightening tools, drying tools, and more, there are also subcategories. There are heated hair tools that will give you a very specific look, such as hair crimpers, and there are even multi-use tools that are like the Swiss Army Knives of the hairstyling world — they can basically do everything. So before you part with your money, take a look into the best curling irons for your hair length, to make sure you get it right the first time.
Short Hair
Toni & Guy Professional Curling Iron Black 1 Inch, $21, Amazon
Steven DeCarlo, stylist at Mizu New York spoke with Bustle over email. For short hair, such as a bob above the shoulders, DeCarlo says, “I would use a 1 inch curling iron, which will get more coverage of the hair.”
DeCarlo would pair this with a heat styling spray like R+Co's Outer Space Hairspray, which he describes as, “Amazing for spraying section by section to hold curls and it's light enough that you can still brush through the hair after!”
Medium Length Hair
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron 1-¼", $40, Amazon
For medium length hair that comes in at the shoulders, DeCarlo says, “1 inch and a quarter size curling iron would be great,” he explains this size, “creates a bigger curl/wave for nice texture.”
After curling with this iron, DeCarlo recommends, “Finish with Dry Texturizing Spray from Oribe to loosen the curls!”
Long Hair
Hot Tools Professional 24K gold-plated barrel Spring Curling Iron (2"), $50, Amazon
DeCarlo explains that folks with long hair should use a 2 inch curling iron for best results. He says, “This will give super soft, loose, sexy waves for long hair. Add some Shine Spray from Oribe or Tinsel Oil from R+Co to softly smooth out the waves and use a Mason Pearson brush to bring the waves together.”
So now you know which curling iron is best for your hair length, you can splash out on a heated hair tool, feeling confident that it'll get the job done!
Images: Courtesy Brands
