A curling iron allows you to easily enjoy curly hair in minutes. Although they are sold by many brands, they range from cheap to high-end, and the pipes come in a variety of thicknesses and materials.
Many people may be confused about which one to choose, as each product has different characteristics. These include being resistant to hair damage and being easy to carry.
In this article, we will introduce curling irons that are recommended for beginners. We also explain how to choose and use them according to your hair length and hair type.
This time I heard the story...
Azusa Nakajima, hair diagnostician and owner of Beauty Salon PlusLounge in Harajuku/Omotesando
She runs PlusLounge, a beauty salon in Harajuku, which is a salon for adult women. Utilizing her career of over 20 years, she has developed a salon menu that combines hair diagnosis and bone structure suitability diagnosis. Nakajima also conducts `"Adult Beauty School'' for women, including magazine interviews, supervision of beauty sites, and makeup seminars. With the theme of "beautifying both mind and body,'' she has created a head spa method centered on the study of beauty.
1. What are the characteristics of curling irons and who are they suitable for?
Check out what you can do with a curling iron
A curling iron, also known as a curling iron, is a hair iron that curls hair around a pipe to create curls.
One of the appeals of this method is that you can easily create curly hair even if you don't have a perm, so you can try out a variety of styles.
Compared to flat irons that sandwich the hair between plates, it also offers a wider range of hairstyles.
Curling irons are recommended for people who want to arrange their hair in stylish curls or for those who want a wavy/curly look for hair. It's also suitable for people with straight hair that doesn't have volume.
On the other hand, it is not suitable for people who have curly or wavy hair and want to reduce the volume of their hair. If you want to straighten your hair, check out hair straighteners.
2. Recommended Curling Irons
SALONMOON Mirror titanium curl hair iron
3499 yen (Amazon)
Low-friction titanium plate protects cuticles for shiny curls
A hair iron that uses titanium plates. Because there is less friction, the cuticle is less likely to peel off, leaving your hair shiny and smooth. The barrel part is long so that it can be firmly gripped from the roots to achieve the desired curl.
It has many features such as anti-slip grip, malfunction prevention function, auto power off, barrel stand, and curl lever. Furthermore, it comes with a heat-resistant silicone cover that is convenient to carry.
It's easy to use, so it's recommended for beginners and those looking for a high-performance hair iron that can be used for everyday styling.
|
weight |
25mm: Approx. 380g (including cord), 32mm: Approx. 390g (including cord) |
|
plate width |
25mm, 32mm |
|
plate material |
mirror titanium |
|
Voltage |
100~240V |
|
Warranty period |
1 year |
|
Settable temperature |
80-220 degrees |
|
function |
LCD monitor, plate stand, 360 degree rotation cord, auto power off |
Panasonic Curling iron 32mm Ionity EH-HT13
2691 yen
Double negative ions coat the hair surface, creating firm and shiny curls.
Negative ions are released from the two external air outlets and coat the hair surface. Leaves your hair moist, manageable, and shiny.
The barrel part uses a fluorine coat that prevents hair from friction and reduces damage. The temperature can be adjusted in two low levels, 120 degrees or 130 degrees, making it suitable for people who are concerned about damage caused by heat.
32mm is recommended when you want to wrap it loosely or for people with medium to long hair. The cord on the handle rotates 360 degrees, so you don't have to worry about it getting tangled in your hand, making it easy to handle.
|
weight |
Approximately 330g |
|
plate width |
32mm |
|
plate material |
Fluorine coating |
|
Voltage |
AC100V |
|
Warranty period |
1 year |
|
Settable temperature |
120 degrees, 130 degrees |
|
function |
Double negative ions, 360° rotating cord |
Ivil Ibiru DH Ceramic Iron
4130 yen (Amazon)
Adopts a mica heater with high heating efficiency. Ideal for creating cohesive and smooth curls
Adopts a mica heater that has good heating efficiency and maintains a uniform temperature. Creates beautiful, cohesive curls.
Another feature is that it is treated with ceramic that has infrared function. You can expect quick styling and hair damage reduction effects.
The temperature can be adjusted in 5 levels from 100 to 190 degrees, and it comes with a lamp that allows you to see the iron temperature status at a glance. There are a total of 5 different barrel sizes available. Choose according to your ideal hairstyle and preferences.
|
weight |
12mm: 160g, 16mm: 280g, 19mm: 311g, 25mm: 343g, 32mm: 390g, 38mm: 435g |
|
plate width |
12mm, 16mm, 19mm, 25mm, 32mm, 38mm |
|
plate material |
ceramic coating |
|
Voltage |
AC100V |
|
Warranty period |
6 months |
|
Settable temperature |
100-190 degrees |
|
function |
Automatic power OFF function |
Vidal sassoo 2WAY hair iron
4378 yen
2WAY type: curl and straight. Since it is a double-sided heater, any hairstyle can be beautifully finished.
A 2-way hair iron that allows you to enjoy both curls and straight arrangements. Since the plate part is equipped with a double-sided heater, heat is transmitted firmly whether you are straightening or curling, allowing you to achieve the desired finish.
It also uses a crystal pink coating that quickly and gently transfers heat to the hair. It is easy to use even for people who are busy and don't have time to enjoy arranging it or who are concerned about damage caused by heat.
It also comes with a safety stand so you don't have to worry about the heated barrel touching the floor or table. The rotating cord on the handle prevents the cord from getting tangled or tangled while in use.
|
weight |
Approximately 370g |
|
plate width |
32mm |
|
plate material |
crystal pink coating |
|
Voltage |
AC100V |
|
Warranty period |
1 year |
|
Settable temperature |
Approximately 100 to 180℃ (at ambient temperature of 30℃) |
|
function |
2-way for creating straight and curly hair, rotating cord, automatic power off function |
Crates Roll brush iron II
6780 yen
With a roll brush hair iron, you can do everything from curling the tips of your hair to creating volume on the top.
A roll brush type hair iron that has a clay ion ceramic treatment on the pipe surface that makes hair smoother. Even if you have long hair, your hair won't get tangled in the brush.
In addition, by installing hot plates at equal intervals in the pipe area, which allow heat to pass through evenly throughout the hair, you can quickly create cohesive curls. Thanks to the brush pin, which takes into account the risk of direct heat, you can easily add volume to the roots and style with your hands.
The temperature can be adjusted in 5 steps from 120 to 200 degrees. The handle is equipped with a finger rim to prevent hands from slipping, making it easy to handle even for people who are not used to arranging their hair.
|
weight |
18mm: approx. 270g (cord included), 26mm: approx. 330g (cord included), 32mm: approx. 375g (cord included) |
|
plate width |
18mm, 26mm, 32mm |
|
plate material |
Crates ion ceramic processing |
|
Voltage |
100～240VAC |
|
Warranty period |
- |
|
Settable temperature |
120-200 degrees |
|
function |
finger rim |
Vidal Sassoon Auto curl iron VSA-1110/RJ/KJ
4800 yen
Auto curl iron that allows even beginners to easily create curly hair
Equipped with an auto-curl function where the curling iron automatically wraps the hair. You can easily create beautiful curls by simply holding an appropriate amount of hair and pressing the button. Perfect for people who are not good at arranging their hair or for beginners.
You can adjust the finish to 3 levels depending on the length of time you pinch it, such as making it shorter for a loose wrap, or making it longer for a gorgeous finish. It has a mechanism that repeats inward and outward wrapping, so you can try out various arrangements.
The temperature setting is 180 degrees, and the plate part where heat is released is made of ceramic. It applies heat gently, so you don't have to worry about damaging your hair.
|
weight |
Approximately 410g |
|
plate width |
- |
|
plate material |
ceramic coating pipe |
|
Voltage |
AC100V |
|
Warranty period |
1 year |
|
Settable temperature |
Maximum temperature approximately 180℃ (at ambient temperature of 30℃) |
|
function |
Auto curl system, rotary cord, automatic power off function |
Crates Especial curl Ⅱ
6520 yen (Amazon)
Instantly achieve cohesive curls with the Crates Ion Gold processed pipe and plate.
Crates ion gold processing is used on the pipe and plate parts to improve the sliding of hair. Reduces friction and damage to your hair, making it shiny and manageable.
In addition, the pipe part is also equipped with ion silicone rubber. By gently wrapping the hair and applying pressure with just the right amount of force, it creates supple and natural curls.
The temperature can be set in 5 steps in 20 degree increments between 120 and 200 degrees. Three sizes are available: 26mm, 32mm, and 38mm. The thicker size of 38mm is recommended for people with long hair or those who want to curl it loosely.
|
weight |
26mm: approx. 335g (cord included), 32mm: approx. 380g (cord included), 38mm: approx. 400g (cord included) |
|
plate width |
26mm, 32mm, 38mm |
|
plate material |
Crates ion gold processing |
|
Voltage |
100～240VAC |
|
Warranty period |
- |
|
Settable temperature |
120-200 degrees |
|
function |
Automatic power OFF function |
KINUJO Curling iron
19800 yen
A uniquely developed silk plate suppresses the occurrence of "steam explosion" and reduces damage to hair caused by heat.
The uniquely developed silk plate prevents "steam explosion" that causes cuticle damage. It maintains the moisture content of your hair, giving it a moist texture even when ironed.
The temperature can be set in 10 degree increments between 100 and 200 degrees. The temperature adjustment screen is a touch panel type that can be operated intuitively, making it easy to use even for beginners.
There are two sizes, 28mm and 32mm, so choose according to your hair length and styling preference. It has a classy design based on white, so it fits in with any interior.
|
weight |
28mm: approx. 380g, 32mm: approx. 420g |
|
plate width |
28mm, 32mm |
|
plate material |
silk plate |
|
Voltage |
AC100V~240V |
|
Warranty period |
1 year |
|
Settable temperature |
Approximately 100 to 200 degrees |
|
function |
Touch panel digital DS, automatic power off function, 360 degree rotation cord |
Crates Curl Pro SR
5459 yen (Amazon)
Ionic titanium and silicone rubber processing creates smooth, bouncy curls.
A high-performance hair iron with improved operability and texture. The ionic titanium treatment on the surface of the pipe makes hair glide smoothly, and the silicone rubber on the pipe acts as a moderate cushion, resulting in firm and bouncy curls.
Inside the pipe, there are two heaters with high thermal efficiency that minimize the drop in temperature when it comes into contact with your hair to maintain high temperatures. Even if you want to create a particular hairstyle or have long hair, you can enjoy arranging it without spending a lot of time.
The knob part has a design that allows your fingers to fit securely. It's easy to keep your hands steady and you can concentrate on styling.
|
weight |
26mm: approx. 365g (cord included), approx. 215g (body only), 32mm: approx. 430g (cord included), approx. 295g (body only), 38mm: approx. 420g (cord included), approx. 285g (body only), 45mm: approx. Approx. 480g (cord included) / Approx. 340g (main unit only) |
|
plate width |
26mm, 32mm, 38mm, 45mm |
|
plate material |
Ionic titanium & ionic silicon rubber processing |
|
Voltage |
100VAC |
|
Warranty period |
1 year |
|
Settable temperature |
120-210 degrees |
|
function |
Automatic power OFF function |
Anjou hair iron curl 32mm negative ion
2999 yen
Equipped with negative ion function. For shiny hair with shining cuticles
Hair iron with negative ion function. Negative ions neutralize the positive ions of static electricity, closing the cuticle and leaving your hair shiny and healthy.
The plate uses fast heating PTC technology to reach the set temperature in as little as 60 seconds after turning on the power. Perfect for when you want to shorten the time it takes to get ready, or for people who have busy mornings.
The temperature can be adjusted in 14 steps in 10 degree increments between 80 and 210 degrees. You can arrange your hair at a temperature that suits your hair.
|
weight |
19mm: approx. 310g, 26mm: approx. 345g, 32mm: approx. 370g, 38mm: approx. 380g |
|
plate width |
19mm, 26mm, 32mm, 38mm |
|
plate material |
ceramic processing |
|
Voltage |
100VAC |
|
Warranty period |
- |
|
Settable temperature |
150-190 degrees |
|
function |
Automatic power OFF function |
Agetsuya Ceramic Curl Hair Iron 2
3780 yen (Amazon)
With high-temperature curls at 220 degrees, you can freely arrange your hair on humid days.
A hair iron whose temperature can be adjusted up to 220 degrees. Since it heats your hair from the core, you can recreate the curls you want even on days when the humidity is high and hair is difficult to curl.
It's also nice to be able to complete all operations with a single button. The handle is clean and easy to use, and there are no unnecessary functions, so even those using a hair iron for the first time can operate it intuitively.
The voltage corresponds to AC100V to 240V. It can be used overseas without a transformer, where the voltage is stronger than in Japan, so it is recommended for overseas travel, study abroad, and business trips. In case you forget to turn off the power, it also has an auto-off function after about 30 minutes.
|
weight |
Approximately 380g |
|
plate width |
32mm |
|
plate material |
tourmaline ceramic coating |
|
Voltage |
AC100V~240V |
|
Warranty period |
1 year |
|
Settable temperature |
80-210 degrees |
|
function |
LED display, automatic power off function, 360 degree rotation cord |
3．How to choose a curling iron and curling iron according to a hairdresser
There are many different types of curling irons. To find the perfect product for you, keep the following three points in mind.
Choose by type of curling iron
There are mainly four types of curling irons: pipe type, 2WAY type, roll brush type, and automatic winding type. Each one has a different usage and finish, so choose according to your purpose.
Pipe type
The most common type of curling iron, it creates curls by wrapping hair around a pipe and applying heat. There are a variety of products on the market with different pipe thicknesses, materials, and functionality, so it's easy to choose one that matches your hairstyle and hair type. These are recommended for those purchasing a curling iron for the first time.
2WAY type
The 2WAY type is characterized by the ability to curl and straighten with just one hair. While you can enjoy a variety of arrangements, they tend to be a little heavier and more expensive than non-2WAY models.
Consider this if you want to change your styling depending on the day or if you don't have much storage space.
Roll brush type
A type that combines a curling iron and a roll brush. You can easily create curls by simply combing your hair with a brush, making it easy to handle even for beginners.
The mechanism that generates heat only at the base of the brush means that it does not come into direct contact with the scalp, reducing the risk of burns. It creates soft, natural curls, so if you want curls with definition, choose another type.
Automatic winding type
Just pinch the hair strands and it automatically winds them up, creating beautiful curls in just a few seconds. Since you don't touch the heating part, you don't have to worry about getting burned, and it's easy to use even for people who are clumsy.
Although the good thing is that the finish is stable, the disadvantages are that it is more expensive than other types and it is difficult to arrange it freely. Also, it may not be usable for anything other than human hair, such as extensions or wigs, so be careful when purchasing.
Choose the pipe material based on your hair type and degree of damage.
If you are concerned about hair damage, check the material of the pipe. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of each material to help you choose a product.
Titanium
Titanium is characterized by its resistance to rust and excellent durability. Although it tends to be a little more expensive, it is used in many products because it lasts a long time. It distributes heat evenly, has good slippage, and has little friction, so it's recommended regardless of your hairstyle or hair type.
Teflon
Teflon has the advantage of having less friction and being smooth to use. It is suitable for hair that tends to get tangled as it does not get caught easily when using a curling iron. The disadvantage is that the coating is less durable and easily peels off. People who want to use it for a long time should be careful because it is assumed that they will need to be replaced.
Ceramic
Ceramic has high thermal conductivity, making it easy to heat up and cool down. It's easy to maintain an even temperature, so it's perfect for people who want quick hair finishing and those who want to minimize damage to their hair. The problem is that they are expensive, but there are many products that are cheaper by applying a ceramic coating only to the surface, so if you are on a budget, check them out.
Choose the pipe thickness based on the length of your hair.
Basically, it is recommended that people with short hair choose a thin pipe, and people with long hair choose a thick pipe.
If you have short to bob hair, choose a hair length of less than 26 mm, if you have medium to medium length hair, choose a hair length of 26 to 32 mm, and if you have long to super long hair, choose hair length of 33 mm or more.
Even if you have long hair, if you want fine curls like a perm, try choosing a thinner one.
If you are focused on hair care, aim for a price of 5,000 yen or more.
Curling irons range in price from less than 5,000 yen to nearly 50,000 yen. Basically, the more expensive the product, the more it is designed to care for your hair.
And if it is too cheap, it may be difficult to hold the hair or curl it well, making it difficult to use. To avoid causing unnecessary damage to your hair, choose a product that costs 5,000 yen or more.
Also check the functional aspects that affect ease of use.
In order to use it every day without stress, we want to pay particular attention to its functionality. We will introduce useful features that you should especially pay attention to, so please refer to them.
Automatic power off function is a must check
If you're in a hurry to get ready in the morning, you may accidentally forget to turn it off. It is a must to check whether the device has a function that automatically turns it off after a certain period of time, as this may cause burns or fire.
It is more convenient to be able to finely adjust the temperature setting.
Most curling irons are equipped with a temperature control function, but they range from those that only allow you to choose between two levels, low and high, to those that allow you to set the temperature in 5°C increments.
Generally, higher temperatures tend to curl more easily, but they also tend to damage hair more easily. Choose a product that allows you to precisely adjust the temperature so that you can adjust the temperature to suit your hair type and degree of damage.
If you want to carry it around, we recommend a compact cordless type.
If you want to take it with you on a trip or business trip, we recommend a lightweight and compact product. Among these, the cordless type can be used in places where there are no electrical outlets, so it is useful in a wide range of situations.
Also, if you are going to travel abroad, check whether it is compatible with overseas voltage. Look at the product package or website and choose one that says 100-240V.
If you are concerned about static electricity, it comes with an ion function. Be careful with the steam function
Finally if you are concerned about the spread of your hair, we recommend products with ionic functions. Negative ions neutralize hair that has spread due to static electricity, and can be expected to have the effect of making hair more manageable.
The steam function applies a high-temperature curling iron to hair that has been wet with water vapor, creating a curl, which can cause the hair to lose moisture and become dry. It's good when you want to have firm curls, but if your hair is severely damaged, refrain from using it.