If you're looking to style the perfect curls, you probably want the perfect curling iron. Though there's a ton of products on the market, it's hard to know what type is best for your hair. This article is here to answer your questions on curling iron materials, like what kinds of materials curling irons are made of, which materials are recommended by stylists, and which one will be right for your hair type.

Question 2 of 8:

Which curling iron material is the least damaging?

  1. Ceramic curling irons are the least damaging. Though they may not get as hot as other materials like titanium, they are able to distribute heat more evenly. This helps keep your hair gorgeous and healthy as you curl it. Other curling iron materials that can curl your hair without too much risk of heat damage include tourmaline and gold-plated curling irons.[2]
    • Titanium curling irons are able to hold the highest temperatures of all the materials, which can make them more likely to damage your hair. If you've got curly or thick hair, though, your hair can withstand the heat without as much damage.
Question 5 of 8:

Does curling iron material matter?

  1. Yes, but all materials will curl your hair sufficiently. Though stylists often recommend ceramic models, tourmaline, titanium, gold, and metal models can all give you beautiful curls. Some are also better for specific hair types and budgets.[5] Use a titanium curling iron if you have coarse, thick hair that doesn't curl easily. Opt for a gold-plated curling iron if you need a good curling iron on a tight budget.[6]
    • When in doubt, purchase a curling iron with an adjustable heat setting. That way no matter what material you choose, you can style your hair at a heat that's right for you.
    • Check the reviews of the brand before buying.[7]
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Question 6 of 8:

What is the ideal heat setting and hold time?

  1. 1
    The ideal heat setting depends on your hair type. Keep your curling iron at 400 °F (204 °C) if you have healthy hair. Up the temperature to about 420 °F (216 °C) if you have thick, coarse hair. Curl your hair at 370 °F (188 °C) if you have thin, fine hair. Color-treated or damaged hair should be curled at 350 °F (177 °C) or lower.[8]
  2. 2
    Hold your hair in the curling iron for 8-10 seconds maximum. Only exceed that number if it's particularly tough to get your hair to curl. Otherwise, exceeding 10 seconds can burn your hair. For even curls, maintain the same hold time for each one.[10]
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Question 7 of 8:

What size curling iron should I use?

  1. 1
    Use a large barrel for loose, beachy waves. For subtle, effortless curls, try a curling iron with a barrel that is at least 1.25 inches (3.2 cm). Try adding a spritz of hairspray throughout your hair after curling it to make the style last throughout the day. Looser curls may not hold for quite as long.[11]
  2. 2
    Try a small barrel for tight ringlets. If you're looking for tighter, more styled curls, use a curling iron with a barrel that is 1 inch (2.5 cm). You should also try a smaller barrel if your hair has trouble holding curls throughout the day. A smaller barrel can give you curls that last.[12]
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Expert Q&A

  • Question
    How can I choose a curling iron?
    Wyvetta Bowles
    Wyvetta Bowles
    Beauty & Hair Care Advisor
    Wyvetta Bowles is a Beauty and Hair Care Advisor and the Founder of Crown of Glory Beauty Salon Inc. With over 27 years of experience, Wyvetta specializes in bridal and special event hair and makeup, hair care maintenance, and hairstyling techniques that lead to less damage. Wyvetta attended Flair Beauty College and received her Associate’s in Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services.
    Wyvetta Bowles
    Beauty & Hair Care Advisor
    Expert Answer
    Choose a curling iron based on the texture of your hair, whether it is thin, medium, or thick. Consider the curl you would like and what you are trying to achieve with the iron.
  • Question
    Does the brand of a curling iron make any difference?
    Wyvetta Bowles
    Wyvetta Bowles
    Beauty & Hair Care Advisor
    Wyvetta Bowles is a Beauty and Hair Care Advisor and the Founder of Crown of Glory Beauty Salon Inc. With over 27 years of experience, Wyvetta specializes in bridal and special event hair and makeup, hair care maintenance, and hairstyling techniques that lead to less damage. Wyvetta attended Flair Beauty College and received her Associate’s in Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services.
    Wyvetta Bowles
    Beauty & Hair Care Advisor
    Expert Answer
    The brand makes a difference because some brands may claim their iron to be 450 degrees, but it may not be. It is better to check the reviews before buying from a particular brand.
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About This Article

Wyvetta Bowles
Co-authored by:
Beauty & Hair Care Advisor
This article was co-authored by Wyvetta Bowles and by wikiHow staff writer, Madeleine Criglow. Wyvetta Bowles is a Beauty and Hair Care Advisor and the Founder of Crown of Glory Beauty Salon Inc. With over 27 years of experience, Wyvetta specializes in bridal and special event hair and makeup, hair care maintenance, and hairstyling techniques that lead to less damage. Wyvetta attended Flair Beauty College and received her Associate’s in Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. This article has been viewed 13,760 times.
3 votes - 100%
Co-authors: 3
Updated: January 13, 2022
Views: 13,760
Categories: Hair Care
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