11 Best Flat Irons For Curling Your Hair (2024): Hairstylist’s Buying Guide
Achieving the perfect waves and tight curls every time now got easier.
Who doesn’t want to rock beachy, curly, or wavy hairstyles? But, did you know that you can use your flat iron to get some gorgeous-looking curls in no time? However, you will need a professional-grade flat iron with optimum styling temperature to do the job. This article presents you with a list of the best flat irons that help style hair with ease and achieve beautiful curls without damaging your hair. Read on to learn more about them.
In This Article
11 Best Flat Irons For Curling Hair
1. Best Overall:HSI Professional Glider
The HSI Professional Glider helps you in creating dramatic hairstyles with minimal effort. Its high-quality ceramic plates use 8 heat balance microsensors to regulate temperature and evenly distribute heat all over your hair. The shine-enhancing ceramic ion plates add a silky finish to your tresses while minimizing the heat damage. The ceramic plates also allow smaller water molecules to penetrate the hair shaft, thus reducing frizz and static.
This fast-heating curling iron offers temperatures ranging from 140°F up to 450°F, giving you total control while styling hair. It comes with a dual voltage setting and a 360° swivel cord that lets you style your hair without straining your hand. This kit comes with an additional heat-resistant glove that protects your hand. You may check more about this product in this video detailing a reviewer’s experience.
Specifications
- Plate Width: ½’’
- Plate Type: Ceramic
- Voltage: 110/120V
- Temp: 450°F
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- 360° swivel cord
- Wide temperature range
- Adds shine
- Reduces frizz and static
- Evenly distributes heat
- Lightweight
Cons
- May snag on hair while styling
2. Best For Frizz-Free Styling:Nition Platinum Professional Styler
The Nition Platinum Professional Styler features5-in-1 ceramic-coated flat iron heating plates infused with nano silver, argan oil, tourmaline, and titanium that lets you style your hair with perfection. The tourmaline ceramic flat iron featuring ionic technology emits negative ions that reduce static and aids in frizz control by locking in moisture in the hair shafts as well as enhances curl definition. Besides, its fast-heating 3D flexible styling plate evenly distributes the heat, preventing snagging or pinching of hair or other forms of heat damage.
Its one-step button-less operating system makes this styler extremely easy to use. You can regulate the temperature by rotating the curling iron clockwise or anticlockwise. The MCH Heating Feature with built-in C-sensor auto-detects temperature change. The auto shut-off function and extra-long power cord with a 360° swivel make this flat iron convenient to use. This styling iron comes with two salon hair clips, one salon comb, and a safety glove. Check out this video detailing a tester’s experience of using this product.
Specifications
- Plate Width: 1¾’’
- Plate Type: Ceramic + Titanium
- Voltage: 120V
- Temp: 420°F
Pros
- Easy to use
- Ceramic-coated heating plates
- Locks in natural moisture
- Reduces frizz
- Evenly distributes heat
- Heats up quickly
- Automatic shut-off feature
- 360° swivel cord
- Dual voltage
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Expensive
3. Best For Consistent Curls:Kristin Ess Hair 3-In-One Titanium Flat Iron Hair
The Kristin Ess Hair 3-In-One Titanium Flat Iron Hair provides you with four different styling options to style your hair: polished curls, flat iron waves, sleek straight, and S-waves. It features temperature-sensing rapid heat technology that helps deliver even heat for faster styling that lasts longer. The heat-transferring system of titanium plates locks moisture, removes frizz, and boosts shine to provide healthier-looking hair. The floating plates contour to hair texture and allow smooth styling of hair without creasing or snagging. The rounded body easily creates subtle bends and textured waves. The digital display and 4 temperature presets allow customization for different hair types and textures. The iron also has an automatic shut-off timer, which shuts off after 30 minutes, a 9-foot swivel cord, and a heat-resistant cap.
Specifications
- Plate Width: 1 ¼ inch
- Plate Type: Titanium, Ceramic, and Nanoblack
- Voltage: Dual Voltage
- Temp: 450°F
Pros
- Temperature sensing rapid heat technology
- Automatic shut-off time
- Lock in moisture
- Eliminate frizz
- Enhance shine
- Smooth styling without snagging or creasing
Cons
- Might not last long
HSI Professional Glider Best Overall | Nition Platinum Professional Styler Best For Frizz-Free Styling | Kristin Ess Hair 3-In-One Titanium Flat Iron Hair Best For Consistent Curls | |
---|---|---|---|
Material | Ceramic Tourmaline, Ceramic | Plastic | Titanium |
Hair Type | Curly | All | Frizzy |
Shape | Rectangular | Round | Flat |
Dimensions | - | 11.42 x 1.38 x 1.38 inches | 15.12 x 5.35 x 5.35 inches |
Weight | - | 9.17 Ounces | 2 Pounds. |
Color | - | - | White |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 35,236 | 2,775 | 138 |
Price | $48.95 | $59.99 | $90 |
4. Best With Extra Long Plates:Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron
Get salon-like straight locks that would gather all the attention! This Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron is designed for hassle-free salon styling at home. The extra-long floating plates aid in better styling. The double ceramic material of the plates ensures even heat distribution, allows for fast-paced styling, and aids in curl retention to create long-lasting looks. You get appropriate heat for durable results with anti-frizz protection that makes your hair smooth and glossy. The handle lock and swivel line cord add extra styling ease and control. The five digital temperature option settings can be customized to match your hair type. Multiple reviews on Amazon commend this flat iron’s ability to make their hair manageable while adding shine.
Specifications
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Double Ceramic
- Voltage: 100V – 240V
- Temp: 265°F- 410°F
Pros
- 5 LCD heat settings
- Extra long plates
- Suitable for all hair types
- Automatic off
- Lock/unlock touch button
Cons
- Might pull out hair
5. Best For All Hair Types:Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener
With high-quality performance and enhanced heat settings, the Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener is all that you can hope to find in a styling tool! All the technology that it encompasses, along with an energy-dense battery, is crafted for optimal straightening that stays on for long. The manganese-copper alloy plates offer smooth gliding for snag-free styling with minimal heat. The flexible arrangement of thermal crystals regulates the temperature and provides a protective, seamless heating experience. The constant monitoring of the intelligent battery management system paves the way for optimized heat generation. It can help you create different hairstyles and flaunt a new hairstyle every day!
Specifications
- Plate Width:
- Plate Type: Manganese Copper Alloy
- Voltage:
- Temp: 165°C, 185°C, 210°C
Pros
- Precision styling
- Heating system with intelligent control
- Suitable for all hair types
- Available in exclusive colors
- Cordless
- Travel-friendly and portable
Cons
- Expensive
6. Best For Protective Heat Styling:Landot2-in-1 Hair Straightener And Curler
With this Landot Flat Iron, you can get gorgeous curls while protecting your natural hair from excessive heat. The patented intelligent heat protection sensor continuously evaluates your hair’s moisture level and regulates the temperature accordingly. Its ceramic-coated plates are infused with keratin and almond oil to give your hair a smooth finish post-styling. These plates also have a negative ion emission hole that releases 700w+ negative ions that help prevent frizz and tame flyaways. Moreover, it has eleven heat settings reaching up to 450℉ in just 30 seconds.
The digital LCD lets you keep a tab on the temperature of the styling rod. Functional features like auto shut-off, anti-scalding ends, a 2-meter-long swivel cord, and a worldwide dual voltage output make this styler extremely travel-friendly. Its in-built plate lock and add-on heat-resistant sleeve make it easy to store. Since it has so many useful features, why not test it out today?
Specifications
- Plate Type: Ceramic + Tourmaline
- Voltage: Dual voltage
- Temp: 450℉
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Tangle-free
- Keratin and almond oil infused-heating plate
- Sensors that measure moisture level in hair
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Prevent frizz
- Added plate lock for easy storage
Cons
- May cause hair breakage
7. Best To Seal In Moisture:FHI Platform Ceramic Hair Styling Iron
The FHI Platform Ceramic Hair Styling Iron is made from three baked ceramic layers infused with tourmaline that offer even heat distribution and allow for a variety of hairstyles from beachy waves to pin-straight. The HydraHeat technology seals in moisture, reduces frizz, repels humidity, and eliminates static, while high levels of negative ions give soft and smooth hair. The iron uses ceramic heater technology, which offers high-speed heat recovery and even distribution of heat.
It has an adjustable temperature setting that ranges from 140°F to 450°F and a 12ft swivel cord for flexibility and mobility. Other features include floating plates, 1-hour auto shut-off, and dual voltage. Pull the styling iron lightly through small sections of combed hair for a smooth glide through the plates. The beveled plates impart maximum smoothness and flexibility to hair and allow the plates to swiftly move with the hair when styling without damaging the hair.
Specifications
- Plate Width: 1 ¼ inch
- Plate Type: Ceramic and Tourmaline
- Voltage: Dual Voltage
- Temp: 450°F
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Floating plates
- 1-hour auto shut-off
- Repels humidity
- Eliminates static
- HydraHeat technology
Cons
- Might pull hair
- Might not be long-lasting
8. Best Flat Iron With Audio Talkback:TYMO 2-in-1 Straightener And Curler
The TYMO Flat Iron, with its nano ceramic-titanium plates, effortlessly styles your hair. Its fast heating and cooling technology creates long-lasting hairstyles without frizz or static. This styling iron comes with 3D floating plates for a high-spec gloss finish, allowing for effortless and snag-free styling. It also saves your hair from heat damage. This curling iron offers 32 temperature settings ranging from 140ºF (60ºC) to 450ºF (230ºC). The auto-sleep mode shuts off this tool automatically after 5 minutes of inactivity. Several reviewers pointed out that this flat iron must be one of the very few that heats up faster than any other styling tool.
Specifications
- Plate Width: 1”
- Plate Type: Nano Ceramic + Titanium
- Voltage: 100-240V
- Temp: 450℉
Pros
- Gives a glossy finish
- Fast heating and cooling function technology
- Prevents heat damage
- Shuts off after 5 minutes of inactivity
Cons
- None
9. Best Travel-Friendly:FURIDEN Hair Straightener
The FURIDEN Hair Straightener has rotating adjustable temperature control with 20 heat settings, from 250°F to 450°F, allowing you to create straight waves, styles, and curls quickly and easily. The titanium floating plates have built-in negative ion projectors, rounded barrels, and curved edges, making it a versatile styling tool. The curved edges of the plates make it easy to use for creating curls and beach waves.
With its quick heat-up feature, the straightener is ready to be used in 15 seconds due to its titanium heaters and has a 60-minute auto-off feature and safety lock. It has a 250mm cable, and 360° swivel power cord, and accepts both 110-120V and 220-240V dual voltage. The ceramic straightener is designed with a one-step directional switch that reduces styling time. The floating plates and balanced heat plates move when you do and prevent tugging of hair or snagging during styling. It also comes with a professional styling comb. So put it to the test and flaunt your amazing curls today!
Specifications
- Plate Width: 1 inch
- Plate Type: Ceramic
- Voltage: Dual Voltage
- Temp: 450°F
Pros
- Rotating adjustable temperature control
- 20 heat settings
- Built-in negative ion projectors
- Rounded barrels and curved edges
- Heats up quickly in 15 seconds
- 60-minute auto-off feature
- Safety lock
- 250mm cable
- 360° swivel power cord
Cons
- Might not soften the hair
10. Best For Heat Recovery:Wavytalk Titanium Hair Straightener And Curler
The Wavytalk Titanium Hair Straightener And Curler is made with 3D floating nano-titanium round-edged plates that heat up quickly. The PTC Heat Technology can provide even heat throughout the plates which glide smoothly over your strands without tugging them. The plates also instantaneously deal with heat recovery by surrounding the strands with moisture. The affordable straightener has a flexible temperature controller where the temperature varies between 250℉-450℉. The uniquely designed LCD lets you monitor precise heat settings and temperature tracking. The gorgeous, ergonomic layout and professional-degree results with a 60-minute auto shut-off feature make it worth the investment. It has a dual voltage that makes it easy for you to use it across the globe. Put it to the test today!
Pros
- PTC Heat Technology
- 3D floating nano titanium plates
- Round-edged
- Frizz-free finish
- Moisture sealing technology
- Suitable for both thick and thin hair
- Auto shut-off technology
- Dual voltage
Cons
- Bulky
"This styling tool is great for my naturally curly hair. It heats up quickly and provides styling options from straightening to curling with ease. It gives me good temperature control, which makes styling much easier. It manages to efficiently smooth and style even the thick and wavy strands."
11. Best For Splurge:Vanessa Curling Iron
Vanessa Curling Iron has a nano titanium plate that provides fast results while increasing the shine and smoothness of your hair. The nano titanium plates of this curling iron release negative ions when heated up. These ions help moisten your hair and transform frizzy and dull hair into gorgeously sleek tresses. Its temperature settings range from 265℉ to 450℉. It also comes with an invisible screen that shows up when you switch on the iron. This display makes it easier for you to see the temperature of the curling iron at any time while in use.
This flatiron has a durable design and has features like automatic shut-off and dual voltage. It comes with a 360° flexible swivel cord that does not get tangled while you are using it. These features make this affordable option travel-friendly. Reviewers recommend this iron as it gives the best results in very little time.
Specifications
- Plate Type: Titanium
- Voltage: Dual voltage
- Temp: 450℉
Pros
- Durable
- Travel-friendly
- Suitable for all hair types
- Retains moisture in the hair
- Lightweight design
- Easy to use
Cons
- None
Not all flat irons are suitable for all types and lengths of hair. You need to determine your hair type – whether it is straight hair or wavy hair, as well as hair texture, that is, whether it is thick hair, fine hair, or textured hair and pick the flat iron accordingly. Listed below are a few criteria that you can consider before choosing the right flat iron for curling your hair.
How To Pick The Best Flat Iron For Your Hair
1. Plates
There are three different materials used to make flat iron plates. Depending on your need and hair texture, you can select any one of them.
- Ceramic Plate: Flat irons with ceramic plates heat up evenly and hold the heat for a long period of time. They also help in evenly distributing the heat all over your hair. These plates are safe for short, coarse, light, and curly hair and are usually best for straightening your hair. Ceramic plates also contain ionic power that may give your hair a healthy-looking shine.
- Titanium Plates: Flat irons with titanium plates heat up quickly and transfer the heat fast. They can also hold heat at a constant temperature, making it easy for you to style your hair. Titanium plates can be good for people who have coarse or thicker hair.
- Tourmaline Plates: Flat irons with tourmaline plates help trap moisture inside the strand, thus preventing hair damage. They distribute the heat evenly and remain hot throughout use.
2. Flexible Heat Settings
A flat iron with adjustable heat settings allows you to choose the suitable temperature for your hair texture without damaging your tresses.
3. Shape Of The Iron
The edges of flat iron can also play an important role in styling your hair. If you want a versatile flat iron that will help you curl your hair, look for one that has rounded edges. Flat irons with rounded edges are great for creating curly and wavy hairstyles.
Other than the above-mentioned features, there are a few other points that you should check before buying a flat iron. These are discussed below.
Other Features to Consider In A Flat Iron
- Dual Voltage Support: Curling irons that offer dual voltage compatibility are travel-friendly. They can be used anywhere in the world with minimal hassle.
- Accessories: Many flat irons come with different kinds of accessories like heat-resistant gloves, clips, and combs that make them easier to use.
- Automatic Shut-Off: The automatic shut-off feature is one of the most important things to look for while purchasing a flat iron. This feature ensures that your flat iron will automatically shut off after a certain period of inactivity. It is an important feature that ensures fire safety.
- Cord Length: The cord length ensures you don’t have to tug or pull your flat iron while styling your hair.
You must be wondering why you should choose a flat iron instead of a curling iron to curl your hair. Let’s take a look at the difference between them and which one will be better to get the curls of your dreams.
Flat Irons Vs. Curling Irons – What’s The Difference?
While flat irons are traditionally used to straighten your hair, they do have some versatile uses as well. These flat irons can be modified and used to get curls of different sizes. This kind of versatility makes the flat iron an all-in-one tool for your hair. However, it takes a lot of patience and practice to use a flat iron to curl your hair.
Unlike flat irons, curling irons are specifically designed to create curls. However, the curls you get from curling irons don’t last long. Why? Because a curling iron does not transfer heat evenly throughout your hair strands.
Now, you need a bit of practice before you master the art of curling your hair with a flat iron. In the next section, we have discussed a few ways you can try it out.
How To Curl Hair Properly With A Flat Iron
Here is an easy step-by-step guide on how to curl your hair with a flat iron:
1. Prep Your Hair
Before using a flat iron to curl your hair, first wash and thoroughly dry your hair. Then, apply a heat protectant to your hair to prevent heat damage.
2. Section Your Hair
Sectioning your hair will make the curling process much easier. You can use hair ties or clips to divide your hair into sections.
3. Use The Flat Iron
Take a section of your hair and brush it thoroughly. Then take the flat iron and place it halfway down the section of your hair.
4. Clamp And Twist
Wrap your hair and twist it around the flat iron. Keep your hair in that position for 30-60 seconds, and then slowly pull your hair out of the flat iron.
5. Repeat
Repeat the above curling technique for other sections of your hair. You now have some gorgeous curls that you can rock anywhere!
You must use a flat iron the right way and avoid committing a few mistakes to prevent hair damage. Learn more about this in the next section.
Mistakes To Avoid While Using A Flat Iron
- Do not rush while curling or straightening your hair with a flat iron. Speeding up the styling process may make you end up with an unflattering hairstyle. So, avoid using flat irons when you are in a hurry.
- Do not touch your hair strands right after using the iron when your hair is hot. Touching your hot hair repeatedly may result in the transfer of dirt and sweat from your hands to your hair strands.
- Avoid flat-ironing wet hair. Since wet or damp hair is more prone to breakage, using heat on it may result in irreversible hair damage.
- Do not set the tool at maximum temperature or too high while using a flat iron on your hair as it may cause heat damage.
- Never forget to use a heat protectant spray on your hair before heat-styling your hair with a flat iron.
Infographic: How To Make Your Curls Last Longer
Acquiring gorgeous curls with a flat iron can require some serious time and effort, and you may not always have the time to invest in curling your hair every day. Moreover, exposing your hair to excess heat can also damage it, which is why you need to know how to preserve your curls in order to make them last longer. Read the infographic below to know how you can maintain your curled hair properly so that you can enjoy some luscious-looking locks with just one curling session.
The Bottom Line
Hairstylists love using the best flat irons for curling hair when it comes to giving the best, long-lasting curls. For example, the HSI Professional Glider enhances shine and offers a silky smooth finish, the Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron tames frizz and gives a glossy finish, and the Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener offers snag-free styling experience and protection from heat. But, you too can do all this in the comfort of your home. These tools are easy to use, and you will not need to take the help of experts to operate it. The ones mentioned on our list are durable, have multiple heat settings, are non-damaging, and come with a tangle-free swivel cord. Some of them even come with various accessories to help you get unique hairstyles. Go through the reviews and buying guide well to get the best flat irons for curling hair.
, a celebrated master stylist says, “Flat irons can do magical stuff to your hair, from curls to beachy waves, however the heat from them doesn’t forgive the hair. Not only do you need to protect the hair with some good heat protectant products and also invest in great flat irons. There are very good options in this article.”
Why Trust StyleCraze?
A certified skincare coach, Oyendrila loves experimenting with different haircare products too. Her interest in haircare has inspired her to go through tons of user reviews of different flat irons for curling hair and do a thorough research herself in order to curate a list of the best ones available on the market. The listed products are perfect for helping you achieve your desired look without damaging your natural shine.
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