Stylists and Editors Say These Are the 11 Best Curling Irons for Every Hair Type

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(Image credit: @hungvanngo)

I'll be the first person to admit that I've never been great at curling my hair. My hair is naturally curly, so I only curl it with a curling iron when I straighten it. But that doesn't mean I don't love doing it. Despite my lack of skills in that department, I love adding a subtle wave or bouncy curls or giving my hair a full-on '90s blowout (to the best of my ability). It's fun and adds some extra oomph to an otherwise straightforward style.

It has taken much trial and error over the years to figure out what works best for my thick hair, but I can confidently say a few curling irons work well. Don't worry. I'm not one to withhold information. I'm sharing what's worked for me plus the curling irons hairstylists and editors love. Keep reading if you're in the market for a new curling iron. We have options for every hair type.

What to Look for in a Curling Iron

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(Image credit: @hungvanngo)

Curling irons come in all different shapes and sizes. Typically, if you have longer hair, you'll want to opt for one with a longer barrel. Those with thick hair might also benefit from a curling iron with a long and thick barrel. Those with shorter hair types might like a slimmer barrel, which can help make maneuvering curling easier. If you have curly or coily hair and want to enhance your natural texture, you'll want to look for a barrel size that's close to your natural curl pattern. Keep scrolling for advice and recommendations for each hair type from stylists.

Best Overall Curling Iron: Hot Tools 24K Gold Curling Iron

Best Curling Irons for Textured Hair

Best Curling Irons for Long Hair

Best Curling Irons for Short Hair

Best Curling Irons for Thick Hair

Best Curling Irons for Fine Hair

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Shawna Hudson
Associate Beauty Editor

Shawna Hudson has worked in editorial for over six years, with experience covering entertainment, fashion, culture, celebrities, and her favorite topic of all, beauty. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in journalism and has written for other publications such as Bustle, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Elite Daily, Mane Addicts, and more. She is currently an associate beauty editor at Who What Wear and hopes to continue feeding her (completely out-of-control) beauty obsession as long as she can. Stay up to date on her latest finds on Instagram @shawnasimonee.