Whether its a bombshell blowout or tight ringlets, these clever tools will have you sorted
We all know 'effortless' curls can be anything but, especially if they're not one of your natural assets. That said, the right curling tong can help create laid-back beachy waves or cascading curls with ease. But with so many options available, how do you find the right tool for your hair type and styling preferences?
How to choose between curling tongs, wands and wavers
"My tip is to always match a curling iron or wand to the size of curl you have – or want to have," says Babyliss ambassador and session stylist Syd Hayes. For fragile, overly-processed hair of all lengths and texture, Hayes is a fan of the Babyliss Wave Secret Air as it creates long-lasting loose curls and waves using a curling chamber that automatically wraps, sets and cools the hair for lasting style.
But in general, curling tongs are better suited to achieving more even, bouncy curls, while a wand works especially well for natural-looking waves, thanks to the tapered design of most. Also worth considering is the relatively new 'waver', which has a three-barrel attachment and clamp to achieve S-shaped waves without much effort. And of course, for limiting heat damage, there's always the fan-favourite Dyson Airwrap, which uses hot air to form curls rather than direct heat.
"There are a few different options on the market from extra skinny to extra large sizes and different or unusual shapes barrels," says celebrity hairstylist Halley Brisker, noting that you can adjust your technique with most to create different styles. But regardless, of shape, "first and foremost, always look for good build quality and simplicity of functions," he says. "This will ensure you're curler lasts longer and remains easy to use and reliable."
Whichever styler you choose, don't forget to prep your hair carefully to minimise damage. Always use a heat protector before applying any heat source, and finish with a misting of long-lasting hairspray to hold the style in place.
The best curling tools to shop now
The medium-sized barrel heats quickly to produce mid-sized curls, no matter the hair length. Just like the brand’s signature hair straighteners, this device heats up to 185 degrees — the optimum temperature for styling without damaging. Lightweight and easy to use, it has a cool tip and safety stand to ensure hands and surfaces don’t get burnt, as well as universal voltage: perfect for jet-setters.
If you like the idea of a Dyson Airwrap but prefer a more pick 'n' mix approach to attachments, the Shark FlexStyle is getting rave reviews within the beauty editor circle. Each set comes with four attachments of your choice, whether that's curlers, hot brushes or a diffuser. The wand itself is flexible to make styling even easier.
Dyson’s multi-functional Airwrap lets you streamline your stylers. A truly innovative device, it features attachments including two barrels for creating curls and waves of various sizes, a firm brush for eradicating frizz and flyaways, a smooth brush for a blow-dry finish, and a round brush for volume. Since it styles using hot air rather than direct heat, you'll achieve best results when starting with 70-to-80 per cent dry hair. Everything comes in a chic case, but of course.
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Best for customisable heat settings
T3 Curl ID Smart Curling Iron
If it's a bouncy blowout worthy of a Hollywood starlet you're after, T3 will have you sorted. Curl ID takes into account your hair texture and condition to deliver a truly tailored experience (there are nine heat settings!) while keeping hair damage at bay. The barrel is fairly large, so it's ideal for creating those screen siren curls.
Yes, this technically is a straightener rather than a classic tong, but we're inclined to say that it delivers on both fronts. When used to add soft waves, the ridged plates mean it styles without leaving hair looking flat (or cause that dreaded 'fried' effect), especially on locks that are fine and straight. It's lightweight, does the job quickly and comes in the most aesthetically-pleasing box.
Mermaid waves are made easy with this foolproof styler. Its non-slip handle and thoughtful ergonomic design make it easy and comfortable to hold, and the light weight is a bonus too. It will take a few tries in order to master the look, but once you get the hang of it, you'll never look back.
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New York blow-dry salon Drybar is popular with the well-heeled set (closer to home, you can experience Drybar in Harrods and H Beauty) for good reason: they create expensive-looking professional blow-outs in no time. At home, DIY the beachy look with this tapered curling wand. The barrel narrows at the bottom to create loose, uneven waves to capture that laidback, done-undone vibes.
This rotating hot brush makes light work of creating voluminous, full-bodied waves. Simply run it through your roots to lengths and let the tool do the job in no time at all. Those with long hair will love how fast this works.
Best for natural-looking curls
Amika The Chameleon 5 Barrel Interchangeable Curling Kit
This interchangeable curling wand is perfect for achieving an undone set of natural-looking waves. Shape your hair in alternate directions for an additional boost of texture or brush through a synchronised set of waves for the ultimate glamorous look. With 5 varying heads, this handy set is perfect whether you're seeking tight pin curls or big, blow dry-esque swerves.
