Short hair may seem be easier to handle than long, but in truth it takes a great deal of precision to get it right. Short strands need as much care and effort as any other hair type. But no need to worry, we have the right solutions for all your problems here. Whether you want your strands to have beautiful uniform locks, or voluminous beach waves, we got you covered. In this post you can find curling irons that fits every type of styling need. Not only that, we’ve made a thorough research and picked up the ones that has the greatest quality, as well as value. We’re aware that fine strands and thick ones have very different needs and here you’ll find the perfect tool for your specific hair type. It’s also beneficial for you to check out our comprehensive buying guide which explains everything you need to know in detail, before you make the perfect decision.
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Top Picks
- Best overall: Beachwaver S.75 Curling Iron
- Best for beachy waves: Ghd Curve Creative Curl Curling Wand
- Best for stubborn /thick hair: Babylisspro Nano Titanium Curling Wand
- Best for fine/ damaged hair or syntetic wigs: Bio Ionic GoldPro Curling Iron
- Best for tight/ bouncy curls: Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron/Wand
- Best marcel curling iron: Babylisspro Porcelain Ceramic Marcel Curling Iron
- Best for coils: Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Marcel Iron Wand
- Best for frizzy hair: Babylisspro Porcelain Ceramic Spring Curling Iron
- Best affordable spring iron: Revlon SmoothStay Coconut Oil-Infused Curling Iron
- Best affordable tapered wand: Remington Shine Therapy Tapered Curling Wand
- Best affordable straight wand: Conair Double Ceramic Straight Barrel Curling Wand
Key Considerations When Choosing a Curling Iron for Short Hair
Barrel width
If your hair is anywhere above the shoulders—whether it’s a pixie, bob, lob, or something in between—you shouldn’t use a curling iron larger than 1.25″. Short hair needs a smaller barrel because there’s less hair to wrap around.
- For pixie-length – 0.5″ and 0.75″ barrels
- For bob-length – 0.5″ and 1″ barrels
- For lob-length – 0.5″ and 1.25″ barrels
Barrel length
Shorter barrels make handling and maneuvering the tool easier. For short hair, a 5-inch barrel is perfect, and the longest size available is 8 inches. However, if you struggle with styling the back of your hair, longer sizes can make things a bit easier.
Curler type
Curling Wand: Short hair requires precision and maneuverability. This makes a wand a better choice than a curling iron. However, using a curling wand on short hair is tricky because your hand gets too close to the heated barrel. It’s best suited for experienced users who want to create natural waves.
Rotating curling irons are great for short hair, especially for beginners. They spin automatically, so you can curl evenly and reach the back of your head without straining your wrist.
A spring curling iron definitely makes things easier for you if you have short hair since it holds the tips in place. It is ideal for achieving defined waves or curls.
Plate material
Short hair is more sensitive to heat than longer hair. Because the heat source is closer to the scalp and ends, and this increases the risk of damage.
Titanium heats up very fast and is difficult to control. It’s better suited for thick, coarse hair and experienced users.
Ceramic is ideal for fine or damaged hair because it heats up slowly, offering gentle styling. It’s a great choice for beginners.
Tourmaline emits negative ions that calm frizzy hair and static. It works well for all hair types and allows for quick styling without causing damage.
Heat range
Your strands can be thick or thin and according to your hair type, you need to choose the curling iron with the right temperature settings.
If you have delicate strands, opt for heat settings that start at 250°F or less. If you have stubborn strands, though, choose a tool with a maximum heat of at least 400°F.
Reviews
1. Best overall:
Beachwaver S.75 Curling Iron
Model name/number: DV1139 (¾”), DV1137 (1″)
Price: $149
Recommended sizes: 0.75″, 1″
Barrel shape: rotating curling iron
Heat range: 290°F to 410°F
Best for: normal to thick hair, short to medium length hair
Pros: high-quality material, ease of use, ergonomic design
Cons: bulky, expensive, lowest setting is too hot for fine strands
How it stands out: a rotating curling iron with the smallest barrel that fits even the shortest strands
When it comes to flat irons, it’s not so easy to find a slim barrel that appeals to short hair types. Beachwaver S1 offers an extraordinarily short barrel with 0.75″. It fits even the shortest hair types which earns it the spot for being our favorite rotating curling iron for short hair this year. Rotating curling irons are for the ones that want their session to be as effortless as possible. This is an almost wand-shaped tool and it creates beach waves like the wands do, instead of perfect-looking ringlets. But it has a small holding clamp which is needed to keep the hair in place while it rotates. 410°F is a great number in terms of heat and this tool can tame all kinds of hair, even the unruliest. Its minimum temperature of 290°F, on the other hand, is too high in case your hair is very fragile. Its ceramic material makes things gentler with its slow and less heating, but we recommend you to be careful if you have thin strands.
This tool is a luxury tool that probably won’t fit in your criteria if you’re on a tighter budget. It costs $149 but you get more than you spend with this tool. It has very high-quality material, as well as performance. It has digital display and temperature control like most luxury tools. But it lacks ionic technology which is disappointing.
Read more: Beachwaver S Curling Iron review
2. Best for beachy waves:
Ghd Curve Creative Curl Curling Wand
Model name/number: –
Price: $205
Available sizes: 1” base and oval 0.9” tip
Barrel shape: tapered wand
Heat range: preset 365°F
Best for: all hair lengths, normal to thick hair
Pros: elegant and ergonomic design, durable material,
Cons: not suitable for very fine or very thick strands
How it stands out: tapered wand with and oval tip for extreme versatility on styling options
GHD Curve Creative Curl is a very uniquely shaped tool which is meant to offer a large variety of different styles. What really caught our attention is its outstanding results on shorter hairstyles, especially if you want beach waves. This tool has a 1” round barrel at the base, but as it’s tapered, it narrows down to 0.9” by the tip and also becomes oval. This way, you can achieve different styles with it according to the part that you use. It creates tighter locks at the base of the strands and the tips are more voluminous and casual-looking. That said, as a clampless wand, this tool can’t really create perfect-looking ringlets if that’s what you need. You have to hold the tips of your hair with your hand which creates more undone results. It has a pre-set heat which they claim to be perfection. This 365°F temperature is not changeable, which is great for beginners that don’t know which temperatures to use. While this number is favorable for most, it may be too harsh for very thin strands, while being too soft on unruly ones. Shorter strands really benefit from its 5” short barrel and 7.4 oz lightweight design, which both make it much easier to handle and maneuver. Its ceramic barrel heats up slower than other materials and makes the tool safer than most in terms of heat damage. It’s a luxury curling iron with high-quality material, as well as ergonomic and elegant design. But it certainly is an investment that doesn’t suit all budgets. Its auto shut of is 30 minutes which is shorter than usual, and it may be too short for the ones who need longer to finish their session.
Read more: Ghd Curve Creative Curl Curling Wand review
3. Best for stubborn /thick hair:
Babylisspro Nano Titanium Curling Wand
Model name/number: BNTW50UC (½″), BNTW75NUC (¾″), BNTW100NUC (1″)
Price: $75
Recommended sizes: 0.5″, 0.75″, 1″
Barrel shape: straight barrel wand
Heat range: 285°F to 430°F
Best for: stubborn and thick hair
Pros: elegant design, creates tight yet casual-looking locks
Cons: not gentle enough for fine hair
How it stands out: titanium barrel allows very fast and effective styling
Babylisspro Nano Titanium Curling Wand comes in many different barrel widths, and its 0.5” option is one of our favorites for short strands this year. It won our hearts not only with its very slim barrel that creates satisfying tight yet natural-looking locks on short strands but also providing a very fast and efficient session with its high-temperature setting and titanium barrel. The 0.5” barrel width is one of the smallest available sizes in the market and creates short-waved yet voluminous curls which is perfect for short strands. This is a wand-shaped tool, so it creates more s-shaped curls rather than spirals and it provides a much more casual finish than spring irons.
What really stands out regarding its shape is that, unlike most wands, it has a straight barrel which is great for creating curls that have the same size as each other. It can reach up to 430°F, which is a great number if you have unruly strands. Having a titanium barrel also not only provides higher levels of heat, it also is much faster than other materials. We have to say though, this tool is not the best option for you if you have fine hair. An alternative with a lower minimum heat setting and a ceramic barrel is what you many want to consider instead. This tool also lacks ionic technology, a feature that works wonders on eliminating frizz. Other than that, its performance is great, considering its very affordable price, not to mention its elegant design which is very sturdy to hold.
Read more: Babylisspro Nano Titanium Curling Wand review
4. Best for fine damaged hair or synthetic wigs:
Bio Ionic GoldPro Curling Iron
Model name/number: –
Price: $99
Size: 1”
Barrel shape: traditional curling iron
Heat range: 170°F to 450°F
Best for: all hair types and lengths
Pros: durable material, wi̇de range of heat settings, ionic technology
Cons: buttons placed poorly
How it stands out: very low heat setting and ceramic material that appeals to short and damaged hair
Bioionic Goldpro appeals to the ones that can afford to pay for top-quality hair tools and they being extraordinary levels of gentleness to the strands. With this curling iron, your hair is perfectly safe from heat damage, no matter how thin or fragile it is. It has a very wide range of heat settings and its minimum temperature of 170°F is the lowest that we’ve ever come across in the market. This number, combined with its ceramic barrel, will protect your strands from heat. This tool also is great for synthetic wigs as they need very low heat to style. Its maximum heat is equally impressive with 450°F, which is the highest number on our list as well. This is great news for stubborn hair types that need heat to tame. While it comes with many different size options, we recommend the 1” barrel for shorter hair tighter locks are more beneficial on short hairstyles because it bring greater volume to them. As a traditional spring iron, it has a clamp to hold your strands in place which also helps handling short strands. The results that it creates are perfect looking with great precision. When it comes to design, it’s elegant. But it has some issues regarding its buttons being placed poorly. Some users complain about accidentally turning the tool off while using it. The quality though, is very high and this tool will last you for many years if you don’t misuse it. Short strands need smaller barrels to handle it and with 5.25”, it has a barrel shorter than average. It’s a very fast tool and the results that it provides are more long-lasting than usual. Overall, we think it has great value for money.
Read more: Bio Ionic GoldPro Curling Iron review
5. Best for tight/ bouncy curls:
Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron/Wand
Model name/number: 1103 (½”), 1109 (⅝”), 1101 (¾”), 1181 (1″)
Price: $50
Available sizes: 0.5″, 5/8″, 0.75″, 1″
Barrel shape: traditional spring iron
Heat range: 280°F to 430°F
Best for: all hair types and lengths
Pros: versatile barrel size options for great precision, ergonomically designed, 7 year warranty
Cons: minimum heat is not very gentle, bulky
How it stands out: an affordable curling iron with solid material quality and very versatile with generous amount of barrel size options
Hot Tools offers a traditional spring iron with the most generous barrel width options in the market and it caught our attention for short strands this year. While it has 7 different sizes that you can choose from, the 1/2″, 5/8″, and 3/4″ are perfect for shorter hair. The ½” one is the smallest size that you can find in the market and appeals to pixie cuts or even shorter. This size can come very close to the roots and is easy to maneuver. The 5/8” one is the only option on our list with this size and is also perfect for very short hair, but for the ones that would like their curls to be a bit larger. It’s perfect for chin-length hair. The ¾” one is still narrow, but more versatile, meaning that it would also fir a bit longer hair. Shoulder-length strands would benefit from this size. While its sizes make this tool extremely versatile, its heat settings are not that widely ranged. Its maximum heat of 430°F is rather satisfying and can tame even the unruliest. But its minimum temperature is 280°F and is a bit too high for very thin hair. Its 24K Gold material makes the session gentler, yet still not enough to be completely safe from heat damage. Other than that, it’s a simple and solid tool with great performance and satisfying material quality, considering its affordable price. It also comes with a very comfortable cool tip which makes it comfortable to hold, although its holding clamp gets a bit too hot.
Read more: Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron/Wand review
6. Best marcel curling iron:
Babylisspro Porcelain Ceramic Marcel Curling Iron
Model name/number: BP75MUC (¾”), BP100MUC (1″)
Price: $50
Recommended sizes: 0.75″, 1″
Barrel shape: marcel curling iron
Heat range: 230°F to 430°F
Best for: short hair, all hair types
Pros: slim barrel appeals to shorter strands and brings extra precision with marcel shape
Cons: hard to master
How it stands out: it achieves perfection in tight and glamorous curls
If you have strands which are bob-length or shorter, a slimmer barrel is usually what you need. This tool, with its 0.75” barrel, is perfect at creating tight curls and giving volume to shorter strands. It actually is our favorite marcel-shaped curling iron for short hair this year. Marcel-shaped tools are quite rare to find these days as they’re harder to master. But you can come across this shape in hair salons quite often as professionals love them. It still is a spring iron with a holding clamp, but it takes precision to next level as you close it manually. This allows great control over the heat that you apply to all parts of your hair. The results are very glamorous-looking tight curls that are rather impressive if you like this kind of thing. But you may not be satisfied if you would prefer more natural-looking results. It has a very large heat range starting from 340°F and reaching up to 430°F. So, it’s strong enough to tame very unruly hair yet gentle enough for fine strands that needs very low temperatures. It also has a porcelain ceramic barrel that softens up the session even more and provides even heat distribution which porcelain is known for. While our favorite for short strands is the 0.75”, there’s also a 1” option, which is perfect if your hair drops down to your jawline and you want your curls to be a bit looser. Its price of $50 is very affordable considering that it has very durable material.
Read more: Babylisspro Porcelain Ceramic Marcel Curling Iron review
7. Best for coils:
Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Marcel Iron Wand
Model name/number: –
Price: $50
Available sizes: 3/8″, 5/8″, 3/4″, 1″, 1 1/4″, 1 1/2″
Barrel shape: marcel iron/wand
Heat range: 280°F to 430°F
Best for: normal to thick strands, all hair lengths
Pros: rotating handle, very fast styling, elegant design, versatile barrel options
Cons: too harsh for fine hair, no auto shut-off
How it stands out: a marcel iron that doubles as a wand with very small barrel options for the shortest strands
Marcel Irons are hard to come across and certainly not for everyone. But for the ones that are up for a challenge, they provide extraordinary results. This tool caught our attention for short hair this year with its very small barrel options. 3/8” is the smallest possible size in the market and fits even pixie cuts and shorter hair. Not only that, it also comes with larger sizes such as ½” and 5/8”, which are both suitable for short strands and provides slightly different-sized curls. This tool will fit your styling needs, no matter how precise they are. The marcel shape provides a holding clamp that closes manually, hence providing greater precision with adjustable pressure. It’s a tool of choice of professionals, and not very beginner friendly. It also has a rotating handle that helps with handling the tool, which also takes some figuring out. But once you get used to it, this tool is very comfortable and precise. It doubles as a wand so you can achieve both perfect ringlets or casual-looking undone results. Its maximum heat is very high at 430°F and can tame your strands fast. We’re not really pleased with its minimum temperature though. With 280°F, it’s not safe enough for fine hair in terms of heat damage. Its gold material distributes evenly, avoiding hot and cold pockets and makes this tool very fast. This is a tool with great performance, an affordable price and average material quality.
Read more: Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Marcel Iron Wand Review
8. Best for frizzy hair:
Babylisspro Porcelain Ceramic Spring Curling Iron
Model name/number: BP75SUC (¾”) / BP100SUC (1″)
Price: $50
Recommended size: 0.75″, 1″
Barrel shape: traditional spring iron
Heat range: 230°F to 430°F
Best for: shoulder length and shorter hair, all hair types
Pros: large range of heat settings and high-quality material
Cons: bulky and doesn’t have a cool tip
How it stands out: perfect spring iron with ionic for short and frizzy hair that needs to be tamed in a gentle way
Babyliss Porcelain Ceramic Spring Iron satisfies the ones with short hair, and it especially is extraordinary if those strands have a frizz issue. It comes with a 0.75” barrel option that appeals to shorter strands, creating perfectly uniform tight curls with its holding clamp. What makes it a fighter against frizz is its ionic technology, and it really makes a difference in the results. This tool has a very large range of heat settings, and will not disappoint you, no matter how this or thick your strands are. While it has the capacity to tame the unruliest strands with its 430°F maximum temperature, this is an extraordinarily satisfying tool for shorter strands. Its porcelain ceramic barrel heats up slowly, eliminating hot and cold pockets from its barrel, hence avoiding heat damage. While the performance of the tool is high, with very sturdy and durable material, it’s not the most ergonomically designed. Its buttons are a bit too close to the handle and they can be accidentally pressed while using. It also is pretty bulky with 9.9 oz, much higher than the average number in the market, and can cause arm fatigue if you use it for longer periods. But we still think that if you have short and frizzy strands, it’s one of the most satisfying curling irons, with a very affordable price.
Read more: Babylisspro Porcelain Ceramic Spring Curling Iron review
9. Best affordable spring iron:
Revlon SmoothStay Coconut Oil-Infused Curling Iron
Model name/number: RVIR1190 (1″)
Price: $25
Recommended size: 1”
Barrel shape: traditional spring iron
Heat range: 180°F to 430°F
Best for: all hair types and lengths
Pros: versatile, ionic technology
Cons: low material quality
How it stands out: very affordable spring iron that appeals all hair types with wide range of heat settings
Revlon SmoothStay proves itself to be one of the most versatile spring irons in terms of heat settings. It’s one of our favorites for short strands this year, especially if your hair is around lob length. It’s not very common to find such an affordable curling iron with such a wide range of heat settings. Its maximum heat of 430°F is one of the highest in the market. It’s perfect if you have very unruly strands that need very high temperatures to be tamed and smoothened. Its minimum heat setting is also one of the lowest that we’ve ever come across, with 180°F. This is a very gentle temperature and it’s safe from heat damage, even for the most fragile strands. It also comes with a “three layers of baked ceramic” barrel, which makes this tool even gentler. Another feature that is surprising to find on a budget tool is ionic technology, and thanks to it, this tool is great at eliminating frizz from strands. As a traditional spring iron with a holding clamp, it creates very long-lasting and perfect-looking curls with a fine finish. But it can’t provide the relaxed waves that a wand-shaped tool creates. To simplify, this is an affordable tool with great performance and appeals to both fine and thick strands. But if you want your tool to be with the greatest material quality, you may get disappointed. It’s not very sturdy to hold and neither durable.
Read more: Revlon SmoothStay Coconut Oil-Infused Curling Iron review
10. Best affordable tapered wand:
Remington Shine Therapy Tapered Curling Wand
Model name/number: ci95ac10
Price: $30
Size: 0.5” to 1”
Barrel shape: tapered wand
Heat range: 250°F to 410°F
Best for: all hair types and lengths
Pros: elegant design, lightweight, perfect for touch-ups
Cons: its material is not very durable
How it stands out: very narrow barrel that can create the tightest curls which appeals to the shortest strands
Short strands benefit a lot from curling irons with small barrels. Remington Shine Therapy is one of our favorites for fine strands, especially for the ones that are on a budget. An affordable tool with great performance is hard to come across and it’s exactly what this tool offers. It’s a tapered wand so its base and tip are different sized. The curls that it creates at the base is looser as it has a 1” width, and it gets much tighter by the tips with a 0.5” barrel. This size option is the smallest that we’ve ever come across in the market and is perfect for strands which are chin-length or even shorter. The locks that it creates are much tighter than its alternatives with larger barrels. Another important aspect of this tool is that it leaves out the clamp on purpose and provides s-shaped natural-looking curls with an undone finish. In terms of heat, this tool is very versatile as it appeals to both thick and fine strands. The wide range of heat settings starting from 250°F and reaching up till 410°F both provides a fast and effective session, while having the gentleness that thin strands require. Its ceramic barrel also adds to this quality of gentleness and this tool is completely safe from heat damage as long as you use the lowest heat setting. It’s a very affordable tool with only $30 and as expected, doesn’t have high quality material. But it comes with a 3 year warranty which is a great help. Long story short; this is a tool with great performance and a great price and it’s outstanding for the ones with short strands and prefer a casual look which benefit from small barrels.
Read more: Remington Shine Therapy Tapered Curling Wand review
11. Best affordable straight wand:
Conair Double Ceramic Straight Barrel Curling Wand
Model name/number: cd705gn
Price: $25
Size: 1”
Barrel shape: straight barrel wand
Heat range: 270°F to 400°F
Best for: all hair types and lengths
Pros: affordable and versatile
Cons: material quality not high
How it stands out: affordable wand-shaped tool for short hair with its short and straight barrel
While there are many curling irons that appeal to short strands, Conair Double Ceramic offers something rare with its straight barrel wand shape. If you want casual-looking results with s-shaped curls, yet you want your locks to be uniform, a straight barrel wand probably is what you’re looking for. This tool comes with a pretty short barrel, making it more appealing to shorter strands. Its width is 1” and is the most versatile number in the market, fitting all hair lengths and styling needs. Short hair needs tighter curls and this tool can provide the right size. It comes with 30 heat settings varying from 270°F to 400°F. Its highest setting is perfect if you want to tame your unruly strands but its lowest temperature option may not be as gentle as very fragile strands need. Its double ceramic material though, makes it much safer against heat damage and your precious strands are probably safe with this tool. It does slow it down and if speed is your priority, you may be in the wrong post.
It’s a highly affordable tool and it sacrifices on material durability. This is not the right tool if you want the best quality and you don’t mind paying for it. It’s a tool perfect for budget home stylists who are searching for natural-looking results, especially the ones with short hair.
Read more: Conair Double Ceramic Straight Barrel Curling Wand review
12. InfinitiPRO by Conair Tourmaline Ceramic Tapered Curling Wand
Model name/number: CD117NN (1″ to ½”)
Price: $29
Recommended size: 1” to 0.5”
Barrel shape: tapered wand
Heat range: 285°F to 400°F
Best for: short to medium hair, all hair types
Pros: non-slip barrel holds the strands in place for a finer finish
Cons: single voltage, material not very high quality
How it stands out: smallest wand shaped curling iron in the market that creates tight yet casual looking waves even the shortest strands
It’s rare to come across a wand-shaped tool which is extra slim for short strands. This tool is one of our favorites this year for short hair, creating the natural-looking results that tapered wands offer, but with a narrower barrel which creates tighter curls. It comes without a holding clamp on purpose, to provide a more casual-looking hairstyle. Its non-slip barrel grabs the strands and lets them get exposed to higher levels of heat, providing a finer finish. The curls that it creates are s-shaped since different parts of the hair are exposed to the barrel’s heat from different angles. This allows maybe not so perfect looking results, which is more desirable to some. The tapered barrel is larger (1”) at the base and slimmer at the tip (0.5”). This allows more volume by the roots and very tight locks at the tips of the strands. It doesn’t have a very impressive heat range, yet it is satisfying enough for unruly strands with 400 maximum temperature. But we recommend being careful in case you have fragile strands, as the minimum heat setting (285°F) is not as low as we would like it to be. But the tourmaline ceramic material makes it much gentler and safer with slow heat. Tourmaline adds a rare quality of eliminating the frizz by emitting negative ions. So, in case you have frizzy hair that you would like to smoothen, this is a great addition to seek for. This is a budget tool that sacrifices on material durability and is not the right one if you’re looking for a luxury product.
Read more: InfinitiPRO by Conair Tourmaline Ceramic Tapered Curling Wand review
13. Revlon Perfect Heat Curling Iron
Model name/number: RV053 (½”), RV052 (¾”), RV051 (1″)
Price: $25
Recommended sizes: 0.5”, 0.75”, 1”
Barrel shape: traditional spring iron
Heat range: 285°F to 400°F
Best for: short hair
Pros: very lightweight and affordable
Cons: bad material quality
How it stands out: affordable curling iron with great performance, appealing to short strands and creates very tight curls
Revlon Perfect Heat Curling Iron, with its 0.5” option, is one of our favorites for short strands this year. We’re pleased to see such an affordable curling iron with such high performance. It can tame the unruliest strands without a problem with its maximum temperature. And while its minimum heat is too high for thin hair types, its barrel with very high ceramic content makes it gentle enough to be heat-safe. It has a very short barrel of 4.6”, which is perfect for short hair as it is easier to handle. The 0.5” barrel width appeals to bob cuts or shorter styles and creates the tight curls that they need, while still providing some volume. It’s a traditional spring iron and has a holding clamp. The style that it creates is perfect looking. With this size, your locks will be spiral-shaped and it will provide you retro-looking curls.
This tool does compromise on material quality though. It definitely is not the most durable option in the market and it only offers the simple features that you would expect from the simple tool that it is. It’s not very ergonomically designed either, its off button is too easy to press while using. But it’s very lightweight and compact, which we really appreciate in hair tools.
Read more: Revlon Perfect Heat Curling Iron review
Curling Iron for Short Hair Buying Guide
Each hair type has its specifics, which is why you should always choose a curling iron based on what your hair needs. Take a look at a detailed buying guide that will tell you everything about finding a suitable curling iron for short hair.
How to Choose the Best Curling Iron for Short Hair
Would you like to know more about the factors you should consider when selecting a curling iron? Here are some questions that you should ask in the process as they might help to find a unit that will exceed your expectations.
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Can I Use Large Barrel Size?
The barrel size of curling irons can significantly vary, and go anywhere from 0.5 inches to two inches or bigger. Picking a suitable barrel size is essential, and you should always consider your hair type when selecting it.
If you are choosing a curling iron for thick hair, you can go with a large barrel. However, the experts do not recommend using it for short hair. It might make operating the iron tricky, and it may also deliver questionable results. So, in theory, you can use a large barrel, but you are better off if you go with a narrow barrel.
But how narrow should the barrel be? You can divide short hair into several types, and these are the recommendations:- Relatively short hair (length up to the shoulders)– a barrel that has a one-inch diameter might be the best choice, but you can also go with a 1.25-inch unit.
- Very short hair– if it is possible, choose a barrel that has less than a single inch in diameter. Since not a lot of appliances support that size, you can also go with a one-inch barrel.
When it comes to the barrel shape, you might want to consider a tapered barrel. It is the one that is wide at the bottom (near the handle) and gets narrow at the tip. It will depend on your hairstyle, or the shape you are used to, but a tapered barrel might be convenient, especially for newbies.
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What Is the Right Material for a Short Hair Curling Iron?
You have several choices when it comes to materials that can be a part of your curling iron. Smart options include:
- Ceramic
- Tourmaline
- Titanium
- Gold
The most frequently used material is ceramic. It is because it is affordable, and can secure a budget-friendly price for the iron while optimizing its performance. Ceramic and other materials all have the task of conducting heat, and evenly distributing it to minimize frizz and hair damage.
You will frequently encounter curling irons with tourmaline, too. In some cases, the manufacturers will mix ceramic and tourmaline for an added protective effect and optimal ion emission.
Titanium is a premium material, and its main benefit is that it is exceptionally durable. It can prevent overheating, and it does an exceptional job in keeping the outside of the product cool, which guarantees that you won’t burn your hand while operating the iron.
The same applies to gold, but the manufacturers do not use it as the material of choice often. The reason is obvious – it increases the price of the product, although the performance usually justifies that cost. -
Are There Materials That I Should Avoid?
Yes, you should avoid any harsh metals. If you encounter a unit made of steel without any coating, steer clear of it. The risk of damaging your hair with those appliances is high, and their performance is not good enough for the curls that should look silky and voluminous.
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How Much Power Is Enough to Curl Short Hair?
The manufacturers describe power in watts, which marks the strength of the motor used in curling irons. While motor power is an important component, you need to consider it in combination with heat conduction and distribution. In other words, a strong motor is a nice feature, but how a curling iron utilizes it matters equally.
The wattage of curling irons can vary, but it will most frequently be between 1600-2200W. You can find units that use double as little power but manage to dry and stylize your hair efficiently. Extreme heat can damage your hair, which means that you shouldn’t go for the strongest curling iron out there. Instead, choose the one that provides decent power and optimal heat distribution. -
Do I Need to Adjust the Heat and Speed?
The majority of curling irons these days come with adjustable controls, and that is a welcome feature. Some units will feature an automatic setting that detects the needs of your hair and adjusts to that, but it might be better if you had everything under your control.
The majority of curling irons will offer several choices of speed and heat. Both can vary between high and low, and you will often have a cool shot feature as an additional option.
If you check out our buyer’s guide of curling irons for fine hair you will find that sensitive hair requires to keep the heat setting as low. The same applies to short hair, but you may need some trial and error to find the optimal adjustment for your hair type.
The catch lies in the fact that low temperatures minimize the risk of damage and the actual damage that a curling iron does to your hair. You should always aim to use the lowest temperature possible. If you only bought the appliance, start with low settings, and work your way up until you find optimal adjustments. -
What Budget Do I Need for a Short Hair Curling Iron?
It depends on what you expect from a curling iron. If you are not too demanding when it comes to styling your hair, the basic units are cost-saving options that can deliver the expected results.
However, if you are looking for an appliance that would spoil your hair, and get your style right to the smallest detail, you may want to check out premium curling irons. Although the price of these products can vary, the good news is that you won’t need hundreds of dollars even if you go for an expensive unit. That makes even premium curling irons smart long-term investments.
How to Curl Short Hair Correctly
You may have the best curling iron out there, but it won’t do you much good if you don’t learn the right technique. While it is not difficult to learn how to curl short hair, you will need a bit of time and effort to master the skill. Fortunately, we prepared a guide that will make the journey easier and turn you into an expert quickly!
Step by Step Instructions to Curling Short Hair
Before you start the actual curling, you will need to do some preparation. After washing your hair, you should dry it until it is completely or almost completely dry. Additionally, if you are using a spray to protect your hair from the heat, now is the time to prepare it.
Finally, get your curling iron up and ready and follow the steps below.
- This is an optional step that depends on your hair length. If you have a shoulder-length or relatively short hair, use a hair tie or a clip to get the upper layer of your hair up, and keep it that way.
- You want to start clipping the bottom layer first (or the only layer if your hair is very short). First, get some of your hair around the heated part of the appliance. Make sure that the product moves away from your face. The idea is to go section by section, but make sure to begin with the roots.
- Feel free to experiment with the heat, but avoid turning the temperature up unless you see it is necessary. Some curling irons can deliver 400°F of heat or more, but you do not need that temperature. Instead, aim for approximately 350°F – 370°F, although it depends on the appliance.
- Do not hold a section of your hair in the iron for more than ten seconds. Shorten that time as much as possible. It is better to repeat the process multiple times than hold a hair section in the iron for too long.
You should curl your hair one section at a time. See how much of your hair can fit in the iron, and determine the section size based on that.
Curling Iron Tips for Short Hair
We shared the basics of using a curling iron for short hair, but it will take some practice to become a master of using these appliances.
It is always vital to pick an iron depending on your needs. For example, if you want wavy hair as you’ve just returned from the beach, go with the best curling iron for beach waves. It all depends on the type of curls and hairstyle that you want to pursue.
With that in mind, here are some curling iron tips for short hair.
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Use a Spray to Protect Your Hair
You can find a wide range of sprays that aim to protect your hair from the overheating effect. These sprays can be particularly important if you never used a curling iron before, or it is your first time with a particular appliance.
That increases your chance of misestimating the required heat, and the spray is there to protect your hair in that case. Some manufacturers will even include these products with curling irons they sell. However, feel free to choose a formula that suits your hair type. -
Allow Your Hair a Couple of Minutes to Cool Down
Once you finish curling your hair, allow the curls a couple of minutes to cool down. Once they are cool enough, you can use the “Cool Shot” feature to help you get the style you want. You might also consider adding a bit of hairspray at this point.
Positioning the Curling Iron Determines the Type of Curls
You may not have plenty of room to experiment with extremely short hair, but if it is a shoulder-length, these guidelines should help:
- Hold the curling iron horizontally if you want to tight but bouncy curls.
- The diagonal position will secure medium curls.
- Hold the appliance vertically if you are aiming for loose curls.
Common Mistakes While Curling Short Hair
Would you like to know what are some common mistakes you might make while curling short hair? Check out the list below, and see if you can improve the next time you use a curling iron:
- Rushing things – you may be in a rush to leave the house, but if you rush the styling process, it will increase the risk of making a mistake. Not only you won’t have the curls you’ve dreamed of, but you may also damage your hair.
- You don’t begin curling from the roots – if you have hair that is between a short and medium-length (up to your shoulders), you should apply the same technique like when curling long hair. You can’t start with the ends and hope for optimal curls. Instead, begin with the roots, and you will see improvement in results.
- Using too much heat – we said it once, and we will say it again. Extreme heat is an enemy to your hair! Not only it can damage it, but also affect its long-term health. Coarse and thick hair might require high heat, but in that case, go with a premium curling iron. Additionally, try not to increase the temperature over the necessary level for your hair type.
Tips on How to Uphold Long-Lasting Curls for Short Hair
Are you annoyed that your curls won’t hold up for a long time? Here are a couple of tips for long-lasting curls that you can use when styling your hair:
- Keep your curls for a couple of seconds after releasing them from the curling iron. Once you let them go from the appliance, don’t let them fall immediately. Use your free hand to keep them for three to four seconds to promote their longevity.
- Dry your hair completely. Yes, curling irons are suitable for damp hair (but not entirely wet!). However, if you want to improve the effectiveness of the device, you should dry your hair completely.
- Use hair care products – aside from using a spray to protect your hair, there are other nurturing formulas that can also keep your hair in place for a long time. Make sure to carefully read the label and choose a formula that promotes both curls and overall hair health.
FAQs & Answers
- Q: How should I clean a curling iron?
A: You should remove any loose hair from the iron as soon as you notice it. Additionally, store it in a way that will minimize dust sticking to the components. As for cleaning, you can use a mixture of baking soda and alcohol (2:1 ratio) to scrub a ceramic curling iron. Apply the mixture with a toothbrush, and let it rest for several minutes before wiping the surface with a clean towel. - Q: Is Brand Important When Choosing a Curling Iron?
A: Although it is not crucial, a brand name can mean a lot for any product. For starters, a reputable company means strict quality control, which implies you will get a tested product that doesn’t have performance issues. Additionally, premium brands stand by their warranties, which can also be important if you experience any problems with the appliance. - Q: Can you use a long hair curling iron for short hair?
A: These work the same way, but there are differences in their design. Long hair curling irons have large barrels, and that size makes them difficult to use for short hair. It is not impossible, but you will need a lot of skill and effort to get the results you want without damaging your hair.
Wrap Up
As with anything else in life, the key in choosing the best curling iron for short hair lies in making smart choices. You want to consider the exact length of your hair as that can determine the optimal length of the barrel. Don’t underestimate the material used, as well as the temperature capabilities.
Adjustable heat can be an essential feature, but it is also vital that you use the curling iron correctly. Feel free to apply the tips in our guide, and you will quickly become a professional in styling your hair.
Our reviews contain overviews of different curling irons we selected for various types of users. Make sure to consult our buying guide and choose the desired unit accordingly. Remember, a hair care product can only be the best if it suits you perfectly. As long as you follow that guideline, you will be moments away from an amazing hairstyle!
Amazing post!!!
Enjoy Tanya, for any questions, please let us know!