The 12 Best Curling Irons for Impossibly Voluminous Curls

With top picks from TYMO, Conair, and ghd

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Assortment of the best curling irons we recommend for fine hair on a white background

Byrdie / Kevin Liang

While they might not look a whole lot different to the untrained eye, today's curling irons are a lot more effective than their decades-old counterparts. Still, fine hair is notoriously hard to style with heat tools, even with today's advancements. However, curling irons with adjustable temperature settings can help you get the look you want while avoiding frying fragile, thin hair.

"Temperature is key," celebrity hair artist Sally Hershberger tells Byrdie. "Fine hair is more susceptible to heat damage, so finding one that allows you to keep a steady temperature is major—310 degrees Fahrenheit (F) is ideal for fine hair."

To find the best curling irons out there, we conducted extensive research on popular and highly-rated options and considered tools we’d used ourselves. Each one was evaluated based on attributes like heat settings, materials, design, and ease of use. We then compiled our findings and tapped the expertise of professional stylists to bring you our comprehensive list of the best curling irons for fine hair.

Best Overall

TYMO Cues Curling Iron

TYMO Cues 3-in-1 Interchangeable Curling Iron

TYMO

What We Like
  • Comes with 3 interchangeable barrels

  • Features 5 heat settings

  • Clamps are smooth and don't tug hair

  • Automatic shut-off

What We Don't Like
  • Clamp could hold hair more securely

Not every hair tool works for every hair type but this one by TYMO does, thanks to its five temperature settings. When we tested this one on several hair types, it particularly shined on those with thin hair. The curls looked smooth, and defined, and lasted—they looked good for almost two full days. So we awarded it best for fine hair in our extensive curling iron test.

The affordable tool comes with three interchangeable barrels of different sizes, offering versatility and customization, while also boasting an automatic shut-off and a wide range of temperatures (and the temp you set stays consistent due to an intelligent temperature control system). The ceramic barrels also help protect hair and boost shine. All that to say, if you have fine hair and are looking for a curling iron that gives you plenty of options (at a fair price point), we wholeheartedly recommend this one.

Temperature Range: 280 to 430 degrees | Size: .5, 1, 1.5

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Hot Tools Curling Iron

Hot Tools 1" 24K Gold Marcel Curling Iron

Amazon

What We Like
  • Heat sensor technology

  • Marcel-style clamp

  • 24-carat gold coating

What We Don't Like
  • Not ideal for beginners

As its name suggests, this 1-inch wonder is coated with 24-carat gold for fast, even heating. "I like the Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Marcel Iron," says Hershberger. "It's lightweight, creates a great curl, and can hold a steady temperature at 310 F that won't damage the hair.

When the curling iron senses heat loss it restores it to the barrel. And, unlike traditional spring irons, the marcel-style clamp offers more control when styling. (If you've never used a Marcel iron, it'll take a little practice, but before long, you'll be a pro.) To top it all off, Hot Tools backs this iron with a seven-year warranty.

Temperature Range: Up to 430 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Best Budget

Conair Double Ceramic Curling Wand

Conair Double Ceramic 1" Curling Wand

Amazon

What We Like
  • Most affordable on our list

  • Auto-shutoff feature

  • Moderate heat range

  • 30 heat settings

What We Don't Like
  • Relatively short barrel

With a moderate heat range (but tons of heat settings) that doesn't go above 375 F, Conair's budget-friendly Double Ceramic Curling Iron was designed with fine hair in mind. However, Hershberger says you're wise to keep it around 310 F to avoid damage. The non-tapered ceramic barrel evenly distributes heat while helping to smooth frizzy hair. The barrel is on the shorter side, so it’s not ideal for people with super long hair, but we love it for those with short or mid-length strands who don't want to invest in an expensive tool.

Temperature Range: Up to 375 degrees | Size: 1 inch

What Our Editors Say

"This ultra-affordable option has been my go-to curling iron for the past eight years. It heats up quickly and simply works in a way other, more expensive models haven't for me. The double-ceramic barrel protects against damage, and it means you can also use the tool like a curling wand if you don't want to clip in for tight curls." Kathryn Vandervalk, VP of Commerce, Dotdash Meredith

Best Drugstore

Remington Pro Pearl Ceramic Curling Wand

Remington-pro--1-inch-pearl-ceramic-conical-curling-wand

Amazon

What We Like
  • Temperature lock functionality

  • Digital temperature control

  • Comes with a protective glove

  • Fast heat-up time

What We Don't Like
  • Limited curling options

We’ve found this affordable drugstore pick holds its own against much fancier devices. Featuring a tapered ceramic barrel, ten digitally controlled heat settings, and an auto-shutoff feature, the quick-heating Remington Pro Curling Wand checks all the boxes. We also like that it comes with a protective glove and heats up in just 30 seconds. The only way it could be better is if there were interchangeable barrels for more curl options. 

Temperature Range: Up to 410 degrees | Size: 0.5 to 1 inch

Best Wand

NuMe Magic Curling Wand

NuMe Magic Curling Wand

Amazon

What We Like
  • Creates ultimate hold

  • Auto-shutoff feature

  • Far-infrared heat technology protects outer cuticle

What We Don't Like
  • Some online reviewers note it doesn't last more than a few years

NuMe's Magic Curling Wand features a clampless, non-tapered titanium barrel which helps give curled looks staying power. The negative ion conditioning technology is designed to tame frizz and flyaways for the smoothest finish, and digital temperature settings start as low as 140 F to protect fine strands. You can choose between bouncy ringlets or soft waves without worrying about friction or breakage. If you struggle to use curling irons with a clamp, this is the one for you. Our only criticism is that some reviewers say it breaks after just a couple of years. 

Temperature Range: 140 to 450 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Best for Short Hair

ghd 1-Inch Curling Iron

ghd Classic Curl 1-Inch Curling Iron

Amazon

What We Like
  • Heats evenly

  • Automated temperature control provides safe heating

  • Heats up quickly

What We Don't Like
  • No heat settings

For those rocking a shorter style, we recommend the 1-inch Curve. "GHD adapts its heat temperature depending on the section of the hair and heats to 365 F (its only heat setting), so it's really great for fine hair or damaged hair," explains Kim. Plus, the cool tip helps prevent burns when you're holding it near your face and scalp. It also features an ergonomic design and creates shiny results. We do wish it had more than one heat setting though.

Temperature Range: Up to 365 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Best for Long Hair

CHI Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin N Curl

CHI Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin N Curl

Sally Beauty

What We Like
  • Automated curling

  • Plates made of volcanic lava and ceramic

  • Customizable heating

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn't go below 370 degrees

If you have long hair, Kim says to consider styling time. You'll want to select tools that help you get the job done efficiently. With this in mind, we recommend the Pro Spin N Curl from CHI's Volcanic Lava line. This unique iron sucks up small hair sections into its heated curl chamber, then releases a bouncy 1-inch curl. It’s also made of a unique combination of volcanic lava and ceramic to create the smoothest looks. 

We like that it has a selection of preset temperature settings for each hair texture, although it doesn’t go below 370 degrees which isn’t optimal for protecting fine hair. 

Temperature Range: 370 to 410 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Best Barrel

Bio Ionic Long Barrel Curling Iron

Bio Ionic Long Barrel Curling Iron

Amazon

What We Like
  • Extra-long barrel provides ample styling room

  • Keeps hair conditioned

  • Easy to hold

What We Don't Like
  • Hair may slide out of the clamp

Unlike many curling tools on the market, this beauty from Bio Ionic doesn't skimp on barrel length. The Long Barrel Iron is 1 inch wide and roughly 2 inches longer than average, allowing you to create glamorous spirals or modern waves, even in hard-to-reach sections, like the back of your head. It's a fantastic choice for those with long hair, but it also would totally work for people with short or medium hair. Some reviewers complain that their hair slips out of the clamp, which isn’t ideal for fine hair though.

Temperature Range: 250 to 430 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Best Features

Drybar The 3-Day Bender Curling Iron

Drybar The 3-Day Bender Digital Curling Iron

Amazon

What We Like
  • Rotating clamp

  • Auto-shutoff feature

  • Long power cord gives range and flexibility

What We Don't Like
  • Hair can get tangled in the rotating clamp

Drybar's 3-Day Bender pulls out all the stops for at-home styling. This all-star rotating curling iron has a 1.25-inch barrel with a rotating clamp, transforming slick, flat hair into bouncy curls in no time. The iron has ionic and infrared technology, which are designed to smooth hair and heat it from the inside out, which prevents breakage. 

It also has digital heat settings for ideal temp control, an automatic shutoff feature, and a 9-foot power cord. The rotating clamp makes curling super easy but on the flip side, hair can get caught and tangled if you’re not careful. 

Temperature Range: Up to 440 degrees | Size: 1.25 inches

Best for Loose Waves

Beachwaver Co. Beachwaver Pro 1

Beachwaver-co-beachwaver-pro-dual-voltage

Beachwaver

What We Like
  • Rotating barrel provides convenient movement

  • Heats up in 20 seconds

  • Crimp-free clamp

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn't create the most long-lasting curls

If it's loose waves that you're after, your best bet is the Beachwaver Pro. It's got a 1-inch gold-infused tourmaline barrel with a dual-rotation feature that makes easy-breezy waves, well, a breeze. It heats up in just 30 seconds but has low enough wattage to be travel-friendly. We also like that it has a 9-foot power cord and a specially designed clamp that won't create that dreaded crimp. Some reviewers claim the Beachwaver doesn’t create long-lasting waves, so try using mousse and hairspray to hold your curls

Temperature Range: Up to 450 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Best for Tight Curls

Chi Lava Ceramic 3/8''-3/4'' Tapered Hairstyling Wand

Chi Lava Ceramic 3/8''-3/4'' Tapered Hairstyling Wand

Amazon

What We Like
  • Extended barrel length

  • Multiple heat settings

  • 1-hour auto shut-off

What We Don't Like
  • Long barrel is a bit awkward to use

If you have fine hair and you like creating tight curls, this wand was practically made for you. It features multiple heat settings to ensure you have an option that's right for you (and safe for your hair). The thin, tapered barrel is extra long which helps those with long hair get to the end the first time. 

At first glance, you might not think that this tool looks super versatile, but you can use small sections of hair to create ultra-tight curls, or larger sections of hair to create a looser, more relaxed look. A bonus is that it has an auto shut-off feature so you don't need to panic if you forget to unplug it before leaving home. Be warned: The long, thin barrel is tricky to use at first but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it. 

Temperature Range: 300 to 410 degrees | Size: 3/8-3/4 inches

Best for Bangs

Kim Kimble Celebrity Series 1" Ceramic Tourmaline Digital Spring Hair Curling Iron

Kim Kimble Celebrity Series 1" Ceramic Tourmaline Digital Spring Hair Curling Iron

Amazon

What We Like
  • Non-stick barrel and clip

  • Auto shut-off

  • Comes with protective glove

What We Don't Like
  • Some reviewers note the self-wrap function makes the iron hard to handle

This Kim Kimble tourmaline-ceramic curling iron works especially well on thin hair and bangs by heating up quickly for less damage and frizz. The design delivers consistent heat across the entire length of the ceramic barrel but still has a clamp so you can either create wraparound curls or with the clamp for added support. We love the tangle-free swivel cord and tourmaline coating for a shinier, damage-free finish.

Temperature Range: 325 to 450 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Where We Stand

Overall, our favorite curling iron for fine hair is the TYMO Cues Curling Iron. The tool comes with three interchangeable barrels—in .5, 1, and 1.5 inches—as well as three heat settings and an automatic shut-off feature. We also loved our budget pick, Conair Double Ceramic 1-inch Curling Iron – a failsafe favorite that has adjustable temperature settings. 

How We Researched

To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best curling irons for fine hair on the market, evaluating their key features in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We also consulted two expert hair stylists for their opinions and referred to our own experience using several of the products under consideration. We then used this research to choose the best picks to inform this article. 

Attributes we evaluated each curling iron on:

  • Heat settings
  • Materials
  • Ease of use
  • Results

What to Look for When Buying a Curling Iron for Fine Hair

  • Ceramic Barrel: When it comes to curling finer hair, hairstylist Shelly Aguirre stresses the importance of choosing a tool with a fully ceramic (read: not just coated) barrel. Curling irons with ceramic barrels, like the Remington Pro ½-1-Inch Pearl Ceramic Conical Curling Wand, heat evenly, which is key to protecting fine, fragile hair. “You need to have an even heat distribution from the top to bottom of the barrel,” she says. “If the barrel isn’t evenly heated, you’ll tend to go over the section more times than necessary because you’re not getting the results quick enough”—thus, leading to heat damage.
  • Ionic Technology: To keep fine, limp hair looking healthy and vibrant, Aguirre also recommends looking for an ionic curling iron. “Negative ions will help make the hair shiny and less frizzy due to the simple fact that negative ions close down the cuticle,” she says. “Your cuticle lays like shingles on a roof, so ‘laying them down’ will increase the shine and offer a healthy overall look.” Our favorite ionic curling iron that works this way is the Bio Ionic Long Barrel Curling Iron 1.25' NanoIonic MX.
  • Temperature Control: Aguirre says that it’s imperative to look for a tool with temperature control so that you can adjust it to fit your styling needs while maintaining a non-damaging temperature range. “You should keep the heat down to around 325 to 350 degrees so you’re not damaging the hair,” she recommends. “Also, using a heat protectant is necessary and not negotiable.” The NuMe Magic Curling Wand has digital temperature settings starting as low as 140 F, making it a great option for reducing the risk of damage. 
FAQ
  • What kind of curling iron is best for fine hair?

    As Aguirre mentions above, fine hair is more prone to damage than other hair types, so it’s important to look for curling that will keep the hair healthy (but, of course, still work). She recommends a curling iron with a fully ceramic barrel to allow for even heat distribution, ionic technology to keep the hair shiny and frizz-free, and temperature control to allow you to style in a non-damaging temperature range.

    She also notes that a quality iron that won’t singe your hair may be pricier, but it’s well worth the investment. This is especially true if you use hot tools on your hair consistently. “Spending a little more when investing in a hot tool will help in the long run—ask your stylist for the recommendations when it comes to these tools,” she says.

  • What temperature should a curling iron be for fine hair?

    According to Aguirre, those with fine hair should keep their curling irons in the 325 to 350 F temperature range to effectively curl the hair sans heat damage. It's always wise to start at the lowest possible temperature and work your way up until you find a sweet spot that works to create curls without frying your strands.

  • What size barrel is the best for fine hair?

    When it comes to choosing the right barrel size, Aguirre says it depends on how curly you’d like your hair to be. “The smaller the barrel, the curlier the look,” she says. “This is also dependent on the length of your hair and what look you’re trying to achieve. When in doubt, talk to your stylist and get some advice.” If you like loose, beachy waves, we recommend the Beachwaver Co. Beachwaver Pro 1. If you prefer a tighter curl, go for the Chi Lava Ceramic 3/8''-3/4'' Tapered Hairstyling Wand.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Theresa Holland is a seasoned beauty writer specializing in skincare, makeup, and hair.

Byrdie contributor Esme Benjamin checked and updated this article in December 2023 to ensure every detail was correct and each product deserves its place on Byrdie’s list.

Additional guidance was provided by Shelly Aguirre, a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, and Sally Hershberger, an internationally known celebrity hairstylist with salons in New York and Los Angeles.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any curling irons for fine hair from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

Updated by Jill DiDonato
Edited by Ally Hirschlag

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