Curling wand VS Curling iron – Which one you should buy?

If you have straight hair and are looking for a new style that complements your look, then curling your hair is a great option.

You can curl your hair at home with the help of a few tools and a hair curler. Nowadays, hair curlers consist of a curling wand and a curling iron, but you have to choose one.

We understand that it is a difficult decision, and that is why we are here to help you make the right choice.

In this article, we compare a hair wand and a hair curler to help you choose the best one. Go through the article and know the core differences between these two hair curling products.

Also, we have explained “how to use” the process for making things real smoother for you.

Curling wand VS Curling iron

We have compared both products based on their features, functionalities, and physical appearance.

Features you will get in a curling wand

Rapid heating:

The curling wand heats up quickly, which can cause some trouble. Whenever you use a curling wand, always wear protective gloves. If you are not habitual to using a wand, then you need to be extra cautious while using it.

Clipless design:

Unlike curling irons, wands have no clips. It means that you cannot tuck it into your hair while curling.

Single heating option:

In the case of a curling wand, you will have only one heat setting, which is controlled using the on/off switch located on the handle. You can lower the temperature of the wand by turning the machine off.

No option to change barrels:

A curling wand typically comes with a barrel attached, and the barrel cannot be changed, as no option is provided for doing so.

Features you will get in a curling iron

Heating capacity:

You can get your curling iron heated completely in a couple of minutes. Generally, curling irons feature fast heating technology that heats them quickly, delivering curls that look amazing and beautiful. You can use a flat iron as an alternative.

Size of barrel:

There are different barrel sizes available in the market. It is up to you and your preference. If you want heavier, smaller curls, opt for a lighter curling iron. On the other hand, for ladies who wish to achieve heavier curls, they should consider purchasing a thick cylinder curling iron.

Interchangeable barrels:

Changing the barrel is a great option that you will find only in curling irons. You can change the barrel according to your needs. The process of removing and fitting the new barrel is straightforward, allowing you to interchange the barrels on the go.

Multiple heat adjustments:

Curling irons have the functionality to set multiple temperatures according to your needs. Some curling irons have only one temperature setting option, whereas others have 10 or more temperature settings.

Heating plate:

In a curling iron, you will generally see these types of heating plate material, i.e. tourmaline, ceramic, and a combination of tourmaline and ceramic. Curlers made with a ceramic heating plate have the feature to protect the hair, whereas curling machines with heating plates made of steel or iron are prone to causing hair damage.

Read Also: Tips for How to Straighten Hair with a Flat Iron

Core differences between curling wand and a curling iron

We have compared curling wands and curling irons based on their structural appearance and ease of use.

Faster heating:

When it comes to faster heating, the curling wand wins by a huge margin. We are not saying that a curling iron takes up a lot of time to get heat. However, a curling wand is very fast and can deliver results in a short timeframe.

Smoothness:

When it comes to smoothness, a curling iron should be your priority. The curls made with an iron have the lustre and crispness required in curls. In the case of a curling wand, the smoothness is less compared to a curling iron.

Hair clip:

As mentioned above, a curling iron typically comes with a clip, whereas a curling wand features a clip-less design. The clip is designed to hold your hair in place, allowing you to achieve the perfect curl. But the mark of the clip is visible in your hair.
With a curling wan,d you don’t get the visible marks of clip which is a better option for those with fine hair.

The process of using a curling iron

Using a curling iron can be hard or easy, based on the type of product you have purchased. If you have purchased a simple curling iron with a clamp, you can use it easily by following the process described below.

• Plug in the switch and let the iron heat up for a few minutes.
• When you think the iron is getting too hot, open the clamp by pressing the clamp button.
• Now wrap your hair strands in a way that it gets the shape of the curl you are looking for.
• Close the clamp and let your hair remain wrapped for about 8-10 seconds, or for the duration of the heat from the iron.
• Now open the clamp and pull out the iron smoothly.

Repeat the process until you get the desired curls. You can follow up the entire procedure with the rest of your hair strands and can curl them with the help of a curling iron.

Read Also: How to Brush Out Curls Without Ruining Them

The process of using a curling wand

The procedure of using a curling wand is somehow similar to using a curling iron.

• Heat the curling wand for a short time (keep in mind that it heats up very quickly).
• Hold the wand in one hand and wrap your hair strands.
• You need to hold the tips of your hair strands because there is no clip in a curling wand.
• Use a glove to prevent finger burns.
• Remove the curling wand gently within 5-6 seconds.
• Repeat the process until you achieve the desired curl.

Pros and cons of a curling iron

There are both pros and cons associated with each product. Have a glimpse at the advantages and disadvantages to make a better decision.

It gets heated slowly

The curling iron heats slowly, and the heating time can be approximately 3-5 minutes, depending on your iron and the manufacturer’s specifications. You have to wait until it is completely ready to use; otherwise, you will not get the perfect curls with great hold.

Costly

When it comes to price, curling irons are on the negative side. Some curling irons are extremely expensive, making them an unaffordable option for many.

Safety

Curling irons are safe due to the clamp mounted on the machine. Also, curling irons get some safety features like auto-cut and temperature control, which is a great option to save the hair from any damage.

Ease of use

A curling iron is easy to use. After reading the instruction manual, even a beginner can use it nicely. There is no specific protocol as you can curl your hair while using the curling clip.

Better curls

In case of curling iron, you will get better curls that last longer and have smoothness in them.

Pros and cons or a curling wand

Faster heating

The best part about a curling wand is its heating capacity. It heats up in a couple of minutes and is ready for use in the curling process.

Chances of finger burns

There is no sort of protection on a curling wand and if you are not a professional, then there are chances that you can hurt your fingers.

Simple curls

With a curling wand, you will get basic curls that have a mild hold and are not as crisp as you will get with a curling iron.

Easy on pocket

Curling wands are generally less expensive than curling irons. For those seeking a budget-friendly curling machine, a wand is an excellent option.

So which is a great buy- a curling wand or a curling iron?

Based on the difference mentioned above, you can conclude whether you need a curling iron or a curling wand. Let us help you again.

If you are looking for something that can deliver a professional look with tighter, bouncy curls, then a curling iron is a great option. A curling iron is also good for beginners who don’t know how to curl their hair.

On the other hand, if you have less time and want to curl your hair on the go, then you should go with a curling wand. A curling wand can deliver faster results with nice curls.

Lastly, it is completely up to you and your choice. You can buy any of this curling equipment and enjoy a happy life with your happy curls. Make sure to use all the heat-protecting elements before you start curling your hair.

Conclusion

Both curling wands and curling irons have their own strengths, and the right choice depends on your styling needs. If you want professional-looking, defined curls that last longer, a curling iron is your best option. It provides you with more control through adjustable heat settings, interchangeable barrels, and a secure clip for precision.

On the other hand, if you prefer something quick, simple, and budget-friendly, a curling wand is a great alternative. It heats up faster, is easy to use on the go, and creates effortless, natural-looking curls. Whichever tool you choose, always remember to protect your hair with a heat protectant spray or serum to keep it healthy, shiny, and damage-free. With the right tool and a little practice, you can achieve the perfect curls that match your style.