Hair curlers: what is it, which one is better to choose and how to use it?

At all times, well-groomed hair has been and remains the main measure of female beauty. It's no secret that curly curls can literally transform a woman before our eyes, make her bright, stylish and sophisticated. In order to look spectacular every day, a curling iron comes to the aid of women. In our article, we will tell you in detail about what this tool is, how to choose the right model and how to curl curls with tongs.

A curling iron is a household appliance used to add volume to hair and transform it into curls of various shapes. The simplest model is a metal tube with a heating element and a clip inside it, which is necessary to fix the hair while winding it around the tool. Under the influence of temperature, the hair becomes wavy, forming steep curls and lush curls.

The advantages of the curling iron are obvious:

• the ability to quickly create curls of various sizes and shapes at home;
• ease of use;
• some models act on the hair gently, do not injure or dry it out.

However, there were also some drawbacks:

• the curling iron is not recommended to be used often, curling of weakened and damaged hair is also not allowed;
• low-quality devices have a negative effect on the hair structure;
• the most reliable models are quite expensive.

Some women call the curling iron a styler. However, these are completely different tools, between which there are very significant differences:

• the curling iron includes only one working element, while the styler contains several types of replaceable attachments for a wide variety of effects on the strands;
• the curling iron can only be used for curling and straightening hair, the styler additionally allows you to style curls with a steam hairdryer and has the option of cold blowing;
• the styler comes with brushes, hairpins and other accessories, which are absent from the pads.

By its design, the curling iron resembles a clamp, consisting of two elements fixed on one side. Heating elements are located opposite each other on each part.

In addition to them, the design includes:

• on and off indicator;
• body parts;
• power cord.

Both heating elements are connected in parallel with each other and have the same power characteristics. This allows you to obtain uniform heating of the hair on both sides with the same temperature effect.

Pressing the strand to the working surfaces is carried out due to the effort of the hands, the spring mechanism is responsible for the reverse action. By default, both heating elements are spread apart by means of a spring, however, there are models in which a special hitch is provided that holds both parts of the product in a flattened state.

Some models have a built-in temperature regulator and a twist-prevention mechanism. Nevertheless, as practice shows, the simpler the model, the less often it will break, since any additional elements greatly reduce the reliability of the tool.

To create a variety of hairstyles, curling irons are produced with various attachments. Among them:

• classic;
• corrugation;
• zigzag;
• spiral;
• square;
• hairbrush;
• triangle.

The metal cylinder can have different diameters, the most common are models with a size of 9 mm, 25 mm, 32 mm, as well as 38 mm - thanks to this variety, you can create both Hollywood large curls and finely curled afro-curls. The working temperature of the curls varies between 120-200 degrees, this allows you to create curls of varying degrees of strength. The built-in temperature regulation option protects hair from drying out while curling.

In stores today, there is a large selection of pins with different types of attachments. The following options are most in demand.

• Classic. Such models are a device in the form of a cylinder with a clip; they are used to wind or pull strands. Such tools are most often purchased for household use. The size of the resulting curls directly depends on the diameter of the cylinder: to achieve small curls, you can use tongs with a diameter of 1 cm, for large ones you need a curling iron with a diameter of 5 cm. The most popular option is considered to be the "golden mean" with a diameter of 2.5 cm.

• Conical. In such curling irons, the round working part narrows in the direction from the base to the top, as a result, closer to the hair roots, large curls and additional volume are obtained, and small curls are formed at the ends. This option is most in demand among stylists in beauty salons. Cone curling irons are not without their disadvantages:
  • in the absence of a heat-resistant glove, you can get a burn on your hand;
  • the curling iron has limited functionality - it only creates curls.

• Double and triple. Double curling irons assume the presence of two cylindrical heating surfaces, this allows you to create zigzag waves. During operation, each strand is wound on both cylinders alternately. The undoubted advantage of the model is the possibility of frequent use without injury to the hair, since the working elements of such forceps have a high-quality coating. By capturing several strands, you can create quite effective and complex styling.

• Triple curling iron - a device with two cylinders and a clamp. According to the principle of operation, the tool resembles a corrugation - each strand is processed gradually, clamping with tongs in several places. Usually, such curling irons create small, but equal in size waves, which hold quite tightly. The models are optimal for creating retro styling.

• Double curling irons usually have a tourmaline or titanium coating, less often ceramics. The diameter of these cylinders varies from 19 to 32 mm. The only drawback of these models is that they cannot be used for short hair. These curling irons are classified as professional, therefore, when handling them, some skill is required.

• Curling iron-corrugation. Tongs are a tool consisting of a pair of ribbed elements, their textured surface allows you to create volume in the root zone or make a wavy styling. The mechanism of action is similar to the classic models - the strand is clamped here between a pair of plates for a few seconds, after which it is released. Depending on the diameter, a distinction is made between:
  • large corrugation - such a device is optimal for thick and long curls;
  • the average - This option is suitable for hair of medium thickness and length.

• Spiral curling iron is a cylindrical curling iron, on the working surface of which a groove is provided, where a curling strand is inserted. The mechanism of action on the hair is similar to the classic one - the curl wraps around the rod and transforms into a curl. The process of creating curls in this way is quite laborious and time-consuming, since you have to take very thin strands. However, the result is neat spirals that hold on for a long time and tightly.

• Self-tightening curling iron. The principle of operation here is reduced to the rotation of the upper bar of the forceps around its axis: the hair is smoothed and curled at the same time. This tool differs from the classic versions of the curls in that manual winding of the hair is not required here, the tip of the curl is placed in a small hole, and then the device itself winds the lock on the working element. The device automatically informs about the readiness of the curl, so the model is very simple and convenient to use.

The material from which the work surface is made is a very important characteristic that is responsible for the condition of the hair exposed to heat. There are coatings of the following types.

• Metallic - the cheapest and most dangerous option, since the heated metal dries the strands and makes them brittle.The device can only be used for occasional curling of curls; it can be used on a permanent basis only with the preliminary application of thermal protective compounds.

• Ceramic - one of the most common types of coverage, this option allows you to evenly warm the hair, it is harmless to them. When using a ceramic-coated curling iron, the hair scales are closed, preventing the rod from drying out. It is more useful for hair if the working elements of the curling iron are completely made of ceramics.

• Teflon - this material prevents dry hair for the first time. However, with frequent use, sooner or later the coating wears off, and a metal base appears, while it is impossible to determine the safety of the equipment by eye.

• Tourmaline - the most effective type of coating, usually used in modern and expensive models. It is characterized by the increased quality of the material, which is not erased during operation. However, the cost of such inventory is much higher than all other analogues.

• Titanium - has high strength, abrasion resistance and a long operating period. Such devices can be used even on damaged and thin curls.

Nowadays, in stores you can find a wide selection of plyoks of various brands; the products of firms are especially popular with women:

• BaByliss;
• Polaris;
• Remington;
• Cloud Nine;
• Valera;
• Redmond;
• Vitek;
• Scarlett;
• Bosch
• Rowenta.
• Philips.

Let us dwell in more detail on the models that were included in the rating according to users' opinion for the quality of twisting, ease of use and durability of the result.

• BaByliss C1300E. It is an automatic model with a rotating mechanism. The set includes two nozzles with diameters of 25 and 35 mm, this allows you to create bouncy curls or elegant waves. The device independently determines the exposure temperature and the duration of the curling.

• Polaris PHS 1930K... Spiral curling iron, can be used on curls of any length. The set includes two attachments of different sizes. The advantages of the model include:
  • high heating rate;
  • ceramic coating;
  • the presence of a pair of replaceable nozzles;
  • the presence of indication of heating.

• BaBylissPRO BAB2512EPCE. Such a curling iron is a tool for corrugating strands. Zinc plates are characterized by smoothness and increased resistance to chemical reagents. The tool gently acts on the hair, does not dry it, so even with frequent use, the curls remain healthy, soft and silky. The plates are wide - more than 6 cm, the temperature controller is provided, the wire is elongated with the possibility of rotation. The only drawback is that the hands get a little tired during use.

• Philips BHB876 Style Care Prestige. The rotating curling iron is automatic type, the distinguishing feature is the intelligent curling. The curling iron is comfortable to use due to the elongated body with vertical use mode - due to the increased width of the working surface, the speed of winding the strands also increases.

• Philips BHB876 Style Care Prestige. This curling iron has many advantages:
  • ergonomic placement of control buttons;
  • scald protection system;
  • the possibility of using in an upright position;
  • auto-spinning of strands;
  • the ability to customize the duration and direction of winding;
  • regulation of heating and power;
  • the heating element is made of keratin-coated ceramics;
  • curl ready indicator.

• Remington Ci95. The pearl-coated conical curling iron gives your curls the most natural look. The tool is equipped with an LCD display, an extended cable, a case and a protective glove are included.

When choosing the optimal curling iron model, several factors should be taken into account.

• Depending on the diameter of the work surface, you can create curls of different sizes.
  • 45-50 mm - it is impossible to arrange curls with such a tool, but it can create root volume, as well as round off the tips of the curls. Optimal for women with bob or long hairstyles, not suitable for short hairstyles.
  • 38 mm - used for large waves.
  • 32 mm - forms curls of medium size.
  • 25 mm - makes waves in retro style.
  • 9-10 mm - a thin curling iron, gives an elegant shape to naturally curly and naughty curls.

• Professional and household models are on sale. Professional have undoubted advantages:
  • warm up quickly;
  • working surfaces have a gentle effect, as a rule, they are anodized, as well as tourmaline, with silver, etc.
  • suggest up to 30 heating modes;
  • built-in automatic shutdown option;
  • there is a temperature regulator;
  • extended wire - at least 2 m with the possibility of rotation.

There are other recommendations:

• Curling irons can be with or without clips. The first options are much more convenient, but many women do not like such tongs, since the curls are the same along the entire length - it does not look very natural. If there is no clamp in the curling iron, then the product must have a thermal protective cap. In addition, tools are commercially available with a protective glove that protects the skin of the hands from burns.
• For thick hair, it is advisable to use larger products, and for clear curls, narrow tools will be optimal.
• Pay special attention to the stand - it must be included in the set, this will allow you to lay out the heated instrument on any surface.
• Before making the final selection, be sure to hold the product in your hand. - the forceps should fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, not create discomfort or slip.
• It is best to give preference to models in which the length of the cord is 2.5-3 cm, it is desirable that it rotates and does not get tangled. For travel, you can purchase wireless travel models that can even be carried in the glove compartment or in carry-on luggage.
• Choose tongs whenever possible with auto-off optionthis will protect your hair from drying out and overheating.
• Buy models with a thermostat, in order for the curls to maintain their silkiness and health.

To style the strands in a stylish hairstyle, the following instructions must be observed.

• You can handle your hair with tongs only after it has been thoroughly rinsed and completely dried. Exposure to high temperatures on wet curls leads to dehydration of the hair shaft and brittle hair.
• Any thermal protective agent must be applied before styling. - this will prevent the strands from burning out. If the hair is weakened, then the exposure temperature should not exceed 170 degrees.
• Apply a styling product to create curls. - mousse, gel or foam, the composition is evenly applied, moving from the roots towards the tips.
• For curling, the curls are distributed into several zones and pinned with clips, for winding take one strand.
• Start wrapping from the face, moving to the temples, finish at the crown and continue processing on the other side.
• One strand is twisted for 5-10 seconds, remove the tool carefully so that the curl retains its shape.
• After styling, you must give curls cool off, it is not recommended to touch them at this time.
• After the hair has completely cooled down, you need to disassemble the curls with your fingers and sprinkle with varnish.

With the help of a curling iron, you can achieve a significant increase in the root volume, dTo do this, follow these steps:

• apply a heat protection spray to clean hair;
• warm up the tool and clamp it to a lock near the root zone, the curling iron must be placed so close to the skin so that, on the one hand, you get the desired volume, and on the other, you do not get burned;
• hold the tool for about 5 seconds.

When working with a curling iron, you should follow the instructions for use that comes with each tool. The fact is that improper use often leads to damage to the instrument, and also worsens the condition of the hair.

• Do not use the curling iron in a room with high humidity, and also do not take the device with wet hands.
• Do not twist the cord during use.
• After each use, be sure to unplug the power cord, wait for the curling iron to cool and hide it in a place protected from children.

Analyzing the reviews left by users on thematic forums and portals, it can be noted that the curling iron has been invariably popular among women for many decades. Tongs allow you to quickly get beautiful curls on straight strands without resorting to the services of a stylist.

Our mothers used products with metal work surfaces - they dried out their hair, so with frequent use, the curls became brittle and lifeless. Nowadays, many more modern models have been created that have a gentle effect on the curls.

Curling irons allow you to curl curls of different shapes and sizes, and the variety of attachments makes the process of curling fun, fast and easy.

For information on how to choose a hair curler, see the next video.