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If you have been following my series on essential tools here are some ideas on — curling irons

I hadn’t realized how many people have a difficult time using a hairstyling curling iron until it started coming up again and again in my class Finding the Right Hairstyle for You! Many women have trouble in manuvering the culing iron to get a curl with smooth ends and consistant curls. Does the curling iron call for more dexterity than other tools? I think it does and that it is a learned skill, after listening to those who just can’t make it work. Watch and ask how your stylist uses the curling iron to create a style, then you may need to practice, practice, practice.

The many types of curling irons may surprise you…

• Ceramic curling irons
• Brush curling irons
• Marcel curling irons
• Travel curling irons
• Steam curling irons
• Triple barrel curling irons
• Cordless curling irons

Ceramic curling irons
The end result using ceramic hairstyling tools is a smoother, less frizzy, shinier look to your hair. Also, it is better on your hair because it leaves more moisture in the hair and heats up more evenly.

Brush curling irons
These are the easiest to use curling irons.They are both a hair blow-dryer and a curling iron in one device. Some are curling irons with plastic or bristle brushes around the barrel for ease of use. The key is getting the right size barrel for your hairstyle.

Marcel curling irons
The Marcel curling iron is mostly used by professionals and also the hardest to master. Rather than the traditional clamp that stays closed, the Marcel handle needs to be tightened and loosened with your fingers as you roll the hair. This is particularly good for creating long spriral curls and for creating lift at the roots.

Travel curling irons
Many women wouldn’t be without these. They are cordless, butane filled irons that work especially well for people who travel and may not have access to electricity. They heat up quickly and are not expensive. You can buy a Braun model for $7.00 to $25.00. Some people report having trouble firing them up, however, if they are full enough that usually isn’t a problem. You can buy replacement canisters from the manufacturer.

Steam curling irons
Use distilled water for best results. Best for hard to curl hair.

Triple barrel curling irons
Three barrels create a wavy result. Reviews are mostly good for this product. Works for all hair types. It may take a little time getting use to manuvering, but some report liking the long lasting results better than perms.

Cordless curling irons
These are also called travel irons. Some will fit in your purse. They are run by butane and you can buy refills from the manufacturer. Good for the traveler as well as those who might like to “touch up” on the go. They heat up quickly.

Things to look for in a curling iron:

• Barrel size - Your hair should be able to wrap around the barrel at least 1? times.
  • 3/4 inch barrel is good for short hair and for creating trendrils
  • 1 inch barrel is good for short to medium length styles, good for creating trendrils
  • 1 1/4 inch barrel is the most popular for mid-length and longer styles
  • 1? inch barrel is good for smoothing out wave and tipping ends under or out
  • 2 inch barrel is good for smoothing out wave and giving just a bend to the ends
  • Temperature control - gives you more control on getting a stronger or softer curl as well as control over burning your hair.
  • Thin and fine hair need less heat to curl than heavy thick hair.

  • Price - I think that paying mid price is your best bet.
  • I would suggest buying the new ceramics but most don’t need to pay top of the line prices for the same results.
  • Go to Folica.com for reviews and good prices.

  • Some favorite brands of curling irons
  • Hot Tools
  • BaByliss
  • Ceramics

The problem I see for those that call themselves,”styling impaired,” is when they can’t wield a curling iron, they may give up easily on trying other methods of hairstyling, and think they can only handle a hairstyle that is wash and wear. If you find the curling iron just isn’t doing the job for you, don’t give up. Take a look at some other methods of styling your hair. See my other posts on essential tools.

Technorati Tags: Hair Styling Tools, Hair curling irons

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