What makes a good hair styling tools? Well that depends on the type of tool we’re talking about, and the way you like to style your hair. For products like flat irons and curling irons, you want something that styles your hair without causing too much damage. When it comes to blow dryers, you’ll want a lightweight model that works quickly and efficiently. And in general, tools that can be used in different ways are always worth the investment.
Whether you’re buying your first curling iron or are looking to upgrade your favorite worn-out straightener, scroll on for the best hair styling tools on the market right now.
1. The Best Flat Iron
HSI Professional Glider Flat Iron – BUY NOW
If you think a good hair straightener is just for, well, straightening your hair, think again. The HSI Professional Glider Flat Iron is a perfect example of how versatile the tool can be. Sure, it’s great for achieving sleek, straight hair, if that’s what you’re after, but its rounded edges can also be used to create effortless-looking beach waves with just a simple bend of your wrist.
But what sets this particular hair straightener apart are the details in its design. It heats up to 450 degrees, which is the absolute maximum professional stylists recommend when using hot tools, and its ceramic plates have micro-sensors that help prevent overheating. HSI’s straightener also comes with its own travel pouch and a protective glove, so you don’t have to worry about burning your fingers.
2. The Best Automatic Curling Iron
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Curl Secret – BUY NOW
If you want flawless curls but don’t have the patience for a traditional curling iron or rod, the INFINITIPRO by Conair is a must-have. This unique tool draws hair into a tangle-free chamber, where it’s held at the perfect temperature for just the right amount of time to create the curls of your dreams. It features two heat levels, one of which goes up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and three different timer settings. This curling tool beeps when your hair is done, and has an auto-off function.
3. The Best Curling Wand
Bed Head Curlipops Curling Wand – BUY NOW
For flexibility in your curling technique, you want a clampless wand, like this Bed Head Curlipops Curling Wand. Some people find clampless wands generally easier to use, and they also make it easy to create all different kinds of curls and waves.
The Curlipops Curling Wand has a ceramic barrel to help cut down on frizz while minimizing damage, plus a 6-foot swivel cord, a cool tip end, and a 1-inch barrel. This tool also has dual voltage capabilities, and comes with a bonus glove so that you won’t singe your fingers.
One thing to note, though: Clampless wands are tough to use if your hair is on the shorter side, as it’s difficult to maneuver hair around the barrel without the help of a clamp. So, if you have short hair, it’s better to look for an iron with a clamp, lest you burn your fingers or scalp!
4. The Best Curling Iron with a Clamp
HOT TOOLS Long Barrel Curling Iron/Wand – BUY NOW
There’s a reason you tend to see some variation of a Hot Tools curling iron in every salon you go to — the brand is the best of the best when it comes to traditional curling irons, and their price tags are extremely fair, considering their tools’ quality. This one has a 24 karat gold-plated barrel, an 8-foot swivel cord, a 30-second heat-up, and an easy-to-use control dial with multiple different heat settings. Meanwhile, this brand’s own Pulse Technology ensures even, consistent heat distribution from bottom to tip.
Not only does this curling iron come in seven different barrel sizes, but you can also choose from a regular barrel or an extra-long barrel.
5. The Best Hot Air Brush
Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer & Volumizer Hot Air Brush – BUY NOW
The Revlon One-Step is perhaps one of the most popular and iconic hair styling tools on the entire market. Think of it as a round brush and blow dryer in one — it does both jobs using one tool, resulting in a voluminous, salon-worthy blowout with barely any effort involved. Not only does it cut down on arm strain (and the need for pro-level skills), but it also dries hair incredibly quickly, thanks to the dozens of airflow vents embedded in the brush. Ionic technology helps reduce frizz and enhance shine, while ceramic coating prevents hair from becoming damaged. It also has three different heat and speed settings, as well as an amply sized cool tip to grasp onto when blow drying your hair.