Advertising Disclosure
Here’s How You Get Healthy Curls That Last All Day
We tested and reviewed the top 3 curlers on the market that help you get frizz-free curls that actually last
For the last 20 years, I’ve been working behind the chair to help my clients achieve the styles they love—and walk out with the kind of confidence that only comes from looking and feeling their best. Along the way, I’ve tested just about every curling iron out there. I know what truly works and what just falls flat.
If you’re like many of my clients, you’ve probably tried one curling iron after another, hoping to find one that gives you curls that last. It’s frustrating. Some curlers run too hot, leaving you with damaged, fried strands, while others promise “perfect curls” but you still end up with uneven, frizzy results.
You’re not alone. Most women feel the same frustration when they find themselves spending time and money on tools that don’t deliver. The good news is that you don’t have to settle. The latest curling irons on the market are designed to deliver curls that last with precise heat control so you’re not constantly worried about heat damage and frizz.
To make your search easier, I’ll be sharing the top three things to look for in a professional quality curling iron. Let’s jump in so you can find the perfect tool for long-lasting, gorgeous curls that stand the test of time.
You know that feeling when you first step out of the salon?
You radiate confidence for miles with flawless, bouncy hair that turns heads. You feel fresh, free, and ready to take on the world.
Now imagine bringing that salon-fresh feeling home.
When you’re empowered with the knowledge to make the best choices for your hair, you can create breathtaking styles you’ll love every day—even if you’re not a professional. Let’s talk about your curler.
If you’re like many of my clients, you’ve probably tried one curling iron after another, hoping for perfect results—only to be let down. Some curlers run too hot and damage your hair, while others promise “perfect curls” but leave you with uneven, frizzy strands. It’s frustrating and expensive.
I get it. Wasting money on tools that don’t deliver—or worse, harm your hair—is discouraging, making the gap between the salon and styling from home seem even greater. I’m here to help you bridge that gap.
As a stylist with two decades of salon experience, I’ll share the top three things to look for in a professional-quality curling iron. These tips will help you find the perfect tool for long-lasting, gorgeous curls that stand the test of time, so you can look and feel your salon best every day.
Don’t keep settling for heat damage and frizz just because you’re not a salon professional. Let’s dive in now and find your new favorite styling companion!
The CurlQ Curling Set earns the top spot for its sleek design, long-lasting curl capability, and bonus attachments that lend powerful versatility. With three titanium curling barrels, a ceramic paddle brush, and a heated round volumizing brush, this all-in-one tool gives you salon-style results without needing multiple tools.
Regular Price: $299
BLACK FRIDAY SALE: $199
Throughout our testing, the CurlQstood out with its multi-functional design and advanced digital controls. The three titanium barrels provide beautiful, long-lasting curls that stay in place, while the ceramic paddle brush provides an effortless way to straighten without harsh heat exposure (you can actually straighten just by brushing your hair, it’s incredible). And the heated round brush helps you get volume and is perfect for quick touch ups.
Another standout feature is the rapid heating time — CurlQ reaches up to 450°F in just 90 seconds. Overall, the CurlQ’s titanium barrels heat up fast and evenly so you get the perfect curl that holds every time.
The Shopper’s Advocate Deal:
For BLACK FRIDAY SALE, Skin Research Institute is offering its biggest discount ever on the CurlQ! Click here to learn more and take advantage of this limited-time offer.
PROS:
- Three titanium curling barrels — 1 inch, 1.25 inch, 1.5 inch.
- Curling barrel,deliver smooth, frizz-free curls with lasting hold.
- Reaches 450°F in 90 seconds, ready for any styling need.
- Perfect for all hair types, with temperatures adjustable up to 450°F.
- 45-minute auto shut-off provides peace of mind.
- 360° Swivel Cord for easy styling without tangling
- Anti-Scald Tips for safe handling.
CONS:
- High demand often results in backorders.
- Only available online.
Regular Price: $279
Coming in at number two on our list is the T3 Switch Interchangeable Curling Iron. This styling tool features interchangeable barrels, allowing you to easily switch between different sizes for various looks, from loose waves to tighter curls.
The T3 Switch features a digital display paired with an adjustable heat setting that allows for good control over your styling temperature. However, it’s worth noting that the temperature is indicated through an LED-based system with incremental dots, rather than specific numerical values—this is also one of the biggest complaints with this hair tool.
While the T3 Switch delivers versatility and quality, it comes with a higher price tag that might not fit every budget. It’s also slightly heavier than some other curling irons, which can make longer styling sessions uncomfortable.
Overall, the T3 Switch is a solid choice for anyone looking for flexibility and professional results in their hair tools.
PROS:
- Three ceramic interchangeable barrels
- Stylish, premium design
CONS:
- Higher price point
- Heavier than similar curling irons
- Hard to read temperature settings
Regular Price: $199
The Drybar Mixologist is a versatile tool with three interchangeable barrels—a 1-inch wand, a 1.25-inch curling iron, and a waver—making it easy to switch up styles, from curls to waves. Its adjustable heat settings are another plus, as they’re well-suited to different hair types and textures, providing flexibility for anyone’s styling needs.
That said, there are a few areas where it could improve. While the attachments are convenient, they’re not as sturdy as they could be, and with frequent use, they may start to feel a bit loose, which can affect the stability during styling.
Overall, the Mixologist is still a strong choice for anyone looking for a multi-use styling tool that won’t take up too much space.
PROS:
- Three ceramic coated interchangeable barrels — 1-inch wand, a 1.25-inch curling iron, and a waver.
- Adjustable heat settings
- 60-minute auto shut-off
CONS:
- Some users report the attachments loosen over time, and can impact the quality or the curl/wave.
- Temperature can fluctuate, making it challenging to achieve consistent results.
Conclusion
After thorough testing, the CurlQ stands out as the top pick with three titanium barrels, a ceramic straightening brush, and a thermal volumizing brush. We’ve never seen a curler with such innovative bonus attachments that truly gives you the power to achieve any look. Most importantly, the curls we created with the CurlQ lasted for days.
We also love the rapid heating feature that reaches up to 450°F in just 90 seconds. This feature is great when you’re in a hurry to get out the door. Additionally, the smart digital controls and safety features, such as the 45-minute auto shut-off, provide peace of mind during use.
With positive feedback from users highlighting its effectiveness and ease of use, the CurlQ truly redefines what a styling tool can offer.
Beau Dieda
Testing Team
Consists of writers, scientists and subject matter experts. and We physically ordered and tested all the products listed. We always try to do both quantitative and qualitative testing. Quantitative involves measuring various categories of performance. Qualitative testing involves activities such as using the product, conducting focus group testing, and researching online reviews to derive benefits and drawbacks for diverse users.
Want a closer look at the testing and review process behind this article? Here’s a peek inside the Shoppers Advocate testing lab to show how we ensure the accuracy and reliability of our findings.
