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

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 in front of her 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 talk in detail about what this tool is, how to choose a suitable model and how to curl curls with forceps.

Curling iron is a household electrical appliance that is used to give hair volume and transform it into curls of different shapes. The simplest model is a metal tube, inside it there is a heating element and a clip necessary for fixing the hair during its winding on the tool. Under the influence of temperature, the hair becomes wavy, form steep curls and lush curls.

The advantages of the curling iron are obvious:

• the ability at home to quickly create curls of various sizes and shapes;
• simplicity of operation;
• Some models act on the hair sparingly, do not injure or dry them.

However, it was not without minuses either:

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

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

• curling includes only one work item, while the styler contains several types of interchangeable nozzles for a wide variety of effects on the strands;
• curling iron can only be used for curling and straightening hair, the styler additionally allows you to put curls with a steam hairdryer and has the option of cold blowing;
• brushes, hairpins and other devices are included with the styler, which are absent in plaques.

In its design, the curling iron resembles a clamp consisting of two elements fixed on one side. On each part opposite each other are heating elements.

In addition to them, the design includes:

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

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

The pressing of the strand to the working surfaces is due to the efforts of the hands, the spring mechanism is responsible for the reverse action. By default, both heating elements are pulled apart by means of a spring, however, there are models in which a special coupling is provided that keeps both parts of the product in a reduced state.

Some models have a built-in temperature controller, as well as a mechanism to prevent twisting of the cord. However, as practice shows, the simpler the model, the less likely 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 nozzles. Among them:

• classic
• corrugation;
• zigzag;
• spiral;
• square;
• hair dryer;
• triangle.

The metal cylinder can have different diameters, the most common are models with sizes of 9 mm, 25 mm, 32 mm, and also 38 mm - thanks to this variety, you can create both Hollywood large curls and afro curls of a small wave. The working temperature of the plates varies between 120-200 degrees, this allows you to create curls of varying degrees of strength. A built-in temperature control option protects the hair from drying out during curling.

In stores today a large selection of pans with different types of nozzles is presented. The following options are most demanded.

• Classic. Such models are a device in the form of a cylinder with a clamp; they are used for winding or pulling strands. Such tools are most often bought for domestic use. The size of the curls obtained 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 the "golden mean" with a diameter of 2.5 cm.

• Conical. In such curling irons, the round working part narrows from the base to the top, as a result, closer to the hair roots, large curls and an 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 drawbacks:
  • in the absence of a heat-protective glove, you can get a hand burn;
  • The curling iron has limited functionality - it only creates curls.

• Double and triple. Double curling irons suggest 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 injuring hair, since the working elements of such tongs have a high-quality coating. By capturing several strands, you can create quite spectacular and complex styling.

• Triple curling - a device with two cylinders and a clamp. According to the principle of operation, the tool resembles a corrugation - each lock is processed gradually, clamped with forceps in several places. Typically, such curling irons create small, but equal in magnitude, waves that hold fairly tightly. Models are ideal for creating styling in retro style.

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

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

• Spiral curling iron It is a cylindrical forceps, on the working surface of which a groove is provided, where a strand for curling is inserted. The mechanism of action on the hair is similar to the classical one - a curl is wrapped around a shaft and transformed into a curl. The process of creating curls in this way is quite laborious and lengthy, since you have to take very thin locks. However, the output is neat spirals that hold for a long time and firmly.

• Self-curling curling iron. The principle of operation here is reduced to the rotation of the upper bar of the tongs around its axis: the hair is smoothed and curled at the same time. This tool differs from the classical versions of the pads 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 informs about readiness of a curl automatically, therefore 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 thermal effects. The following types of coatings are distinguished.

• Metal - The cheapest and most dangerous option, since the heated metal overdries the strands and makes them brittle.The device can only be used for episodic curling of curls, it can be used on an ongoing basis only with the preliminary application of thermal protective compounds.

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

• Teflon - such material at first prevents dry hair. However, with frequent use, sooner or later, the coating erases, 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 high quality material, which is not erased during operation. However, the cost of such equipment is much higher than all other analogues.

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

Nowadays, in stores you can find a wide selection of pads 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 are included in the rating according to users for the quality of twisting, ease of use and durability of the result.

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

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

• BaBylissPRO BAB2512EPCE. This curling iron is a tool for crimping strands. Zinc plates are characterized by smoothness and increased resistance to chemical reagents. The tool gently affects 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, a temperature controller is provided, the wire is elongated with the possibility of rotation. The only drawback is that your hands get a little tired during use.

• Philips BHB876 Style Care Prestige. Rotating forceps of automatic type, a distinctive feature is the intellectual wave. The curling iron is comfortable in operation due to the elongated case with the vertical use mode - thanks 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;
  • burn protection system;
  • the ability to use in an upright position;
  • auto-winding strands;
  • the ability to configure the duration and direction of winding;
  • heating and power adjustment;
  • the heating element is made of ceramic with keratin spraying;
  • curl readiness indicator.

• Remington Ci95. Pearl conical tongs make curls as natural as possible. The tool is equipped with an LCD display, an elongated wire, a cover and a protective glove are included in the kit.

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

• Depending on the diameter of the working surface, you can create curls of different sizes.
  • 45-50 mm - It is impossible to make curls with such a tool, but it can create a basal volume, as well as round the ends of the curls. Ideal for women with a bob or long haircut, not suitable for short hairstyles.
  • 38 mm - used for large waves.
  • 32 mm - forms medium-sized curls.
  • 25 mm - makes waves in retro style.
  • 9-10 mm - a thin curling iron, gives an elegant shape to curly by nature and naughty curls.

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

There are other recommendations:

• Curling irons can be with clamps and without them. The first options are much more convenient, but many women do not like such forceps, because the curls are the same along the entire length - this does not look very natural. If there is no clamp in the curling iron, then the product must necessarily have a heat-protective cap. In addition, tools with a protective mitten are on sale that protect your skin from burns.
• For thick hair, it is advisable to use larger products, and for clear curls, narrow instruments will be optimal.
• Pay special attention to the stand - it must be included in the kit, this will allow you to spread the heated tool on any surface.
• Before final selection, be sure to hold the product in your hand - the forceps should fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, not cause discomfort or slip.
• It is best to give preference to models in which the cord is 2.5-3 cm long, it is desirable that it rotates and does not get confused. For travel, you can purchase road wireless models that can be carried even in the glove compartment or in your hand luggage.
• Choose forceps if possible with auto power off optionThis will protect your hair from drying and overheating.
• Get models with a temperature regulator, so that the curls retain their silkiness and health.

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

• You can treat the hair with forceps only after they have been thoroughly washed and completely dried. The effect of elevated temperature on wet curls leads to dehydration of the hair shaft and brittle hairs.
• Before laying, any thermal protective agent must be applied. - this will prevent the burning of strands. If the hair is weakened, then the exposure temperature should not exceed 170 degrees.
• To create curls on the hair you need to apply a styling tool - 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 pinch with clamps, for winding take one lock.
• Start wrapping on behalf ofmoving to the temples, they finish at the crown and continue processing from the other side.
• One strand is twisted for 5-10 secondsRemove the instrument carefully so that the curl retains its shape.
• After laying, you need to give curls cool off, touching them is not recommended at this time.
• After the hair has completely cooled, it is necessary to disassemble the curls with your fingers and sprinkle with varnish.

Using a curling iron, you can achieve a significant increase in basal volume, dTo do this, do the following:

• apply heat-protective spray to clean hair;
• warm up the tool and hold it on the lock near the root zone, the curling iron needs to be placed so close to the skin that, on the one hand, the desired volume is obtained, and on the other hand, not get burned;
• hold the tool for about 5 seconds.

When working with a curling iron, you must follow the instructions for use that come with each tool. The fact is that improper operation often leads to damage to the tool, and in addition, worsens the condition of the hair.

• Do not use the curling iron in a room with high humidity, nor can you take the appliance with wet hands.
• Do not twist the cord during use.
• After each use, be sure to disconnect the cord from the power supply, 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 curling iron has been invariably popular with women for many decades. Nippers 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 the hair, so with frequent use, curls became brittle and lifeless. Nowadays, many more modern models have been created that have a sparing effect on curls.

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

On how to choose a hair curler, see the next video.