Do you love curly hair? Well, I do, and if you do too, you have undoubtedly experienced the curling wand vs curling iron dilemma at some point.
That said, if you are still in the above-specified predicament, there’s no need to fret. In this article, I cover all the differences between a curling wand and curling iron. Also, I highlight the pros and cons of each item as well as provide you with useful tips on how to use these hairstyling tools for the best results.
Feel free to jump to any section you want to learn more about. After all, the purpose of this article is to give information that will help you overcome the curling iron vs curling wand dilemma.
From time to time, I write about hair tools, hair styling, and the best curly-hair products, hair straightening tool reviews. In this context, my assessments can help you choose the best curling irons and wands from the many on the market.
Back to the topic, for years, I have been switching between a curling wand and a curling iron to create my curls. All through, the choice of either item to use depends on the results I want. For a more ringlet effect, I go with the curling iron, while for a wavy look, I use the curling wand.
But regardless of your choice, I can confirm that using each of these tools leaves you with stunning curls, suitable for any occasion and event.
Contents
Differences between Curling Iron and Curling Wand
Understanding the differences is vital in helping you overcome the curl wand vs iron predicament. In line with that, here is a highlight of the aspects these two tools differ in.
The Holding Clasp: Major Curling Wand vs Curling Iron Difference
The holding clasp is the key distinction between a curling iron and a curling wand. With this difference in structure, the results you get from using these two tools vary. Curling irons have holding clasps, while wands do not.
What makes the clasp essential? With this feature, you can style your hair more intricately. It is the reason why you can create more consistent and finer long-lasting curls with a curling iron.
The curling wand, by design, does not have a holding clip. It is because, with this appliance, the goal is to create hair with more natural curls.
Hair Curling Iron vs Wand: Size of the Barrel
The first difference between a curling iron and a curling wand is the size. For both products, you will find that different sizes exist. Some barrels are smaller than an inch in diameter, and others are two inches in diameter.
When my hair was shorter, the smaller barrel was easier to use. However, as it got longer, I discovered that appliances with bigger barrels made the curling process way speedier. Note that a narrower barrel results in smaller and tighter curls, on the one hand. On the other, a bigger barrel yields bigger curls.
Bubble Curling Iron vs Wand: Temperature
Generally, there are more irons capable of attaining higher temperatures than wands. Nonetheless, if you search long enough, you will manage to get a wand that meets your heat requirements.
That said, note, the temperature you need depends on the nature of your hair. If you have weak hair, an appliance with a maximum temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit is okay. But if your hair is tough, for example, afro, you will need a tool that can reach anywhere between 400- and 450-degrees Fahrenheit. You will also need more time and effort to get the desired curls.
Hair Curling Wand vs Iron: Heat Control
You need to be in control of the temperature to prevent hair damage. Typically, any curling iron on the market today allows you to adjust the heat as per your preferences, as it has different temperature settings. Nonetheless, to avoid running your hair, these devices rarely enable you to set heat levels beyond 5-degree increments.
On the other hand, curling wands can have a single temperature dial that can be controlled with the on/off switch. However, this does not exclusively mean that wands cannot have multiple heat adjustments.
Another useful feature when it comes to controlling temperature is the display. As such, most companies, especially those dealing with curling irons, have launched appliances with LCD interfaces for helping users to see their temperature settings.
Curling Iron vs Wand: Longevity of Results
The curling iron wins hands down when it comes to creating long-lasting curls. Better yet, it allows you to make finer and more detailed finishes on your hair. As such, if you want beautiful ringlets, it is best to use the iron.
Note, I have since noted that the duration of your curls last depends on how you cover them during the night, whether you touch your hair regularly, and on which products you apply.
Curling Wand Pros and Cons
Do you consider purchasing a curling wand? Here are some advantages and disadvantages of this appliance to help you with your decision.
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Here are some excellent reasons for getting a wand:
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Here are some downsides to using a curling wand:
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Make sure to check out my review of Hair Curling Wand from Aashi Beauty. It’s awesome!
Curling Iron Pros and Cons
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of this appliance will go a long way in helping you choose the right tool in this wand versus curling iron face-off. Learn more below.
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Here are some upsides to using a curling iron:
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As far as the spiral iron vs curling wand argument goes, the significant downsides to a curling iron are:
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Paul Mitchell Pro Tools Express Ion Unclipped 3-in-1 Curling Iron – My Personal Recommendation
This curling iron is widely used in the beauty industry. It offers stylish hairdos while taking care of your hair health and shiny look. It spreads ions smoothly on your hair, leaving it protected from damage. Three ceramic barrels, which come in the package, provide an outstanding result in no time. You can choose whether you want curls, waves, or ringlets.
The curling iron is a must-have for everyone who loves experimenting with their style. It has three barrels that can be connected to the handle. The first one is wide, the second is medium, and the third one is narrow. After it hits up to 410 F, you may start making curls. There is a dual voltage, so you can take it in European travels with you.
Paul Mitchell’s brand is familiar to all hairstylists. During many years, this developer has produced salon-quality tools for your hair. I use various products from this brand, from color protective shampoos to sprays, but my favorite one is this curling iron. I love to know that the company’s specialty is hair care. My advice is to use their color protective sprays before turning on the curling iron.
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Check out my review of the best curling irons on the market. You will pick one for sure!
Useful Tips for Using These Appliances
What is the best way you can use a curling iron or a wand in your day-to-day life? The techniques for using hair wand vs curling iron differ. So, here are individual guides for both:
Operating a Curling Wand
A wand lacks the clips that you would typically use to keep hair in place. As such, you must hold the tip of the strand you’re curling. To use a curling wand, do the following:
- clutch the wand’s handle on one hand and the strands of hair you are curling on the other;
- twist the strand from the root to the tip and hold for about five seconds;
- remove the wand gently to free the curled strand.
Utilizing a Curling Iron
Unlike the wand, curling irons have clips to hold the hair in place when curling it. To use it:
- clip the tip of the strand;
- roll the iron to the hair’s root;
- hold for about ten seconds;
- release the hair to reveal the curls.
Final Thoughts on Styling Wand vs Curling Iron
When choosing curling wand vs flat iron, take into consideration the occasion you want to attend and what type of curls you want to achieve. A curling iron produces more defined and shiner curls than a curling wand. It is, therefore, excellent when you want to look elegant for an official event.
However, it requires patience and time. Curling wands, on the other hand, produce natural-looking waves and take less time. It’s great when you’re in a hurry and don’t necessarily need to look perfect. However, you’ll need to use both hands to use it. So, what’s your choice between curling wand vs curling iron?
Do you have any tips you’ve found useful when using a curling wand or curling iron? Let’s continue this discussion in the comments below.
Last update on 2022-12-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
