These Are the 11 Best Curling Irons for Thick Hair, Hands Down (2024)

Our Top Picks

This game-changing hot tool truly revolutionized the hair industry when it first came on the scene, with self-spinning technology that makes it possible for anyone to get the beachy waves you see on runways and the red carpet. All you have to do is put a section of hair in the clip and push a button; the iron does the work for you, spinning it in the right direction to create that effortlessly tousled texture. This pro version is great for thick hair, thanks to its larger barrel andadjustable temperature settings.

That being said, it does require a learning curve to get used to the spinning system, but once you master it, even the thickest heads of hair go way faster.

Temperature Range: 310 to 450 F | Size: 1 inch

Despite the fact that Hot Tools products aren’t incredibly pricey, they feature all kinds of great technology and are a staple among professional stylists. This iron touts a patented pulse technology to sense heat loss, immediately restoring it so that your iron stays evenly hot the whole way through—a huge win when you’re curling thick hair that can take quite a long time to get through.

Some reviewers noticed that the clamp could get caught at times, but overall, using it is super smooth. We highlighted the 1.5-inch barrel in this list, but it also comes in four different sizes that can deliver tighter or looser curls.

Temperature Range: 280 to 430 F | Size: 0.75 inches, 1 inch, 1.5 inches, 1.25 inches

This beloved hot tool brand uses a custom-blend ceramic on the surface of this iron, which ideal for both tamping down errant frizzies (a common problem for those with thicker strands) and imparting mega-watt shine. While it’s definitely pricey, consider the fact that you’re also basically getting three separate irons for the price of one. This comes with a tapered wand, plus a 1-inch and a 1.5-inch barrel size, allowing for plenty of versatility. Use the larger one on the back of your head and the smaller one around your face, where even thick hair will be a little finer, or just snap in your favorite barrel and use it all over. Regardless of how you choose to use it, this three-barrel tool delivers luscious locks.

Temperature Range: 260 to 410 F | Size: 0.75 to 1.75 inches, 1 inch, 1.5 inches

As the name suggests, this tool is ideal for those who want to wash and style their hair once and not have to do it again for a few days. Ultimately, that’s the best way tominimize heat damageto your hair, something that’s important for all textures. Plus, the rotating clamp helps you create perfectly shaped curls faster than traditional irons—which, again, is a big plus if you have lots of thick hair to get through.

The rotating clamp has its benefits, but it is not without its disadvantages. It is not flush with the wand, which over time, can prevent the curl from forming evenly. Also, some reviewers note that stray strands can get caught in the clamp.

Temperature Range: Up to 440 F | Size: 1 inch, 1.25 inches

If curling your hair is not your thing, this wand has your back…literally. Know why your hair always looks so much better when a pro does it? It’s because they're standing behind you with complete access to every last inch of your hair. That’s not the case when you’re taking the DIY route; you're standing in the mirror having to contort your arms to try and get to all those hard-to-reach spots at the back of your head. The solution? This wand's pivoting barrel straightens just like a traditional wand and bends 90 degrees to curl every last bit of hair. Beyond the barrel, the titanium barrel enhances shine and cuts down on frizz, and it heats up evenly, so your curls look their best.

And let’s face it, curling thick hair can already be hard enough, so we’ll take whatever help we can get.

Temperature Range: 325 to 425 F | Size: 1.25 inches

Ceramic is a standout material in the world of curling irons and straighteners—it's one of the most effective at evenly conducting heat and helping to minimize the damage that can come with metal options. This iron ups the ante even further with a volcanic lava-lined chamber (seriously) to up that heat conductivity. It’s also super easy to use, drawing small sections into the chamber and spinning them. There are helpful pre-set temps and heat-up times based on hair texture, including an option for thick or coarse tresses.

This tool is unlike anything else in your collection, so it may take a minute to get used to. Take time to play with it and learn exactly how it works. Some have reported that strands can get stuck in the spinner, so be careful when using it.

Temperature Range: 370 to 410 F | Size: 1 inch

This is a go-to tool for Byrdie associate editorial director Holly Rhue. It comes with three interchangeable attachments allowing for a variety of different looks. There’s a 1-inch wand for more defined waves, a 1.25-inch wand for classic curls, and a three-pronged waver for a tousled, beachy texture. Infrared technology heats up whichever one you choose from the inside out, which is a great way to help minimize damage, and it also reaches up to 450 degrees, which is a huge plus for those with thicker hair.

It is on the expensive side, but remember, you are basically getting three tools for the price of one.

Temperature Range: Up to 450 F | Size: 1-inch, 1.25 inches

Styling products aside, a curling iron can be a great way to touch up and define your naturally curly texture. Just make sure you’re using the right one; this option fits the bill. The tiny size is perfect for adding smoothness and shape to curls and has the added benefit of being lightweight and portable. It’s a solid choice for curly hair, no matter whether your spirals are fine or thick.

The super skinny barrel isn’t the most efficient option for curling your whole head, but if you need to touch up your natural texture, this will look the most natural. Unfortunately, it does not come with many safety features, so make sure you turn it off when you are finished curling.

Temperature Range: Up to 400 F | Size: 9 to 18 millimeters

Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Also yes.This product has some of the coolest high-tech features we’ve ever seen in a hot tool, all of which add up to a totally customized styling experience. How it works: Input your hair profile based on texture, color, and chemical treatments, and the tool does the hard work for you, coming up with the exact heat profile you need to score long-lasting, damage-free curls. (There’s also a manual mode you can play around with.)

The wand heats up evenly (meaning no searing spots), so your curls will be uniform from top to bottom. The ceramic barrel zaps frizz and keeps the integrity of the curl lasting all day long (for some even longer).

Temperature Range: 260 to 410 F | Size: 1.25 inches

Hairstylist Harry Josh is arguably as well-known for his iconic work as he is for his eponymous line of amazing hot tools. This three-part wand, a favorite of Byrdie associate general managerLindsey Metrus, is one of those. There’s a clipless wand as well as two interchangeable options, one of which boasts Marcel clamps and one of which features a spring clamp. All of them have a nano-ceramic and tourmaline coating to smooth hair and add body, plus a variety of heat settings that can be adjusted based on your hair texture. It only takes 40 seconds for the wand to fully heat up, and then automatically shuts off after 60 minutes.

Temperature Range: 190 to 380 F | Size: 1 inch

A titanium barrel coupled with anion emittermakes for a friction-free surface that won’t pull or tug on the hair. It allows for one-pass styling, which further minimizes the likelihood of heat damage. The clipless rod is also perfect for creating beachy waves. It comes with a glove to protect your fingertips from getting singed. Our favorite part is the long-lasting results. One day of curls can last up to a week.

Some reviewers have complained the temperature control isn’t intuitively placed, so try to get familiar with the tool before using it.

Temperature Range: Up to 390 F | Size: 1.5 inches

FAQ

• How do I get my thick hair to hold a curl?

  Thick hair may be difficult to keep curled after putting in the effort with an iron, so it's important to facilitate keeping your curls intact. A couple of top tips for creating a lasting curl: Use a mousse and heat protector before drying, set your curls with clips, and don't run your fingers through your hair.

• What should I put on my hair before curling it?

  A setting spray is a great choice for holding your curls and can also be used as a prep in advance of curling it. Some setting sprays also offer heat protection, making them even more of a win-win.

• Do you use a curling iron on wet or dry hair?

  Not only will damp locks flatten after you curl them, using a curling iron on wet or even damp hair can cause damage. Additionally, the steam created by the contact of heat on damp or wet hair can burn your scalp. Always use curling irons on hair that is fully and completely dry.