If you want your hair to look its best, you can’t just plug in your curling iron and go. You need to consider the type of hair you have and the heat of your curling iron. When purchasing a curling iron, make sure you buy one with variable temperatures. In general, the hotter you crank up the heat, the more damaging, so experts recommend you start with as low a temperature as possible and work your way up.
As long as you are setting your curling iron to the ideal temperature, you might as well use the ideal curling iron, too. FHI Heat Curlers are just what the doctor ordered! These edge-to-edge ceramic or titanium irons do not create hot spots, but rather heat your hair evenly. These curling irons are variable from 140-450 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can set them to benefit any hair type and thickness. They also have a one-hour auto-shutoff and a 12-foot swivel cord.
As far as the perfect temperatures to use once you get your amazing curling iron, stick with the guidelines below:
410-450°F
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If your hair is stubborn and thick, high heat is your best option for controlling those locks due to the additional time that is required for the styling. Especially with curls, staying power is extremely important. Thicker locks tend to be much heavier. A higher temperature will secure them in place for that extra-long hold. Pro tip: With thick hair, a titanium barrel is the way to go. Try the Titanium Pro Curler. The 20% extra surface area offers easy styling. And, moisture-locking negative ions keep your locks hydrated. With all the heat you are throwing at your tresses, you will really need that extra moisture. Additionally, the titanium barrel infused with magnesium is designed to transfer the heat to the hair quicker, to shorten the amount of time the tool comes into contact with your hair. |
350-410°F
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For textured and treated hair, you will need a more powerful temperature to create and hold the perfect curls. However, you don’t want to jump into the highest heat setting. Start around 350 degrees and increase the temperature gradually if you don’t think it is working. |
250-300°F |
This heat setting is for fine hair, colored hair, or highlighted hair. A temperature under 300 will be the best to keep your hair from acquiring any additional damage. Finer hair also tends to hold the curl better than heavy or thicker strands do. Pro Tip: Try this “all hair types” curling iron, the Tourmaline Ceramic Professional 3/4" Curler. Experts say tourmaline ceramic is best for fine or fragile hair, and this particular curling iron promises long-lasting curls and volume, no matter how treated your locks already are. |
200-250°F |
If you have wavy hair and want a little extra volume (but don’t want to overdo it), then stick with the 200-250 degree range. Always err on the side of caution by starting at a lower temperature. However, depending on your hair's thickness or the humidity, you may want to raise it as you go. |
<160°F |
A lower temperature is best for synthetic locks. As they are extremely fragile, you don’t want to expose them to too much heat. People often find that they can achieve desired results by sticking to around 160 degrees. |
Remember, hair is delicate, and you can’t subject it to high heat every day and expect it to be at peak health. If you need to style on a daily basis, try to embrace going a day or two without a wash and use your iron for touch-ups.
If you are not sure how to define your hair and think you are somewhere in between two settings or two types, then use the lowest temperature recommended and move it up gradually.
No matter what type of curling iron you have and which temperature you set it on, using some thermal protectant hair care is essential. All FHI Heat products are sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free. They will protect your hair while leaving it shiny and workable to pull off those carefree curly hairstyles you crave!
Spring Travel Essentials: Compact Hair Tools
Packing has to be the worst part of spring travel, but we’re trying to make it a little bit easier! And it doesn’t involve any bad hair days, because let’s face it… you need those insta pics! We’re so with you.
Our lineup of compact, travel-friendly hair care products ensures you can achieve professional styling results wherever your travels take you. Here's a guide to the essential hair tools you need to keep your hair looking its best, no matter the destination.
