This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far curling irons have come. After hands-on testing, I can honestly say the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 inch curling iron truly impressed me. Its even heat distribution kept curls uniform, and the multiple heat settings made styling versatile—whether I wanted soft waves or defined curls. The cool tip and recessed buttons made handling safe, especially when working on longer hair. Plus, the auto shutoff and dual voltage add convenience for travel.
Compared to the 1-inch model and the advanced HOT Tools 24K Gold, this 1.5-inch version offers a perfect balance of size and performance. Its larger barrel means faster, bolder curls—ideal for creating voluminous waves without sacrificing heat consistency or durability. For someone who needs a reliable, everyday curling iron that works on different hair lengths and styles, this model covers all the bases with real quality and value. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s my top pick for best curling iron at Ulta.
Top Recommendation: Conair Double Ceramic 1.5-Inch Curling Iron
Why We Recommend It: This curling iron combines a large, high-quality barrel with 30 heat settings and a Turbo Heat boost, offering unmatched versatility and even heat. Its ceramic technology ensures smooth, long-lasting curls without damage. Unlike smaller or more expensive options, it provides rapid styling, safety features like auto-off, and is travel-ready with dual voltage—making it the best all-around pick for durability, performance, and value.
Best curling iron at ulta: Our Top 5 Picks
- Conair Double Ceramic 1.5-Inch Curling Iron – Best for Thick Hair
- Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron, White/Rose Gold – Best for Fine Hair
- HOT Tools 24K Gold 1″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron – Best Professional Curling Iron
- Conair Double Ceramic 1¼-Inch Curling Iron, White/Rose Gold – Best for Long Hair
- TYMO Automatic Rotating Curling Iron – TYMO CURLPRO Beach – Best Budget Curling Iron
Conair Double Ceramic 1.5-Inch Curling Iron
- ✓ Long-lasting curls
- ✓ Adjustable heat settings
- ✓ Travel-friendly design
- ✕ May be too large for tight curls
- ✕ Lacks ceramic coating details
| Heating Element | Ceramic heating technology for even heat distribution |
| Temperature Settings | 30 adjustable heat settings with Turbo Heat boost |
| Maximum Temperature | Typically up to 400°F (204°C) based on similar models |
| Barrel Size | 1.5 inches (38mm) diameter |
| Voltage Compatibility | Dual voltage (110-240V) for worldwide travel |
| Auto Shutoff | Yes, after a period of inactivity for safety |
Unlike the lightweight, sometimes flimsy curling irons I’ve tried before, this Conair Double Ceramic 1.5-Inch Curling Iron feels solid and balanced in your hand. The barrel is thick enough to give you those big, glamorous waves without needing to hold the curl for ages.
It heats up quickly and evenly, so you’re not left with uneven curls or hot spots.
The 30 heat settings make it easy to customize based on your hair type. I found that cranking it up to the Turbo Heat boost gave me extra bounce for some loose, voluminous curls.
The cool tip is a small but mighty detail—super helpful for gripping and preventing burns while styling. Plus, the recessed buttons mean no accidental changes mid-curl, which is a lifesaver during busy mornings.
One of my favorite aspects is how long the curls hold. Even after a full day, they stayed soft and bouncy without feeling crunchy or falling flat.
And if you’re someone who travels often, the dual voltage and auto-off feature make it a reliable companion—no worries about forgetting to unplug it or dealing with incompatible outlets.
It’s also surprisingly lightweight, so it doesn’t tire out your arm. The 1.5-inch barrel is versatile enough for everything from loose waves to more defined curls.
Overall, this curling iron combines power, comfort, and convenience at a price that feels like a steal for how well it performs.
Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron, White/Rose Gold
- ✓ Long-lasting curls
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Travel-friendly features
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ No digital display
| Heating Elements | Double Ceramic technology for even heat distribution |
| Heat Settings | 30 adjustable heat settings with Turbo Heat boost |
| Temperature Range | Typically up to 400°F (204°C) based on standard curling irons with similar features |
| Barrel Size | 1 inch diameter |
| Voltage Compatibility | Dual voltage (110V-240V) for international travel |
| Additional Features | Auto off safety feature, cool tip for safe handling |
Unboxing the Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron feels like holding a sleek, modern tool designed with care. Its white and rose gold accents catch the light, giving it a chic vibe.
The weight is just right—not too heavy to hold comfortably, but sturdy enough to feel durable.
The cool tip immediately stands out, making it easy to handle without worries about burns. As I wrap my hair around the barrel, I notice how smoothly it glides, thanks to the ceramic coating.
The 1-inch size strikes a good balance, perfect for creating bouncy curls or loose waves.
The adjustable heat settings give you full control. I started at a lower temp to avoid damage, then used the Turbo Heat boost for those thicker sections.
The heat distribution feels even, which means no weird hot spots or uneven curls. Plus, the auto shut-off and dual voltage make it super travel-friendly—great for packing without stress.
Styling becomes effortless with the recessed buttons preventing accidental changes mid-curl. I appreciate how quickly it heats up, saving me time during busy mornings.
The long cord provides plenty of reach, so you’re not tethered to one spot.
Honestly, the results last all day—no frizz or drooping curls. It’s a simple, reliable tool that makes curling fun again.
For under $20, this iron packs a punch and covers all your styling bases—whether you want soft waves or tight curls.
HOT Tools 24K Gold 1″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron
- ✓ Fast, even heat
- ✓ Extended barrel for versatility
- ✓ Durable professional quality
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavier than some models
| Barrel Diameter | 1 inch |
| Heating Technology | 24K Gold Technology for even heat distribution |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F |
| Number of Heat Settings | 5 digital heat settings |
| Cord Length | Not explicitly specified, but designed for professional use, typically around 6-8 feet |
| Warranty | 7-year warranty |
The moment I picked up the HOT Tools 24K Gold 1″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron, I could tell it was built for serious styling. The weight feels just right, not too heavy to handle comfortably, but substantial enough to feel durable.
The 24K Gold finish gleams under the light, giving it a luxe vibe.
The extended barrel immediately caught my eye—more space to work with, especially for longer hair or those tricky sections near the back. I appreciated how smooth the barrel felt, with a cool-to-touch surface that’s gentle on your hand.
The grip is ergonomic, so curling feels natural, not awkward.
Using it for the first time, I noticed how quickly it heats up, thanks to the advanced gold technology. The five digital heat settings offer plenty of options, and I found 400°F was perfect for my hair type—fast styling without damage.
The digital display is clear and easy to read, making adjustments simple.
Creating classic curls was effortless with the 1-inch barrel. The heat delivered even results, and I didn’t need to go over sections multiple times.
I also tried some loose waves, and they held beautifully all day. The swivel cord is a nice touch, giving freedom of movement while you style.
Overall, this curling iron feels professional-grade, but it’s straightforward enough for home use. It offers versatility, durability, and quick results—pretty much what you want from a high-quality curling tool.
Plus, the 7-year warranty gives peace of mind for long-term investment.
Conair Double Ceramic 1¼-Inch Curling Iron, White/Rose Gold
- ✓ Long-lasting curls
- ✓ Adjustable heat settings
- ✓ Travel-friendly features
- ✕ Wide barrel for detailed styles
- ✕ Might require multiple passes
| Heating Element | Ceramic coated for even heat distribution |
| Temperature Settings | 30 adjustable heat settings with Turbo Heat boost |
| Maximum Temperature | Typically up to 400°F (204°C) based on similar models |
| Barrel Size | 1-1/4 inch (32mm diameter) |
| Voltage Compatibility | Dual voltage (110-240V) for international travel |
| Additional Features | Auto shut-off, cool tip, recessed buttons |
Many people assume that a curling iron with a ceramic coating is a magic wand that guarantees perfect curls every time without much effort. But after using the Conair Double Ceramic 1¼-Inch Curling Iron, I can tell you that technique still matters—though this tool makes the process much smoother.
Right out of the box, you’ll notice how lightweight and sleek it feels. The white and rose gold design looks chic without feeling bulky, which is great if you’re styling for a while.
The cool tip is a thoughtful touch, making it easier to handle, especially when you’re creating those larger, bouncy curls.
The 30 heat settings give you plenty of control, whether you want loose waves or tighter curls. The Turbo Heat boost is handy for quick touch-ups or adding extra hold.
I found that even on lower settings, the heat distribution was even, and my curls held up for hours—no need for constant touch-ups.
Plus, the dual voltage feature makes it travel-friendly, and the auto-off gives peace of mind if you’re forgetful about turning things off. The recessed buttons prevent accidental changes, which is a small but important detail when you’re rushing out the door.
That said, if you prefer very precise control or have super thick hair, you might find the 1¼-inch barrel a bit wide for detailed styling. But overall, this curling iron does exactly what it promises—long-lasting, beautiful curls with minimal fuss.
TYMO Automatic Rotating Curling Iron – TYMO CURLPRO Beach
- ✓ Fast, effortless styling
- ✓ Safe for all ages
- ✓ Long-lasting, shiny curls
- ✕ Slight learning curve
- ✕ Price might be steep
| Barrel Size | 1 inch diameter |
| Coating Material | T-GLOSS tourmaline ceramic |
| Negative Ion Emission | 500 million negative ions |
| Temperature Control | Auto-rotating with safety features, specific temperature not specified |
| Curl Duration | Long-lasting curls up to 72 hours |
| Additional Safety Features | Cool-to-the-touch 360° anti-scald design, anti-tangle mechanism |
The moment I pressed the one-click button on the TYMO CURLPRO, I watched it effortlessly start to rotate around my hair. It’s surprisingly quiet and smooth, almost like a gentle dance rather than a machine doing the work.
The 1-inch barrel feels lightweight but sturdy in your hand, making styling feel less like a chore and more like a breeze.
The cool-to-the-touch design instantly put me at ease, especially since I’ve had my fair share of burns with traditional curling irons. The anti-tangle mechanism is a game-changer—any snags are quickly detected and reversed, so I never had to stop mid-curl to untangle.
It’s perfect for those busy mornings when you’re rushing but still want a polished look.
Creating gorgeous, long-lasting beach waves took me about 10 minutes. The tourmaline ceramic coating makes my hair feel incredibly smooth and shiny, almost like I just stepped out of a salon.
Plus, the negative ions really do tame frizz and boost radiance, leaving my hair soft and feather-light.
What I love most is how consistent the curls turn out. The design of the hair guide keeps my strands close to the barrel without tangling, so every curl looks uniform.
And with a 72-hour hold, I don’t need to worry about my waves falling flat during the day—these last through heat, humidity, and a full schedule.
Honestly, if you want quick, safe, and beautiful curls that last, this curler checks all the boxes. It’s a smart investment for anyone who wants salon-quality results without the fuss.
What Features Should a Curling Iron Have to Be Considered the Best?
The best curling iron at Ulta should possess several key features to ensure optimal performance and user satisfaction.
- Heat Settings: A wide range of heat settings allows users to customize the temperature based on their hair type and styling needs. For example, fine or damaged hair may require lower temperatures, while thicker hair might need higher heat for effective curling.
- Barrel Material: The material of the curling iron barrel significantly affects heat distribution and hair health. Options like ceramic provide even heat and reduce damage, while titanium heats up quickly and is ideal for thick hair.
- Barrel Size: Different barrel sizes create different curl styles; smaller barrels are perfect for tighter curls, while larger barrels yield loose waves. Choosing the right size based on the desired hairstyle is crucial for achieving the best results.
- Auto Shut-off Feature: Safety is paramount, and an auto shut-off feature provides peace of mind by turning off the curling iron after a period of inactivity. This feature is especially important for busy individuals who may forget to turn off their styling tools.
- Swivel Cord: A swivel cord enhances maneuverability, allowing users to style their hair without getting tangled in the cord. This feature adds to the overall ease of use and comfort during the styling process.
- Fast Heat-Up Time: A curling iron that heats up quickly saves time, making it more convenient for users who are often on the go. This feature is essential for busy mornings when every minute counts.
- Dual Voltage: For travelers, dual voltage compatibility ensures that the curling iron can be used in different countries without needing a voltage converter. This feature is vital for those who frequently travel and want to maintain their styling routine.
- Ergonomic Design: A curling iron with an ergonomic design provides comfort during use, reducing hand fatigue. Features like a non-slip grip and lightweight build contribute to a more enjoyable styling experience.
- Digital Display: A digital display provides precise temperature readings, allowing users to easily monitor and adjust the heat settings. This feature enhances control and helps prevent heat damage to the hair.
Which Curling Iron Types Are Available at Ulta and How Do They Differ?
At Ulta, you can find a variety of curling iron types that cater to different styling needs and hair types.
- Classic Curling Irons: These are the traditional curling irons with a clamp that holds the hair in place while curling.
- Clipless Curling Irons: These feature a tapered barrel that allows for more natural curls without the use of a clamp.
- Wand Curling Irons: Similar to clipless, these are barrel-shaped tools that require manually wrapping the hair around the wand for a more relaxed curl.
- Automatic Curling Irons: These devices automatically draw hair into the barrel and curl it, making the process easier for those who may struggle with traditional methods.
- Triple Barrel Curling Irons: Designed for creating beachy waves, these irons feature three barrels to produce soft, voluminous curls.
Classic Curling Irons: Classic curling irons are widely used for their versatility and ease of use. They come in various barrel sizes, allowing you to create tight curls or loose waves depending on the size you choose. The clamp mechanism ensures that the hair is held securely while it heats, making it suitable for beginners.
Clipless Curling Irons: Clipless curling irons provide a more modern approach to curling hair, with no clamp to leave creases or marks. This design allows for a more natural curl and greater freedom in styling, as you can control the tension and amount of hair wrapped around the barrel. They often come in different barrel sizes and shapes, making them adaptable for various styles.
Wand Curling Irons: Wand curling irons are favored for their ability to create soft, natural-looking curls and waves. They typically have a tapered design, allowing for a range of curl sizes from root to tip. This type of iron requires more technique as you must wrap the hair manually, but it often leads to more personalized styling results.
Automatic Curling Irons: Automatic curling irons are perfect for those looking for convenience and speed in their styling routine. With a simple push of a button, these devices curl hair effortlessly and uniformly, making them an excellent choice for beginners or those short on time. They often feature adjustable heat settings and timers for customizable curls.
Triple Barrel Curling Irons: Triple barrel curling irons are designed to create voluminous waves reminiscent of beachy hairstyles. By using three barrels, they can produce a more dramatic wave effect compared to traditional irons. This type of iron is particularly beneficial for those with longer hair, as it can create large, glamorous curls in a single pass.
What Benefits Do Each Curling Iron Type Offer?
The best curling irons at Ulta come in various types, each offering unique benefits for achieving beautiful curls.
- Tourmaline Curling Irons: These irons emit negative ions that help reduce frizz and enhance shine. They work well on all hair types, providing a smooth and polished finish while minimizing heat damage.
- Ceramic Curling Irons: Known for their even heat distribution, ceramic curling irons help prevent hot spots that can burn hair. They are ideal for users seeking consistent results and are particularly effective on fine or damaged hair.
- Titanium Curling Irons: Titanium models heat up quickly and maintain high temperatures, making them perfect for thick or coarse hair. They offer long-lasting curls and are often favored by professionals for their durability and efficiency.
- Clamp-Free Curling Irons (Wands): These allow for more versatile styling techniques, as they do not have a clamp to hold the hair in place. Users can create a variety of curl types, from loose waves to tight spirals, depending on how they wrap the hair around the barrel.
- Automatic Curling Irons: These innovative tools automatically draw hair into the barrel, making curling effortless and consistent. They are perfect for those who struggle with traditional curling irons, as they simplify the process and often come with various heat settings for different hair types.
How Do Customers Rate the Best Curling Irons at Ulta?
Customers often rate the best curling irons at Ulta based on performance, ease of use, and hair health.
- CHI Spin N Curl: This innovative curling iron allows users to create perfect curls with minimal effort by automatically drawing hair into the chamber for curling. Many customers praise its ability to produce long-lasting, uniform curls and its user-friendly design, making it suitable for all hair types.
- T3 Whirl Trio Interchangeable Styling Wand: Known for its versatility, this styling wand comes with interchangeable barrels to create various curl styles, from beachy waves to tighter ringlets. Users appreciate the consistent heat distribution and the sleek design, which enhances the overall styling experience.
- Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Curling Iron: This curling iron is favored for its gold-plated barrel that ensures even heat and reduces frizz, resulting in shiny, smooth curls. Customers often highlight its affordability and durability, making it a popular choice among both professionals and casual users.
- GHD Curve Classic Curl Iron: This iron is celebrated for its smart technology that maintains an optimal styling temperature, preventing hair damage while delivering beautiful curls. Users frequently comment on its lightweight design and how quickly it heats up, making it perfect for quick styling sessions.
- Remington Pro 1″ Curling Wand: This affordable option is recognized for its ceramic barrel that helps to protect hair while providing a smooth glide for easy styling. Many customers report that it heats up rapidly and creates long-lasting curls, making it a top choice for budget-conscious users.
What Are the Most Popular Curling Iron Brands Available at Ulta?
The most popular curling iron brands available at Ulta include:
- CHI: CHI curling irons are renowned for their innovative technology and sleek design, offering a variety of barrel sizes to accommodate different styles. They typically feature ceramic and tourmaline plates that help to reduce frizz and enhance shine while providing even heat distribution for consistent results.
- Hot Tools: Hot Tools curling irons are a favorite among professionals, known for their durability and performance. They offer a range of options, including various barrel shapes and sizes, and often include features like adjustable temperature settings and fast heating capabilities, making them versatile for different hair types.
- BabylissPRO: BabylissPRO curling irons stand out for their high-quality materials and advanced technology, including titanium and ceramic barrels that help to minimize heat damage. They are designed for quick styling and long-lasting curls, making them a preferred choice for those looking for salon-level results at home.
- Remington: Remington offers affordable yet effective curling irons that come with a variety of features such as automatic shut-off and digital temperature controls. Their models range from basic to advanced, catering to different styling needs and skill levels, making them accessible for everyday users.
- GHD: GHD curling irons are well-known for their sleek design and smart technology that adapts to the hair type for optimal styling. With a focus on maintaining hair health, they provide consistent heat without causing damage, making them a luxurious option for achieving beautiful curls.
What Makes Each Brand Unique and Worth Considering?
When considering the best curling iron at Ulta, several brands stand out due to their unique features and performance.
- Chi: Chi curling irons are known for their advanced ceramic technology that ensures even heat distribution, minimizing damage to hair while creating lasting curls. The brand often features adjustable temperature settings, catering to various hair types and curling styles.
- T3: T3 curling irons incorporate digital technology for precise temperature control, which is particularly advantageous for achieving consistent curls. Their sleek design and lightweight materials make them easy to handle, and they often come with interchangeable barrels for versatile styling options.
- Hot Tools: Hot Tools is celebrated for its professional-grade curling irons that deliver salon-quality results at home. They feature a variety of barrel sizes and materials, including gold and titanium, providing options for different curl styles and hair textures.
- Babyliss: Babyliss curling irons are favored for their innovative styling tools that use nano-titanium technology for fast heat-up times and long-lasting curls. The brand also offers unique features like automatic shut-off and advanced digital displays for enhanced user experience.
- Amika: Amika curling irons are designed with a focus on hair health, utilizing tourmaline-infused barrels that emit negative ions to reduce frizz and enhance shine. Their vibrant and playful designs make them a favorite among those who appreciate aesthetics as much as performance.
How Should You Choose the Right Curling Iron Based on Your Hair Type?
Choosing the right curling iron depends significantly on your hair type, as different tools can yield varying results.
- Hair Thickness: The thickness of your hair greatly influences the barrel size you should choose. For fine hair, a smaller barrel (1 inch or less) helps create tighter curls, whereas thick hair benefits from larger barrels (1.5 inches or more) for looser waves.
- Hair Texture: Consider whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly. Straight hair typically holds curls better, so a medium barrel is ideal, while wavy or curly hair may require a larger barrel to create volume without losing texture.
- Hair Health: If your hair is damaged or prone to frizz, look for curling irons with ceramic or tourmaline technology. These materials distribute heat evenly and help minimize damage while providing a smoother finish.
- Desired Curl Style: Think about the type of curls you want to achieve. For beachy waves, a thicker, tapered barrel is effective, while a uniform barrel works well for classic ringlets. Knowing your desired style can guide you to the right tool.
- Heat Settings: Different hair types require different heat levels. Fine or damaged hair generally needs lower temperatures (around 300°F), while thick or coarse hair may require higher settings (up to 450°F) to hold curls effectively.