Curling wand vs straighteners for curls

The curls each tool makes

A wand is a round barrel, so each wrapped section takes the barrel's shape. A 25 mm (1 inch) barrel gives classic curls, smaller barrels give tighter ringlets and bigger ones give loose waves. Because the barrel is the same every time, curls look consistent all over the head. A tapered wand adds natural variation from root to tip.

Straighteners curl by twisting the iron half a turn and gliding down the section, so the hair bends around the plate edges. The result is usually a looser, more open curl or a flat, brushed wave, with smoother lengths. It is great for undone waves, bends and flicked ends, but harder to make tight, defined ringlets.

A ghd wand and a ghd straightener compared

Both tools below hold ghd's 185 °C (365 °F) styling temperature, so the difference is shape and purpose. Facts are from the Amazon UK listings.

Technique and time

Wands are quick once you have the knack: wrap, hold for a few seconds, release. With a heat glove, a full head of loose curls can be faster than with straighteners, because you are not gliding slowly down each section. Our guide on how to use a curling wand covers holding times and wrapping direction.

Curling with straighteners takes more practice. The speed of the glide controls the curl: slow for tighter curls, faster for looser waves. Too fast and the curl drops; too slow and you may get a kink. Our step by step guide to curling with straighteners explains the half twist method. The benefit is that you only need one tool, which is handy for travel.

When to add a wand

If you want one tool, choose a straightener designed for curling with a rounded barrel; see the best straighteners for curling. If you are adding a wand, our best curling wands guide compares premium options by barrel size.

• You curl several times a week: a wand is quicker and more consistent.
• You want defined ringlets or tight curls: a wand with a small barrel.
• You want beachy waves only now and then: straighteners are enough.
• You travel light: straighteners with rounded edges do both jobs.
• Your hair is short: a slim wand or tongs; straighteners are fine for flicks and bends.

See straighteners that curl well →

Making curls last with either tool

Curls hold better on clean, fully dry hair. Use a heat protection product as the maker directs, keep sections a similar size and let each curl cool before touching it. Some people pin curls while they cool for extra hold. Brush or rake through with fingers only once the whole head is cool. Fixed temperature tools, such as ghd's at 185 °C (365 °F), take the guesswork out of heat; on adjustable tools, start lower on fine hair.

Safety

Wands bring your fingers close to the hot barrel, so always use the supplied heat glove. Straighteners twisted near the face can catch the ear or neck, so angle them away from skin. Rest both tools on a heat mat or stand and unplug when done.

Note:Barrels and plates burn skin. Keep hot tools away from children and pets and never leave them switched on unattended.

Frequently asked questions

Can straighteners curl as well as a wand? They can make lovely waves and loose curls, but a wand gives more defined, consistent curls.

Is it easier to curl with a wand or straighteners? Most people find a wand easier to get consistent curls with. Straighteners need a steady glide and twist.

What size wand is closest to straightener curls? A larger barrel, around 32 mm (1.25 inch), gives loose waves similar to straightener curls.

Do I need a heat glove for a wand? Yes, a heat resistant glove is strongly advised, and most premium wands include one.