Curling Tongs 101: A Guide to Getting Gorgeous Curls
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie just starting to experiment with your hair, choosing the right curling tongs can make all the difference in achieving those perfect curls. With so many types of curling tongs on the market, it can be a bit overwhelming. As a hairdresser with years of experience, I’m here to help you navigate through the options and find the best tool for your curling needs.
Let’s dive into the various types of curling tongs and what they can do for you. Trust me, understanding these tools will elevate your styling game and help you achieve exactly the look you’re after.
Classic Barrel Tongs
Classic barrel tongs are the workhorses of the curling world, available in a range of barrel sizes. Generally, the barrel sizes range from 19mm to 32mm.
Small Barrels (19mm-25mm): These are perfect for creating tight, bouncy curls. If you’re after that classic, retro look or want your curls to last longer, a smaller barrel is your best bet. Think of the curls you’d see in vintage Hollywood—defined and full of volume.
Medium Barrels (26mm-28mm): These offer a more natural curl that’s neither too tight nor too loose. They’re fantastic for everyday waves and are versatile enough to give you a polished look that works from office to evening out.
Large Barrels (30mm-32mm): Ideal for those who prefer soft, voluminous waves. Large barrels create a relaxed, beachy look that’s effortlessly chic. They’re great for achieving that just-back-from-the-beach style without having to dip your toes in the sand.
Wand Curling Tongs
Wand tongs are the clamp-free curling tools that have become increasingly popular. They have a tapered barrel and allow you to wrap your hair around it freely.
What They Do: Because there’s no clamp, wand tongs give you a more natural, seamless curl. They’re fantastic for creating loose, beachy waves or soft curls with minimal kinks. The absence of a clamp also means less risk of creating dents in your hair.
How to Use Them: Wrap your hair around the barrel and hold for a few seconds, then release. The key is to alternate the direction of your curls for a more natural, tousled effect.
Dual Barrel Tongs
Dual barrel tongs feature two barrels side by side, and they’re perfect for achieving voluminous curls with a bit of extra pizzazz.
What They Do: These tongs create a more defined wave with added texture, often giving a slightly crimped effect. They’re fantastic if you’re looking to add volume and a bit of drama to your curls.
How to Use Them: Simply clamp sections of your hair between the barrels, and hold for a few seconds. They’re ideal for creating that retro, 80s-inspired wave or for adding extra body to fine hair.
Adjustable Tongs
Adjustable tongs offer a bit of everything. They come with various heat settings and barrel sizes, making them incredibly versatile.
What They Do: With adjustable tongs, you can customise your curls to your exact preference—whether that’s tight ringlets, loose waves, or anything in between. They’re perfect for those who like to experiment with different styles.
How to Use Them: Adjust the heat and barrel size according to the look you want. Smaller barrels and higher heat for tighter curls, or larger barrels and lower heat for loose waves.
No matter which type of curling tongs you choose, remember that the key to great curls is practice and technique. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tools and settings to find what works best for your hair type and the look you’re aiming for. With the right curling tongs in hand, you’ll be able to create a stunning array of curls and waves to suit any occasion.