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Whether you're trying to tame frizzy locks or want a sexy, full-bodied 'do for that cocktail party, a curling iron can make you look like you just came from the salon. To get the prettiest curls for your cash, "Marie Claire" recommends irons that combine tourmaline technology with porcelain or ceramic design to close your hair cuticles and provide faster styling with less damage. But of the dozens of different irons available in stores, there are a few that stand head and shoulders above the rest.
Babyliss
If you're looking for long, healthy waves to match those on your favorite Hollywood actress, "Elle" suggests you look no further than the Babyliss curling irons. Although it may look a little chunky, the BaByliss Pro GT Gold Titanium spring curling iron heats up fast, holds it heat and "Allure" adds that it's "great for creating a multitude of looks, like loose, beachy waves and glamorous curls."
Conair Infiniti
Conair's Infiniti product line is recommended by celebrity stylist Jonathan Antin, who applauds Conair for tools that give his clients beautiful, shiny hair. "Marie Claire" listed Conair's Infiniti tourmaline ceramic curling iron as one of its best buys, and "Good Housekeeping" magazine also named the Infiniti a Top 10 beauty product of 2010, noting that the tapered, clamp-free design will give you natural looking curls.
Hot Tools Professional
The Hot Tools Professional ceramic curling iron with multi-heat control has a manual temperature gauge for consistent heat, and its extra-long cool tip means you won't burn your fingers. You know it has something going for it if "InStyle" magazine gives it its "best curling iron" award every year from 2005 through 2011. L.A. stylist Kelsie Gigandet says, "It's a classic, old-school design that allows you to create versatile looks."
Revlon Perfect Heat
If it's curly curls you're after instead of mere spirals, "Ladies Home Journal" points to the Revlon Perfect Heat's 30 heat settings as a great way to shape your hair into tight curls, even if you have a short cut. And since it only needs 60 seconds to warm up, this is one iron you can count on if you're in a hurry. New York City hair guru Helena Faccenda named it one of her must-have bargain buys.
