What Size Curling Iron For Soft Curls?
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Are you in search of the perfect curling iron to achieve soft, bouncy curls?
With so many different sizes and types on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you.
In this blog post, we’ll help you find the best size curling iron for creating soft curls.
We’ll discuss the differences between small, medium, and large barrel sizes, as well as the different types of curling irons available.
What Size Curling Iron For Soft Curls?
When it comes to creating soft curls, you will want to use a curling iron that is 1 to 3/4 inches in diameter.

This size curling iron will give the perfect curl without being too tight or too loose.
If you have shorter hair, you may want to go with a smaller barrel size so that the curls are not too big or overwhelming.
For longer hair, a larger barrel size will give more defined and voluminous curls.
Here is a table that can be used as a general guide for selecting the right size curling iron to achieve soft curls:
Hair Length | Curling Iron Barrel Size |
---|---|
Short hair | 3/4 to 1 inch |
Medium hair | 1 to 1 1/4 inch |
Long hair | 1 1/2 to 2 inches |
What Are The Different Sizes Of Curling Irons?
There are many different sizes of curling irons on the market, but you must pick the best one for your needs.
Below we will give the different sizes of curling irons. So, you can find the perfect match curling iron for your needs.
>> What size curling iron for thick strands?
1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron

The 1 1/2″ barrel curling iron is ideal for loose, voluminous curls. It creates a loose spiral, voluminous curl and is best used on medium to long hair.
When curling hair with this size curling iron, make sure to curl in small sections to avoid frizz.
Also, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to curl hair, then try this technique.
It would be best if you tried to keep sections small in order for your curls to appear more natural.
To give roots a better lift and maintain the curl longer, use three parts (bottom/middle/top). If you want tighter curls, then use a smaller barrel.
2 Inch Curling Iron
Widely known as the “perfect” size curling iron, the 2-inch barrel is ideal for creating both loose and tight curls.
This curling iron barrel can do it all, whether you want loose waves, beachy waves, or defined waves. It also adds a little body to straight hair.
The key to properly curling hair using a curling iron is to understand the various sizes it comes in and how they impact hairstyles.
So, with 2 Inch Curling Iron, you can achieve any type of curl you desire, whether it be loose and wavy or tight and defined.
Just remember to wrap small sections of hair around the barrel.
3/4 Inch Curling Iron

If you want your hair to have those vintage curls, then you need to use a 3/4-inch curling iron.
This size is also good for creating tight ringlets and is best used on short to medium hair.
Since this size curling iron can create such tight curls, make sure to use a heat protectant spray before you curl your hair.
It is always an excellent option for both thin and thick hair.
Also, it’s perfect for shoulder-length hair since it can be used on thin or thick strands of hair and works particularly well on naturally curly locks.
This barrel size is ideal for getting loose, polished, vintage, or corkscrew curls. It may also be used on straight hair to add curl definition.
1 Inch Curling Iron
The 1″ barrel is universally flattering, making it the ideal companion for any curling iron from now on.
Its medium size is perfect for creating defined curls, beachy waves, or even loose spirals.
And since it’s not too big or too small, the 1” barrel curling iron is also great for all hair types and lengths.
This size curling iron is perfect for those who want to add a little bit of curl to their hair without making it look too “done.
It’s also an excellent size for those with shorter hair who want to avoid the “poodle” look. We recommend a thicker barrette for bigger hair.
A wider barrette allows more hair to wrap around the barrel securely, but not so many times that you get tight curls.
Instead, you get lovely loose curls that are perfect for any event.
>> What size curling wand for short hair?
3/8 Inch Curling Iron

This 3/8″ barrel curling iron is mostly recommended for styling thin, short, or medium-length hair.
Since this size curling iron can create such tight curls, make sure to use a heat protectant spray before you curl your hair.
If you want spiral, kinky, or bouncy curls, this is the size curling iron you’re looking for.
It can also be used to add curl definition to straight hair. We recommend this size curling iron for short to medium-length hair.
It’s ideal for thin and wavy hair, which adds more volume. On the other hand, Styling straight hair with this barrel may be time-consuming.
5/8 Inch Curling Iron
The 5/8″ barrel curling iron is the happy medium between loose and defined curls.
It’s also a good size for creating springy spiral curls on thin, medium, or shoulder-length hair.
When it comes to this size curling iron, the world is your oyster. You can create any type of curl you want, from tight ringlets to loosening waves.
It’s a standard choice for curling straight hair. This barrel size offers volume to your hair while also being beneficial to naturally wavy tresses.
>> What curling iron size for beach waves?
How Do You Know What Size Curling Iron You Need?

Now that you know the different types of curling irons and what they’re used for, you might be wondering how you can determine which size curling iron is right for you.
Here are a few factors to consider:
The Length Of Your Hair
It is important to take into account the length of your hair when choosing a curling iron.
If you have short hair, then you need to choose a small barrel size. For medium or long hair, then you can choose a larger barrel size.
So, the length of your hair is one of the main factors that you need to consider when choosing a curling iron.
>> What size curling iron for extra long hair?
Your Hair Type

Another factor to consider is your hair type. When you have thin or delicate hair, you need to be careful when choosing a curling iron.
You need to make sure that you don’t damage your hair with too much heat. Besides that, you also need to consider the material of the curling iron.
A ceramic or tourmaline curling iron is a good choice if you have thin or delicate hair.
Your Desired Curl Type
The last factor to consider is your desired curl type.
If you want tight, defined curls, then you should choose a small barrel size.
But for loose, wavy curls, then you can select a larger barrel size. By considering these factors, you can be sure to find the best curling iron for your needs.
>> What size curling iron for short cut hair?
Tips For Selecting The Curling Iron For Your Needs

To find the best curling iron for your needs, there are a few factors you need to take into account.
Here are a few tips to help you select the ideal curling iron for your needs:
Consider The Barrel Size
The barrel size is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a curling iron.
If you want tight, defined curls, then you need to choose a small barrel size. On the other hand, for loose, wavy curls, you need to choose a larger barrel size.
It is also important to take into account the length of your hair. If you have short hair, then a small barrel size is ideal.
For medium or long hair, then a larger barrel size is better.
Choose The Right Material

You should be aware that curling irons are made from different materials, such as ceramic, tourmaline, titanium, and more.
Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, ceramic curling irons heat up quickly and evenly, but they can damage your hair if you’re not careful.
On the other hand, tourmaline curling irons emit negative ions that help to protect your hair from damage.
That’s why you need to know what material is best for your hair type before you make a purchase.
Pick The Right Heat Setting
Another critical factor to consider is the heat setting. Most curling irons come with an adjustable temperature setting so you can choose the right heat for your hair type.
You need to make sure that you pick a curling iron with a heat setting that is appropriate for your hair type.
You should use a lower heat setting if you have thin or damaged hair. You can use a higher heat setting if you have thick or coarse hair.
As you can see, there are a few factors you need to take into account when selecting a curling iron.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can be sure to find the best curling iron for your needs.
FAQs on What Size Curling Iron For Soft Curls
Can I use a smaller or larger curling iron for softer curls?
It depends on your hair type and texture.
If you have fine hair, a smaller curling iron barrel may be better for achieving a defined curl.
On the other hand, if you have thicker hair, a larger curling iron barrel may be better for creating loose, soft curls.
How do I know which size curling iron to use for my hair?
Consider your hair length, type, and texture when selecting a curling iron size.
Shorter hair may require a smaller barrel size, while longer hair may require a larger barrel size.
Fine hair may require a smaller barrel size for a more defined curl, while thicker hair may require a larger barrel size for looser curls.
Is it better to use a ceramic or a titanium curling iron for soft curls?
Both ceramic and titanium curling irons can be used to create soft curls.
Ceramic curling irons are better for fine or fragile hair, as they distribute heat evenly and prevent damage, while titanium curling irons are better for thick or coarse hair, as they heat up quickly and can handle higher temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Now you know the different types of curling irons and how to choose the right one for your needs, you can be sure to find the perfect curling iron for you.
On the other hand, we hope that now you understand what the size of curling iron is for soft curls. So, don’t wait any longer and start shopping for a curling iron today!