12 Curling Irons That Can Add Long-Lasting Volume and Bounce to Fine Hair (2025)

Our Top Picks

Temperature Range: 280 to 430 degrees | Size: 0.5, 1, 1.5 inch

In our extensive curling iron test, we awarded this the ‘best for fine hair.’ When the Byrdie team tested this one on several hair types (it has five temperature settings, so can be used by all), it particularly shined on those with thin hair. The curls looked smooth and defined and lasted—in fact, they looked good for almost two full days.

The affordable tool comes with three interchangeable barrels of different sizes, offering versatility and customization. It also boasts an automatic shut-off and a wide range of temperatures (and the temperature you set stays consistent due to an intelligent temperature control system). The ceramic barrels also help protect hair and boost shine. All that to say, if you have fine hair and are looking for a curling iron that gives you plenty of options (at a fair price point), we wholeheartedly recommend this one.

Temperature Range: Up to 430 degrees | Size: 1 inch

As its name suggests, this one-inch wonder is coated with 24-carat gold for fast, even heating. Not only is it lightweight, but it creates a great curl and can hold a steady temperature of 310 degrees, so it won't damage the hair. Another cool feature? When the curling iron senses heat loss, it restores it to the barrel. Unlike traditional spring irons, the Marcel-style clamp offers more control when styling. (If you've never used a Marcel iron, it'll take a little practice, but before long, you'll be a pro.) To top it all off, Hot Tools backs this iron with a seven-year warranty.

Temperature Range: Up to 375 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Conair's budget-friendly Double Ceramic Curling Iron was designed with fine hair in mind, and it’s one of our top picks for short and mid-length strands due to its short barrel. The non-tapered ceramic barrel evenly distributes heat while helping to smooth the hair, and it boasts a moderate heat range (but tons of heat settings) that doesn’t go above 375 degrees. It also heats up quickly, while the double-ceramic barrel protects against damage.

Temperature Range: Up to 410 degrees | Size: 0.5 to 1 inch

We found this affordable drugstore pick from Remington holds its own against much fancier devices. First of all, it’s quick heating and features a tapered ceramic barrel, 10 digitally controlled heat settings, and auto shut-off. We also like that it comes with a protective glove and heats up in just 30 seconds. The only way it could be better was if there were interchangeable barrels for more curl options.

Temperature Range: 140 to 450 degrees | Size: 1 inch

NuMe's Magic Curling Wand features a clampless, non-tapered titanium barrel, which helps give curled looks staying power. The negative ion conditioning technology is designed to tame static and flyaways for the smoothest finish, and digital temperature settings start as low as 140 degrees to protect fine strands. You can choose between bouncy ringlets or soft waves without worrying about friction or breakage. If you struggle to use curling irons with a clamp, this is for you. Our only criticism is that some reviewers say it breaks after a few years.

Temperature Range: Up to 365 degrees | Size: 1 inch

If you want to add curls to a shorter style, we recommend the 1-inch Curve. What sets this styler apart is its adaptive heat temperature that changes depending on the section of the hair and heats to 365 degrees (its only heat setting). This makes it really great for fine hair or damaged hair. Plus, the cool tip helps prevent burns when holding it near your face and scalp. It also features an ergonomic design and creates shiny results. We do wish it had more than one heat setting, though.

Temperature Range: 370 to 410 degrees | Size: 1 inch

If you have longer hair, we recommend the Pro Spin N Curl from CHI's Volcanic Lava line—it cuts down styling time but leaves you with a professional finish. It does this by sucking up small hair sections into its heated curl chamber before releasing a bouncy 1-inch curl. It’s also made of a unique combination of volcanic lava and ceramic to create the smoothest looks. We like that it has a selection of preset temperature settings for each hair texture, although it doesn’t go below 370 degrees—which isn’t optimal for protecting fine hair.

Temperature Range: 250 to 430 degrees | Size: 1 inch

Unlike many curling tools, this long barrel iron from Bio Ionic is one inch wide and roughly two inches longer than average. This means you can create glamorous spirals or waves—even in hard-to-reach sections like the back of your head. It's a fantastic choice for those with long hair, but it would also totally work for people with short or medium hair. One downside to this model is that some testers complained that their hair slipped out of the clamp, so it’s not ideal for superfine hair types.

Temperature Range: Up to 440 degrees | Size: 1.25 inches

Drybar's 3-Day Bender rotating curling iron pulls out all the stops in terms of extra features. First, it has a 1.25-inch barrel with a rotating clamp that transforms slick, flat hair into bouncy curls in no time. The iron has ionic and infrared technology that smoothes the hair and heats it from the inside out, preventing breakage. It also has digital heat settings for ideal temperature control, an automatic shut-off feature, and a 9-foot power cord. The rotating clamp also makes curling super easy, but if you're not careful, hair can get caught and tangled.

Temperature Range: Up to 450 degrees | Size: 1 inch

If it's loose waves that you're after, your best bet is the Beachwaver Pro. Its 1-inch gold-infused tourmaline barrel and dual-rotation feature make easy-breezy waves a breeze. It heats up in 30 seconds but has low enough wattage to be travel-friendly. We also like that it has a 9-foot power cord and a specially designed clamp that won't create that dreaded crimp. One complaint is that curls can fall easily while using this, so try using mousse and hairspray to hold your curls.

Temperature Range: 300 to 410 degrees | Size: 3/8-3/4 inches

If you have fine hair and like creating tight curls, this wand was practically made for you. It features multiple heat settings to ensure you have an option that's right for you (and safe for your hair). The thin, tapered barrel is extra long, which helps those with long hair get to the end the first time. At first glance, you might not think this tool looks super versatile, but you can use small sections of hair to create ultra-tight curls or larger sections to create a looser, more relaxed look. A bonus is that it has an auto shut-off feature, so you don't need to panic if you forget to unplug it before leaving home. Be warned: The long, thin barrel is tricky to use at first, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it.

Temperature Range: 325 to 450 degrees | Size: 1 inch

This Kim Kimble tourmaline-ceramic curling iron works exceptionally well on thin hair as it heats up quickly for less damage and static. The design delivers consistent heat across the entire length of the ceramic barrel but still has a clamp so that you can create wraparound curls or with the clamp for added support. We love the tangle-free swivel cord and tourmaline coating for a shinier, damage-free finish.

FAQ

• What kind of curling iron is best for fine hair?

  “It is essential for the tool to offer a range of temperatures, ideally 120-220 degrees Celsius, to allow for gentler styling,” says Hellström. “It’s also really important that the curling iron has a smooth design and doesn’t make any marks on the hair when clamped shut.”

• How can I prep the hair for a lasting curl?

  Hellström says that the key to a lasting curled style is using the right styling products beforehand. “Always use heat styling protection, for example, and a lightweight hairspray that can be applied to each hair strand before you curl it for better hold,” he says. Fiore adds: “The most important step to consider when using heat tools is to start with a good blowout base. The hair should be fully dried and smooth, so you aren't relying solely on the iron to smooth and style the hair.”

• What temperature should a curling iron be for fine hair?

  “In terms of the temperature of the device, I usually prefer 350-400 degrees Celsius,” says Fiore. “It works quicker at a hotter temperature, and you aren’t leaving a lower temp iron on the hair for a longer period of time.”

• What size barrel is the best for fine hair?

  “Barrel size should depend on the hair length and the type of curl or wave you are looking to achieve,” says Fiore. “Typically, the longer the hair, the larger the barrel.” Fiore suggests using a smaller barrel or a larger size for tighter curls, such as 1 3/4 or larger for beach waves.