Shopping for a curling iron should be pretty straightforward. Except for most of us, it's not. With constantly evolving technology, shapes, and sizes, it can be difficult to keep track of what's hype, what's not, and what's actually worth spending your money on. (Especially since some of the best curling irons have a hefty price tag.) That being said, there are some truly great rods and wands out there—especially if you're looking for an iteration that curls shorter hair with aplomb.
We conducted hours of research on the best curling irons for short hair, evaluating them on design type, barrel size, heat settings, and material. We considered different hair types and textures, and how easy each tool is to use (we pulled from previous experience with some of the designs). After considering numerous brands and iron varieties, we landed on this list of truly exceptional hot tools that will elevate any short hair look (literally).
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Best Budget:
Best for Soft Waves:
Best Titanium:
Best for Damaged Hair:
Best Tapered Wand:
Best Rotating Rod:
Best for Beach Waves:
Best Cone-Shaped Rod:
What We Like
Shape encourages bounce
Made with less damaging tourmaline
Heats up fast
What to Consider
Temperature cannot be adjusted
Temperature Range: Up to 410 degrees | Barrel Size: 1/2, 1 inch
This oddly shaped, pearl-inspired wand from NuMe has already become somewhat of a legend in the curling wand world. And while it works beautifully on hair of any length, it's especially great for those with a shorter chop. Made with tourmaline, the unique pearl shape claims to encourage bouncy texture and full-bodied waves and curls. It's also designed for every kind of texture, from ultra-thick to baby-fine. The only thing we don't love about it is there's only one temperature setting.
What We Like
Comparatively affordable
Works quickly and creates long-lasting curls
Adjustable heat settings
What to Consider
Can snag hair
Temperature Range: Up to 430 degrees | Barrel Size: 3/4, 1 1/2, 1, 1 1/4 inch
Okay, we're just going to say it: This curling iron from Hot Tools might just be one of the most popular, effective, and budget-friendly curling irons of all time—especially if you have short hair. The 24K surface creates long-lasting and ultra-defined curly hair looks, while innovative pulse technology (which claims to get hot and stay hot without a moment's hesitation) may chop styling time by 50%. Reviewers have noted it can snag hair so we suggest sectioning hair into smaller, more manageable pieces while styling.
What We Like
Large barrel creates softer waves and volume
Heats up quickly, within 30 seconds
Very affordable
What to Consider
While there are multiple heat settings, the temperature isn’t specified
Temperature Range: Not specified, although there are 25 heat settings | Barrel Size: ½, ¾, 1 inch
You might think a larger curling iron barrel is only suited for longer hair, but that would be awfully limiting, wouldn't it? Larger barrels can do wonders on curly hair—they add lift and volume and create soft waves any mermaid would envy. This bargain-buy heats up quickly (in just about 30 seconds) and evenly. It comes in several different sizes, and while we love the larger one for the aforementioned reasons, there's a half-inch option that's perfect for creating tighter curls on shorter strands. There are a whopping 25 heat settings, although the temperatures aren’t specified; your best bet is to check online for info as to which range is best for your hair type and texture.
What We Like
Titanium boosts shine
Sleek design
Heats up quickly with adjustable heat settings
What to Consider
Curls could last longer
Temperature Range: Up to 450 degrees | Barrel Size: 3/4, 1 ¼ inch
Sleek, rose-gold packaging aside (but seriously, who wouldn't want to display this on their vanity?), this one-inch wand by Foxybae consistently receives five-star reviews and is applauded for its habit of potentially inducing impeccable shine and hold—sans spray, thanks to the titanium barrel. It heats up super fast and has adjustable heat settings to fit your hair texture. However, while it heats up to 450 degrees, some reviewers said it doesn't hold curls as well as some other curling irons.
What We Like
Less damaging than other options
Easy to use
Boosts volume
What to Consider
Temperature cannot be adjusted
Temperature Range: Up to 375 degrees | Barrel Size: 1 inch
This cult-favorite one-inch wand is great for any hair length (take it from someone who's had them all) but is especially handy for short hair. It also may be one of the least damaging in the bunch. Featuring the brand's exclusive Advanced Care Ceramic technology (which claims to simultaneously repair the hair as you style), it's safe for color-treated, dry, and yes, even damaged strands. Also—it's fast. We just wish we could adjust the temperature as that would help protect more damage-prone locks.
What We Like
Tapered wand creates versatile styles
Heats up quickly
Leaves hair soft and shiny
What to Consider
Not ideal for every style
Temperature Range: Up to 365 degrees | Barrel Size: 1 inch
According to the brand's helpful product comparison guide, this is one of the best Ghd curling irons for short hair, and if the stellar reviews have anything to say about it, they're not lying to us. Ever so slightly tapered at the end, the wand boasts cutting-edge tri-zone technology that claims to ensure an even and consistent temperature for healthier, longer-lasting results. There's even a preset button that keeps the temp at 365 degrees (the optimal temp to hold a curl without damaging the hair shaft) Yes, this one's an investment. But if our personal stash of Ghd tools (some of which have lasted us for five years and beyond) gives us a hint, it's a worthy one.
What We Like
Rotating clamp styles hair faster
Helps reduce frizz
Heats up quickly
What to Consider
Reviewers say the clamp lets hair slip
Temperature Range: Up to 440 degrees | Barrel Size: 1.25 inches
Rotating curling irons are ideal for curling newbies (or people who don't curl their hair often) who may have trouble curling the manual way. Aesthetically, Drybar's signature bright yellow iron is a winner, but so is its amazing technology and curl payoff for those with shorter strands. Great for all hair types—from tightly coiled curls to pin-straight, this iron boasts a rotating clamp in addition to dual ceramic plates, infrared heating technology, and a handy digital temperature reader. Not only do we love how easy the design makes curling, but the tech may actually cut your styling time in half. The only downside we came across is some reviewers noticed the curl clamp can let hair slip out.
Best for Beach Waves
Beachwaver Co. S1 Rotating Curling Iron
What We Like
Creates natural-looking waves
Rotating technology
Has 30-minute shutoff
What to Consider
Curls could last longer
Temperature Range: Up to 410 degrees | Barrel Size: 1 inch
The Beachwaver Co. has been making waves within the industry (literal and metaphoric) for a while now, and for good reason. Case in point: It's a rotating curling iron that has two different speeds (fast or slow, take yourpick), boasts ceramic technology that may decrease damage, and allows you to create every iteration of curl for your short hair—from intricate and defined to loose and beachy.
We love the soft, tousled look for short hair, especially in the summertime, and this tool helps you achieve it (almost) effortlessly. However, since it's designed to be gentler on hair, the curls may not last as long as some other options on this list. We suggest using a texturizing spray to keep them going strong for longer.
Best Cone-Shaped Rod
Paul Mitchell Neuro Angle Rod Curling Iron
What We Like
Easy and comfortable to use
Heats up quickly
Creates lasting styles
What to Consider
May be too involved for curling beginners
Temperature Range: Up to 450 degrees | Size: 1 inch
Full disclosure: When this curling wand first came across our desks, we were skeptical. Would an angling iron actually prove useful? Or would it just be a liability (aka lead to more ear, neck, and chin burns)? Thankfully, it proved not to be the latter. With four different rod positions, this universally flattering one-inch wand allows you to easily position the rod without distressing your biceps, shoulders, or neck in the process. Plus, it heats up to 450 degrees in record time—we're talking just a matter of seconds, folks.
What to Look for in a Curling Iron For Short Hair
- Barrel Size: Go for a smaller barrel, like one that's 0.5 to one inch in size if you're hoping to achieve curls that last on short hair. Bigger barrels may still work (depending on just how short your hair is) but will create a looser curl or wave. You want it to be able to wrap around without being too loose, and we've found 0.5 to one inch is the ideal size for hair that's shorter than shoulder length.
- Type: Typically an iron uses a clip to hold the curl in place, whereas a wand requires you to hold the curl in place. Both can yield the same results, so it's truly just a matter of preference of what you like to use more.
- Heat settings: Adjustable heat settings can help you find the temperature that is best for your hair type and texture. This may help prevent damage and keep your hair in tip-top shape, which is something we all want. While some curling irons on this list have a single heat setting, we've only included ones that keep it under 400 degrees (which is optimal for preventing breakage).
FAQ
Is a curling iron or wand better for short hair?
Both tools work well for short hair styling. It depends on what you're comfortable with. The one you have success with is truly based on your personal preference and how you use it.
How do you curl short hair with a curling iron?
Once your hair is dry, part your hair in the middle and divide it into as many sections as you can. Find the desired heat setting. Try to wrap your hair in increments of 1 inch and begin curling the front pieces, making your way to the back, on either side of your part. Remember to use a barrel between 0.5 and 1 inch for curliest results.
Why Trust Byrdie
Erin Jahns is a Los Angeles-based editor and writer who's worked in the beauty space for over five years. A former Byrdie editor, Jahns knows her way around hair tools like curling irons better than most. She's also had every many of hair cut and style and is adept at creating curls at every length. As a seasoned beauty expert, she's tested her share of hair products and tools so she can confidently recommend them to readers. She's currently the beauty director at WhoWhatWear.