The best curling irons, according to professional hairstylists

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There are so many curling irons available on the market that it can be difficult to choose which one is right for you.

We asked stylists for their top tips to help us narrow our search.

The pros recommend the top curling irons that suit every hair type and budget.

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Curling irons are similar to blow dryers and straighteners, but not all of them are created equal. It can be difficult to find the right curling iron for you. Shelly Aguirre, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, tells Insider that there are three things you should consider when shopping for hot irons: the adjustable heat settings, the barrel size, and whether the iron is ionic or ceramic.

Next, you need to verify the features of the tool and determine if they meet your needs. Aguirre suggests that you use a smaller iron if your hair is shorter. This will allow the hair to pass the iron at least 1.5x. Aguirre also suggests that you use a clamp rather than a wand if your hair is short. The former requires more practice.

It's important to research before you buy a curling iron. We asked professional stylists for their top picks because there are so many choices on the market.

According to hairstylists, these are the top curling irons for 2021