We've also featured a hair waver below, which is a three-barrelled styling tool that's designed to create mermaid or beach waves with ease. How we test

Key specs – Barrel size: 30mm and 40mm; Maximum temperature: 150°C; Cord length: 2.6m; Extras included in the box: Smoothing dryer, 30mm barrel, 40mm barrel, soft and firm smoothing brushes, round brush, filter cleaning brush and storage case It may seem like a good idea to go for a curling wand that reaches the hottest temperatures, but keep in mind that such a model won’t always deliver the best results. While a higher temperature will speed up styling, it could also cause more breakage and leave hair looking lifeless – which isn’t a look you want. During testing, we measure the time the tool takes to heat up after being switched on, and then how long it takes to style a full head of hair (noting the hair length and texture that we are testing on). We also evaluate the overall ease of use of the curling wand, how it feels in the hand, and the finish and feel of the hair after curling. We also note how well styles last over a typical day of wear. The Wahl Curling Tong gives you long-lasting perfect curls every time. Designed with a slim barrel to create tight, smooth and sleek curls fast whilst minimising the risk of damage to your hair.

Whatever your hair type, the best curling wands and tongs create curls and loose waves with ease. Here are our tried and tested favourites

The protective cool tip provides a safe place to grip the tool, while the nifty safety stand means you’ll never run the risk of burning your carpet – or your house down, since the curling tong will automatically switch off when left unattended for 30 minutes. A ceramic coating helps to keep hair in good health, and a 3m cord allows for ultimate flexibility during styling. That's where we come in. Team MC has decades worth of experience in testing the best straighteners, the best hair dryers and the best curling wands to save you the trial and error. Testing out all the best curling wands 2023 has to offer, on straight, wavy, and curly hair. Curls work for pretty much everyone, whether it be for the best bob hairstyles, short hairstyles for thin hair or short hairstyles for older women.There's a curl for everyone and different curls to create for any occasion - sleek, mermaid waves, and bouncy, corkscrew curls alike. But with so many different styles comes so many questions, what size to go for or what shape is best? or larger -Large barrel curlers are the way to go if you're after gorgeous, super-smooth bouncy waves. Brand-wise, ghd and Cloud Nine are high up there on our wish list and well worth the investment for their long lasting benefits and salon-worthy finish. So, is a curling wand or a curling tong better?

The best thing about the humble curling wand is its versatility as a tool. Sure, you can execute perfectly defined curls, but you can also use a curling wand to create texture. "If you are creating beachy or textured waves, your dry shampoo will come in handy. Use your favourite curling tong to style your hair and allow your hair to set and cool down. Apply dry shampoo throughout the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. This will give definition and shape to your waves. It will also help it last longer," explains Jay Birmingham, celebrity hair stylist.It has sleek, simple controls too. On the rear of the barrel, a circular LCD screen displays the temperature and this screen can be pressed inwards to set the timer. Simply turn the dial that sits neatly around the screen to adjust the temperature to anywhere between 160°C to 230°C. These widths create your classic, well defined, polished looking curls. If you want your hair to look as close to perfect and as far away from a festival as possible, then look no further. Chrome and gold: barrels made from chrome or gold heat very well, but they won’t combat frizz. They might be cheaper, but it probably isn’t worth the risk – they have hot spots that could damage your hair. It all depends on what type of curl you want to create. The width of the barrel is important because that will determine the look you're after.