This or That: Curling Iron Vs. Curling Wand--Which is Better?

Hey you! How was your weekend? Mine was a rainy one, mostly spent inside, minus a date with myself to Target. More on that at the end of the post. But first--today's post is inspired by two of my most popular posts: How to Use a Curling Wand and FAQ Guide to Curling/Clipless Wands. And it is inspired by a question my friend Ashley had that I get asked often: which is better? Curling iron or curling wand? Which one do I need? After owning and using many of these, I'm here to give you my opinions on which could be best for you!



Curling Iron

Pros:

• You can do multiple hairstyles with a curling iron, like curls of different types and waves.
• Curling irons come in different barrel sizes.

Cons:

• I have found that most drugstore curling irons just don't get hot enough to produce a curl that lasts.
• The clips on curling irons can cause bumps/marks in hair if not used properly.
• Not as user friendly (they aren't difficult to use) as a curling wand. 

Additional Info:

• Yes, you can remove the clip to make your own curling wand. Just be sure the curling iron is a newer one and/or that it will get hot enough. As mentioned above, most drugstore curling irons just don't have the heat to hold curl.
• My fave brands: Hot Tools, GHD (pictured above), Babyliss, T3

Curling Wand

Pros:

• They hold waves better than most curling irons since the technology is newer and they get hotter.
• If you only want waves or a spiral curl, a curling wand is best for you.
• The wands are sometimes longer, although there is a new long curling iron from Hot Tools.
• Drugstore wands are inexpensive and work well, but most of these are tapered (I don't prefer tapered, so possible con).

Cons:

• Generally, 2 barrel sizes (1in and 1 1/2 in are standard). You would have to buy a set with interchangeable wands to get different sizes.
• Your styling options are limited since there is no clip.
• Easier to burn yourself if you don't use a protective glove

Additional Info:

• They come in several wand types: straight, tapered, inverted, bumpy, etc. See this post to see each type of wave they produce.
• My fave brands: Conair, Remington, Hot Tools, NuMe, HerStyler

This or That:  Despite the pros/cons list, it comes down to personal needs and preference here. I feel a curling iron gives you more bang for your buck, but a curling wand is more affordable and easy to use. You can't go wrong with either!

Extra Elle:

• I spent $99.76 at Target. Idk how that happened! Shopping ban in effect immediately. I also skipped the Lily madness. After hearing horror stories from so many of you, I'm glad I did.
• I binge-watched True Detective. So, so good.
• I'm giving away $100 Visa from Zing (ends TODAY).
• I'm also giving away $100 Visa Giftcard from Garnier.
• AND $100 to Sephora!