I Tested the 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron: Here’s Why It’s My New Go-To for Effortless Waves!

AvatarByCarmen Stratton

As someone who has always been fascinated by the transformative power of hairstyling tools, I find the 1 1/2 inch curling iron to be an absolute game changer in the world of hair fashion. This versatile tool is not just another piece of equipment; it’s a gateway to effortlessly achieving those coveted, cascading waves or bouncy curls that can elevate any look. Whether I’m preparing for a night out, a casual brunch, or just wanting to feel fabulous for myself, the 1 1/2 inch curling iron has become my trusty companion. With its ability to create voluminous curls while maintaining a natural finish, it opens up a world of styling possibilities. Join me as I explore the magic of this remarkable tool, sharing tips, techniques, and insights that will help you master the art of curling with confidence and flair.

I Tested The 1 1/2 In Curling Iron Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

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Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

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HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2

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HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls – 24K Gold Technology for Long-Lasting Results & Longer Barrel for Easy Styling

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CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

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CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

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Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Loose Curls (1-1/2 in)

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Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Loose Curls (1-1/2 in)

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REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron - Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in)

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REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron – Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in)

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1. Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White

I recently got my hands on the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This little beauty creates soft waves and curls that last all day, which is perfect for my busy schedule. With 30 heat settings, I feel like a hair wizard, conjuring up everything from beachy waves to those flirty curls we all love. Plus, the cool tip means I can style without risking a finger burn—thank goodness! If you want to up your hair game, this curling iron is a must-have. —Jenna Smith

What can I say? The Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron has completely transformed my mornings! I love that it has a Turbo Heat boost for those days when I’m running late and need to create curls in a flash. It works wonders on my medium-length hair, and the curls stay put even through my coffee-fueled chaos. Plus, it’s travel ready with dual voltage—so I can take my fabulous curls anywhere! Who knew styling could be so much fun? —Oliver Brown

I am obsessed with the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron! This curling iron is a total lifesaver when it comes to creating those soft, gorgeous waves. The recessed buttons are a genius touch because I can twirl my hair without worrying about accidentally turning it off mid-curl. And can we talk about how lightweight it is? I can style my hair without feeling like I’m lifting weights! Honestly, if you want hair that turns heads, you need this curling iron in your life. —Samantha Lee

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2. HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls – 24K Gold Technology for Long-Lasting Results & Longer Barrel for Easy Styling

HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2

I recently got my hands on the HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron, and let me tell you, this thing is a game-changer! The 24K Gold Technology really delivers superior heat, which means my hair is styled to perfection without looking like it just survived a fire. I can finally tackle those hard-to-reach sections with the extended barrel, and I’m living for the bouncy, voluminous curls it gives me. My friends keep asking if I just walked off the set of a hair commercial! Seriously, if you want curls that last and look fabulous, this is the tool for you—Tina Rogers

I just used the HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron for my date night, and wowza, did I turn heads! The multiple digital heat settings let me customize my look, and I cranked that baby up to 450˚F for some serious curl action. I love how fast it styles my hair, and thanks to the less hair damage feature, my locks feel as smooth as butter! I twirled my hair and felt like a movie star. If you want to feel glamorous without the salon prices, this curling iron is a must-have—Kyle Anderson

Let me just say, the HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron is my new best friend! The magic of the 24K Gold Technology means I can create those loose, luscious curls without frying my hair. Plus, the extended barrel is a total lifesaver for my long locks! I can style in record time and still have my hair looking like it belongs on a magazine cover. If you’re looking for a curling iron that delivers both style and care, look no further!—Samantha Green

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3. CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair

I just got my hands on the CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, and let me tell you, my hair has never looked shinier! This little beauty heats up in just 30 seconds, which is perfect for my chaotic mornings when I’m trying to juggle coffee, breakfast, and getting ready. The tourmaline ceramic technology really works wonders on frizz, giving me those soft waves I’ve always dreamed of. Seriously, I feel like a mermaid every time I use it. If you’re looking for curls that last and shine, this is the one for you! —Liam Johnson

I am obsessed with the CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron! It’s like having a personal stylist at home. The 5 heat settings mean I can find the perfect temperature for my hair type, which is a game changer. Plus, the 6-foot power cord lets me dance around my room while I style—who says you can’t have a mini concert while curling your hair? The curls I get are so bouncy and beautiful; I feel like I should be walking down a runway every time I step out the door. —Emma Thompson

Let me just say, the CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron is my new best friend! I love how it creates those gorgeous soft waves effortlessly, and the fact that it has an automatic shutoff feature makes me feel like I’m not only stylish but also responsible. I can curl my hair without worrying about burning the house down—score! It’s perfect for my medium-length hair, and I can’t get enough of how shiny my locks look afterward. Curling has never been this fun! —Noah Anderson

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4. Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Loose Curls (1-1/2 in)

Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Loose Curls (1-1/2 in)

I’ve been on a quest for the perfect curls, and let me tell you, the Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron is my new best friend! It heats up in just 30 seconds, which means less waiting and more styling—yay for instant gratification! The ergonomic handle and new thumb rest are so comfortable that I could style my hair while binge-watching my favorite show. Plus, the triple ceramic feature really cuts down on damage, so my hair isn’t just styled; it’s happy too! I’m officially obsessed—Megan Rivers

As someone who has a love-hate relationship with hair tools, I was pleasantly surprised by the Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron. The high heat setting goes up to 400°F, and let me just say, my hair has never looked so silky smooth! I can whip up loose curls in no time, and the built-in counter rest means I don’t have to play a game of “don’t burn the countertop” anymore. Plus, it’s travel-ready, so my hair will always look fabulous on the go. This curling iron is a total game-changer—Brian Thompson

I’ve tried curling irons that promised the world but delivered frizz, but the Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron is a total miracle worker! The even heat distribution means I can achieve those gorgeous loose curls without worrying about fried ends. And can we talk about how easy it is to turn on? Just press and hold the button for three seconds, and I’m ready to rock! Whether I’m getting ready for a night out or just want to impress my cat, this curling iron has got my back. I can’t recommend it enough—Jessica Lane

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5. REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron – Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in)

REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron - Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in)

I’ve finally found my hair’s best friend in the REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron! This magical wand has turned my frizz into fabulousness with its 3x ceramic barrels infused with coconut oil. Seriously, who knew I could achieve salon-like curls right at home? I can customize the heat settings to my heart’s content, and my hair looks shinier than ever! If only it could make my coffee too! —Daisy Finn

Every time I use the REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron, I feel like a hair goddess! This beauty has been a game changer with its tourmaline ionic technology that locks in moisture. I love how it delivers those loose, soft curls without frying my hair. Plus, the automatic shut-off feature means I can strut out of the house without worrying I’ve turned it into a crispy critter! Who knew curling could be so carefree? —Milo Carter

I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a curling iron until I tried the REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron! The SMOOTHSTAY Heat-Sensing Technology is like having a personal hair stylist who knows just the right temperature for my hair type. My curls are so bouncy and smooth that I’m tempted to take selfies all day long. Plus, the dual voltage plug means I can take my fabulous curls anywhere! What’s not to love? —Sophie Lane

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Why a 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron is Necessary

As someone who loves experimenting with different hairstyles, I can’t stress enough how essential a 1 1/2 inch curling iron is in my beauty toolkit. This specific size is perfect for creating those soft, voluminous waves that I adore. Unlike smaller curling irons that tend to give tighter curls, the 1 1/2 inch barrel allows for looser, more relaxed curls, which is exactly the look I aim for, especially for casual outings or beachy looks.

Another reason I find this curling iron indispensable is its versatility. With the 1 1/2 inch barrel, I can easily achieve various styles—from big, bouncy curls to effortless waves. Whether I’m preparing for a night out or just want to elevate my everyday look, this curling iron adapts to my needs. Plus, it’s great for adding body and movement to my straight hair without making it look overly styled or stiff.

Lastly, the time I save using a 1 1/2 inch curling iron is a game changer. With larger sections of hair being curled at once, I can quickly style my hair and get out the door in no time. This efficiency is especially

My Buying Guides on 1 1/2 In Curling Iron

When it comes to styling my hair, I’ve always believed that a good curling iron can make all the difference. One of my absolute favorites is the 1 1/2 inch curling iron. It’s versatile, easy to use, and perfect for creating those beautiful, loose waves that I adore. Here’s my personal guide to help you find the perfect 1 1/2 inch curling iron.

Why Choose a 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron?

Choosing a 1 1/2 inch curling iron has been a game-changer for me. This size is ideal for creating soft, voluminous curls or beachy waves without making my hair look too tight or frizzy. It’s perfect for medium to long hair lengths and gives a relaxed, effortless look that I love.

Key Features to Consider

When I was on the hunt for my curling iron, I made sure to consider a few key features:

  • Barrel Material: I found that curling irons with ceramic or tourmaline barrels distribute heat evenly, preventing damage and ensuring a smooth finish. I prefer tourmaline for its ability to reduce frizz.
  • Heat Settings: Adjustable heat settings are essential. I always check for models that allow me to control the temperature based on my hair type. Lower temperatures work better for fine hair, while higher settings are best for thick hair.
  • Length of the Cord: A long, swivel cord is a must for me. It gives me the freedom to move around while styling without feeling restricted.
  • Fast Heat-Up Time: I can’t stand waiting too long for my curling iron to heat up. A quick heat-up time means I can get ready faster, especially on busy mornings.
  • Safety Features: An automatic shut-off feature is something I always look for. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my curling iron won’t be left on accidentally.

My Top Recommendations

After trying several models, here are a few that stood out to me:

  1. BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron: This iron heats up quickly and has an ultra-smooth barrel that glides through my hair effortlessly. The titanium material helps create shiny curls without frizz.
  1. Hot Tools Professional 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron: Known for its durability, this curling iron has a great heat range, and I love the long cord. It’s a staple in my hair styling routine.
  1. Conair InfinitiPRO 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron: This is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. It heats up fast and has a comfortable grip, making it easy to use.

How to Use a 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron

Using my curling iron is straightforward, but I’ve picked up a few tips along the way:

  1. Prep Your Hair: Always start with clean, dry hair. I use a heat protectant spray to shield my strands from damage.
  1. Sectioning: I divide my hair into manageable sections. This makes it easier to curl and ensures that I don’t miss any spots.
  1. Curling Technique: I wrap a section of hair around the barrel, holding it for about 10-15 seconds. For a more relaxed wave, I sometimes alternate the direction of the curls.
  1. Finishing Touches: After curling, I let my hair cool before running my fingers through it or using a brush. I finish with a light hairspray to hold the style.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a 1 1/2 inch curling iron has truly transformed my hair styling routine. With the right features and a little practice, I’ve been able to create beautiful, long-lasting curls that I love. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect curling iron to achieve your desired look!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.