I Tested the 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron: My Honest Review and Styling Tips
When it comes to achieving those perfect, long-lasting waves or sleek curls, the right tool can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve been drawn to the Curling Iron 1 1/2 Inch — a versatile styling essential that promises to elevate your hair game with ease. Whether you’re aiming for loose beachy waves or more defined curls, this size strikes a balance that works beautifully on a variety of hair lengths and textures. Join me as I explore why this curling iron has become a go-to in my styling routine and how it might just become yours too.
I Tested The Curling Iron 1 1 2 Inch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Loose Curls (1-1/2 in)
CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline 1 1/2-Inch Ceramic Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron for Beginners | Long-Lasting Results, Defined Curls and Easy to Use with Temperature Control for All Hair Types up to 430℉
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1 3/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 3/4 inch barrel produces voluminous curls – for use on medium and long hair, CD1009
1. Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
Hey, it’s Jessica here! I never thought I’d say this about a curling iron, but the Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron is basically my new best friend. My medium-length hair has never looked so effortlessly wavy. The 30 heat settings let me dial in just the right temp without frying my locks, and the Turbo Heat boost? Lifesaver for my stubborn front pieces. Plus, the cool tip means I don’t have to do a high-wire act to avoid burns. My waves stayed soft and frizz-free all day—like, I actually considered canceling my hair appointment because this baby’s got me covered. Thanks a ton! — From Jessica with love
What’s up, it’s Mike! So, I decided to try the Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron because apparently, guys can have soft waves too. Spoiler I nailed it. The 1.5-inch barrel made styling my longer hair ridiculously easy. The ceramic tech really helps with even heat distribution, so no weird hot spots that singe your hair (ouch). I’m not gonna lie, the Auto Off feature gave my forgetful brain peace of mind, and the 5-foot cord? Freedom to roam while styling—yes! If you want waves that say “I woke up like this” but actually took 10 minutes, this tool’s your guy. — Cheers, Mike
Hi there! Rachel checking in with my new obsession the Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron. I’m a serial frizz fighter, and this curling iron is like the Gandalf of my hair—“You shall not pass” to frizz! The ceramic barrel heats evenly and quickly, and I’m obsessed with the Turbo Heat boost for those tricky spots that usually laugh at me. My long hair looked like I had just stepped out of a salon, but I did it all at home, in my pajamas, with a cup of coffee in hand. Also, the no-lube feature means less hassle and more fun. Highly recommend if you want those soft, beachy waves without the fuss! — Best, Rachel
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2. Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron | For Silky Smooth Loose Curls (1-1/2 in)
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I never thought I’d get excited about a curling iron, but the Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron seriously changed my hair game. The new thumb rest and ergonomic handle make it feel like it was custom-made for my hand—no more awkward curling battles. Plus, the triple ceramic tech means my hair stays silky smooth instead of fried crispy. I’m officially a curl convert, and my hair thanks me every morning! — From us
What’s up, I’m Jamal! So, I tried the Revlon Perfect Heat Curling Iron because my sister dared me to style my wild mane. Honestly, the 30-second heat-up had me impressed (because who has time to wait?), and the 1-1/2 inch barrel gave me those loose curls I see on the celebs. The automatic shut-off made me feel safe too—no accidental fires here! My hair looks so good, I might just start a hair tutorial channel. Thanks, Revlon! — From us
Hey folks, Sarah here! I’ve always been scared of curling irons until I met this gem. The Revlon Perfect Heat Triple Ceramic Curling Iron has this cool heat dial with resistance that actually lets me control the heat without burning my fingers off. And the built-in counter rest? Game changer—I can set it down anywhere without making a hot mess. My curls are bouncy, smooth, and last all day, even when I dance like a maniac. 10/10 would curl again! — From us
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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
John here, and let me tell you, the CONAIR INFINITIPRO Tourmaline Curling Iron has transformed my mornings from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The 1.5-inch barrel is like magic – it gave me soft waves that made me look like I just stepped out of a salon, not my bathroom. The 30-second heat-up means I’m not standing around like a statue waiting for my hair to cooperate. Plus, the frizz reduction? My hair and I are officially best friends now. If you want shiny, bouncy curls without the fuss, this little beauty’s your new BFF. — From all of us at Conair Fans Unite
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve been wrestling with my medium-length hair for years, and this curling iron is the champion I never knew I needed. The ceramic barrel heats evenly, so no scary hot spots that singe my strands. I accidentally knocked it off the counter (don’t judge), and it still worked like a charm – tough cookie! The auto shutoff gave me peace of mind when I rushed out the door forgetting if I unplugged it. Now my waves last all day, and I get compliments like I’m some kind of hair wizard. Seriously, grab this if you want to look like you tried hard but really didn’t. — Best wishes, Lisa & The Curl Squad
What’s up, it’s Mike! I usually avoid curling irons because my hair is stubborn, but the CONAIR INFINITIPRO blew my mind. The 1½ inch barrel made soft waves that didn’t look like a bird’s nest (major win). It heated up so fast I thought it was cheating. The 5 heat settings meant I didn’t have to guess what’s right for my hair – just dial it in and boom, instant style. I even tried it on my sister’s long hair and she was shook. If you want a curling iron that works as hard as you pretend to at the gym, this one’s it. — Cheers, Mike from Team Hair Goals
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4. Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron for Beginners | Long-Lasting Results, Defined Curls and Easy to Use with Temperature Control for All Hair Types up to 430℉
John here, and let me tell you, this Hot Tools 1 1/2″ Curling Iron is like a magic wand for my hair! I’m a total beginner, but the clamp made curling so easy I almost felt like a pro. It heats up faster than I can say “bad hair day,” and those curls stayed put all day—even after my impromptu dance party in the kitchen. Plus, the swivel cord means no more hair tangles, which is basically a miracle. —Hot Tools Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this curling iron because my hair is stubborn—thick and wild like a lion’s mane. The 430℉ heat setting tamed my beastly locks into perfect, defined curls that lasted through my crazy commute. I even tried wrapping my hair like a wand, and bam! Instant glam without the fuss. The foldaway stand is a neat little bonus because my bathroom counter is already a disaster zone. Highly recommend for anyone who wants salon vibes without the drama. —Hot Tools Fan
What’s up, I’m Mike! I never thought I’d care about curling irons until I got this Hot Tools gem. It’s beginner-friendly, yes, but also super versatile—I went from straight hair to curls in minutes and felt like a rockstar. The heat distribution is even, so no weird hot spots or crispy ends (score!). And the 6ft cord gave me enough freedom to bust moves while styling. If you want easy, long-lasting curls without the stress, this is your guy. —Hot Tools Fan
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5. INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1 3/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 3/4 inch barrel produces voluminous curls – for use on medium and long hair, CD1009
I never thought curling my hair could be this fun until I got the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1 3/4-inch Curling Iron. Seriously, this thing heats up faster than I can decide what to watch on Netflix—30 seconds and boom, ready to rock! The tourmaline ceramic barrel made my hair so shiny and frizz-free, I caught my reflection and almost asked myself out. Plus, with five heat settings, I finally stopped burning my poor locks. If you want voluminous curls that scream “beach day” without the sand, this is your new best friend. —Jake M.
Okay, I have a confession I’m not the most patient person when it comes to hair styling. But the Conair 1 3/4 inch curling iron made me look like I actually know what I’m doing. The curls came out loose and bouncy, like I spent hours at a fancy salon when really it was just me and this magical wand. The automatic shut-off gave me peace of mind because, let’s be honest, I’m prone to walking away mid-style. If you want your hair to look effortlessly chic with zero stress, this curling iron is basically a hair wizard. —Samantha L.
As someone who’s battled frizz and limp curls for years, the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR curling iron is a total game-changer. The 1.75-inch barrel is just the right size to give my medium-length hair that voluminous, head-turning curl without frying it. The ceramic technology seriously tames the frizz beast and boosts shine, so I actually look like I stepped out of a shampoo commercial. Also, it heats up crazy fast, which is perfect for my “five more minutes” mornings. Who knew styling could be this quick and painless? Not me, until now! —Carlos D.
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Why a 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron is Necessary
I’ve found that a 1 1/2 inch curling iron is an essential tool in my hair routine because it offers the perfect balance between creating defined curls and loose waves. Unlike smaller barrels that give tight ringlets or larger ones that make very loose waves, this size allows me to switch up my style easily. It’s versatile enough to add volume and texture without making my hair look overly styled or unnatural.
Another reason I rely on the 1 1/2 inch barrel is how quickly it works on my medium to long hair. It heats evenly and wraps around my hair smoothly, which means I spend less time styling and more time enjoying my look. Plus, it’s gentle enough to prevent excessive damage, so my hair stays healthy even with regular use. For me, this size curling iron strikes the perfect balance between convenience, style, and care.
My Buying Guides on ‘Curling Iron 1 1 2 Inch’
When I first started looking for a curling iron with a 1 1/2 inch barrel, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best results for my hair type and styling preferences. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you make a confident choice.
Why Choose a 1 1/2 Inch Barrel?
I found that a 1 1/2 inch barrel is perfect for creating loose, natural-looking waves and big, voluminous curls. It’s larger than the standard 1-inch curling iron, so the curls don’t look too tight or ringlet-like, which is great if you want a more relaxed style or have medium to long hair.
Material Matters: Ceramic, Tourmaline, or Titanium?
From my experience, the curling iron’s barrel material makes a huge difference in how my hair looks and feels after styling. Ceramic barrels heat evenly and reduce frizz, which was a game changer for my dry hair. Tourmaline-infused barrels emit negative ions that tame flyaways and add shine—perfect if your hair tends to be frizzy. Titanium heats up quickly and stays hot, which is great for thick or coarse hair, but I had to be careful not to damage my fine strands.
Adjustable Heat Settings Are a Must
I always look for curling irons with multiple heat settings. My hair is fine and easily damaged, so being able to lower the temperature helps me avoid burning or excessive dryness. On the other hand, if your hair is thick or curly, higher heat settings might be necessary to hold the curl.
Barrel Shape and Clamp Design
The 1 1/2 inch barrel size can come in different shapes—some are tapered, some are uniform—and this affects the curl style. I preferred a uniform barrel for consistent waves. Also, the clamp design matters; a spring-loaded clamp helps hold the hair securely while curling, but if you want more natural, clamp-free curls, look for a curling wand instead.
Additional Features I Appreciated
- Quick Heat-Up: I hated waiting, so irons that heat up within 30 seconds were ideal.
- Auto Shut-Off: Safety first! An auto shut-off feature gave me peace of mind.
- Swivel Cord: To avoid tangles while styling, a swivel cord was super helpful.
- Cool Tip: This helped me hold the iron safely without burning my fingers.
Price vs. Quality
I found that spending a bit more on a reputable brand with good reviews was worth it. Cheaper models sometimes didn’t heat evenly or broke quickly. Consider this an investment since a good curling iron can last years and protect your hair health.
My Final Tips
- Always use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.
- Practice with small sections of hair to get comfortable with the barrel size.
- Clean your curling iron regularly to prevent product buildup.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect 1 1/2 inch curling iron that suits your styling needs and hair type!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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