Hot Tools curling irons are an array of styling instruments. Featuring an efficient heating system and a large selection of barrel sizes, Hot Tools are moving quickly from professional salons into consumers' homes as they offer a longer-than-average barrel length. The curling irons also feature a mica-coated interior barrel to sustain the heat necessary for styling.
Features
Hot Tools feature the ability to heat up almost instantly, perfect for working in a salon, where stylists must have tools that are instantly available and consistent in the heat they provide. Hot Tools also provides 10 variable heat settings so that hair of any type--from coarse to extra fine--can be styled without damage.
One of the key things Hot Tools provides when compared to other curling irons is Pulse Auto Heat Control. This patented technology regulates temperature automatically by sensing any heat loss and regenerating it almost instantly. As a result, the curling iron remains consistent in its temperature, providing dependable results.
Types
Hot Tools curling irons are available in barrel sizes of varying diameters: 3/8 of an inch, 5/8 of an inch, 1 inch, 1 1/4 inches, 1 1/2 inches and 2 inches. The 3/8-inch barrel is ideal for creating curls that are soft and tight, as well as styling bangs and wisps. The 5/8-inch barrel creates curls that are smooth and tight. The 3/4-inch barrel is ideal for all hair lengths. The 1-inch barrel is used primarily to create curls full of body, as well as gentle waves. The inch-and-a-quarter barrel creates curls that are large and loose, so it is best for longer hair, as is the one-and-a-half-inch barrel. The 2-inch barrel is used primarily to create volume and lift the crown.
Considerations
Hot Tools curling irons are used primarily by professional stylists. Because they heat quickly and are so consistent, though, they have become more popular with the at-home user. But they are not inexpensive. The patented technology, combined with the 24-karat gold plating on the barrel, adds up to about $35--an impressive cost for a basic tool. Also, some users have complained that the springs give out quickly. Hot Tools does, however, come with additional springs should the original springs fail.
Potential
When rushing to get ready, the last thing you want is to wait for your curling iron to heat up. And, once you're using it, if it's cooling off too quickly, you might get only one side done before needing to pause and wait again. Hot Tools curling irons do not suffer either of these problems. They heat up in about 60 seconds and remain consistently hot for the entire time you're using them.
Warning
Be careful using Hot Tools curling irons, especially if you're not used to the speed with which they heat up. You can burn yourself if you put your hand on the barrel to check the temperature. When using it, keep the barrel away from your ears and forehead--even experienced users have been surprised by how hot the barrel stays and have singed themselves.
