10 BEST HOT ROLLERS FOR CURLS, TESTED AND REVIEWED 

Hot rollers are making a comeback! Ditch the curling iron and rediscover the ease and long-lasting curls that hot rollers provide. This guide dives deep into the 8 best hot rollers on the market, putting them to the test to find the perfect fit for your hair type, desired curl size, and budget. Whether you crave bouncy waves, tight ringlets, or effortless volume, we uncover the top hot rollers that deliver salon-worthy results from the comfort of your home.

WHAT IS HOT ROLLER?

Hot rollers are a type of hair styling tool used to create curls and waves in hair. They consist of cylindrical rollers that are heated, either electrically or by immersing them in hot water, and then rolled into sections of hair. The heat helps to set the hair in the desired curl or wave shape. Once the rollers cool down, the hair is released, leaving behind curls or waves. Hot rollers come in various sizes to create different types of curls, from tight curls to loose waves, and they are commonly used in hair salons and by individuals at home for styling purposes.

OUR TOP PICKS

BABYLISS PRO 20 ROLLER HAIRSETTER

The BaByliss Pro 20 Roller Hairsetter is a professional-quality hot roller set designed for long-lasting curls and volume. It features 20 Nano Titanium ceramic rollers that heat up quickly and distribute far-infrared heat gently, minimizing hot spots and potential hair damage.

This set includes a variety of roller sizes: 6 small, 6 medium, and 8 large, allowing you to create different curl shapes, from tight ringlets to loose waves. Additionally, it comes with 20 butterfly clips and 20 color-coded metal clips for easy and secure hold while styling.

With its fast heat-up time and user-friendly design, the BaByliss Pro 20 Roller Hairsetter is a strong contender for those seeking a high-quality hot roller experience.

BABYLISS BOUTIQUE SALON CERAMIC ROLLERS

The BaByliss Boutique Salon Ceramic Rollers offer a simpler, yet effective hot roller experience. This set features 12 large, thermo-ceramic heated rollers, ideal for creating voluminous waves or loose curls. The ceramic barrels distribute heat evenly, minimizing hot spots and potential hair damage. 

These rollers come with 12 contoured heat clips that secure the hair in place while styling. They boast a fast heat-up time with a ready dot indicator, so you can get started quickly. Additionally, the anti-slip, soft-touch finish on the rollers provides a comfortable grip during use. 

While they may not offer the range of roller sizes as some other high-end sets, the BaByliss Boutique Salon Ceramic Rollers are a solid choice for those seeking a user-friendly and affordable option for achieving voluminous waves and curls.

CARUSO IONIC MOLECULAR STEAM SETTER

For those with heat-damaged hair, the Caruso Ionic Molecular Steam Setter offers a revolutionary and gentle styling solution. This innovative hot roller set ditches the traditional dry heat approach, instead utilizing the power of steam to create beautiful curls and waves without further harming your delicate strands.

Unlike conventional hot rollers, this setter uses steam to infuse moisture into the rollers. This unique approach helps prevent heat damage, leaving your hair feeling soft, hydrated, and revitalized. The rollers boast ionic technology, which actively works to reduce frizz and static while promoting shine and manageability. This creates long-lasting, smooth, and polished curls. The set comes with 30 rollers in five different sizes, allowing you to achieve various curl shapes and styles, from tight ringlets to loose, voluminous waves.

Compared to traditional hot rollers that rely solely on dry heat, the Caruso Ionic Molecular Steam Setter provides a gentler and more hair-friendly styling experience, making it ideal for those with heat-damaged hair.

T3 VOLUMIZING HOT ROLLERS

T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers are a popular styling tool designed to add volume and texture to hair. These hot rollers are known for their advanced technology and high-performance features. The set typically includes a range of roller sizes to accommodate different hair lengths and styles. The rollers themselves are infused with Tourmaline, a gemstone that emits negative ions, helping to seal the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and enhance shine. 

The ceramic heating elements heat up quickly and evenly, ensuring consistent heat distribution throughout the rollers. This results in long-lasting, bouncy curls or waves that hold their shape well. The T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers are favored by hairstylists and individuals alike for their ease of use, efficiency, and ability to create voluminous, salon-quality hairstyles at home.

REMINGTON IONIC CONDITIONING HAIR SETTER

If you have fine hair or want to add volume to your hair, the Remington Hair Setter is a great choice. It’s not only affordable but also creates flawless curls without any awkward bends. The set includes ceramic rollers with color-coded metal pins that match different roller sizes and hold the curls securely. You’ll start seeing results in just five minutes of having the rollers in your hair. When you take them out, you’ll be amazed by the long-lasting volume and definition they provide.

REMINGTON PROLUXE HEATED ROLLERS

The Remington PROluxe Heated Rollers are specifically designed to deliver big, bouncy curls that last. Featuring Dual Heat Technology, both the rollers and clips heat up, ensuring even heat distribution and perfectly formed curls throughout your hair. This 20-piece set includes a combination of medium and large rollers, allowing you to customize the size and volume of your curls.

Several features contribute to its success in creating voluminous, bouncy styles. Grip Technology prevents hair from slipping out of the rollers, minimizing frustration during styling. Heated clips further secure the curls and prevent kinks for a flawless finish. The fast heat-up time (around 90 seconds) gets you styling quickly, with curls setting in just 5 minutes.

If you crave voluminous, long-lasting curls with a bouncy texture, the Remington PROluxe Heated Rollers are a strong contender, offering a user-friendly and effective hot roller experience.

CHI SMART MAGNIFY CERAMIC ROLLERS

The CHI Smart Magnify Ceramic Rollers offer a unique and innovative hot roller experience. These rollers feature ceramic barrels that heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly, ensuring consistent and long-lasting curls.

What truly sets them apart is the LED lighting platform that comes with the set. This platform provides better visibility while styling, making it easier to precisely place the rollers for optimal curl definition. Additionally, the rollers are available in various sizes, allowing you to customize the volume and curl size you desire.

While further details on specific features like number of rollers and clip types might be needed for a more comprehensive description, the CHI Smart Magnify Ceramic Rollers stand out for their innovative LED lighting platform and promise of consistent, long-lasting curls.

NICKY CLARKE HEATED 25 MM ROLLERS

The Nicky Clarke Heated 25mm Rollers are a versatile hot roller set designed to create voluminous curls and waves. These rollers feature a 25mm barrel size, which is ideal for achieving medium to large curls.

Ceramic barrels ensure even heat distribution, minimizing hot spots and potential damage. The heated rollers help set the curls firmly, reducing the risk of kinks or loose waves. The overall design is likely user-friendly, making the styling process convenient.

CONAIR INFINITIPRO 20-ROLLER ION GENERATOR SETTER WITH CORD REEL

Nicky Clarke, a renowned hairstylist with a prestigious reputation, brings his expertise to the Nicky Clarke Heated 25mm Rollers. This brand, known for its high-quality hair styling tools like straighteners, hairdryers, and hot brushes, offers hot rollers designed for effortless styling on the go.

These compact rollers boast a user-friendly design, perfect for travel or quick touch-ups. Their innovative “heat-tech” feature takes the guesswork out of styling, changing color from red to white when ready to use. Additionally, the rollers incorporate ionic technology, a favorite among stylists, to combat frizz and ensure a smooth, polished finish.

CONAIR MULTI-SIZE ROLLERS

Forget bulky hot rollers that eat up precious luggage space! Conair’s compact hot roller set is a travel game-changer. This convenient kit features 20 rollers neatly packed in a case the size of a small purse, making it a breeze to fit into your carry-on.

But the real innovation lies in the roller design itself. Tiny grippers throughout the rollers effortlessly secure your hair, preventing snags and tangles while you style and remove them. With a fast heat-up time of just 85 seconds, these rollers create voluminous waves in a mere 10 minutes. While a single heat setting might be a limitation, the overall size, price, and impressive performance make this Conair set a winner for travelers seeking gorgeous curls on the go.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN HOT ROLLERS

Choosing the right hot rollers can make all the difference in achieving the desired curls and overall styling experience. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the perfect set:

HAIR TYPE AND DESIRED CURL SIZE

  • Roller Size: The size of the rollers determines the curl size. Smaller rollers create tighter curls, while larger rollers create loose waves or voluminous lift. Consider your hair type and the look you want to achieve. If you have thick hair, you might need more rollers or larger sizes to accommodate all your hair.
  • Hair Length: For shorter hair, smaller rollers are generally easier to use and style.

HEATING TECHNOLOGY AND FEATURES

  • Material: Ceramic or tourmaline barrels are popular choices as they distribute heat evenly, minimizing hot spots and potential heat damage.
  • Heat Settings: Multiple heat settings allow you to adjust the temperature for different hair types and styling needs.
  • Cool-Touch Ends: This feature prevents accidental burns while handling the hot rollers during styling.
  • Additional Features: Look for features like ionic technology to combat frizz, velvet flocking for gentle grip, or anti-slip designs for easier handling.

OTHER IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

  • Number of Rollers: The number of rollers in a set determines how much hair you can style at once. Consider the amount of hair you have and how much time you’re willing to spend styling.
  • Clip Type: Different sets use clips or pins to secure the rollers. Choose a clip type that is comfortable and secure for your hair type.
  • Travel-Friendliness: If you travel frequently, consider a compact set that fits easily in your luggage.

CAN HEATED ROLLERS BE USED ON ALL HAIR LENGTHS AND TYPES?

When it comes to using heated rollers, the results can vary depending on your hair type. Short hair can benefit from heated rollers by adding volume, but achieving defined curls may be more challenging. Hair stylists typically suggest using heated rollers on straight or slightly straight hair to achieve a smoother and kink-free finish. If you have curly hair, heated rollers can help in loosening the curls for a softer and more relaxed hairstyle.

HOW TO USE HOT ROLLERS ON LONG HAIR

STEP 1: ENSURE YOUR HAIR IS COMPLETELY DRY AND SMOOTH

For optimal results with hot rollers, it’s best to start with clean and dry hair that is relatively straight. If you have naturally curly hair, you’ll need to blow-dry it beforehand. If your hair falls under type-3 or type-4, begin by washing and conditioning it, followed by applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner to avoid weighing down your blowout. The crucial step is to protect your hair from heat damage by using a heat-protecting serum or oil to seal in moisture. Finally, proceed with blow-drying your curly hair.

STEP 2: SECTION YOUR HAIR INTO MANAGEABLE PARTS

To create sections for hot rolling, you can use the arch of your eyebrows as a guide. Take a tail comb and separate a strip of hair from the top-front to the top-back of your head. This will be the first area you roll, so secure it with a hair clip to keep it separate from the rest of your hair. Depending on the thickness of your hair, divide the remaining hair into quadrants, securing each section separately.

STEP 3: START WRAPPING YOUR HAIR AROUND THE HOT ROLLERS

The way you position your hair on the rollers will determine how it falls and flows. Start with the section of hair at the crown of your head and roll it under the roller to create more volume and body. You should feel a slight tension at the root of your hair, indicating a secure hold. When it comes to styling bangs, the approach varies based on their length. For longer bangs, roll them over the roller, while for shorter bangs, roll them under the curler.

STEP 4: LET THE ROLLERS COOL COMPLETELY TO SET THE CURLS

To ensure your hair retains its shape throughout the day, avoid removing the curlers too early. This is a common mistake that can result in flat hair instead of long-lasting curls. It’s recommended to leave the rollers in for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 60 minutes. Wait until the hair feels cool to the touch before removing the rollers, as this indicates that the hair has properly set. By following this guideline, you can achieve hairstyles that maintain their shape for an extended period.

STEP 5: STYLE YOUR HAIR

After removing the rollers, gently run your fingers through your hair to adjust and arrange it. Take the opportunity to correct any kinks or imperfections caused by the roller clips, especially if you’re new to hot rolling. If time permits and you’re not in a rush, you can use a straightening iron to smooth out any areas that didn’t set properly. Once you’re satisfied with the position of your hair, apply hairspray, texturizing product, or hair oil (for type-3 or type-4 curls) to add moisture and hold the style in place.

CONCLUSION

With this diverse range of hot rollers to explore, it’s clear that achieving salon-worthy curls at home is easier than ever. Whether you seek luxurious volume, tight ringlets, or loose waves, there’s the perfect set of hot rollers waiting to transform your hair. In addition to having thick, bouncy hair thanks to these supporting tools, supplementing foods for thicker hair can also be beneficial. Hope you have interesting experiences with your hair!

How To Get Curly Hair Men: Tutorials And Tips

As men, we are always looking for ways to switch up our look and stand out from the crowd. One way to achieve this is by getting curly hair – a look that exudes confidence, style, and uniqueness. However, curly hair can be hard to maintain and even harder to achieve if you were not naturally blessed with it. But fear not, with the right techniques and products, you too can have luscious curls that will make heads turn. 

Read on to learn more about the process of getting curly hair for men, from understanding your hair type to choosing the right products and styling tips. So let’s get started!

Types of Curly Hair for Men

In the world of men’s hairstyles, the options can seem overwhelming. Let me simplify things by highlighting some of the most popular and widely embraced styles:

Natural Curls

The charm of natural curls has been on the rise. This style imparts your hair with natural waves that gracefully taper at the ends, giving the appearance of thickness and fullness. Achieving this look is straightforward, using curling irons or rollers, depending on your desired curl pattern.

Wavy Hair

For those seeking a style that’s a bit more relaxed than natural curls, wavy hair is a fantastic choice. Without relying on heat styling tools, you can achieve these beachy locks through a combination of blow-drying and scrunching your hair.

Tight Curls

Men who wish to make a bold statement are increasingly turning to tight curls. These well-defined ringlets require some heat styling, typically done with curling wands or flat irons. When executed with precision, tight curls can suit both professional and casual settings, making them a versatile choice.

No matter which curly hairstyle you opt for, rest assured that there are abundant options available for individuals like us who seek to express their unique personalities through their hairstyles.

Enhancing Natural Waves

For men with existing natural waves, the quest for curly hair becomes much simpler. In this scenario, achieving full-fledged curls is merely a matter of accentuating your hair’s inherent texture and adding definition.

Select the Appropriate Shampoo

Your choice of shampoo during washing plays a crucial role in achieving your desired curls. Some shampoos are formulated to enhance curly styles, while others offer added volume, providing the necessary lift to maintain the shape of your curls. If you’re uncertain which type suits your hair best, consider trying a customized shampoo that caters to all your wave-related needs.

Opt for a conditioner that aligns with the objectives of your shampoo to optimize your results before styling your curls. 

Refine Your Drying Method

Given that hair moisture is a pivotal factor in achieving enduring curls, your post-shower drying technique can significantly influence your results. Air drying stands out as an excellent choice to minimize heat-related damage. While using a hair dryer, be mindful that it can reduce the necessary moisture for your hair, so either limit its use or employ a diffuser attachment if you’re not quite ready to part with it.

Opt for Shorter Hairstyles

Thick or heavy hair has a tendency to straighten out curls, making shorter hairstyles a preferable choice when transitioning from waves to curls. A high fade with extra length on top creates a dedicated area to work with and emphasizes the curls you wish to accentuate. 

Opt for Curl-Enhancing Products

Curl creams are specifically formulated with ingredients that aid in defining and shaping your curls. Typically applied to damp hair, these products effectively seal in moisture and, as they dry, result in soft, manageable curls that maintain their natural flexibility.

8 Easy ways to get curly hair for men with naturally straight hair

Curling Iron

Use a curling iron to create defined curls. Select the barrel size that matches the curl style you desire, and remember to use heat protectant products to prevent damage. This method provides instant results, but it’s not a permanent change.

Heatless Curling Techniques

Experiment with heatless curling techniques such as rag curls, pin curls, or flexi-rods. These methods use your hair’s natural flexibility and don’t require heat, reducing the risk of damage.

Braids or Twists

Braid or twist your hair when it’s damp and leave it overnight. In the morning, carefully undo the braids or twists to reveal loose waves or curls.

Perms or Texturizers

Consider getting a perm or texturizer treatment at a salon. These chemical processes can provide you with long-lasting curls, but it’s essential to have them done by a professional to avoid damage.

Curl-Enhancing Products

Invest in curl-enhancing hair products such as mousse, creams, or curl activators. Apply these products to damp hair and scrunch or twist your hair to create curls.

Use a Diffuser

When blow-drying your hair, attach a diffuser to the dryer. This tool distributes heat evenly and reduces frizz while encouraging your hair to curl.

Bantu Knots

Create Bantu knots in your hair by twisting sections and coiling them into small knots. Once your hair is dry, carefully undo the knots to reveal curly hair.

Chemical Treatments

In 2023, chemical treatments will remain a popular avenue for men seeking to achieve curly hair. A commonly employed method involves the use of chemical relaxers, which effectively loosen tight curls. Chemical relaxers work by straightening the hair, imparting a shiny and silky appearance.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Curls

To maintain healthy and defined curls, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some things you can do to keep your curly hair looking its best:

Reduce Shampoo Frequency

Frequent shampooing can deplete your hair of its natural oils, and dry hair tends to have less cooperative curls. Unless you have fine hair, perspire heavily, or reside in a high-humidity environment, there’s no reason why you can’t space out your washes by a day or two. The key is to preserve your hair’s natural moisture, providing it with the elasticity required to maintain the desired curls.

Proper Hydration

Curly hair tends to be drier, so it’s crucial to keep it well-hydrated. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner formulated for curly hair. Consider incorporating a deep conditioning treatment into your routine to restore and retain moisture.

Gentle Detangling

To prevent breakage and minimize frizz, use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle your hair when it’s wet and coated with conditioner. Begin at the tips and work your way up to the roots.

Air Drying and Diffusing

Allow your hair to air dry whenever possible to maintain your natural curl pattern and reduce frizz. If you must use a hairdryer, attach a diffuser to minimize disruption and preserve your curls’ integrity.

Quality Hair Products

Invest in hair products specifically designed for curly hair, such as curl-enhancing creams, gels, and leave-in conditioners. Experiment to find the products that work best for your hair type and styling needs.

curly hair products for men

Shampoo

Look for a shampoo that is sulfate-free and silicone-free, as these ingredients can strip your curls of their natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Some good options include:

  • SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Shampoo
  • As I Am Coconut CoWash
  • DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser
  • DevaCurl NoPoo Original Zero Lather Conditioning Cleanser

Conditioner

Use a conditioner that is specifically designed for curly hair. It should be rich in moisturizing ingredients, such as shea butter, coconut oil, and argan oil. Some good options include:

  • Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Leave-In Conditioner
  • Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner
  • SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner
  • SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner

Stylers

There are a variety of styling products that can be used to enhance curly hair. Here are popular options:

  • Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream is perfect for defining and accentuating curls without leaving them feeling rigid or crispy.
  • Cantu Shea Butter Curl Activator Cream excels at detangling, hydrating, and defining curls.
  • DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel is designed to secure your curls in place while maintaining their moisture and preventing any dryness or flakiness.

To use these products, start by washing and conditioning your hair as usual. Once your hair is clean and damp, apply a leave-in conditioner to help moisturize and detangle your curls. Then, apply a styling product to help define and hold your curls in place. You can use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to help dry your hair and define your curls.

FAQs

Q: What is the best haircut for curly hair?

The best haircut for curly hair is one that works with your natural curl pattern. A layered cut or a taper fade are great choices for men with curly hair.

Q: Can I straighten my curly hair?

Yes, it is possible to straighten curly hair, but it can be damaging if not done correctly. Make sure to use heat protectant products and limit straightening to once a month.

Q: How do I prevent my curls from becoming frizzy?

Using a leave-in conditioner and avoiding heat styling can help prevent frizz. Additionally, avoid brushing your hair when it is dry, as it can cause frizz.

Q: Can I get curly hair if I have straight hair?

Yes, with the right techniques and products, you can achieve curly hair even if you have naturally straight hair.

Q: How long does it take to grow out curly hair?

It depends on the individual’s hair growth rate, but on average, it can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to grow out curly hair.

Final Takeaway

Achieving curly hair for men may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips and products, it is definitely achievable. Remember to understand your hair type, be patient during the growing-out phase, and invest in the right products for your curls. With proper care and maintenance, you can rock luscious, defined curls that will make you stand out from the crowd. So embrace your curly hair and have fun experimenting with different styles!