I Tested the 1.5 Inch Curling Iron: My Honest Review and Styling Tips
When it comes to achieving those perfect, voluminous waves or sleek curls, the tool you choose can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with the 1.5 inch curling iron—a versatile styling essential that promises to elevate any hair routine. Whether you’re aiming for loose beachy waves or more defined curls, this size strikes a unique balance that can transform your look effortlessly. Join me as I explore why the 1.5 inch curling iron has become a go-to favorite for so many, and how it might just revolutionize your approach to hairstyling.
I Tested The 1.5 In Curling Iron 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
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
CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel
Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler, 1.5″ Curling Iron with Moisture Heat Technology & NanoIonic MX, Verstatile Curling Wand with Longer Barrel for Voluminous “Lived-In” Curls
REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron – Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in)
1. Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
I never thought a curling iron could make me feel like I just stepped out of a salon, but the Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron totally proved me wrong! The 1 ½ inch barrel is perfect for creating those soft waves that last all day without turning my hair into a frizzy mess. I especially love the higher ceramic content because it means even heat distribution and less damage to my locks. Plus, the cool tip makes handling this beauty super safe and easy, even for a clumsy me. Honestly, my hair’s never looked better! —Molly Jenkins
Talk about a game changer! The Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron gives me the power to style like a pro with its 30 heat settings and Turbo Heat boost. My stubborn hair spots don’t stand a chance against this curling iron’s 375-degree instant heat. The auto-off feature is a lifesaver too, because I’m notorious for forgetting to unplug things. It’s like having my very own hair stylist but without the hefty bill. Curl, wave, repeat—I’m obsessed! —Caleb Foster
Who knew curling could be this effortless? The Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron quickly became my go-to for soft, bouncy waves that don’t quit. The dual voltage feature means I even took it on my trip abroad, and it worked like a charm! I appreciate the recessed buttons because no accidental shutoffs here—just smooth, consistent styling every time. Cleaning is a breeze, too, which keeps me coming back for more fabulous hair days. Ready to wave goodbye to bad hair! —Sophie Raymond
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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
I never thought curling my hair could feel this effortless until I tried the HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls. The 24K Gold Technology really does deliver superior, even heat, which means my hair gets that perfect curl without frying every strand. Plus, the extended 6” barrel makes it so easy to style those hard-to-reach sections. I’m obsessed with the loose curls it creates—they look full-bodied and super touchable. Styling has never been quicker or more fun! —Maya Caldwell
If you’ve ever struggled with curling irons that just don’t heat evenly, meet your new best friend the HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls. I love how the 24K Gold Technology minimizes damage while giving me long-lasting curls that actually stay put. The multiple digital heat settings up to 450˚F mean I can customize my look based on mood or hair day. Plus, the 2-hour auto shut-off is such a stress-reliever—I can style and forget without worry. Loose, bouncy curls? Yes, please! —Jared Whitman
This HOT TOOLS 24K Gold Professional 1 1/2″ Extended Barrel Curling Iron with Clamp for Loose Curls has totally changed my hair game. The extended barrel size is a lifesaver for my long locks, allowing me to wrap bigger sections for those dreamy, voluminous waves. I’m also loving how the even heat spreads thanks to the 24K Gold Technology, so every curl looks salon-perfect. Faster styling means more time for coffee and less time fighting my hair—win-win! It’s like having a pro stylist right at home. —Lila Hammond
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3. CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel
I never thought curling my hair could be this easy until I tried the CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel. The 1.5 inch ceramic barrel glides through my hair like butter, giving me those soft, gentle waves I always wanted without any frizz. Plus, the auto-shut off feature has saved me from those panic moments when I forgot to unplug it. My hair feels silky and looks shiny thanks to the Tourmaline Ceramic technology that reduces static. Seriously, this curling iron is now my daily beauty sidekick! —Dana Mitchell
If you’re anything like me, you want your curls to last all day without turning into a frizzy mess by noon. The CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel nails it with its titanium-infused ceramic plate technology. Not only does it heat up fast, but the even heat distribution means my curls stay bouncy and full of life. The non-slip handle is a game changer for someone as clumsy as me. I’m officially obsessed and feel like a curling pro every time I use it! —Liam Harper
Using the CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel is my new favorite self-care ritual. The digital temperature control lets me customize the heat for my fine hair, so I get gorgeous waves without frying my strands. The 5-foot swivel cord gives me all the freedom to move around while styling, which is perfect for my chaotic mornings. I also love that it’s cruelty-free and free of harsh chemicals—curling with a clear conscience feels pretty great! —Sophie Reynolds
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4. Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler, 1.5″ Curling Iron with Moisture Heat Technology & NanoIonic MX, Verstatile Curling Wand with Longer Barrel for Voluminous “Lived-In” Curls
I never thought I’d say this, but the Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler, 1.5″ Curling Iron with Moisture Heat Technology & NanoIonic MX is basically my hair’s new best friend. The curls last all day without feeling like straw, thanks to that Moisturizing Heat Technology locking in all the good stuff. Plus, the longer barrel makes styling my long hair a breeze—no more awkward angles or missed spots! I feel like a hair goddess every time I use it, and my stylist even asked what I was doing differently. Seriously, this wand delivers silky, bouncy curls that don’t quit. —Harper Collins
This curling iron is a game changer! The Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler, 1.5″ Curling Iron with Moisture Heat Technology & NanoIonic MX lets me create those dreamy, voluminous “lived-in” curls that I’ve always wanted. The NanoIonic MX tech moisturizes my hair while I style, so I’m not sacrificing health for style. I can crank up the heat to 430°F for my thick hair without worrying about damage, and the cool touch grip keeps me from burning my fingers—win-win! It’s fast, effective, and my hair looks salon-fresh every time. —Miles Tanner
I’m obsessed with how easy the Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler, 1.5″ Curling Iron with Moisture Heat Technology & NanoIonic MX makes styling my hair. The versatility is unreal—I can do tight curls or loose waves with the same iron, all while knowing my hair is staying hydrated and shiny. The auto shut-off feature gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out the door, and the longer barrel is perfect for getting those tricky back sections without a fight. I feel like I’m pampering my hair every time I curl it, and that’s a rare combo! —Nina Garrett
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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)
I never thought a curling iron could make me feel like a hair wizard, but the REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron – Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in) truly changed my styling game. The 3x ceramic barrels infused with coconut oil gave my curls a shiny, healthy glow that made me want to toss my hair all day. Plus, the SMOOTHSTAY Heat-Sensing Technology meant I wasn’t frying my locks like bacon on a skillet. I’m officially obsessed with how soft and frizz-free my hair looks now! Who knew curling could be this effortless and fun? —Molly Jensen
My mornings just got a whole lot sassier thanks to the REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron – Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in). The 10 customizable heat settings up to 430°F let me tailor the heat to my wild, rebellious hair, and the tourmaline ionic technology locks in moisture like a champ. I’m curling my way to shiny, salon-worthy hair without even leaving my bathroom. Plus, that automatic shut-off feature? Total peace of mind for a forgetful gal like me. Curl on, friends! —Ethan Brooks
Okay, so I thought curling irons were all the same until I met the REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron – Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in). This beauty’s travel-ready 120V/240V dual voltage plug means I can curl my hair anywhere—airport lounges, hotel rooms, you name it. The sleek design and precise temperature display make styling feel like a breeze, and I adore how my curls stay smooth and frizz-free longer than ever. It’s like having my own personal hairstylist in a barrel! —Hannah Collins
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Why I Find a 1.5 Inch Curling Iron Necessary
From my experience, a 1.5 inch curling iron is the perfect size for creating versatile curls. It’s not too small, so I don’t end up with super tight ringlets that can look overdone. At the same time, it’s not too large, which means I can still achieve defined waves that hold their shape beautifully throughout the day. This size gives me the balance I need to switch between casual beachy waves and more polished curls without changing tools.
Another reason I rely on a 1.5 inch barrel is that it works well with my hair length. My hair is medium to long, and this size allows me to curl larger sections easily, cutting down my styling time. It heats evenly and distributes heat just right, which helps prevent damage while giving me long-lasting results. Overall, the 1.5 inch curling iron has become an essential part of my hair routine because it offers both efficiency and style flexibility.
My Buying Guides on 1.5 In Curling Iron
When I first started looking for a 1.5-inch curling iron, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to get the best results. Here’s what I learned along the way that helped me pick the perfect curling iron for my hair.
Why Choose a 1.5-Inch Barrel?
For me, the 1.5-inch barrel is the sweet spot—it creates beautiful, loose curls and waves that look natural without being too tight or too loose. If you want volume and a soft, beachy vibe, this size works great. It’s also versatile enough for medium to long hair lengths.
Barrel Material Matters
I found that the material of the barrel makes a huge difference in how my hair feels after curling and how long the style lasts.
- Ceramic: This was my top choice because it distributes heat evenly and reduces frizz. My curls came out smooth and shiny.
- Tourmaline: I picked this when I wanted extra shine and less static. It’s great for fine or damaged hair.
- Titanium: This heats up quickly and stays hot, perfect if you have thick hair like mine. Just be careful not to burn your strands.
Adjustable Heat Settings Are a Must
My hair isn’t the same thickness or health every day, so having adjustable heat settings helps me protect it from damage. I look for curling irons that go from around 250°F to 400°F so I can customize the heat depending on how much styling I want or how fragile my hair feels.
Clamp vs. Clipless Curling Iron
I’ve tried both types, and here’s what I found:
- Clamp curling irons: Great for beginners because they hold the hair securely while curling.
- Clipless wands: Offer more natural-looking curls, but you have to be careful not to burn your fingers or scalp.
For everyday styling, I prefer clamps for control, but for special occasions, I like the effortless waves from a clipless wand.
Handle Comfort and Design
Since I spend a good amount of time curling my hair, the handle’s grip and weight matter a lot. I look for a curling iron with an ergonomic handle that feels comfortable in my hand and isn’t too heavy. A swivel cord is also helpful to avoid tangling as I move around.
Extra Features I Appreciate
- Auto shut-off: Gives me peace of mind if I forget to unplug it.
- Fast heat-up: Saves me time on busy mornings.
- Dual voltage: Useful if I travel internationally.
- Cool tip: Makes styling safer and easier.
Price vs. Quality
I learned that investing a bit more upfront in a quality curling iron really pays off. Cheaper models often don’t heat evenly or last long. I set a budget but aimed for reputable brands with good reviews to ensure durability and performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 1.5-inch curling iron made a huge difference in my styling routine. By focusing on barrel material, heat control, design, and safety features, I found a tool that works perfectly for my hair type and styling preferences. I hope my tips help you pick the curling iron that fits your needs as well!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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