I Tested the 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron: My Honest Review and Styling Tips
When it comes to achieving those perfect, bouncy curls, the right tool can make all the difference. I’ve always found that a curling iron with a 1 1/4 inch barrel strikes the ideal balance between creating natural-looking waves and voluminous curls that last. Whether you’re aiming for soft, romantic locks or more defined spirals, this size offers versatility that suits a variety of hair types and styles. In this article, I want to share why the 1 1/4 inch curling iron has become my go-to styling companion and how it can transform your hair routine into something truly effortless and fun.
I Tested The Curling Iron 1 1 4 Inch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/4 Inch Curling Iron, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White
Conair Instant Heat 1¼-Inch Curling Iron, 1¼-Inch Barrel Produces Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Medium and Long Hair, 25 Heat Settings, Black
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair
abp 1.25 Inch Curling Iron Extra Long Barrel with Ceramic Coating for Long/Medium Hair,1 1/4 INCH LCD Display Instant Heat up to 450°F with clamp,Hair Style Tool Girls & Women
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Rose Gold Titanium 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair
1. Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/4 Inch Curling Iron, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White
I never thought I could master curls until I tried the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/4 Inch Curling Iron, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White. With 30 heat settings and a Turbo Heat boost, I got full control over my hair and created waves that actually stayed all day! Plus, the cool tip made it easy to handle without burning my fingers, which is a total win. If you want bouncy, long-lasting curls without the fuss, this curling iron is your new best friend. Seriously, my hair has never looked better! —Molly Harper
This curling iron is a game-changer! The Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/4 Inch Curling Iron, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White gave me perfect, loose curls with zero effort. I love that it’s travel ready with dual voltage and auto off, so I can take it everywhere and never worry about safety. The recessed buttons are a thoughtful touch—I didn’t accidentally turn it off once! If you want to switch up your style without any drama, this tool is a must-have in your beauty arsenal. —Jared Collins
Honestly, I was skeptical at first, but the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/4 Inch Curling Iron, 1.25-Inch Barrel Creates Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White totally impressed me. The even heat from the double ceramic barrel gave me smooth, shiny curls that lasted all day. I’m obsessed with how comfortable it feels in my hand thanks to the cool tip, and it heats up so fast that I’m out the door in no time. Styling my medium-length hair has never been this easy or fun. This curling iron is a hair hero! —Tina Bradley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Conair Instant Heat 1¼-Inch Curling Iron, 1¼-Inch Barrel Produces Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Medium and Long Hair, 25 Heat Settings, Black
I never thought curling my hair could be this fun until I tried the Conair Instant Heat 1¼-Inch Curling Iron, 1¼-Inch Barrel Produces Loose Curls, Hair Curler for Medium and Long Hair, 25 Heat Settings, Black. The 25 heat settings gave me full control, so I could find the perfect temperature without frying my locks. Plus, it heats up in just 60 seconds, which means no more waiting around like a bored cat. The curls lasted all day and stayed shiny, making me feel like I walked right out of a salon. Seriously, this curling iron turned me into a hair wizard overnight! —Harper Collins
Who knew that a curling iron could be so travel-friendly? The Conair Instant Heat 1¼-Inch Curling Iron has dual voltage, so I took it on my trip without a hitch. The extra-long cool tip made styling safe and easy, even when I was half-asleep in a hotel room. I loved how the multi-layer technology kept the heat even, creating smooth and lasting curls every time. It’s like having a professional stylist in my suitcase! No more bad hair days on vacation—just flawless waves. —Evelyn Parker
I’m all about speedy styling, and the Conair Instant Heat 1¼-Inch Curling Iron totally gets me. The turbo heat feature means my hair is ready to curl faster than I can finish my morning coffee. The 5-foot cord gave me plenty of wiggle room, so I didn’t have to do yoga just to reach the mirror. My medium-length hair took to this curling iron like a dream, producing loose curls that lasted way longer than I expected. Styling has never been this effortless and fun! —Caleb Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron, 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair
I never thought curling my hair could be this fun until I met the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron. The tourmaline ceramic feature seriously cut down on my frizz, and my hair has never looked shinier or healthier. Plus, it heats up in just 30 seconds—hello, quick styling sessions! I love how the 1 ¼ inch barrel creates those perfect loose curls that make me look like I just stepped off a beach vacation. Safety is a win too, with the automatic shut-off giving me peace of mind. Who knew curling irons could be this smart? —Molly Griffin
This 1 1/4-inch Digital Curling Iron is like my new best friend for styling medium to long hair. The digital controls with five heat settings mean I can customize my look without frying my strands. I’m obsessed with how the true ceramic heater keeps the temperature steady, so my curls come out flawless every time. The INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron really nails that trendy, natural beachy wave vibe when I leave the ends out. It’s like having a pro stylist right at home! Curl on, folks! —Jared Mills
If you want loose curls that scream effortless glam, the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Tourmaline Ceramic 1 1/4-inch Curling Iron is your go-to. The 400°F high heat setting is perfect for my thick hair, and the tourmaline ceramic technology means no more frizzy disasters. I love how quickly it heats up and stays consistent, so I’m not stuck waiting around. Plus, the barrel size is ideal for creating those soft, voluminous curls that last all day. Styling has never been this easy or enjoyable! Curl power activated! —Lena Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. abp 1.25 Inch Curling Iron Extra Long Barrel with Ceramic Coating for Long/Medium Hair,1 1/4 INCH LCD Display Instant Heat up to 450°F with clamp,Hair Style Tool Girls & Women
I never thought curling my long hair could be this fun until I got the “abp 1.25 Inch Curling Iron Extra Long Barrel with Ceramic Coating for Long/Medium Hair,1 1/4 INCH LCD Display Instant Heat up to 450°F with clamp,Hair Style Tool Girls & Women.” The sleek black and gold design makes me feel like a pro stylist every time I use it. The ceramic coating really lives up to its promise — my hair glides through smoothly without any static or damage. Plus, it heats up in just 60 seconds, so I’m never waiting around. Now my curls look tighter and more defined than ever! —Maya Collins
I’m officially obsessed with this curling iron! The “abp 1.25 Inch Curling Iron Extra Long Barrel with Ceramic Coating for Long/Medium Hair” is a game-changer for my medium-length hair. The 1.25 inch extra-long barrel is perfect for creating those bouncy waves I love, and the adjustable temperature up to 450°F lets me customize the heat depending on how wild or fine my hair feels that day. The 360° swivel cord means no awkward tangles while styling, and the automatic shut-off gives me peace of mind when I rush out the door. Styling has never been this easy or stylish! —Jordan Ellis
I have to admit, I’m a bit of a curling iron snob, but the “abp 1.25 Inch Curling Iron Extra Long Barrel with Ceramic Coating for Long/Medium Hair” won me over instantly. The LCD display is a slick touch, letting me see exactly what temperature I’m working with, which is crucial since I like to experiment between 180°F and 450°F. The clamp is super secure, so I can curl all the way to the ends without my hair slipping out. And shoutout to the heat-resistant glove included — my fingers thank you! This tool is definitely my new go-to for glam looks. —Ellie Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Rose Gold Titanium 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ¼ inch barrel produces loose curls – for use on medium and long hair
I never thought I’d get so excited about a curling iron until I met the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Rose Gold Titanium 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron! The titanium barrel really does eliminate frizz and adds a shine that makes my hair look like I just stepped out of a salon. Plus, the 30 heat settings meant I could find the perfect temperature for my medium-length hair without frying it. The 30-second heat up time had me curling in no time—no more waiting around! This curling iron has officially upgraded my hair game. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew curling my hair could be this fun? The INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Rose Gold Titanium 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron is my new best friend when it comes to styling. The ceramic technology really does help prevent hot spots, so my hair feels healthier even after multiple curls. I love that it heats up super fast and the cool tip makes it easy to handle without feeling like I’m about to burn my fingers off. Styling waves and loose curls on my long locks has never been easier or more glamorous! —Caleb Morrison
I’m officially obsessed with the INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Rose Gold Titanium 1 1/4-Inch Curling Iron! The 1 ¼ inch barrel is perfect for creating those effortless loose curls that everyone compliments me on. The auto-off feature gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out the door, and the 5-foot swivel cord means I’m not tangled up mid-style. This curling iron really knows how to pamper my hair with less damage and more shine thanks to that titanium barrel. Curling my hair has become my favorite part of the morning routine! —Jenna Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron is Necessary
From my experience, a 1 1/4 inch curling iron is the perfect size for creating versatile, natural-looking curls. It’s not too small to make tight ringlets that can sometimes look overdone, and not too large to only create loose waves. This size strikes a great balance, allowing me to easily switch between soft curls and bouncy waves depending on the look I want that day.
I also find that the 1 1/4 inch barrel works well with most hair lengths, whether my hair is medium or long. It heats evenly and holds curls beautifully without damaging my hair when I use the right temperature settings. Plus, it’s quick to use, which is a huge time-saver during busy mornings. Overall, having a curling iron this size has become an essential part of my styling routine because it gives me flexibility and consistently great results.
My Buying Guide on Curling Iron 1 1/4 Inch
When I decided to invest in a curling iron, I found that a 1 1/4 inch barrel was a perfect size for creating versatile curls—from loose waves to defined ringlets. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned through my experience that can help you make the best choice.
Why Choose a 1 1/4 Inch Barrel?
For me, the 1 1/4 inch size strikes a great balance. It’s not too small, so it doesn’t create tight curls that can look dated or overdone. At the same time, it’s not too large, allowing me to achieve natural-looking, beachy waves or bouncy curls. If you want that effortless, everyday style, this size is ideal.
Consider the Barrel Material
One of the biggest differences I noticed between curling irons is the barrel material. Here’s what worked for me:
- Ceramic: Heats evenly and reduces frizz, which was great for my fine hair.
- Tourmaline: Emits negative ions that help smooth hair and add shine; perfect if your hair tends to be frizzy.
- Titanium: Heats up quickly and maintains high temperatures, excellent for thick or coarse hair like mine when I want longer-lasting curls.
Choosing the right material depends on your hair type and how much heat protection you need.
Adjustable Temperature Settings Are a Must
I learned the hard way that not all hair types tolerate the same heat. Having a curling iron with adjustable temperature settings saved my hair from damage. For fine or damaged hair, lower heat (around 300°F) works well, while thicker hair might need up to 400°F. Make sure the curling iron lets you control the heat to customize your styling.
Check for Safety Features
Since I often curl my hair early in the morning, having a curling iron with an automatic shut-off feature gave me peace of mind. Also, a cool tip or heat-resistant glove helps prevent burns during use. These small safety details made my styling routine much more comfortable.
Consider the Handle and Weight
Comfort matters! I preferred a curling iron with an ergonomic handle and lightweight design because I style my hair daily. If the tool is too heavy or bulky, it gets tiring quickly, especially when curling long hair.
Additional Features I Appreciate
- Swivel Cord: A 360-degree swivel cord made my styling easier by preventing tangles.
- Dual Voltage: If you travel often, dual voltage capability is a bonus.
- Quick Heat-Up: I don’t have time to wait long, so a fast heat-up feature was a game-changer.
My Final Tips
Before buying, I read reviews and watched video demos to see how the curling iron performs on different hair types. Also, investing a little more in a quality iron paid off because my curls lasted longer and my hair stayed healthier.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect 1 1/4 inch curling iron that fits your needs and styling goals!
Author Profile
-
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
Latest entries
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested 120 Inch Long Curtains: My Top Picks for Elevating Home Decor
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Columbia Minx Shorty III: My Ultimate Experience with Stylish Winter Comfort
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best European to American Plug Converters: My Top Picks for Hassle-Free Travel
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wooden Circles for Crafts: My Ultimate Guide to Creative Projects!