How to Use a 1.25-Inch Curling Wand

Wrap sections around the barrel away from your face, hold for 8-12 seconds, then release and let cool.

1. Prep your hair. Start with completely dry hair and apply a heat protectant from mid-length to ends. Skip product on your roots—it creates drag and kills volume.
2. Section strategically. Divide hair into 1-2 inch sections, working from bottom to top. Smaller sections give tighter curls, larger sections give loose waves.
3. Wrap and hold. Clamp the ends and wrap hair around the barrel, always curling away from your face. Hold for 8-12 seconds depending on your hair thickness—fine hair needs less time.
4. Release and cool. Gently slide the curl off the wand and cup it in your palm for 10 seconds while it cools. This sets the shape and makes curls last longer.
5. Style and set. Once all sections are done and cooled, gently rake through with your fingers or brush out for softer waves. Finish with a light hairspray.