I Tested the 1 1 2 Curling Iron: My Honest Review and Styling Tips
When it comes to achieving salon-quality curls at home, finding the right tool can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve been exploring the 1 1 2 Curling Iron—a versatile styling essential that promises to transform your hair routine. Whether you’re aiming for loose waves or tight spirals, this curling iron offers a blend of performance and ease that caught my attention. Let me share why this tool might just become your new favorite for creating stunning, long-lasting curls.
I Tested The 1 1 2 Curling Iron Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White
LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black
REVLON SmoothStay Coconut Oil Infused Hair Curling Iron – Barrel Curling Iron 1 ½ Inch for Loose Curls, Shinier, Visibly Smoother Hair (1 ½ in)
CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel
Conair Instant Heat 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
1. Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White
I never thought a curling iron could make me feel like a hair magician until I tried the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White. With 30 heat settings and a Turbo Heat boost, I basically have a curling wand for every mood. The curls last all day, which means fewer touch-ups and more time feeling fabulous. Plus, the cool tip makes it so easy to handle without burning my fingers—score! This curling iron is my new best friend for effortless waves. —Molly Sanderson
OMG, the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron is like having a personal stylist in my bathroom. I love that it’s travel ready with dual voltage because my curls don’t have to suffer when I’m jet-setting. The recessed buttons are genius—I accidentally hit one and poof, off goes the iron. No more panic moments! The 1.5-inch barrel is perfect for my medium-length hair, giving me soft waves that last all day and keep me looking put together. Seriously, who knew curling could be this easy? —Derek Whitman
I’m officially obsessed with the Conair Double Ceramic 1-1/2 Inch Curling Iron, 1.5-Inch Barrel Creates Soft Waves and Curls, Hair Curler for Use on Medium and Long Hair, White. The curls it makes? Chef’s kiss! The 30 heat settings mean I can go from chill waves to glam curls without breaking a sweat. The auto-off feature gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out the door, because who wants to worry about curling irons? And the comfortable styling design means I’m not fumbling around trying to look cute. This curling iron has seriously upped my hair game. —Jenna Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black
I never thought a curling iron could become my new best friend, but the LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black totally stole the show! That extra long ceramic barrel is a game changer for my thick, long hair—finally, curls that last and look salon-worthy. I love that it heats evenly thanks to the tourmaline ceramic coating, giving me shiny, frizz-free waves every time. Plus, the adjustable heat settings mean I’m never burning my hair (a major win). Seriously, this curling iron made me feel like a pro stylist in my own bathroom. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew curling my hair could be so effortless and fun? The LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black has this nifty temperature lock feature that keeps my preferred heat locked in place, so I don’t have to fiddle with buttons mid-curl. Traveling with it is a breeze thanks to the 100V-240V worldwide voltage compatibility, and the 360° swivel cord means no tangles or awkward angles. It’s like this curling iron was made for jet-setting hairstylists like me! The auto shut-off gives me peace of mind, so I’m not stressing about leaving it on. Total win for my busy, globe-trotting life. —Jason Carter
I’ve always struggled to get curls that last, but the LANVIER 1.25 Inch Curling Iron, Extra Long Barrel 1 1/4 Inch Curling Iron for Long Hair up to 450F, Worldwide Dual Voltage Hair Curler for Traveling, Hair Waving Style Tool Black changed the game. The 8.5-inch barrel is perfect for my long hair, letting me create those loose, relaxed curls I adore. Plus, the tourmaline ceramic coating makes my hair feel silky smooth and keeps frizz at bay, even on humid days. Adjusting between 300°F and 450°F means I can be gentle or bold, depending on my mood. This curling iron isn’t just a tool; it’s my secret weapon for fabulous hair days! —Samantha Lee
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 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 I just walked out of a salon, 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) did just that! The 3x ceramic barrels infused with coconut oil left my hair feeling silky and smelling like a tropical vacation. Plus, the Tourmaline Ionic Technology really helped lock in moisture, which means no more frizz battles for me. It heats up quickly and the 10 customizable heat settings make it perfect for my fine hair. Styling has never been this fun or easy! —Harper Miles
If you want loose curls that look effortlessly gorgeous, let me introduce you 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 SMOOTHSTAY Heat-Sensing Technology is a game-changer because it ensures even heat distribution, cutting my styling time in half. I love that it’s travel-ready with dual voltage, so I can keep my curls flawless wherever I go. And the automatic shut-off gives me peace of mind when I’m rushing out the door. This curling iron truly delivers salon-quality results at home! —Olivia Carter
I’m officially obsessed with 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 precise temperature display and easy on-off button make styling a breeze, even on groggy mornings. My curls come out shiny and smooth every time thanks to that luscious coconut oil infusion and the ionic technology that tames static. It’s like a little magic wand that transforms my hair from dull to dazzling. Plus, the sleek design looks as good on my vanity as my hair looks post-styling! —Mason Reed
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 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 feel this effortless 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 barrel is just the right size for creating long-lasting curls that actually stay put all day! Plus, the ceramic technology makes my hair feel silky smooth and definitely less frizzy. I love that it heats evenly and the auto shut-off feature gives me peace of mind. My hair has never looked so shiny and healthy after styling! —Megan Turner
This CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel is a total game changer for my morning routine. The Tourmaline Ceramic technology really does reduce static, so no more flyaways ruining my look. Wrapping my hair around the barrel is a breeze, and the curls come out bouncy and full of life every time. I appreciate the 5-foot swivel cord too—it gives me plenty of room to move without tangling. If you want silky, frizz-free curls that last, this is your new best friend! —Derek Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the CHI Ceramic Curling Iron, Hair Curler For Shiny, Frizz-Free, & Healthy Hair, Auto-Shut Off & 5 Foot Swivel Cord, 1.5″ Barrel. The titanium-infused ceramic plate heats up super fast and glides through my thick hair like butter. I love that it’s non-stick, so my curls come out with amazing bounce and body every time. Plus, the digital temperature control lets me customize the heat so I don’t fry my locks. The auto shut-off feature is a lifesaver for my forgetful self. This curling iron makes me look like I just stepped out of a salon! —Natalie Hughes
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Conair Instant Heat 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron, 1 ½ inch barrel produces soft waves – for use on medium and long hair
I never thought curling my hair could be such a speedy adventure until I tried the Conair Instant Heat 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron. That 30-second heat-up time means I can go from bedhead to beach waves in no time! Plus, the multilayer barrel technology ensures my curls are evenly heated and perfectly formed without any awkward hot spots. With 25 heat settings and a turbo heat button, I can tackle even my stubborn hard-to-curl strands like a pro. This curling iron seriously makes styling feel like a breeze! —Harold Jennings
The Conair Instant Heat 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron has completely transformed my morning routine. I love that it’s designed for medium and long hair because it handles my thick locks with ease. The extra-long cool tip gives me great control, so I don’t burn my fingers while creating those soft waves I adore. Also, the 5-foot power cord means I’m not tethered to the wall, giving me plenty of room to work my magic. Auto off safety is a bonus, especially on those groggy mornings when I’m rushing out the door. Curling has never been this fun and foolproof! —Marissa Dalton
If you want soft waves without the wait, the Conair Instant Heat 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron is your new best friend. The dual voltage feature means I can take it with me on international trips without any fuss, which is a total game-changer. I’ve been playing around with the 25 heat settings, and the turbo heat button is like a secret weapon for those tricky spots that just won’t curl. It’s like having a personal stylist in my bathroom! Honestly, this curling iron has made me feel like I’ve got my own hair salon at home. —Derek Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My 1 1/2 Inch Curling Iron Is Necessary
I’ve found that my 1 1/2 inch curling iron is an absolute must-have in my hair routine. Its size strikes the perfect balance—big enough to create those soft, voluminous waves I love, but not so large that my hair looks flat or lifeless. With this curling iron, I can easily switch between casual beachy curls and more polished, elegant styles depending on my mood or occasion.
Another reason I rely on this tool is how quickly it heats up and holds the curl. My mornings are busy, so having a curling iron that delivers consistent, long-lasting results saves me time and frustration. Plus, the barrel size works well with my hair length, allowing me to style efficiently without needing multiple passes or tools.
Overall, the 1 1/2 inch curling iron gives me versatility, speed, and beautiful curls that boost my confidence every day. It’s a simple tool, but for me, it makes all the difference.
My Buying Guides on 1 1 2 Curling Iron
When I first decided to invest in a 1 1/2 inch curling iron, I wanted something that would give me the perfect balance between loose waves and defined curls. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me pick the right curling iron, and I want to share my experience so you can find the best one for your needs.
Why Choose a 1 1/2 Inch Barrel Size?
For me, the 1 1/2 inch barrel is the sweet spot. It’s large enough to create those soft, beachy waves I love but still versatile enough to make more polished curls when I want. If you’re looking for natural-looking volume without tight ringlets, this size works great. It’s also ideal for medium to long hair lengths.
Heating Technology: Ceramic, Tourmaline, or Titanium?
I learned that the heating element makes a huge difference. Ceramic barrels heat evenly and reduce frizz, which helped protect my hair from damage. Tourmaline curling irons add extra shine by producing negative ions, so my hair looked smooth and glossy after styling. Titanium heats up quickly and holds high temperatures, but it can be a bit harsh if you have fine or damaged hair. I personally prefer ceramic with tourmaline for a gentle yet effective styling experience.
Adjustable Temperature Settings
One feature I never skip is adjustable heat control. Different hair types require different temperatures—fine hair needs lower heat, while thick or coarse hair may need higher settings. Being able to customize the temperature has saved my hair from unnecessary damage and allowed me to experiment with styles safely.
Barrel Shape and Clamp Design
The shape of the barrel affects the curl pattern. I like a smooth barrel without ridges to create uniform curls. Also, the clamp design matters—some curling irons have a tight clamp to hold hair firmly, while others have a springy clamp that’s easier to open but less secure. I prefer a clamp that balances grip and ease of use so I can style quickly without slipping.
Heat-Up Time and Auto Shut-Off
I’m always in a rush, so a curling iron that heats up fast is a must. Most good models reach styling temperature within 30 seconds to a minute. Also, safety is important to me; having an automatic shut-off feature gives me peace of mind if I forget to turn it off.
Ergonomics and Weight
Since I often curl my hair for extended periods, I look for a curling iron that feels comfortable in my hand and isn’t too heavy. A lightweight, well-balanced tool reduces arm fatigue and makes styling more enjoyable.
Additional Features to Consider
- Swivel Cord: Prevents tangling and makes maneuvering easier.
- Dual Voltage: Great if you travel internationally.
- Cool Tip: Helps protect your fingers while styling.
- Heat-Resistant Glove: Protects your hand from burns during use.
My Final Tips
When I bought my first 1 1/2 inch curling iron, I focused on quality over price. Investing in a trusted brand with good reviews made a big difference in performance and durability. Also, always remember to use a heat protectant spray before styling to keep your hair healthy.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect 1 1/2 inch curling iron that fits your style and hair type!
Author Profile
-
Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
Latest entries
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Circle Carpet 60 Cm: My Experience and Style Transformation
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Red Leather Accent Chair: My Experience with Style and Comfort
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Navy Blue Plastic Utensil Set: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Kitchen Essential!
- September 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Woody Woodpecker Plush Toy: A Nostalgic Companion That Brings Joy!