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I used to think hot rollers were a vintage (read: outdated) styling tool. Something my grandmother used. With a seemingly infinite array of wands, irons, and other high-tech hair innovations, what could rollers give me that my existing arsenal didn’t? The answer, it turns out, is instant volume—a lot of it—and convenience.
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Best for Beginners
Xtreme Big Curls Hairsetter Conair
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Best for Damaged Hair
Volumizing Hot Rollers Luxe T3
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Best Amazon Pick
PRO Nano Titanium Roller Hairsetter BaByliss
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Best for Fine Hair
Professional Molecular 30-Piece Multiple Size Steam Hair Setter Caruso
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Best for Travel
Compact Hairsetter Conair
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You can have perfect curls in as little as five minutes. Since the full ’90s blowout is a hair trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, it’s time you get familiar with this tool. But don’t just take our word for it–celebrity hairstylist David Lopez, who has A-list clients like Ashley Graham, is a huge fan of hot rollers. Here, find the eight best hot rollers you need to get instant volume.
Best for Beginners
Conair
Xtreme Big Curls Hairsetter
Best for Damaged Hair
T3
Volumizing Hot Rollers Luxe
Best Amazon Pick
BaByliss
PRO Nano Titanium Roller Hairsetter
Best for Fine Hair
Caruso
Professional Molecular 30-Piece Multiple Size Steam Hair Setter
Best for Travel
Conair
Compact Hairsetter
Best for Short Hair
John Frieda
Body & Shine Smooth Waves
Best for a Budget
Remington
Hair Setter & Rollers
Best for Long Hair
InfinitiPRO by Conair
Ceramic Flocked Hot Roller Set
How long should you keep in hot rollers to avoid damaging hair?
“You can’t leave hot rollers in long enough to damage your hair. In terms of heat damage, it’s fool-proof,” Lopez says. “It takes an average of 12 minutes to cool down, although I have seen results after five minutes. For style longevity, leave in the hair for about 15 minutes to get the style retention you’re looking for.”
How do you prep your hair for hot rollers?
Rough-drying your hair to start is key, Lopez suggests. “I like to use the T3 Cura Luxe on low speed and high heat while rough-drying in order to keep the elasticity of the hair,” he says. “Once dry, prep the hair with a medium styling mousse. The heat from the rollers will activate this mousse and give the look a stronger memory. Finally, before I wrap each section around the hot rollers, I spray with hairspray and brush through.” His go-to duo includes Kenra’s Medium Hold Mousse and IGK’s Intern Flexible hairspray.
Can all hair types use hot rollers?
“Yes! Although for curly and natural hair types, you want to smooth hair first and then use the hot rollers,” Lopez insists. “The hot rollers won’t straighten or completely smooth out naturally curly hair.”
Any other tips you have for using hot rollers?
“Sometimes, I wrap the hair around the rollers like I would an iron because it can give you more of a loose wave look,” Lopez says. “If you have long hair, pick up a one-inch roller and wrap a section around the roller like a curling iron and clip it vertically. Once cool, release the roller and you will achieve a long, loose curl.”
Are hot rollers better than curling irons?
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add curl and volume to your hair, hot rollers are a great choice. While curling irons can require a little more skill, you do get more versatility with a curling iron. As for which one is better, it all depends on your personal preference! “With hot rollers, I have greater control over style longevity and bounce of the hair. It’s also extremely gentle on the hair, so it’s great if you’re worried about hair damage: color- treated hair, over-processed hair, etc.,” says Lopez. “Although they are extremely gentle, you still get a big result!”
Tatjana Freund Beauty Commerce Writer Tatjana Freund is a Beauty Commerce Writer, covering makeup, skincare, and haircare products and trends.