HEATED TOOLS

HOT PICKS

The latest heated tools are upping the ante on versatility, creativity and hair health

Modern stylists need heated tools that deliver great results while offering the freedom to create everything from defined curls and waves to glass-like finishes and big, beautiful blowouts. We asked some of hairdressing’s top talents to share their favourite hot tool and why it earns a place in their kit.

New Tech

Investment in new technology has driven the evolution of heated tools, and Dyson is at the forefront. The latest addition to its portfolio, the Corrale CoolShine Straightener, is already a favourite of Demetri Deacon-Jones, Dyson’s Global Beauty Education Lead, Professional & Retail.

“The Dyson Corrale™ CoolShine straightener brings together styling performance, intelligent engineering and haircare in a single tool,” says Demetri. “Its flexing manganese copper alloy plates shape around the hair for greater control and fewer passes, helping reduce reliance on excessive heat and tension.”

The removable CoolShine attachment uses copper cooling pipes to cool hair immediately after styling, helping set the shape while creating a smoother, shinier finish. “It allows me to create everything from sleek, glasslike finishes and polished bobs to soft bends, effortless waves and voluminous movement.”

DEMETRI’S TOP STYLING TIP

“Great styling isn't about using more heat; it's about using the right technology in the right way. For modern waves, rotate the tool through the mid-lengths and ends rather than curling from the root, for a softer, more effortless finish.”

Mixing Textures

Syd Hayes, BaBylissPRO Ambassador and owner of Q Cut Hair & Beauty in Kew, London, is a big fan of curling wands and tongs for their creative versatility.

“Curling wands and tongs are the ones I reach for time and time again because they give me endless creative possibilities,” says Syd. “The BaBylissPRO collection includes 10 barrel sizes, with multiple heat settings, so there’s a tool for every look.”

Syd particularly likes combining different barrel sizes within one hairstyle. “I love using a mix of curls to create an intentionally imperfect, non-uniform finish that feels much more natural and modern. Mixing textures gives hair movement, dimension and that ‘undone’ look.”

SYD’S TOP STYLING TIP

“ALTERNATE THE DIRECTION OF EACH CURL FOR A SOFTER, MORE NATURAL-LOOKING FINISH WITH PLENTY OF MOVEMENT.”

Versatile Styling

James Parr, member of the Wahl Pro Styling Team and Creative Director of salon group Nashwhite, looks for flexibility in a heated tool. His top pick is the Wahl Pro Glide Straightener.

“The ceramic-coated plates ensure it’s perfect for curling, waving and straightening without snagging,” says James. “With adjustable heat settings, it’s suitable for all hair textures while helping to protect the integrity of the hair. It’s a staple in my kit whether I’m on the road or in the salon.”

JAMES’S TOP STYLING TIP

“Take smaller sections when styling to ensure maximum results and always make sure the hair is dry to avoid damage.”

Versatile Styling

Michael Gray, Ambassador for Diva Pro and founder of Michael Gray Hair, names the Diva Pro Styling Atmos Digital Multi Wand as his top hot pick.

“With three different-sized attachments from 11mm to 32mm, Atmos Digital Multi Wand allows me to switch effortlessly between curl and wave techniques, from beachy waves to Hollywood glam,” says Michael. “The adjustable heat control means I can use the wand on every hair type while protecting its integrity.”

MICHAEL’S TOP STYLING TIP

“WHEN WORKING WITH ANY HEATED TOOLS, ALWAYS USE A HEAT PROTECTION SPRAY TO PROTECT THE HAIR FROM DAMAGE.”

Complete Curl Control

Curl Specialist Emma Simmons reaches for the Digital Dryer from the Whosewood Couture Collection for its control across different curl patterns and textures.

“The two diffuser options are a standout,” says Emma. “The deep curl creator diffuser enhances natural curl, builds volume and defines shape, while the shallow diffuser is ideal for tighter textures or a more elongated finish. The gentle, even airflow reduces frizz while maintaining definition, movement and volume.”

She also loves the ONEcord system. “One interchangeable cable for multiple tools keeps the salon tidy and is perfect for session styling, education and weddings.”

EMMA’S TOP STYLING TIP

“Avoid touching curls while drying. Let the diffuser and product work, then gently break the cast once fully dry.”

Grunge Waves Meet Smooth

Amber Letham, Owner of The Vivid Circle salon in Dunfermline and Ambassador for Chris & Sons, loves combining grungy waves with smooth sections. Her go-to is the JRL Straightener.

“It’s such a versatile tool for creating different kinds of curls, waves and smoothing the hair,” says Amber. “I love how fast it heats up and how easy it is to adjust between temperature settings. It also cools down quickly and feels comfortable and sturdy to hold.”

AMBER’S TOP STYLING TIP

“TO CREATE A SOFT, BOUNCY BLOW-DRY EFFECT, TAKE LARGE HORIZONTAL SECTIONS, DO ONE FULL TURN WITH THE STRAIGHTENERS, THEN QUICKLY GLIDE THEM DOWN THE HAIR.”

Damage Control

For ghd Ambassador Jack Luckhurst, the biggest selling point of the new Sculpt straightener is its zero-heat-damage guarantee.

“I have complete confidence using it on clients with brittle, dry or damaged hair,” says Jack. “I’ve been able to reassure clients that I’m using a tool that delivers beautiful results while helping to maintain healthy-looking hair.”

Jack also uses Sculpt to create everything from sleek, straight looks and soft blowout styles to undone textures.

JACK’S TOP STYLING TIP

“To create a relaxed, beachy wave, gently rock the tool from side to side, alternating sections to create an S-wave pattern for a customised finish.”

Temperature Control

Freelance stylist Darren Webster favours the Electric London WT-2 Iron for its digital temperature control.

“It gives me total control over my hair styling, enabling me to choose the perfect temperature for the hair type and hairstyle I’m working on,” says Darren. “It’s a tool I always have in my kitbag, whether I’m working in the salon, on a shoot or backstage. The automatic shut-off is also great for preventing overheating.”

DARREN’S TOP STYLING TIP

“SECTION SMALLER THAN YOU THINK YOU NEED TO. BIGGER SECTIONS MAY STYLE FASTER BUT CAN FORCE YOU TO GO OVER THE SAME HAIR TWICE. FINE, EVEN SECTIONS MEAN LESS DAMAGE AND BETTER SHAPE RETENTION.”

Condition is Key

Ross Taylor, Artistic Director at GFC Hairdressing in Essex and an Ambassador for Gamma+, is passionate about creating beautiful styles without compromising hair health. His pick is the new Xceed hairdryer.

“The new Xceed hairdryer uses infrared and blue light technology to help keep hair in its best condition,” says Ross. “The infrared helps dry the hair from inside out to stop over-drying, while the blue light works with the hair fibre to maintain its condition.”

ROSS’S TOP STYLING TIP

“To create maximum volume, always blow-dry from top to bottom, allowing the hair to cool fully before dropping the hair to its natural fall.”

Kit Bag Essential

For Marie Nieuwoudt, the Cloud Nine The Original Iron is a kit essential. Its variable temperatures from 100°C to 200°C allow her to tailor the heat to different hair types. "As we move into autumn and those richer, more vibrant colours start coming through, I want a tool that helps me protect the longevity and vibrancy of my clients’ colour without compromising on the finished style. For me, the Original Iron combines control, versatility and creativity, which is exactly what I need from salon to session.”

MARIE’S TOP STYLING TIP

“Use the lower temperatures particularly when styling fine, bleached or fragile hair. The oneinch plates also give you the freedom to create everything from a faux blowdry finish to deep, polished waves.”