From effortless, beachy waves to tight, runway-ready spirals, the curling tong is the behind-the-scenes hero of countless memorable hairstyles. While a great cut and premium products lay the foundation, it’s the precision of a well-chosen tong and the skill in the stylist’s hands that elevates a look from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a professional stylist or someone who simply loves to experiment at home, understanding how to choose and care for the right tong can dramatically improve your results.
Vaishakhi Haria, Founder, Splash Salons, and Co-founder, Very V Salons; and Atharva Takke, Education and Creative Director, U Takke’s Institute of Hair & Skin, spill the secrets of right tool selection.
MATCHING THE BARREL TO YOUR VISION
Selecting a curling tong isn’t about picking the shiniest gadget on the shelf, it’s about understanding the look you want to create and the hair you’re working with. The right size, shape and material determine whether you end up with soft waves or sculpted curls, making this first step the foundation of great styling.
After 13 years behind the chair, Takke knows a pair of curling tongs is far more than a simple gadget. He says, “A tong isn’t just a tool; in the right hands it’s the magic wand that transforms hair into art.” He suggests choosing the right tong begins with the finished look in mind. “If I want soft, effortless waves, I reach for a medium to large barrel. If the brief is tighter, more defined curls, then a smaller one works best. The hair’s length and texture also play a huge role. What works beautifully on fine hair may not give the same finish on thicker hair.”
Haria shares that same love for the tool’s versatility. “Curling tongs are one of my favourite styling tools. If I want softer curls, I choose a bigger sized tong and for tight curls I use the slim barrels.” Together, their advice highlights an essential lesson: barrel size dictates curl type, and texture dictates technique.
FINISHING WITH A FLAIR
Vaishakhi Haria, Founder, Splash Salons, and Co-founder, Very V Salons
A great cut and colour set the stage, but it’s the finishing tools that give hair its final personality. For stylists, a curling tong provides the movement, dimension, and polish that clients instantly notice, making it indispensable in any professional kit.
“Curling tongs are non-negotiable,” Takke insists. “They’re not just about ‘curling’; they help me create movement, bounce, and that polished finish which makes all the difference. Whether it’s a bride, a shoot, or even everyday styling, the tong is what elevates the look from good to wow.”
Haria adds another core point to highlight their value: “Curling tongs add dimension to the hair texture and give a smooth, flowy look. It helps best after hair colour services where it enhances the overall look.”
Atharva Takke, Education and Creative Director, U Takke’s Institute of Hair & Skin
DEFINING QUALITY FOR DEFINED RESULTS
Not all tongs are created equal. The right combination of temperature control, material and build quality separates a professional-grade tool from a frustrating one, ensuring both hair health and styling precision. Both stylists agree that quality features separate a great tong from a mediocre one.
“Temperature control is a must, because no two hair types need the same heat,” Takke advises. He recommends choosing a barrel material like ceramic or titanium, which ensures even heat distribution and helps protect the hair. “Quick heat-up and even heat distribution and consistent temperature throughout the service are features one should never compromise on.” Haria further points out that ease of use matters just as much as advanced technology. For her, a ‘long barrel’ and ‘light weight’ design are critical. If you style frequently or for long sessions, these small details can mean the difference between a smooth experience and a wrist-straining workout.
MAKING A PROFESSIONAL INVESTMENT
A professional-grade curling tong might seem like a splurge, but durability and performance quickly justify the price. Stylists who invest wisely find their tools last longer, deliver superior results, and ultimately save money over time. A high-quality curling tong is not just a purchase; it’s a professional investment for every hairstylist.
“Think of it as an investment, not just buying a tool,” says Takke. “A high-quality tong might feel expensive initially, but it pays back in durability, performance, and the kind of finish you can deliver. My advice: know the services you do most often, research trusted brands, and pick a product that supports your work consistently.”
He keeps an impressive arsenal: “I like to keep at least 3-4 curling tongs in my kit: 16, 19, 25, 32 and a hot wand (pencil tong) for some creative magic, so that I’m ready for anything. A good professional tong can range anywhere from ₹3,500 to ₹12,000 depending on the brand and features. Personally, I trust Ikonic Professional Curl range! They’ve never let me down.”
Haria’s kit is equally versatile. “Price points often vary but I usually carry Dyson, Ikonic Professional and GHD tools in my kit. My kit has almost six sizes of curling tongs, one straightener, one mini straightener, and one hairdryer," she says.
The takeaway remains loud and clear: buy once, buy well, and stock a variety of barrel sizes so you're equipped for any client request.
MAINTAIN YOUR TOOL
When you splurge on best tools, they demand sincere care for longevity. Regular cleaning, careful storage, and mindful handling preserve the tong’s finish and heating elements, ensuring consistent curls and extending the life of your investment.
“I make it a point to clean my tongs once in every two days as the product buildup can really affect performance over time,” Takke explains. “I also avoid wrapping wires too tightly to prevent damage and store them in heat-resistant pouches, so they last longer. It’s small habits like these that keep them working at their best. Maintenance is all about respecting your tools.”
Haria echoes the importance of routine upkeep. “After every use, after the devices cool down, I sanitise them with alcohol swabs and make sure the plates are clean at all times.” Regular cleaning prevents residue from hair products and protects the barrel’s coating, ensuring even heat and consistent curls for years.
THE FINAL CURL
Whether you’re a salon professional or a home enthusiast, the wisdom from our experts underscores one clear point: the right curling tong, chosen with care and maintained diligently, is a long-term ally in creating beautiful hair. From understanding barrel size and temperature control to treating the tool with respect, each step contributes to a flawless finish. Invest in quality, match the tong to the desired result, and follow a consistent maintenance routine. Because when your tools shine, so does every style you create.
Images courtesy:
Freepik.com