Introduction
A hair crimper is a tool that uses heated plates to style hair in zigzag waves, helping to achieve a perfect, trendy wavy style. Individual strands are placed between the two hot irons and pressed together briefly. You can conjure up waves, tight curls, or straight hair depending on the attachment.
A typical hairstyle created with a crepe iron is the zig-zag waves, which were particularly fashionable in the 1980s and 1990s. Many people still remember them from their childhood and teenage years. Today, hair crimpers are also known as crepe irons. It can also help with straightening irons and wave irons. A crepe iron cannot only give you a wild mane. It is also excellent for conjuring up the volume or pimping up braided hairstyles.
The times when we only used a crepe iron for a wild tousled mane are long gone. The crepe iron offers much: cheat volume, spice up, braided hairstyles. This technique is innovative! The crimper can help you achieve a voluminous approach! To do this, crepe the roots and backcomb them. The result is a voluminous approach with no visible crepe effect.
Top Picks at a Glance
Types of Hair Crimper
Classic Crimpers
These narrow plates with zigzag or sawtooth-like ridges create tight, uniform crimped patterns. Classic crimpers were popular in the 1980s and 1990s and are great for creating bold, retro looks or adding texture to flat hair. They're also helpful for volumizing roots when applied close to the scalp.
Deep Wave Crimpers
Deep wave crimpers are designed to create loose, S-shaped waves, producing a more modern, beachy look rather than sharp crimps. They typically have wider barrels and are great for creating soft, glamorous styles that mimic natural waves. These are ideal for everyday wear or special occasions.
Micro Crimpers
Micro crimpers have ultra-narrow ridges that create extremely fine, subtle crimps. They’re perfect for adding texture to specific sections or boosting root volume without a noticeable pattern. Hairstylists often use these to make hair look thicker, especially for updos or professional photo shoots.
Triple Barrel Wavers (3-Barrel Crimpers)
These tools have three barrels and function like clamps, shaping hair into flowing, continuous waves. While not technically “crimpers” in the traditional sense, they are often grouped because of their wave-producing capability. They're excellent for quick styling and give a soft, mermaid-like effect.
Interchangeable Plate Crimpers
Some crimpers come with detachable plates of various wave sizes and textures, offering multiple styling options in one device. These are a versatile choice for people who like to switch up their look regularly, from tight zigzag crimps to soft waves, without buying separate tools.
Mini or Travel Crimpers
Compact and lightweight, these are great for travel or quick touch-ups. They usually have smaller plates and are suitable for styling short hair, bangs, or adding volume at the roots. Despite their size, many still offer decent heat control and styling power.
8 Best Hair Crimpers
A hair crimper is a versatile hairstyling tool that allows you to create a unique look for your hair. Equipped with specialized zigzagged plates, the hair crimper creates crimped or wavy patterns that add volume and texture to your locks. One of the key features of a hair crimper is its adjustable heat settings, allowing you to tailor the temperature to your specific hair type and minimize potential damage.
Additionally, many hair crimpers come with quick heating capabilities, saving you time during your styling routine. Using a hair crimper, you can effortlessly achieve various looks, from subtle waves to bold, dramatic crimps, making it an excellent choice for those seeking versatile and playful hairstyles. With proper use and application of a heat protectant spray, the hair crimper can help you achieve your desired hair texture while maintaining the health and integrity of your strands.
Buying Guide For A Hair Crimper
Understand Your Hair Type
Before buying a hair crimper, it's essential to understand your hair type. Fine or damaged hair requires lower heat settings and gentler materials, such as those made from ceramic or tourmaline. Thick, coarse hair, on the other hand, can handle higher temperatures and may benefit from stronger materials, such as titanium. Choosing a crimper suited to your hair type will help prevent damage and ensure lasting results.
Choose the Right Plate Material
The plate material significantly affects performance and hair health. Ceramic plates offer even heat distribution and are safe for most hair types. Tourmaline-infused plates reduce frizz and add shine, making them ideal for hair that is frizzy or damaged. Titanium plates heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature, which is great for thick or hard-to-style hair but can be too intense for finer hair.
Consider Plate Size and Wave Style
Hair crimpers come in different sizes and wave patterns. Narrow plates, about 1 inch or less, are perfect for creating tight, defined crimps or styling short hair. Wider plates (1.5 to 2 inches) are better for long or thick hair and can create large, voluminous waves. Some crimpers also come with interchangeable plates, offering more styling versatility. Deep wave crimpers are ideal for creating bold, textured looks.
Check for Adjustable Heat Settings
A quality hair crimper should have adjustable temperature controls to suit various hair types and styles. Look for crimpers that offer a heat range between 250°F and 450°F. Lower temperatures are safer for fine or color-treated hair, while higher settings are effective for thick, coarse hair. Having control over heat ensures better results with less damage.
Look for Advanced Styling Technology
Modern crimpers may include features like ionic technology, which emits negative ions to reduce frizz and static, or infrared heat, which gently and evenly penetrates the hair. These technologies enhance shine and protect against heat damage. Although not always necessary, these extras can make a noticeable difference in overall styling and hair health, mainly when used frequently.
Prioritize Safety and Convenience
Ease of use is another key factor. A swivel cord prevents tangling while styling, and a lightweight, ergonomic handle reduces hand fatigue during longer sessions. Safety features like auto shut-off give peace of mind if you forget to turn off the device. Dual voltage support is also helpful if you travel internationally and want to take your crimper.
Consider Reputable Brands and Reviews
Choosing a hair crimper from a trusted brand can ensure durability and performance. Brands like Bed Head, Conair, Revlon, and Hot Tools have established reputations and offer reliable models for different budgets. It's also helpful to read customer reviews and watch video demonstrations to understand real-world performance before purchasing.
Set a Realistic Budget
Hair crimpers come in a range of prices. Budget options ($20–$40) are suitable for occasional use or beginners. Mid-range models ($40–$80) usually offer better heat control, materials, and styling results. High-end crimpers ($80 and up) deliver salon-quality results, advanced features, and a longer lifespan. Consider how often you’ll use the tool and what features matter most when setting your budget.
Mint Hair Crimper
Why we love it
Achieve your desired look in seconds with this crimper’s ultra-fast heating and crimping capabilities.
Built to last for both personal and professional use, the MINT crimper can handle daily styling without breaking down, ensuring long-term reliability.
Thanks to the ionic and tourmaline ceramic plates, this tool helps lock in moisture, leaving your hair shiny and smooth after every use.
Trusted by over 10,000 salons, the MINT Crimper is designed for those who demand professional performance, whether at home or in a salon environment.
Its sleek, lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, ensuring you can create voluminous hair on the go, whether you're traveling or just on the move.
Points to consider
The 1-inch plate size might not be ideal for those with very thick or long hair, as it may require multiple passes to achieve the desired result.
While high heat is excellent for styling, it may not be suitable for those with more delicate hair types if used too often.
The lack of adjustable heat settings may be a drawback for users who prefer finer temperature control for different hair types.
Bed Head Bh307cn1
Why we love it
Thanks to its fast heat-up time and instant heat recovery, you can style your hair quickly, saving precious time when getting ready for an event or on busy mornings.
The 2-inch crimping plates create incredible depth and volume, transforming your hair into a complete, voluminous masterpiece, perfect for both everyday looks and special occasions.
With adjustable heat settings, the crimper offers versatility. You can choose the temperature that suits your hair type, whether you’re after tighter crimps or a more relaxed, wavy look.
The crimper’s plate-locking mechanism and compact design make it easy to pack and take with you on the go. Its flexible cord also ensures that it remains hassle-free while traveling.
The swiveling cord reduces the chances of tangling, allowing you to move freely while styling your hair. This feature is beneficial for getting to hard-to-reach areas.
Points to consider
While high heat is a benefit for thick hair, those with fine or delicate hair may find the heat settings too intense, risking potential heat damage if not monitored carefully.
The 2-inch crimping plates might be too large for people with fantastic hair, limiting the kind of texture and volume they can achieve. Smaller sections may be required, which could be time-consuming.
Though the chrome plates are durable, they may require extra care to avoid scratching. If not stored correctly, the plates could become damaged over time.
Remington S 3580
Why we love it
Whether you have fine, medium, or coarse hair, the adjustable temperature range allows for optimal styling without causing unnecessary damage.
The 30-second heat-up time means you don’t have to waste time waiting for the crimper to get ready, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute events.
The ceramic tourmaline plates not only ensure a smooth finish but also provide better protection from heat, reducing the risk of long-term hair damage.
The automatic shutoff feature is a significant plus for safety-conscious users, preventing overheating and potential fire hazards if you accidentally leave it plugged in.
With its universal voltage and rotating cable, the Remington S3580 is travel-friendly, offering styling solutions wherever you are in the world.
Points to consider
While it works well for most hair types, users with extremely thick or coarse hair may find the crimping effect less dramatic compared to other tools designed for more intense styling.
The Remington S 3580 is ideal for achieving sleek waves and frizz-free hair, but may not be as versatile in creating more defined or voluminous crimps compared to other specialized tools.
While functional, the crimper may feel slightly heavier compared to other lightweight styling tools, which could be an issue during prolonged use.
Aria Beauty
Why we love it
Whether you want extreme volume or just a little texture, the Aria Beauty crimper gives you flexibility with its adjustable heat settings and varying crimp intensity. Perfect for any occasion or hairstyle.
The adjustable heat range makes it ideal for a wide range of hair textures, ensuring that both fine and thick hair types can achieve the desired results without causing damage.
With its high heat setting and efficient titanium plates, this crimper quickly adds volume and texture to your hair, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute styling.
The titanium plates are designed to reduce frizz and prevent damage, ensuring that your hair stays healthy even with frequent use.
The crimper's sleek design makes it easy to store and carry. Whether at home or on the go, it doesn’t take up much space, making it perfect for travel.
Points to consider
While the 450°F setting is excellent for thick and coarse hair, it may be too hot for finer hair types, potentially causing damage if not used carefully.
For those new to crimping, it may take some time to perfect the technique. However, once you get the hang of it, the results are well worth the effort.
While the crimper works well for most hair types, those with very curly or naturally textured hair may find it harder to achieve the desired look without multiple passes.
DSHOW Crimper
Why we love it
With straightforward operation and a fast heat-up time, the DSHOW Crimper is beginner-friendly. You don’t have to be a pro to achieve salon-quality results.
The five temperature options allow you to tailor the styling process to your specific hair type, helping you achieve perfect volume and texture without damaging your hair.
Weighing just 0.7 lbs (310g), this crimper is easy to handle and perfect for travel. Its lightweight design makes it convenient for everyday use or packing for trips.
The crimper adds lasting volume and texture to your hair, allowing you to create bold, crimped styles that stay in place all day and night.
Not only functional, but the DSHOW Crimper also has a modern, stylish design that makes it an attractive addition to your beauty tools. It’s also an excellent gift idea for friends and family.
Points to consider
While effective, thicker hair may require multiple passes with the crimper to achieve the desired crimped texture, especially at lower heat settings.
If you have very short hair, using the DSHOW Crimper may be a bit tricky, as the plates are designed for longer sections of hair and may not grip shorter locks effectively.
Although it heats up quickly, some users have reported that the crimper can get too hot during extended use, potentially leading to a risk of over-drying or damage if not monitored closely.
Voloom Crimper
Why we love it
The Voloom Classic eliminates the need for expensive salon visits or styling products. It helps you achieve salon-quality volume at home, saving both time and money.
With its patented technology, this iron creates volume without the need for gels, sprays, or mousses, which can weigh down your hair. It’s a healthier way to achieve volume with a natural finish.
The adjustable temperature range ensures that you can find the perfect heat for your hair type. This reduces the risk of heat damage, offering a more tailored and safe styling experience.
By reducing the need for frequent washes and chemical treatments, the Voloom Classic helps preserve the health and vibrancy of your hair, leaving it looking better over time.
The lightweight design and swivel cord make the Voloom Classic easy to handle, making it perfect for travel. You can style your hair comfortably without worrying about tangles or awkward positioning.
Points to consider
The 1-½ inch plates are better suited for medium to thick hair, especially if it's shoulder-length or longer. It may be challenging to use on short hair or small sections, which limits its versatility for specific hair lengths.
Due to its unique technology, the Voloom Classic may take some getting used to for users unfamiliar with volumizing tools. The checkerboard plate design could feel unconventional at first.
Compared to regular flat irons, the Voloom Classic is priced higher due to its specialized volumizing technology. This might be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
Hot Tools Hair Crimper
Why we love it
The 3-in-1 feature is a significant time-saver, allowing you to achieve various styles with a single tool, reducing the need for multiple styling devices.
Thanks to adjustable heat settings, the Hot Tools Combo works well with fine, medium, thick, and curly hair, making it an excellent option for everyone.
Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to handle, while the simple controls allow for a hassle-free styling experience, even for beginners.
The 24K Gold plates and overall construction are built for longevity, ensuring that the tool performs well for years without losing its effectiveness.
With built-in safety features, including a cool-touch handle and an automatic shut-off function, this iron offers peace of mind during use.
Points to consider
Like most flat irons, this tool is designed for use on dry hair only. Using it on damp hair may lead to less effective styling results.
While the size is great for most hair types, people with very short hair might find it a bit bulky to maneuver.
The Hot Tools Professional Combo is priced higher than some basic flat irons, which might not suit those on a budget.
Gold N Hot Professional Ceramic Crimper
Why we love it
With 2-inch-wide plates and a fast 60-second heat-up time, you can crimp large sections of hair in a fraction of the time compared to narrower styling tools.
The adjustable temperature settings allow for customization, making it ideal for a variety of hair textures. Whether you have fine, medium, or thick hair, this crimper accommodates your needs.
The ceramic technology minimizes heat damage by maintaining moisture in the hair, leaving your locks shiny and healthy after styling.
From soft waves to bold crimps, this tool offers styling versatility to create a range of looks, making it suitable for both everyday styles and special occasions.
The Gold N Hot Professional Ceramic Crimper is built to last. Plus, it comes with a 1-year limited warranty, ensuring you can rely on it for long-term performance.
Points to consider
The 2-inch plates are better suited for longer and thicker hair, which may make it challenging to use on shorter hair types or for detailed styling.
While the crimper heats up fast, the high temperatures may be too intense for some users. It’s essential to use caution to avoid unintentional burns.
Some users might find the crimper slightly bulky to handle, especially for those who prefer more compact styling tools.
