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The 9 Best Hair Wavers Bazaar Editors Are Actually Using
With summer coming up, you’ll want to add these top-rated wavers to your hair routine
As someone born with pin-straight Asian hair, I have always admired waves and curls. I have slick, straight, stubborn hair and—most frustratingly—it’s resistant to holding a curl. I’ve tried every trick in the book: extra-hold mousses, setting my curls with pins, and the best strong-hold hairsprays. Nothing seemed to do the trick—that is, until I discovered hair wavers, which are like specialized curling irons for creating bends, not twists.
In recent years, hair wavers have grown in popularity due to their ease of use and effortless-looking results they deliver. "The effect [of a waver] is less curled and more textured. It’s great for that effortless, tousled vibe or adding body to finger hair without that much bounce,” says Danielle Priano, celebrity hairstylist to clients like Sabrina Carpenter, Lindsay Lohan, and Blackpink’s Lisa. Ahead, Priano offers her picks of the 9 best hair wavers, alongside some of the Bazaar beauty team’s favorites.
Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Digital 3 Barrel Hair Waver
Pros
- Includes lock to keep settings
- Creates waves that are long-lasting due to even heat distribution
- Lasts for years with regular cleaning
Cons
Why I love it: Every time my hairstylist uses this waver at the salon, I notice that my waves can stay for up to three to four days—which is considered a long time for my hair type. The waves also look so natural that they give me that “just permed my hair” effect.
What our expert says: “It heats evenly and creates long-lasting waves with a sleek finish,” adds Priano.
Pros
- Top-rated on Amazon
- No exposed barrel, minimizing the risk of burning
Cons
Why I love it: At less than $50, this is a great option for those on a budget. It’s also highly rated for both long and short hair and is easy (and safe!) to use for beginners since there isn’t an exposed barrel.
Customer review: “I have short, fine hair, and the TYMO ROVY Compact Waver works amazingly well! It creates beautiful waves that hold all day, which is rare for my hair type. It’s super simple to use, it’s lightweight, and it heats up quickly. I wish I had bought it sooner—it's an absolute game-changer! If you’re on the fence, I can’t recommend it enough!” —Shelby
Trademark Beauty x Babe Waves Double Barrel Wave Curling Iron
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Award-winning hair waver
Cons
What our expert says: “This one’s loved for its wider barrels and even heat distribution. It’s great for longer hair or when you want that soft glam wave,” Priano says.
Customer review: “It gives you those beachy waves without much effort. Super easy to use and heats up quickly. Works on long and short hair.” —Candice
Pros
- Has an adjustable barrel for customizable waves
- 5 preset temperatures
- Reduces frizz and static
Cons
Why I love it: This is my go-to hair waver at the moment because it’s so versatile. You can adjust the size of the barrel to achieve the exact style of wave you want, and you also have full control of the temperature. I’m super lazy, so I like to opt for something that has full capabilities in one.
Customer review: “This has held up really well over the past year or so I’ve had it. The plates are still great, no issues, and I love that it’s adjustable, so I can have more pronounced hair for pictures and a more subtle wave for everyday use. Heats well. It’s a little heavy but a great value for your bucks and works fast.” —Sara Mustin
Pros
- Auto shut-off feature after 60 minutes
- Top and bottom parts are detachable for easy packing
Cons
- On the heavier side, according to reviewers
What our editor says: “I love the look of effortless waves, but creating seamless waves without creases or harsh demarcations between crimps can be tricky,” says Katie Intner, Bazaar’s beauty market and commerce editor. “I love the jumbo Mane waver because the large barrel size gives a more natural wave and crimps hair in under a few minutes. Plus, it’s dual voltage, which is great for travel, and gives a surprising amount of wave longevity.”
Customer review: “Very sleek design, lightweight, durable, and a perfect size. The curls come out amazing and last a very long time.” —Scill
Bed Head Wave Affair Jumbo 3 Barrel Hair Waver
Pros
- Heats up quickly
- Tourmaline ceramic protects from heat damage
Cons
Why I love this: You really can’t beat this price when it comes to a good hair waver, which is what makes this one a great entry-level hairstyling tool. I also love how straightforward it is to use and how large the barrels are, for a more beachy effect.
Customer review: “This works so great! Gives the perfect beach wave look! Durable and doesn’t weigh much, so it’s easy to handle! Heats up perfect for thick or thin hair!” —Shelly
Pros
- Auto shut-off feature after 60 minutes
- Adjustable heat settings with a easy-to-read LCD panel
Cons
What our editor says: “While I do own two different hair wavers, they both serve a unique vibe. I love this INH Triple Barrel when I’m going for a looser, more lived-in wave,” says Sarah Olivieri, Bazaar’s senior designer. “It really gives the illusion of salty beach hair freshly dried from the sun.”
Customer reviews: “I love this product. It is so easy to use and it heats up very fast. I love how my waves look!”—Steph
Pros
- Good for all hair types, including color-treated hair
- Has negative ion technology that seals the cuticle to smooth hair
Cons
What our expert says: “I love this one for its ceramic barrels and aesthetic, but also because it’s great on all hair types, including color-treated hair,” says Priano.
Customer review: “Obsessed! This gives me the most beautiful waves, and people think it’s my actual hair. Love it!” —Kathleen Wash
Drybar The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron
Pros
- Includes three interchangeable attachments that snap on easily
- Features a nine-foot swivel cord
Cons
- Nearly $200
What our editor says: “This waver is pricey, at nearly $2oo, but it’s also the most versatile. It comes with three barrels—a waver, a rod, and a clamp—so you can create any type of wave or curl your heart desires,” says Jenna Rosenstein, Bazaar’s beauty director. “I have thick hair, and it works just as well on my hair as it does on those with fine, thin hair, since the heat is customizable up to 450 degrees. It’s also great to travel with!”
Customer review: “This iron was everything I was asking for!! I’m completely in love with it. My curls last soooo long. Even after a good night of sleep I wake up with nice curls! I love all the tools, and the variety of hairstyles I can create with only one iron is incredible!! ❤️” —Diana
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use a hair waver?
“Using a hair waver is fairly straightforward, which is why I love recommending it to clients for at-home styling,” Priano says. “You start by sectioning your hair; the smaller the section, the more defined the wave. Then, working from the roots downward, clamp the waver onto the hair and hold for a few seconds, usually five to 10, depending on your hair type and the heat setting. Move down the same strand, overlapping slightly to continue the wave pattern all the way to the ends. Repeat throughout the entire head, and once cooled, you can brush it out for a softer, more lived-in texture or leave it defined for more drama.”
How do you prep your hair before using a waver?
“Prepping is everything. Always start with clean, dry hair; wavers are not meant for wet styling. I recommend applying a heat protectant from mid-lengths to ends to shield the hair from damage,” the hairstylist adds. “If you’re looking to boost volume and hold, add a lightweight texturizing spray or a mousse before blow-drying. And don’t forget to detangle. Smooth, tangle-free strands help the waver glide better and create more uniform results.”
What is the difference between a waver and a curling iron?
“The main difference between a hair waver and a curling iron lies in the shape and result. A curling iron wraps hair around a single barrel, creating more classic, rounded curls or ringlets, depending on the size of the barrel and the technique,” Priano says. “A waver, on the other hand, presses the hair between barrels to form deep, wave-like ridges.”
Meet the Expert:
- Danielle Priano is a New York–based hairstylist and ambassador for SexyHair, one of the leading professional hairspray brands in the industry. Priano’s work spans from crafting glamorous red- carpet looks to editorial spreads. She has a diverse clientele and has worked with various high-profile celebrities, such as Hailey Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Lindsay Lohan, Lisa, and Demi Lovato.
Why Trust Harper’s Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, hair care, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
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