From seeing them in our favorite 80s movie scenes to reminiscing on days of testing them out at sleepovers, hot rollers have been a part of our lives at one point or another. Still, they had become more a novelty than an everyday essential. That is, until the past few years! Hot rollers are experiencing a major resurgence, and today we’re going to answer the question: are they here to stay? We’ll also explore a few of our favorite hot rollers for purchase. After all, if celebrities and influencers are to be believed, they aren’t all created equal. Let’s talk all things hot rollers!
Why Are Hot Rollers Making a Comeback?
You might be wondering, why has this old-school tool popped back up? Well, we think there are a few reasons.
First of all, volume is totally in. For some, it was always a favorite hairstyle, but now as much as ever, voluminous looks are back in trend. From big bouncy curls to Kate Middleton’s beloved blowout, high-volume hair is on seemingly everyone’s list.
Second, there is the relative simplicity! Whereas using a curling wand or iron can take 30 or more minutes depending on how much hair you’re working with, using hot rollers cuts that time in half … sort of. You only need to take 15 minutes to put them in, and then you’re free to do whatever else you want—makeup, work, enjoying a good book—while your style sets.
Third, they can be gentler than other hot tools. Hot rollers do, as their name would suggest, still utilize heat. But if you purchase hot rollers with a soft lining where the roller touches your hair, it will provide a barrier between your locks and the heat. This reduces the heat’s direct impact on your hair. It also keeps the strands nice and smooth, which prevents the breakage and frizz that often comes with hot tools! It’s truly a win all around.
Are Hot Rollers Here to Stay?
You can probably guess, but our answer is certainly yes! For all of the reasons above, we believe that hot rollers have some staying power. Most trends are cyclical, but this one is sure to stick around at least for a little while. So, let’s talk about the best picks for your hot roller hobby!
The Best Hot Rollers
#1 Conair Xtreme Instant Heat Ceramic Hot Rollers with Heated Clips
Just as many of us are familiar with hot rollers from decades past, the name “Conair” has been an old-time household favorite. In fact, it would seem it’s still beloved, if the 4,000-plus positive reviews for these hot rollers are any indication!
This is at the top of our list because it is effective and no frills. The rollers themselves are a good size and shape for easy use, there are many heat settings, and they won’t break the bank. If you’re looking to get into (or back into) hot rollers, this is such a great go-to.
#2 BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Professional Hot Rollers
Option two is for those of you who are willing to spend a little more for an even better experience. This set has even more four and five-star reviews, and it’s praised by experts for its comfort. According to review ravers, it doesn’t put as much pressure on the scalp as some options.
These hot rollers are also praised for their super-smooth removal, which is key—this is how you avoid breakage!
#3 T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers
T3’s set of hot rollers promises lasting volume, body, and shine, and the reviews make it seem realistic! While there are fewer ratings on this one, they all seem to glow. These hot rollers are probably at the top of the budget, but if you’re willing to splurge a little, they’re a luxurious pick. The barrels are wrapped in velvet, which will protect your strands but also just feels decadent.
This set also has an abundance of enjoyable features, like CoolGrip insulated rims for safety, auto world voltage, two heat settings, and 90-minute auto-off. Last but certainly not least, we love it for its more modern look and feel. That probably shouldn’t matter, but it does, and this one doesn’t feel like it’s straight from the 80s!
Add Hot Rollers to Your Wish List
Whether you celebrate a major holiday at the end of the year or want to save this one for your birthday, we think hot rollers deserve a place on your wishlist! While you’re at it, add some hair-friendly favorites from our own DeeplyRooted collection, too. Combined, these items and your new hot rollers will have you looking like Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde. Yes, they used hot rollers for this and according to her book, Whiskey in a Teacup, the method is a go-to for the actress!