Barrel Size Guide

The barrel size you choose shapes your whole look, from tight, bouncy curls to loose, voluminous waves. Here's how to pick the right size for your hair.

The quick rule

  • Smaller barrels = tighter curls and more volume, ideal for shorter or finer hair.
  • Larger barrels = looser, bouncy waves and big, soft volume, ideal for longer hair.
Barrel Diameter Curl result Best for
Small 34mm Tightest curls & maximum volume Short or fine hair
Medium 45mm Soft, bouncy waves and curls Most hair types
Large 55mm Loose waves & big, soft volume Longer or thicker hair

Match it to your hair length

  • Short hair (above the shoulders): mostly small barrels for grip and volume.
  • Medium-length hair: small and medium barrels; curls one day, soft waves the next.
  • Long or thick hair: medium and large barrels for that loose, bouncy bend that lasts.

Still not sure? Take the 90-second quiz

Answer a few quick questions and we'll match your hair length and type to the perfect set and barrel sizes.

Take the quiz