Choosing the right curling wand can be a game-changer for your hairstyle, but with so many options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. This review pits two popular contenders against each other: the Bed Head curling wand and the Nume Reverse Curling Wand. While both aim to create beautiful curls, they differ significantly in price, features, and overall performance. We put both wands to the test, meticulously comparing their ease of use, curl definition, heat distribution, and longevity of the curls. We also examined the quality of included accessories, like the heat-resistant gloves, to provide a comprehensive evaluation.This head-to-head comparison delves into the key differences between these two curling wands, helping you determine which one best suits your needs and budget. From the initial price point and return policies to the subtle nuances in curl definition and the quality of the accompanying gloves, we leave no stone unturned. Ultimately, we aim to provide you with the information needed to make an informed decision and achieve your perfect, curled hairstyle.
Pros And Cons
- Less expensive ($35)
- Free returns at Ulta
- Comes with an uncomfortable glove
- Produces more steam during use
- Comes with a better glove
- Produces less steam during use
- More expensive ($145, but can be found cheaper)
- No free returns (shipping and restocking fees apply)
Read more: 10 Gorgeous Curls with a 1-Inch Curling Wand
Price and Accessibility
The Nume curling wand boasts a hefty price tag, initially listed at $150. While discounts can bring the price down to around $80, adding shipping and tax quickly pushes it closer to $100. This makes the Bed Head curling wand, priced at around $35 at Ulta, significantly more affordable. The Ulta purchase also offers the advantage of free returns and no shipping fees, a considerable plus compared to Nume's return policy, which involves additional charges.
This price difference is a major factor to consider, particularly for those on a budget. While the Nume wand is more expensive, the significant difference in price makes the Bed Head option much more appealing to those who are hesitant about committing to a pricier purchase.
Design and Build Quality
Both curling wands are surprisingly similar in size and design, featuring a rotating barrel to prevent tangling. However, the Nume wand has a ceramic barrel, while the Bed Head option uses a metal barrel. The Bed Head wand feels slightly heavier, which some might find preferable for stability during use. Both have a simple on/off switch; neither offers adjustable heat settings.
The subtle differences in materials and weight affect the overall feel. While both function effectively, the choice might depend on personal preference related to weight and heat distribution.
Heat and Curling Performance
During the curling process, significant steam was observed from the Bed Head wand, raising concerns about potential heat damage to the hair. The Nume wand produced noticeably less steam. While both wands created ringlets, the Nume wand seemed to produce tighter, more defined curls, potentially due to a higher temperature. However, both ultimately yielded similar results once the curls cooled and were fluffed.
The difference in steam production hints at a potential difference in heat output, influencing curl definition and the overall health of the hair. Further testing would be necessary to fully assess this aspect of the products.
Included Gloves and Other Features
A notable difference lies in the included gloves. The Bed Head glove is described as thin, uncomfortable, and potentially prone to melting near the hot barrel. The Nume glove is a more substantial, comfortable winter-style glove, offering better protection for hands. Neither wand has a stand, posing a safety concern due to the hot barrel.
The quality of the gloves significantly impacts user experience and safety. The Nume glove's superior design adds value and reduces potential safety concerns.
Curl Longevity and Final Verdict
After six hours, both sets of curls exhibited some loosening, but remained quite presentable. On day three, with the hair in a ponytail for a day, a few curls remained. The reviewer's hair type is noted as having difficulty holding curls, influencing the overall longevity.
Considering price, performance, and glove quality, the Bed Head curling wand emerges as the better value. While the Nume wand produces slightly tighter curls and comes with a superior glove, the significantly higher price makes the Bed Head a more budget-friendly and practical option. Both produce satisfactory results, but for most users, the Bed Head offers comparable performance at a fraction of the cost.