GHD Curve Wand Review: Creating Beachy Waves for Short Hair

This review dives into the GHD Curve Wand, a styling tool promising effortless beachy waves. We explore its performance, specifically focusing on its suitability for shorter hair lengths. From unboxing and initial impressions of the wand's design and build quality, to a detailed walkthrough of the styling process, we cover all aspects of using this high-end curling wand. This honest assessment examines its safety features, heating speed, and the longevity of the curls achieved. We also discuss various styling techniques to create different looks, from voluminous curls to the coveted relaxed beach waves.Ultimately, this review aims to help you determine if the GHD Curve Wand’s hefty price tag is justified by its performance and versatility. We’ll weigh the pros and cons, including heating time, cool-down time, and the overall ease of use, to provide a comprehensive understanding of whether this tool lives up to its reputation and is a worthwhile investment for creating stunning, long-lasting waves, even for those with shorter hair.

Pros And Cons

Read more: 10 Gorgeous Curls with a 1-Inch Curling Wand

Unboxing and First Impressions

The GHD Curve Wand arrived during the Sephora sale—a perfect opportunity to indulge! The packaging was sleek and sophisticated, hinting at the quality inside. My first impression was one of elegance; it felt luxurious and well-made.

The wand itself is beautifully designed, with a tapered barrel (1 inch at the base, narrowing to 0.9 inches at the tip) for creating versatile curls. The heat-resistant tip provides a secure grip, and the included stand is a thoughtful addition for safe placement. The long cord adds to the convenience.

Safety Features and Heating Time

Safety is a top priority with the GHD Curve Wand. It boasts an automatic shut-off feature after 30 minutes of inactivity, which is a great safeguard against accidental burns. It also heats up incredibly quickly, reaching 365°F in mere seconds.

While the included heat-resistant glove is a nice touch, I opted to forgo it initially for a more hands-on experience (though I did learn my lesson!). The quick heating time is a significant advantage for busy mornings.

Styling Techniques and Results

I typically section my hair into three parts (two front, one back) for easier styling. There are various techniques to achieve different looks: curling from the roots for volume, alternating curls towards and away from the face for a more polished look, or curling the entire strand for tighter ringlets.

I prefer a more beachy wave, so I leave the ends straight, holding each section for 8-10 seconds. The result is a soft, bouncy wave with great volume. I found that gently pulling on the curl after releasing it helps to loosen it and achieve the desired beachy texture.

Curl Longevity and Additional Tips

The curls hold remarkably well, even lasting into the next day with a beautiful beachy wave. For optimal results, I recommend using a heat protectant spray before styling. To extend the life of the curls, a light hairspray is also helpful.

Adding a styling wax to enhance the piecey texture of the curls adds a touch of polish. Experiment with different techniques—hold the curl longer for tighter results, or loosen them after releasing to achieve a more relaxed look.

Final Verdict

The GHD Curve Wand is a fantastic tool for achieving beautiful beachy waves, especially on shorter hair. While the price point is high ($260), the quality, performance, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking long-lasting curls. The long cool down time (about 30 minutes) is a minor drawback, but the multiple safety features outweigh this for many.

The multiple styling options allow for customization and achieving various looks, from voluminous curls to relaxed beach waves. Ultimately, the wand delivers on its promise of creating stunning, long-lasting curls, proving its worth despite the cost.