I’ve been using a flat iron for so long that it has become my automatic choice when styling my hair. But every now and then, I like to change things up with curls. I recently received the CHI LAVA Ultra Curl 1.25-inch volcanic lava curling iron, and let me tell you—this is a fantastic styling tool.
** Complimentary product received for review. This post contains affiliate links.
The Ultra Curl is a new addition to CHI’s LAVA styling line. CHI offers professional haircare products and styling tools, including flat irons, curling irons and hair dryers. Founded by hairdresser Farouk Shami, the company brings a stylist’s perspective to product development, with a focus on education and innovation. The Ultra Curl builds on that approach, combining adjustable heat settings with volcanic lava mineral-infused technology to make creating curls and waves easier at home.
The Technology Behind the Tool
The CHI LAVA Ultra Curl combines a volcanic lava mineral-infused barrel with an ion generator and red light technology. According to CHI, these features help maintain consistent heat, reduce frizz and enhance shine. The iron also has an extended 7-inch barrel, designed to provide more coverage when styling, particularly for longer hair.
Available in 1-inch and 1.25-inch barrel sizes, the tool includes practical features such as a temperature memory function, a long swivel cord and automatic shut-off. I especially appreciate the automatic shut-off. I know I’m not alone in leaving the house and suddenly wondering, “Did I turn off my curling iron?”
My Experience
It took me a little time to get comfortable with the iron, mainly because I was switching from a tool I’ve used for years. There’s something to be said for muscle memory! Once I got used to working with a curling iron again, though, the process felt easy. The curls came out just right, making this a tool I’m happy to reach for when I want a different look (you can see in the picture to the right, I did some loose wavy curls, which took me about 10 minutes).
For me, the biggest draw is its ease of use. After getting familiar with the iron and finding a temperature that worked for my hair, creating wavy curls became an enjoyable way to change up my usual routine.
A Heat Setting That Worked for My Fine Hair
One of the features I appreciate most is the ability to choose from several temperature settings. My hair is fine, so I wanted to be thoughtful about how much heat I was using.
The CHI LAVA Ultra Curl offers five settings: 290°F, 330°F, 370°F, 410°F and 430°F. I chose the second-lowest setting, 330°F, and was pleased with the curls I achieved. For my hair and the results I wanted, I didn’t feel the need to go higher.
Other Key Features
* Two barrel sizes: Available in 1-inch and 1.25-inch options.
* Extended 7-inch barrel: Designed for more styling coverage, especially on longer hair.
* Volcanic lava mineral-infused barrel: Designed to distribute heat evenly.
* Ion generator and red light technology: Designed to help reduce frizz and enhance shine, according to CHI.
* LED display: Shows the selected temperature.
* Temperature memory: Remembers the last heat setting used.
* Long swivel cord: An 11-foot cord with 360-degree rotation.
* Dual voltage: Offers flexibility for travel.
* Automatic shut-off: Turns the tool off after one hour.
My Overall Thoughts
The CHI LAVA Ultra Curl has been a welcome addition to my styling routine. I especially appreciate that I was able to get curls I loved using one of the lower heat settings. For someone with fine hair who enjoys curls from time to time, that was a big part of the appeal.
My flat iron still has its place, but I’m glad to have another option that makes changing things up so simple.
The CHI LAVA Ultra Curl retails for $159 in either barrel size. For more information about CHI and its full line of products, visit CHI.com or follow the brand on Instagram and Facebook .
Disclosure: Kristine S. personally received a complimentary product to try out for this review. No monetary compensation was received. Kristine is sharing her honest and unbiased opinion about the product with the readers of the TCC blog. Your opinion and experience may differ. This post contains affiliate links.