With the arrival of hot weather, it’s time to think about summer hair. While we’ve all seen the ’90s take over, the summer of 2025 calls for a more laid-back attitude. As the clean-girl aesthetic fades, both fashion and beauty are leaning towards a more casual, carefree vibe.
While the mermaid hairstyle has been popular for a while, now we’re seeing trendsetters like Kylie Jenner sporting the laid-back style on the sidelines of Knicks games and stars like Sidney Sweeney rocking the casual look on her night out.
I had to find a beach wave curling iron to try it out for myself.
That’s why the curling iron is so boldly in the spotlight—the hair tool has quickly become a hit on TikTok and Instagram, making waves with its ability to create voluminous beachy looks with ease (pun intended).
If you’re like me and don’t usually try out elaborate updos, slicked backs, or funky hairdos, this game-changing hair tool might just be the answer to your “So…what do I do with my hair?” dilemma.
The curling iron offers less volume and more texture than traditional curling irons, making it easy to create holiday-inspired looks. Its signature three-barrel design allows you to create soft, fluffy curls or more defined waves, depending on the thickness of the barrels and the heat applied. Another key factor in the tool’s popularity among Gen Z is its ability to quickly create the perfect mermaid look. With just a few strokes, this stylish hair tool can create a retro look with a beachy vibe.
Most curling irons are much more affordable than the $600 hype that some of these irons are selling for. While many brands have their own versions, the Amika, Mermade, and Bondi Boost ones remain the most popular.
I wanted to try this curling iron to see if I could create my own beachy waves, and I think this one is my new favorite.
While I usually shy away from most beauty trends, especially when it comes to hair, I found myself really curious about the curling iron craze. For me, the most appealing thing about this tool is that it promises quick, painless results.
In the 25 to 30 TikTok videos I watched with fascination, users created the most amazing mermaid-effect hairstyles with just a few quick strokes. Effortless waves really do look easy to achieve.
Once I got my hands on the $79 Mermade Professional Curling Iron, I understood why beauty fans on social media were hailing it as a summer must-have.
Without having to read through tutorials, I was able to easily create free-spirited waves in just minutes. While it felt like a struggle to find the exact temperature and perfect timing, I soon got into the rhythm.
The first few times I used it, I was determined to create the uniform sexy look that many Gen Zers flaunt on social media, but I eventually changed direction and opted for a more natural, Carrie Bradshaw-esque effect.
While both looks have their charms, the latter feels more suitable for outings in the city and nights out with friends. As someone who has straight hair (except for the occasional unbearably humid day), everyone was amazed at how much volume I was able to achieve, and I was especially surprised at how perfectly the waves held up overnight.
My curling journey was mostly painless, though my right arm might have been a little uncomfortable. While it was simple to use, the tool itself felt heavy and a bit cumbersome. It was a little tricky to maneuver the hot tool without accidentally burning myself, especially if I had to repeat the motion to get the look done.
And, even though the entire look only took about 10 to 15 minutes, my arm was still sore afterward. This got me wondering if a double curling iron might be more suitable for me—a slimmer, lighter version with two barrels instead of three, almost like a traditional straightener.
The Mermade curling iron was quick and easy to use, and it worked really well. While I’m not too keen on getting this beachy look during the colder months, I’ll be wearing it all summer long.
Whether you’re going for a free-spirited bohemian vibe or a surfer vibe, this curling iron makes it easy to create cool-girl texture.