How do I use a curling iron in Iran?

Iranian power outlet

Summary

First check that your curling iron can handle the voltage in Iran:

  • If your curling iron can run using 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the right power adapter for Iran listed on this page if the plug on your curling iron will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need the right power adapter for Iran but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing curling iron and other applicances with an 220 volt Iranian power outlet, however this is considerably heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Iran, so check that the voltage transformer includes the right power adapter for Iran otherwise you will still need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your existing curling iron might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 220 volts you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your curling iron. Prior to using your curling iron in Iran read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Iran

Will my curling iron work in Iran?

This will depend on if your curling iron can operate using the 220 volts as used in Iran:

Iran power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Iran?

The frequency from an Iranian power outlet is 50Hz. [8]

What is the mains voltage in Iran?

Power outlets in Iran are 220 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need for using a curling iron in Iran?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need for using a curling iron in Iran?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Iran, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can recognise the plug socket by 2 round holes adjacent to each other.
  • Plug Type F - The round wall outlet can be identified by two 4.8mm holes 19 mm apart from each other for live and neutral, plus a pair of two grounding clips on the top and bottom.

A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 220 volt curling iron in Iran is a Type F power adapter - read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Iran. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to check if you also need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your curling iron supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or handle of the curling iron. This location might depend on the make or model of your curling iron and could also state on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons can change automatically, however other models will have a switch which allows you to change between different voltages.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage curling iron. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Iran then you should be able to use your curling iron with an Iranian power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage curling iron which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 220 volts used in an Iranian power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you can use it in Iran.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage curling iron capable of being used in Iran or any other country.

Travelling to Iran with a curling iron

Can I carry on a curling iron?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered curling iron in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that the airline that is taking you to Iran will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [10] [11] [12] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Iran?

Bringing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to bringing your existing curling iron as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with an Iranian power outlet, as long as you use the correct power adapter for Iran.

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic curling iron could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by airline baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised domestic curling iron in Iran might be more than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel curling iron [2] beforehand. If you intend to bring along your own curling iron in your suitcase either slide it inside a sneaker or boot to protect from light damage, alternatively use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case which also allows the curling iron to be transported right after use without risk of burning.  [11] [AD]

Power converters for Iran

What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter for Iran?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter for Iran?

A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit into a power outlet found in Iran, but a heavier and more expensive power converter transforms a 220 volt Iranian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt curling iron. [7] [AD]

Do I need a converter to use a curling iron in Iran?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a curling iron using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Iran. Travellers wishing to bring along their existing curling iron can use a power converter, however it could be considerably cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it is to buy a power converter. In addition, a travel curling iron can be significantly lighter than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suitable when packing. [7] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Iran using a type C power adapter

How to use your curling iron in Iran with a Type C power charger.

  1. Check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your iron. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts - refer to the instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Iran you will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet used in Iran simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter in the Iranian power outlet. You can recognise the power supply by 2 round holes adjacent to each other.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Iranian power outlet.
  6. The curling iron can now be used in Iran. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Iran using a type C power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Iran using a type F power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a curling iron in Iran with a two prong Type F travel adapter.

  1. Check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power supply - but if not then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts, refer to the user guide to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Iran you will need to use a Type F plug adapter [6]. The power adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Iran by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type F plug adapter in the Iranian power outlet. You can recognise the plug outlet by the two holes 19 mm next to each other where the live and neutral plug outlet pins go, plus a pair of grounding clips above and below.
  4. Next plug in the curling iron into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Iranian power outlet. The curling iron can now be used in Iran. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Iran using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Iran Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  11. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  12. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.