Even at 350°, when in my hair, it gets very warm. I purchased a thermal glove. I use it to hold the end of my curl, so it doesn't leave a dangling curling hair that needs to be redone. I also notice that it will change temperatures often IF I don't hold it above the temp control changes. The handle is fatter than many these days, but about 1/4 inch diameter smaller than my old one. That's the reason I'm keeping it. With arthritis in my hands, the skinny ones are painful to use.