How do I use my curling iron in Lebanon?

Lebanese power outlet

Summary

First check your curling iron can handle the voltage in Lebanon:

  • If your curling iron can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your curling iron won't fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you might still need a suitable power adapter for Lebanon however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 220 volt Lebanese power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A power converter changes the voltage but not the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the types of power outlet used in Lebanon, so check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for Lebanon otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note that your own personal curling iron might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in your luggage. [13] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 220 volts you run the risk of damage to your curling iron, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your curling iron in Lebanon please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Lebanon

Will my curling iron work in Lebanon?

That will depend on if your curling iron is designed to operate using the 220 volts as used in Lebanon:

How can I use my US curling iron in Lebanon?

The guides on this page assume that you're an America reader visiting Lebanon and will provide advice on using your US curling iron with a Lebanese power outlet.

Lebanon power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Lebanon?

The residential voltage in Lebanon is 220 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Lebanon?

The frequency in a Lebanese power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

Which plug adapter will you need for using a curling iron in Lebanon?

There are five types of power outlets used in Lebanon, these are type G, A, B, C and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type A - You can recognise this plug outlet by the two adjacent slots next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type B - The power outlet, technically called a type B power outlet, can be recognised by 2 thin slots parallel to each other for live and neutral blades with a semicircle hole below for the earth pin.
  • Plug Type C - You can identify the power outlet by the two adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type D - You can recognise this plug outlet by the three holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  • Plug Type G - This plug outlet, technically called a type G power outlet, looks like 3 vertical holes containing plastic shutters in a triangular shape for live, neutral and earth.

A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 220 volt curling iron in Lebanon is a Type G plug adapter; read the simple guide below for full details of using a curling iron in Lebanon using a travel adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to see if you have to bring a power converter.  [10] [15] [AD]

Which plug adapter will you need for using a curling iron in Lebanon?

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your curling iron will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle of your curling iron. The location might depend on the make or model of your curling iron, it could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons might change automatically but other models will feature a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage curling iron. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Lebanon then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Lebanese 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 a Lebanese power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you should be able to use it in Lebanon.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage curling iron capable of being used in Lebanon or any other country.

Travelling to Lebanon with a curling iron

Is it safer to bring my travel curling iron or dual voltage curling iron to Lebanon?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage curling iron instead of packing your existing domestic curling iron to Lebanon as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Lebanese power outlet, provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Lebanon. Note that packing expensive domestic curling iron might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler in Lebanon. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality curling iron in Lebanon could be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] before setting off. If you intend to bring along your own personal curling iron in your luggage either slot it inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light damage, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case which also allows the curling iron to be transported immediately after use without waiting to cool down.  [16] [AD]

Can curling irons go in my hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered curling iron in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Lebanon will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing the curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as curling irons). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Lebanon

Do I need a converter for Lebanon to use a curling iron?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a curling iron using a different voltage to operate using a 220 volt power outlet used in Lebanon. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to bring their own curling iron, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2]. A power converter is also significantly bulkier and heavier than a travel curling iron making a power converter less suited for packing compared to a travel curling iron. [13] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and expensive power converter will convert a 220 volt Lebanese power outlet to work with a non-220 volt curling iron, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet found in Lebanon. [13] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type B power adapter

How to power your curling iron in Lebanon with a Type B travel charger.

  1. Please check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you could damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage curling irons typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Lebanon, consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type B plug adapter [4] if the type of power outlet used in Lebanon won't accomodate the plug shape of your curling iron. The Type B plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Lebanon by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type B plug adapter into the power outlet. The power supply, technically called the Type B power outlet [3], can be recognised by 2 thin slots parallel to each other for live and neutral blades with a semicircle hole below for the earth pin. Be aware that power cables used with type B outlets which are rated at only 125 V shouldn't be used so we recommend checking first.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Lebanese power outlet. The hair curling iron can now be used in Lebanon. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type B power adapter

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

A page showing how to use a curling iron in Lebanon with a 2 pronged Type C power adapter.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage curling irons might usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron make sure the switch is set to accept 220 volts; please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Lebanon. The Type C plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Lebanon simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the Lebanese power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the 2 round holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  4. Then plug in your curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Lebanese power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type C power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type D power adapter

A page showing how to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a three pronged Type D power adapter.

  1. Ensure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron make sure the switch is set to accept 220 volts, consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Lebanon you will need to buy a Type D plug adapter [8]. This plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Lebanon by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type D plug adapter into the Lebanese power outlet. You can identify this power supply by the three holes forming a triangle pattern.
  4. Then plug in your curling iron into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Lebanese power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the curling iron for use in Lebanon. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type D power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type G power adapter

A page showing how to use a curling iron in Lebanon with a 3 pronged Type G power adapter.

  1. Please check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you could damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage curling irons typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Lebanon, consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Lebanon isn't the same shape as the plug on your curling iron you'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [10]. The Type G plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Lebanon by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type G plug adapter into the power outlet. The power outlet, technically called the Type G power outlet [9], looks like 3 vertical holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and ground.
  4. After that plug in your curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Lebanese power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type G power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type A power adapter

A page showing how to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a three pronged Type A power adapter.

  1. Make sure 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 continue because you could damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some travel curling irons will usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Lebanon, please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
  2. Please check that you don't already own a curling iron with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your curling iron can work with a 220 volt power supply). You'll need to buy a Type A plug adapter [12] if the shape of plug on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Lebanon. The Type A plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Lebanon simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the Lebanese power outlet. This plug supply (sometimes known as the Type A power outlet [11]) is identified by the 2 thin slots next to each other. Be aware that power cords with type A plugs which are rated at less that 240 volts should not be used in The Lebanon so please check prior to turning the power on.
  4. Then plug in your curling iron into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Lebanese power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the curling iron for use in Lebanon. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Lebanon using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Lebanese country wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  5. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  8. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  9. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  10. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  11. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  12. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  13. 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..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.