This guide compares the two core types we make for self-grip rollers: aluminum-core thermal rollers and plastic-core rollers in bulk and refill packs. It sets out what each is made of, how the models are listed and ordered, and what to settle before you ask for a quote.
What each roller is made of
Both core types share a self-grip nylon hook surface. The difference is underneath it.
- Plastic-core rollers: the hook surface sits on a plastic core. In our model data the material is listed as nylon with PP plastic or plastic, and some models are listed as nylon only.
- Aluminum-core rollers: the hook surface sits on an aluminum sheet, with a plastic core underneath. On models named ceramic, the ceramic is a coating on the aluminum sheet.
- Non-electric: every model in our thermal roller group is non-electric and does not plug in.
Aluminum conducts heat, which is why rollers with an aluminum layer are sold as thermal rollers. Plastic-core rollers in our bulk and refill range include models listed as heatless, flexible or snap-on with locking teeth, as named for each model.
| Thermal Self-Grip Rollers (Aluminum & Ceramic-Coated) | Self-Grip Hair Rollers – Bulk & Refill Packs | |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Nylon hook surface, aluminum sheet, plastic core | Nylon hook surface over a plastic core; some models listed as nylon only |
| Models | 46 | 42 |
| Main materials | Nylon, Aluminum, PP plastic | Nylon, PP plastic |
| Listed diameters | 30–60 mm (1.2–2.4 in) | 15–64 mm (0.6–2.5 in) |
| MOQ | 2–200 pieces / 50–100 bags / 50–100 sets / 5 packs (by model) | 2–288 sets / 10–600 pieces / 100 bags / 5–6 packs (by model) |
| Lead time (by quantity) | 3–40 days | 7–30 days |
| Custom option | Custom color: 200 pieces | — |
What it means for your order
- Compare by order unit. Both groups mix pieces, sets, bags and packs, so compare quotes for the same unit and the same number of rollers per bag or set.
- MOQ is per model, not per core type. Thermal rollers: 2–200 pieces / 50–100 bags / 50–100 sets / 5 packs (by model). Bulk and refill packs: 2–288 sets / 10–600 pieces / 100 bags / 5–6 packs (by model).
- The aluminum-core custom quantity is not the in-stock MOQ. Custom sampling is free when your order reaches 200 pieces for a single size, core color and tape color. Below that quantity custom colors can still be made: Below 200 pieces, if the color you need is not in stock, core dyeing costs CNY 200 per size per color; each size is dyed and billed separately.
- Stock tape colors avoid the tape dyeing fee. Black and white hook tapes are standard stock colors with no dyeing fee.
- Custom-color terms cover aluminum-core models only. Our sampling and dyeing terms apply to aluminum-core rollers and do not cover the ceramic-coated models; for ceramic-coated models and other cores, ask about custom-color sampling in your inquiry.
- Sizes differ. Listed diameters run 30–60 mm (1.2–2.4 in) for aluminum-core models and 15–64 mm (0.6–2.5 in) for bulk and refill packs; many aluminum-core models also list a length.
- Lead time depends on model and quantity. Across the listed quantity tiers it runs 3–40 days for thermal rollers and 7–30 days for bulk and refill packs.
Checklist before you ask for a quote
- Core type and model numbers, taken from the group tables.
- Diameter and length of each size, in mm.
- Order unit (pieces, sets, bags or packs) and quantity per model.
- For aluminum-core rollers (not ceramic-coated): core color and tape color for each size, and whether your quantity per size and color reaches the free custom-sampling quantity.
- Packaging: OPP bags, color boxes, PVC bags or paper boxes, with your private label and thank-you cards.
- Accessories to add to a set: combs, metal clips, plastic duckbill clips or cosmetic bags; for aluminum-core sets, also drawstring pouches.
- Whether you want in-stock samples first, and the shipping option you prefer.