What term describes the process of curling hair with a curling iron?

The process of curling hair with a curling iron is best described as heat styling. This technique involves using a heated tool to alter the hair's shape and texture, allowing it to form curls or waves. The use of heat is essential in this process because it enables the hair to be molded into the desired style, creating long-lasting curls.

Heat styling encompasses a variety of techniques that utilize heated tools, including curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers, to achieve different hair textures and styles. This term emphasizes the role of temperature in the styling process, as heat is what makes the hair pliable and able to hold the curls created by the curling iron.

The other terms provided do not accurately describe this process. Cold setting refers to techniques that do not use heat, such as setting hair in rollers without using any heat source. Straightening involves using tools or methods specifically designed to remove curls and waves from the hair, creating a smooth appearance. Texturizing refers to techniques used to add dimension or movement to hair without necessarily creating curls, often involving cutting techniques rather than heat application. Thus, the emphasis on heat in the definition and application makes "heat styling" the clear choice for this question.