Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for improving hair management devices, preferably portable devices, such as curling irons and hot air brushes by including novel heating elements and circuits. A novel elongated heat transfer hollow tube is formed of a metal that is preferable perforated with small holes and that heats and cools quickly such as copper, aluminum, or brass. The hollow tube has sufficient wall thickness for rigidity but is sufficiently thin to allow rapid heating and cooling. In addition, a novel heat source is formed with a light bulb, preferably halogen, located with said hollow tube that likewise heats and cools quickly. The light bulb is removable and replaceable in case of damage. A unique circuit automatically applies full power to the unit until it reaches the desired temperature and then allows a control circuit to automatically reduce the power applied to a value sufficient only to maintain the desired temperature.