Flat Irons
If your hair is curly, wavy, frizzy, uncontrollable or unmanageable, chances are that you already own or are considering buying a straightening iron, 
also known as a flat iron. They are just as easy to use a hair dryer but the results are much straighter, shinier hair. On the other hand, like all heat appliances, flat irons can cause damage to hair. If you have permed, relaxed, dyed or damaged hair, you may want to reconsider buying a flat iron, as it will further damage already fragile locks making frizz even worse. For all others with healthy hair, a straightener is a great tool to have.
Choosing a Flat Iron
There are several types of flat irons available on the market and in a wide variety of prices. When it comes to buying a straightener or flat iron keep in mind that choosing the right one will make a big difference in your overall experience.
- Don't skimp on quality. The rule of thumb is that the more you pay, the better an iron you will get. While prices start at $20 for the most basic models, these are often made with aluminum, which contributes to hair breakage, frizz and static. For for the best results (healthy, static-free, shiny hair) you should stick with a ceramic iron or tourmaline iron. These quality models can cost up to $150 although you can get a decent grade straightener at a relatively low price of around $60 to $80 and still see good results. Be sure when shopping that you look for true ceramic and tourmaline irons and not those that are just metal coated in the material. These are just as bad for your hair as the metal ones.
- Choose the right model for your hair type. The biggest issue when choosing the right model is getting the right combination of power and heat for your hair thickness and texture, whether it be thin or coarse. For all irons, look for those with a PTFC heater, those capable of producing far-infrared heat, the least damaging to hair.
- Size matters. The longer and thicker the hair you have, the bigger the iron surface you want on the flat iron since it will speed up the straightening process (in addition to your skills and experience using straighteners). One inch irons are the most common, which are good for thin to medium thickness and short to medium lengths. Two inch models are best suited to those with long, thick, curly hair. Note that if you want a flat iron to be used for styling besides straightening, a narrower iron is best because it is more manageable. Finally, don't bother with travel size models. There aren't many on the market that have proven to produce the same results as those of full-sized models, whether they are of professional or consumer grade.
Flat Iron Features
Iron Type
- Ceramic irons distribute heat evenly leaving less chance for burning hair.
- Tourmaline heats up fast and creates high-shine, super straight styles that will last a good length of time.
- Ionic irons are known for reducing frizz by promoting moisture retention in the hair shaft.
Size
- If you have a lot of hair, go for a wide flat iron of two inches or more.
- If you have short or thin hair you could get by with a narrow flat iron as little as 1/2 inch.
- Always look for a model with length to the iron. It makes the process much easier. Because square style heat plates get little hair coverage, they tend to let hair slip out. Look for those that span the entire length of the iron clamps for the best results.
Heat and Temp
- The fastest heat-up is found on tourmaline irons.
- Models should have an indicator light to tell you when the iron is ready.
- Look for variable heat settings since thin hair needs less heat to style, while thick hair needs more.
- The faster an iron can recover (heat up again after each straightening stroke) the more likely it is to maintain steady heat, an important feature of any iron.
- Automatic shut-off ensures increased safety.
Other Features
- A comfortable grip, either a scissor style or clamp style . Usually clamp styles are best for one-handed straightening.
- Attachments, including interchangeable styling plates for straightening or crimping, and finishing combs that improve your hair's shine.
- A good design is crucial. A flat iron should have smooth, rounded edges and no sharp plastic corners that will catch on your hair, one of the biggest risks for damaging your hair while straightening besides the heat, of course.
- Having a long swivel cord is also a nice convenience feature.
- Wet-dry models are great to eliminate wasted time on a two-step process involving both a hair dryer and a straightener.
- Digital flat irons take the guess work out of knowing the temperature of the iron. Often they are more expensive, and they are not always worth the extra money. Unless you really have the cash to spend, don't bother. Most models have an indicator light which will suffice.
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Quick Tips
- Never use a flat iron on dirty hair. The oils and dirt from your scalp will cook on the iron and singe your hair.
- To reduce the amount of damage done to your hair, never use a flat iron every day.
- Invest in the proper straightening balms to protect hair when ironing. Also be sure to condition your hair often and thoroughly.
- If your hair is very curly and/or dry and you plan on sleeping on it, make sure to wrap it up around your head and cover in a scarf to keep it from getting poofed out overnight. It's a little difficult for beginners with long hair, but for short hair it's pretty easy. Basically, start from the back and brush it around your head as flat as possible, pinning it flat against your scalp as you go. Cover with a scarf or sleep on a satin pillow and wake up frizz free!
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External LInks
- BellaOnline.com: Get tips and tricks on how to make your flat iron do what you want it to.
- StarBeautyPlus.com: A useful guide that explains what to look for in a flat iron.
- About.com: How to use a straightening iron.
