As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn More
Are you tired of bad hair days and want a solution that can give you sleek, salon-quality hair at home? Look no further than a flat iron. A flat iron, also known as a hair straightener, can transform your unruly locks into smooth and shiny tresses. However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That’s where our Flat Iron Buying Guide comes in to help you navigate this essential beauty tool effortlessly.
Purchasing the best flat iron will help in taking care of your hair without causing any damage. Depending on your hair texture, this buying guide will highlight everything you need to know about flat irons.
In this comprehensive Flat Iron Buying Guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed purchase. From understanding the different types of flat irons to selecting the best one for your hair type, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive right in!
Flat Iron Buying Guide: Which Flat Iron You Should Buy
These steps will help you buy the right flat iron:
#1. Choose the Right Plate Material
Flat iron plate material comes in three forms. Depending on your hair texture, you can select one that suits you. They are;
Ceramic Plates Flat Iron
They heat very evenly and hold heat for as long as you want them. They allow an even distribution of heat, creating an even smoothing of your hair strands. Ceramic plates are best for straightening fine hair.
They are more versatile as they can be used on short, coarse, light or curly hair. The ionic power of the ceramic plate flat iron gives a healthy-looking hair that is shiny.
Titanium Flat Irons
That is a flat iron that heats and transfers heat fast. If you want a straightener that saves you time, this is your real deal. You don’t have to wait for it to heat up. It holds high heat at a constant temperature.
That means that you don’t have to go over the same section over and over to smoothen it.
Titanium flat irons are best for people with thick and coarse hair. Because of its high heat, it is not suitable for a person with light hair as it can scorch very easily.
The titanium also has an ionic charge which makes your hair look smooth quickly. Because of heating up fast, they tend to be pricier.
Tourmaline Flat Iron
Tourmaline is a gemstone coated on flat iron. That is one of the best flat irons because it is less likely to damage your hair. That is because it traps your hair moisture, making it look all good and healthy.
The heat on the plate remains constant, and because of its effective heat distribution, it can be used at a lower temperature.
#2. Consider The Size of The Plates
Flat irons come in many sizes and widths. The length and thickness of your hair will determine the size of your flat iron. If your hair is short and delicate, you should buy a flat iron that can help you do smaller hair sections.
A flat iron with a narrow plate maybe 1.5- 1 inch will work best for your hair. The small plates are best for creating curls and styling the areas that are hard to reach. Also, flat irons that have narrow plates are the best for traveling as they can easily fit in your bag.
For people with long, curly, and thick hair, you should buy a flat iron with a broader plate size. It helps you to do more hair in a shorter time, saving you a lot of time.
#3. Go For Flat Irons With Flexible Heat Setting
Flat irons with a changeable heat setting allow you to use the correct heat range for your hair type. Beautiful delicate hair requires less heat to straighten. On the other hand, think, long, and curly hair will need a higher heat setting.
High heat may straighten your hair faster, but it is not suitable for all types of hair. To avoid damaging your hair, buy a flat iron with an adjustable heat setting so that you can adjust to the correct heat range depending on your hair needs.
#4. Choose The Right Shape Of The Flat Iron
Flat irons are not just merely flat. Their edges come in different shapes which affects their versatility. Flat irons don’t have to be flat and dull. If you want to add a little touch to your hair, look for a flat iron with a style and design. A flat iron with a rounded edge will help in creating waves on your hair.
#5. Check Out Features That Suit Your Lifestyle
Flat irons come with many features. For people with curly hair, a flat iron that has built-in comb teeth will help set unruly tresses. It is also suitable for men and women who jet-set their hair.
For people who feel that they don’t usually have enough time to get ready in the morning, a cordless flat iron will work best for you. An instant-heat flat iron will save you time in the morning.
It is also good to buy a flat iron with an auto-shutoff feature. It shuts off your flat iron after using it for long say 60-80 minutes nonstop. Flat irons using high heat can cause fire hazards if left unattended. An auto-shutoff feature in flat irons helps prevent such fire hazards.
#6. Differentiate Between Price and Value
It is very likely to walk into the store and buy the first cheap flat iron that you come across. Budget and cheap flat irons are not the best. They break easily and more quickly and so you will be buying them more often.
Worse, they may overheat and burn your hair. They may also have an uneven distribution of heat leaving undone patches on your hair.
Go for a quality flat iron that will last longer and have excellent results in your hair. In most cases, the best quality flat irons are a bit pricier but are worth your penny. That includes flat irons like professional straighteners.
How to Use a Flat Iron
Now that you’ve chosen the right flat iron for your hair type, let’s learn how to use it effectively:
- Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, dry hair and use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into small sections to ensure even straightening.
- Adjust the Temperature: Set the flat iron to the appropriate temperature for your hair type.
- Straighten with Care: Clamp the flat iron near your scalp and glide it down slowly, following the natural direction of your hair.
- Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn curls or waves, you may need to pass the flat iron through the section more than once.
- Finish with a Serum: Apply a hair serum or oil to add shine and prevent frizz.
Question And Answer (Q&A)
1. Can I use a flat iron on wet hair?
No, it’s essential to use a flat iron on dry hair to prevent damage. Wet hair can steam and sizzle when in contact with high heat.
2. How often should I clean my flat iron?
Clean your flat iron regularly to remove product buildup. A damp cloth or specialized cleaner can do the job. Ensure it’s unplugged and cool before cleaning.
3. Are expensive flat irons worth the investment?
High-quality flat irons often come with advanced features and materials that protect your hair from damage. They are a worthy investment if you straighten your hair frequently.
4. Can I curl my hair with a flat iron?
Yes, many flat irons are designed for both straightening and curling. With a bit of practice, you can achieve stunning curls with your flat iron.
5. What’s the best way to store a flat iron?
Allow your flat iron to cool completely before storing it. Use a heat-resistant mat or pouch to protect surfaces and keep the cord untangled.
6. How can I prevent heat damage to my hair?
Using a heat protectant spray and not exceeding the recommended temperature for your hair type are crucial steps in preventing heat damage.
Conclusion
The Flat Iron Buying Guide has provided you with valuable insights into choosing the perfect flat iron for your hair needs. Remember to consider your hair type, plate size, temperature settings, and brand reputation when making your selection. With the right flat iron and proper technique, you can achieve salon-quality results at home.
Make bad hair days a thing of the past and enjoy the confidence that comes with perfectly straightened locks. Happy styling!
