Now it seems certain that the sleek, smooth look is here to stay it might be a good time to think about buying a Hair Straightener. They have improved hugely over the last few years and models that were once only used in salons now have their equivalent in the shops, so you can have a really professional finish in your own home.
Here are some of the choices that you will have to consider:
Ceramic or Metal plates?
Both can work well. Cheaper models tend to have metal plates, which although may look smooth, are actually very rough when examined closely. This means that over time they will damage your hair if used repeatedly. However, if you’ve got healthy undamaged hair and are planning to use yours only occasionally, a straightener with metal plates will do the job. Ceramic models, however tend to be more expensive but can be more effective. This is because their surface is much smoother, allowing for even heat distribution and faster heating and cooling times. They will also cause less long-term damage to your hair as there will be considerably less friction when used.
Temperature
Many budget straighteners do not actually get hot enough to straighten your hair; they are really hair dryers with plates. To really straighten hair a temperature of at least 180 degrees is needed, otherwise the straightening effects will soon be lost, especially if you have thick or frizzy hair to start with. Some ceramic models can heat up to 210 degrees in about one minute! Usually, the more you pay, the more powerful the heating element and the quicker you can start using your straightener. Check the power rating, given in watts, to see how the different models compare, along with the heating up and cooling down times shown.
At the top end of the range Infra Red ceramic straighteners are available that actually help to seal in moisture and can even improve the condition of dryer hair. “Ionic” straighteners too can help improve the condition of your hair by breaking down water molecules on the surface of the hair faster, so making them smaller and more quickly absorbed.
Protection
Hair oils made specially to be used in conjunction with straighteners can offer considerable protection against the effects of overheating and should always be used to replace essential natural oils that will be lost from your hair in the process.
General
There are hair straighteners to suit all budgets, but make sure that the model you are considering gets hot enough to do the job. Remember though that if your hair is fine then a straightener that doesn’t get too hot might be better for you even if it means that your style will not stay in place as long; using a straightener that gets very hot (180 degrees +) will be damaging to finer hair and should only really be used on thicker hair especially in the longer term. If your hair is thick and/or frizzy is may be worth investing in a straightener that uses Infra red and/or Ionic technologies for the best possible results. Consider the overall design and weight, too; make sure that the grip is comfortable and it’s not too heavy especially if you are planning on using it every day.
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