Putting heat to hair is naturally going to damage hair over a length of time. Nevertheless, knowing what to look for in a flat iron can help keep that damage to a minimum.
Types of Plates on Flat Irons
The most essential factor that you need to consider when buying a flat iron is the type of plate. The problem with the cheap flat irons is the paint can chip off while straightening; which damages your hair. When choosing a flat iron you need to know what will work best for your hair type. This will depend mostly on your hair; if you have long curly hair, thin hair, straight hair – you get the idea.
Paying a little more for a flat iron that has more ceramic and tourmaline will pay off in the end. Not only is it easier on your hair, but the flat iron should last you longer.
The cheapest flat irons tend to heat up more in certain areas and less in other areas. However, the titanium and ceramic flat iron plates heat up evenly and provide a constant heat. The even heat works better because it will straighten each strand of hair and not just a few here and there.
Tourmaline is a natural element that produces negative ions, which straightens your hair faster and for a longer time. Tourmaline also gives your hair that soft, shiny look. The negative ions from tourmaline help keep the natural oils and moisture, which helps prevent your hair from becoming dry and brittle.
The cost of a flat iron can range from $20 to $300 or more. If you look at the box on some of the cheapest flat irons, you will probably notice the word “painted”.
The size of the plate will depend on the texture and length of your hair. Plate sizes range from one to three inches. You might find this “Flat Iron Buying Guide” by Dennis Huang, phD – Director of Folica Product Testing Lab – helpful before deciding which flat iron would be best for your hair.
Other Considerations for Buying a Flat Iron
While you are searching for flat irons that will be less likely to cause damage to your hair, you should consider a few other things as well. Although the plate is the most important thing to consider, other things may affect your choice in buying a flat iron.
Take notice how fast the flat iron you are considering heats up.
Some of the advanced models will allow you to adjust the temperature to your specific requirements.
If you are one who often forgets to turn things off, you should consider buying a model that has the automatic off feature.
The flat irons that have a controlled heat is also recommended since different hair types require different temperatures.
If you like adding a little curl or body to your hair, consider a flat iron that has rounded edges. This design curls, waves and creates body in a single stroke. You can find free videos online to see how the flip of your wrist can make beautiful curls.
Be sure the hair is completely dry before using a flat iron. Using such high temperatures on wet hair can cause a lot of damage. There are flat irons that claim you can use them on wet hair. However, there are disagreements about that statement. If you can only afford a cheap flat iron, watch closely for damage (including hair loss) and only straighten your hair when you have to. Doing so can help minimize the damage to your hair.
Other sources:
http://www.misikko.com/true-flat-iron.html
http://www.zimbio.com/Everything+You+Need+to+Know+About+Flat+Irons/articles/43/Flat+Iron+Buying+Guide+101
