A flat iron can be your best friend when you want to achieve the straight, sleek and shiny look that’s so popular right now. However, not all straighteners are the same. They vary in size, materials and heat output, which can make the difference between gorgeous salon results and serious heat damage.
When shopping for a flat iron, here are a few considerations to help you make a wise decision:
How long is your hair?
Most women with short, medium or long hair can opt for a one-inch or one-and-a-half-inch wide flat iron. If your hair is really long, coarse or thick, you may want to choose a two-inch or wider model, as they take less time to straighten your hair. However, the wider the plate, the trickier it is to maneuver, so don’t go too wide unless you really have to.
What are the plates made of?
The plates on a straightener are typically made of metal, ceramic or tourmaline. Metal plates are found on the cheapest models; some inexpensive straighteners are advertised as “ceramic” but actually have metal plates with a thin ceramic coating. Opt for better-quality ceramic flat irons, which will give you the most professional results. They are easier to handle, distribute heat well and produce negative ions, which protect and smooth out the hair shaft. Straighteners with plates made of tourmaline, a semi-precious gem, also produce negative ions and give you salon-like results.
How much heat can your hair handle?
Some flat irons have a control dial to regulate heat. This is essential if you have damaged or fine hair, as some straightening irons can surpass the 200 C mark. You can start with minimal heat and turn it up if you need it. This way, your daily flat iron use will not fry your hair.
For a great selection of high-quality flat irons, come to the Beauty Supply Outlet. You can talk to their friendly and knowledgeable beauty professionals, who will help you select the best straightener for your needs. Give them a call at 905-713-3555, or for more information, visit www.thebso.com.