Ceramic Hair Straighteners
Ceramic hair straighteners are the only way to achieve the perennially chic look of soft, straight hair. Ceramic is less damaging and heats more quickly than other materials, so hair can be straightened each day and still retain bounce and movement. As ceramic hair straighteners have become more popular, more and more models have been introduced to the market. They range in price from around $50 to over $200 depending on the manufacturer, the thickness and width of the ceramic plates, and the durability of their construction. There are a number of things to keep in mind when purchasing a ceramic hair straightener, so use the following tips as a guide for choosing the model that is right for you.
One of the first decisions to make when choosing the right straightener for your hair is the ideal width of the plate. Typically, straighteners are offered in widths from 1” to 3”, but there are some models that are slightly thinner or wider than those standard measurements. The length of the hair that will be straightened should be the determining factor in which width to choose. For short hair, thinner plates are easier to maneuver and will help the user retain some body even after straightening. Hair may be twisted around smaller irons to give it a slight curl at the end or a little extra movement. Those with long hair may wish to consider the wider, 3” barrel. This can be a great time saver and will allow the user to straighten even the longest hair in minutes. Some control is given up when using wide plates, so they should only be considered by those who want stick straight hair.
Some of the best ceramic hair straighteners are those used by professionals. They are also the most expensive, and can cost well over $100. Professional ceramic hair straighteners feature a very thick ceramic coating on their heated plates, ensuring that they will last through many years of use. When the ceramic wears, and the metal underneath shows through, the hair will come into damaging contact with a surface through which it cannot easily pass. This can lead to split ends, fly-aways, and a loss of moisture. In addition, the plates will no longer heat uniformly and its ability to straighten effectively will be compromised. To find the best straightener for your hair type, talk to your stylist about the brand that is used in your salon. Most professional quality ceramic hair straighteners are sold online and customers should always read online reviews before making an investment.
There are high quality ceramic hair straighteners available for less than $100. These models may have fewer heat settings, may heat more slowly, and have a thinner ceramic coating on the plates than their professional counterparts. Also keep in mind that 1” wide straighteners will be less expensive than those that are 3” or wider. If you will be opting for a lower cost model, be sure to monitor the wear of the plates carefully. If the (usually) gold color ceramic seems to be wearing off and the base is showing through, it is time to replace the iron before damage is done to your hair. Users should feel little to no resistance when pulling hair through a good ceramic hair straightener, so if it feels like your hair is getting caught; it is time to invest in a new model.
Ceramic hair straighteners are easy and quick to use, and will produce consistently beautiful hair every day. The high temperatures to which they heat ensure that hair will stay straight and smooth until the next time it is washed or gets wet, so there is no need for touchups throughout the day.
