Hair Tools A Two Parter: Pin Straight

Belinda Keatts | June 18, 2012 | 1 Comments

There isnʼt an item that creates more anxiety for people than flat irons. There are dozens of options and the technology changes as quickly as you can say “KENTON Magazine Rocks!” We are going to break it all down for you and then throw some options your way.

Ceramic vs. Titanium: The Smack Down.

In a quick nutshell ceramic irons have been on the market for some time now. These flat irons are usually have an aluminum plate that is coated with several layers of ceramic. The ceramic coating leaves hair shiny and healthy looking because it produces negative ions. Titaniums irons do the same thing the main difference is titanium does a great job at conducting heat. The temperature on the plates will stay evenly heated and this is why it is great for hair that is hard to straighten. All of this great technology comes at a price – your titanium iron will cost more than a ceramic iron. You should always use the least amount of heat and a good heat protectant to get those sleek styles. No matter what your iron claims prolonged exposure to high heat will cause heat damage.

What is This Tourmaline That You Speak Of?

Simply put it is a semi-precious stone that is ground and added to other materials (like ceramic) that will make your hair smooth and shiny.

Why Do I Want Ions?

This is a bit prickly and without getting super geeky and boring here is why it is important. Ions occur when the number of electrons isnʼt equal to the number of protons. This gives a molecule a negative or positive charge. Opposites attract – all of the negative ions emitting from the iron want to hook up with all the positive ones in your hair. It makes everything move to a state of happiness. The result is hair that appears healthy.

FHI Heat Runway 100% Pure Ceramic 1” Flat Iron ($329) – is a great size and it can get close to the roots. Since it is 100% ceramic it does not have a coating to peel. Now because this iron is pure ceramic it is fragile. Do not clamp the plates too hard or treat like it is your ex-bff; the plates will break and you will cry.

HAI Convertable Ceramic Flat Iron ($79) – is a great iron for less than $100. It boasts great ceramic plates with an adjustable heat setting. It takes less than 30 seconds from the moment you turn it on to your desired temperature.

GHD Classic Hair Styler ($185) – has got to be on this list. You can not talk about flat irons without mentioning the GHD. This company has changed what we expect from flat irons. These irons have the rounded plates for making curls and waves in addition to getting hair sleek and straight. Consumers and stylists swear by GHDʼs irons.

There are so many irons to choose from and it seems that every day there is something new in the market to take a look at. How do you know which iron is the best? There isnʼt a one size fits all for hair tools. Many factors have to be taken into consideration like what is your hair type? What do you want this iron to do? Is it just for getting straight hair or do you want to make curls and waves with it? Most importantly what is your budget? Itʼs about the money honey – take some advice – buy the best flat iron you can afford. It will serve you for many years down the road with proper care.

Photo via EDEN BOHEMIA