How to Buy a Flat Iron

For women who want the look of glossy, straight locks, a flat iron is essential. But which one is right for your hair? The people at folica.com have some tips for flat iron shopping. (http://bit.ly/qhJOXo)

First, you need to consider your hair type. Coarse or curly hair requires the high temperatures of a professional flat iron, that is, one that ranges between 380ºF and 410ºF. If your hair is slightly wavy and of “normal” thickness, you can go with a little less heat—between 360ºF and 380ºF. Fine or thin hair can be damaged easily by high heat, so it is best to find a flat iron with temperature control. The Folica article recommends that people with very fine, straight hair start with lower temperatures (around 180ºF) and work their way up from there.

Second, make sure your flat iron is the right width for your hair. Basically, the longer the hair, the wider the iron should be.

The plates on a flat iron can be made of many different materials, all of which are outlined in the Folica article. The three materials that tend to be highly recommended are: ceramic, tourmaline, and titanium.

Ceramic plates create negative ions (which reduce frizz), diffuse heat and seal the hair cuticle. Titanium maintains consistent heat levels to minimize damage while also straightening hair quickly. Tourmaline is often infused into ceramic plates to create even more negative ions, resulting in shiner, straighter hair.

Need more help with your flat iron? Here is an article about using your flat iron like a pro. (http://bit.ly/nZmOKz). To read about the top ten flat irons in Canada, consult the 2011 list from hairtools.ca (http://bit.ly/o4mQ2k).

And if you have any questions about which type of flat iron to buy, please ask a Great Lengths stylist. We’re always happy to help!