Choose the Right Hair Straightener for Your Hair
Hair comes in an amazing variety of types, and it is important that you choose a hair straightener that will work well with yours. Most models are made to handle a diverse array of types, but some will function better, depending on their materials, the width, heat settings, and other options. In this guide we will focus on the five major hair types, and offer direction for what to look for in a styling tool, based on your type.
Fragile hair: Hair that has been damaged by overuse of a blow dryer, or has been treated with harsh chemicals during bleaching or a permanent, will require special TLC from a hair straightener. The thinner the hair is naturally, the more care will need to be used. First, select a model that has solid ceramic, ceramic tourmaline, or titanium plates. Never use irons with aluminum or Teflon plates on fragile, damaged hair. Secondly, choose those models that also deliver negative ion therapy to your hair, which helps to seal in natural moisture and bring healing to damaged or fragile hair. Those straighteners which use tourmaline ceramic heaters offer the best negative ion emissions. One note of caution when using ceramic or tourmaline ceramic units: some of these may tend to snag on hair, which will cause further damage to fragile locks. This often occurs when the unit is new and the user is getting accustomed to it. If you select one, go slow with it until you are comfortable with how best to direct it through your tresses. Use the lowest possible temperature setting that will get the job done, since fragile hair may be further damaged by intense heat. Most of the models we feature on this site offer adjustable heat, so you can tailor the amount you use.
Thin Hair: Thin hair requires lower heat to avoid damage, but the good news is that it also usually responds better to lower heat. If your hair is thin, choosing an adjustable heat hair straightener is the first step. Secondly, use one that employs titanium or ceramic/ceramic tourmaline plates. They heat most evenly and are the gentlest on hair. Use the same preliminary caution wit ceramic plates suggested above, and when possible, use models that offer hair negative ion therapy.
Normal and Wavy Hair: These types of hair are in the middle when it comes to thickness. To create the styles you want without damaging hair, first, select a hair straightener that offers high heat, up to 400 degrees F minimum. Wavy hair won’t be damaged by high heat if the iron is not left on it too long, so move it through quickly. To achieve flips and curls, several repeated “heat and hold” applications are better for hair than one long one. With practice, you’ll perfect the technique. Secondly, choose titanium or ceramic plates with ceramic tourmaline heaters. They offer good negative ion flow that heats the hair gently, and will get the jobs you want done more quickly and with less effort.
Coarse and Thick Hair: This type of hair is the least susceptible to damage, which is good, because it also requires the highest temperatures to bring it under control. First, look only at units that heat to 450 degree F. Be careful not to leave the iron on any one spot too long. Use some practice sessions on a day off to figure out the best approach, but several quicker runs through the hair will usually work just as well, with less damage, than one slower application of the straightener to your locks.
It is always a good idea to ask your hair stylist for suggestion, or ask friends with similar hair what they have had success using. With good counsel, and practice at home, you’ll find a hair straightener you can use to create all the hair styles you want with great skill and efficiency.
