Hair Straightener and Flat Iron 101

Long, wavy, and thick hair. That's what I have and don't think I've ever been satisfied with it a day in my 29 years of life. So if you're like me and always looking for the next best flat iron, then you know there are plenty of options to choose from. You may have also owned several by now, but have you ever wondered what all the flat iron features meant and what the benefits were?

Here's a short list of words to familiarize yourself when looking for your next flat iron:

Tourmaline:

This semi-precious stone is first crushed into a fine powder and infused into the ceramic plates of the flat iron. This plate generally creates longer lasting straight hair and a sleeker, shinier, frizz-free result. Tourmaline plates are also designed to keep your hair healthier and cause less heat damage. This has definitely become a salon professional favorite!

Ceramic:

A smooth plate that will not chip or peel and helps prevent breakage (with no pulling or tugging at your hair!) The ceramic allows the plate to heat uniformly without creating heat spots. The tempature usually goes from a medium heat before becoming extremely hot.

Titanium:

This durable metal plate also allows for an even distribution of heat (like the ceramic). This flat iron features clamps that attaches directly to the metal plates shortening the "wait" time for heating up. You can imagine why this feature, along with it being light weight and scratch resistant might be a favorite for hair stylist and salons allowing for servicing many clients in a shorter time.

Ionic:

Negatively charged molecules that allow for faster straightening and healthier looking hair. The negative ions help relax your hair and eliminate static.

Far Infrared:

All ceramic flat irons will use far infrared heating. Its results are by heating the hair inside out and said to be one of the "gentlest" ways of heating hair. This helps prevent damage on the surface of your hair.

Hopefully this helps you decide which will work best for you or at least become a little familiar with the hair straightener you already own. Although you may have to spend a little more on a professional flat iron- it will be worth every penny! Trust me...I use my T3 Tourmaline Wet to Dry Flat Iron at least 4 times a week and it does wonders!