Flat-iron features

Flat irons straighten hair by pressing strands between two heated metal or ceramic plates. The latest flat irons also infuse plates with tourmaline or nano-sized particles of silver to add extra shine to hair and to prevent bacteria build-up. The best flat irons have adjustable heat settings, making them suitable for those with fine hair as well as those with thick, coarse hair. Basic flat irons have just one heat setting, which will probably work if you have normal hair or will be the only one using the flat iron.

Reviewers say you should consider the following when buying and storing a flat iron:

  • Decide whether you want an auto shutoff feature. Professional-style flat irons don't have an automatic shutoff feature, so you'll need to be sure to turn them off after use. Home-use irons usually have this feature, which turns off the iron after a certain period of non-use.
  • Look for a flat iron with ceramic plates. These will glide through your hair smoothly and are less likely to snag hair. Ceramic flat irons also conduct heat very well.
  • Never wrap the cord around the plates. Storing your flat iron this way can cause it to short out over time.

Using a flat iron

Once you buy a flat iron, you'll want to make sure that you are using it to its full potential, meaning you want to get the best results. Follow these tips to ensure your beauty investment was worth it:

  • Make sure your hair is 100 percent dry before straightening with a flat iron. The only exception is if you are using a wet/dry straightener. Using a standard iron on wet hair can damage hair and cause burns.
  • Use a heat protectant to protect hair from excessive heat. There are several hair products available that are designed to be a buffer between your hair and the intense heat of flat irons and other hair appliances.
  • If possible, use your flat iron sparingly. All heated hair appliances cause damage over time. The more often you use them, the more likely you are to suffer from dry, damaged hair.
  • Don't leave the flat iron in one position on your hair for too long. High temperatures can literally scorch hair if left sitting in one spot. Instead quickly glide the iron over each section of hair and repeat if necessary.
  • For best results, iron small sections of hair.
  • Use the lowest effective heat setting for your hair. Thin, fine or damaged hair requires less heat, while coarse, thick or very curly hair generally needs higher temperatures.

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