Even if you’re enamored with the hair you were born with, there’s no denying that it’s fun to switch up your look once in awhile. And that's super easy to do if you own one of the best ceramic flat irons. While technique is certainly important, higher heat and more advanced features go a long way in helping you create the look you're going for.
Considering previous generations dragged out a legit clothing iron to straighten their hair, this popular beauty tool has certainly evolved over the years. Innovations in the materials used in today's flat irons makes styling way faster, easier, and safer for your hair. What makes flat irons with ceramic plates so great is how quickly and evenly the super-smooth material heats up. Even heat along the plates means there are fewer hot spots — which can damage hair — and that your style will be more uniform throughout. And, smoother plates are less likely to snag your hair, causing breakage.
With that said, it’s key that you choose the correct plate size (usually between one and five inches) depending on the look you're trying to achieve, as well as your hair type. But make no mistake: No two flat irons are alike. These days you can even find a total pro version that will steam your hair during the ironing process for an extra sleek and shiny look.
Once you get used to using a high-heat ceramic flat iron, styling your hair will be a breeze.
1A Popular Flat Iron That Straightens, Flips, & Curls
HSI Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron, $40, Amazon
This cost-effective flat iron has over 28,000 positive reviews because it’s so versatile — you can straighten, flip, or curl all lengths of hair — and the adjustable temperature (240 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit) makes it suitable for all hair types and textures. While it comes with a heat protectant glove, this model also features an ergonomic design so it’s easier to hold. And thanks to dual voltage, you can pack this tool for all your overseas adventures.
2A Flat Iron With A Salon Quality Maximum Heat
KIPOZI One-Inch Pro Nano-Titanium Flat Iron, $35, Amazon
If you’ve ever wondered why your hair doesn’t look the same as it does when straightened at the salon, it’s not because you’re not a licensed pro. It has a lot to do with how hot the iron can get — the same could be said for blowdryers. This iron cranks up to 450 degrees, which is about 50 degrees hotter than average irons on the consumer market. But to ensure you don’t fry your hair off, a display screen will guide you on choosing the correct temperature for healthy, damaged, or fragile hair.
3An OG Favorite That Reduces Static & Leaves Hair Smooth
CHI Original One-Inch Flat Hair Straightening Ceramic Hairstyling Iron, $100, Amazon
CHI was one of the flat iron pioneers in the industry and almost 4,000 positive reviews prove its still going strong. This iron features negative ions to add moisture and shine, as well as an innovative infrared heating system to reduce static electricity. Due to its ergonomic design, you can use it to straighten, curl, flip, or wave your hair.
4An Ultra-Thin Iron That Speeds Up The Straightening Process
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium-Plated Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron, $131, Amazon
The fact that this iron is light-weight isn’t the only reason why it’s super easy to use. It also features ultra-thin and extra-long plates that make it easier to straighten wider sections at once, which makes the whole process faster. It also heats up to 450 degrees, so it’s considered a salon quality iron.
5A Miniature Iron That's Suitable For Bangs & Short Hair
MHU Professional Travel Size 0.5 inch Mini Flat Iron, $13, Amazon
Sure, the size of this miniature iron (only five inches!) makes it appealing for travel, but it’s also great for quickly straightening bangs or those random, short strands that are hard to manipulate with a larger iron. While the temperature is non-adjustable, it quickly heats up to a somewhat neutral 356 degrees.
6An Iron That Gives The Appearance Of Voluminous Tresses
VOLOOM Volumizing Hair Iron, $130, Amazon
If you tend to OD on products to make your hair look more voluminous, this iron’s for you. It’s constructed with patented plates that lift and separate individual hairs from the scalp to create volume that lasts for days — even if you’re a gym rat. Protective ceramic-coated plates and ionic technology work in tandem to seal and protect the hair cuticle from damage
7A Steam Iron That Locks In Moisture
Furiden Steam Hair Straightener, $60, Amazon
One of the drawbacks about using a flat iron is that your hair becomes more susceptible to dryness, but this steam iron combats that issue with the incorporation by helping lock in moisture despite the fact that it heats up to 450 degrees. Another crowning feature is that it gets the job done after only one pass over the hair!
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