Common Types of Hair Straighteners
Each of us has our a different hair type, in terms of length, thickness, and texture, and no product can be universally recommended for everyone’s hair. Even though the ultimate purpose of any type of hair straightener is to make the hair free from curls, the effectiveness largely depends on the individual’s hair type. In the following, some of the common types of hair straighteners that could be used for every hair type have been listed:
1. Titanium flat iron
This flat iron is known to produce negative ions and heats up really quickly. It is suitable for all hair types and also works great on colored hair.
2. Ceramic flat iron
This has an even heat distribution and works well on wavy and slightly curly hair. Since the ceramic is prone to peeling off, the straightening efficiency tends to wear away with usage. Also, too many curls may not be straightened out as effectively as moderate curls.
3. Tourmaline flat iron
Similar to titanium flat iron, this type also produces negative ions and heats up quickly. This again can be recommended for all hair types, particularly, fine hair and chemically treated hair. It also tames colored and brittle hair.
4. Ionic flat iron
The key feature of this type of flat iron is its ability to retain moisture in the hair and leave it glossy. Hence, ionic flat irons are ideal for frizzy, dry, coarse wavy, and curly hair. However, you will need to exercise caution when you use this on fine, brittle hair since a little excess heat can cause damage.
5. Wet to dry iron
Since this flat iron is ideal for damp hair, it could be used on any hair type. However, it is best suited for wavy hair. Curly, frizzy, and coarse hair may not be straightened to perfection using this one.
It is to be noted that, while the hair type is important, so are a few other factors, such as the size of the hair straightener and length of hair, time, and budget. For the different sizes of a hair straightener, the below hair types would be best suited:
Large straightener: For thick and long hair, large-sized hair straighteners provide the best coverage. A minimum width of an inch and three-quarters would be a perfect styling tool.
Medium straightener: Short- to medium-length hair would need a straightener whose width is between an inch and an inch and a half.
Small straightener: Small straighteners that are about half an inch in width would work well for short, not very curly hair.
It is essential to keep all these factors in mind before you choose a straightener. Analyzing your hair type, budget, and needs is important. For very curly hair, using a hair straightener for a lasting effect would not prove to be a worthwhile endeavor when there are other alternatives like hair smoothing and rebonding. You will need to ensure to not compromise the quality of your natural hair when going for a straightening procedure.