Getting your style without the damage
When buying a hair straightener (which can also be called a flat iron, hair iron or ghd), there are certain benefits and technologies which you should really look out for to get the best results out of the product.
The main ones are:
(1) Ionic technology,
(2) Infra-red technology,
(3) Tourmaline plates (or quality ceramic), and
(4) Variable heat settings.
1) Ionic technology - Negative Ions
Essentially, positive ions represent damage to the hair fibre whereas negative ions are dominant in naturally healthy hair. The effect of the negative ions means a sealed cuticle (outer layer of the hair) and a smooth hair shaft with natural shine.
The hair becomes less porous and less vulnerable to humidity so your style will last longer.
2) Infra-red technology
Far infrared waves are able to penetrate deeper and heat the hair from the inside, whilst it is simultaneously heated and straightened on the surface. This results in a quicker process and is less damaging to the hair.
3) Tourmaline plates (or Quality Ceramic)
Tourmaline is a crystal silicate mineral classified as a semi-precious stone. It exhibits pyroelectricity when heated, meaning it becomes polarized and is able to emit negative ions (six times more than ceramic) and so helps the hair to seal in and retain moisture.
Tourmaline hair styling tools are of particular use for people who have thick, frizzy or textured hair, or for those who blow dry, straighten or curl their hair on a regular basis. By sealing the cuticle, hair appears smoother, shinier and healthier.
Tourmaline hair styling tools are also smoother than typical ceramic, creating less friction on the hair as it is pulled through. As a result, hair is better conditioned and suffers less damage due to the frequent heat of styling. In addition to better results, fewer styling products are needed to achieve the smooth, shiny look many women look for when blow drying or straightening their hair.
The crystal is typically crushed or ground, then applied in a variety of ways to the tourmaline hair styling tools. It may be “infused” into a ceramic coated flat iron or curlers, or be applied in a thin coat over the ceramic. In hair dryers, tourmaline is ground up and coats the inside of the dryer.
4) Variable heat settings
Baby fine hair (especially pale hair) is more vulnerable and so you should use the lowest possible setting (Below 170C) to achieve results as the hair, and colour, can be permanently damaged by high heat.
Remember! Natural fine blonde hair can turn lemon yellow if the delicate ash tones become overheated and are lost.
Damaged hair can use between 160C and 180C, and up to 200C only if necessary.
Normal hair is usually styled well at 200C.
Coarse, thick and resistant hair can bear higher heat, e.g. 220C, depending on the quality of the styling tool used.
Ladies with very curly hair or naturally frizzy hair should be extra careful with heat styling as the outer layer of the hair (cuticle) is not naturally sealed so extra moisture is easily lost, and the hair can become dried out and scorched. If you have this hair type, be extra careful to use a heat protection serum (silicone) and do not focus heat on any one area as the hair fibre is more exposed and more easily damaged on the surface.
Short List of Things to Look For in a straightener
- Heats up quickly and straightens easily
- A swivel cord that doesn't twist or tangle
- Long-lasting results - The hair stays straight even in humid weather
- Durability - The straightener is hardy (and preferably under guarantee)
- Ease of use and hold (Light weight with a pleasant shape)
- Adjustable heat settings for different hair types
- Auto-timer to switch off when not in use or overheats
Short List of Things to Avoid when buying a straightener
- A straightener which gets too hot
- An awkward or delicate straightener which could break easily
- A cord which tangles and is difficult to manoeuvre
- A temperature setting which can get changed without you realising (ie. it's too flimsy and can be easily bumped)
- If it is missing an auto-timer function to switch itself off when unattended
From a styling point of view, straightening can make your hair not only look longer but also much sleeker. It also shows off your hair colour as the hair surface is smooth and glossy. Blondes especially look brighter with straighter, smoother hair.
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