Flat irons are very popular heated styling tools that can turn the frizziest of hair into sleek, smooth and shiny tresses. However, with all the flat irons on the market it can be confusing to figure out not only which one is the best for your hair and hair type, but worth your hard earned dollars. The following information will help you choose wisely and pick the flat iron that will work in the best interest of your hair.

Probably one of the first things you’ll notice while shopping for flat irons is the terminology involved. Most products boast the benefits of tourmaline or ceramic. But which one is better for you? Before answering it may be a good idea to explain exactly what tourmaline and ceramic are and how they relate to flat irons. These two describe the type of coating that is used on the hot plates of the flat iron. The purpose of tourmaline and ceramic coating is to create negative ions when heated, which allow your hair to be smooth and sleek instead of dried and fried. The good news is that you can choose either a tourmaline or a ceramic flat iron. Neither is technically better than the other.

Aside from finding the right kind, you’ll also have to think about price. This will mostly be determined by how often you think you’ll use your flat iron. When dealing with price, you’ll have to consider choosing between an expensive, salon quality version and the typical drugstore version, which is usually cheap. While both types work the same way, studies show that drugstore flat irons are usually poorly designed and made of cheap materials, which can affect how long it will last and the results over time. Hair care experts say that any professional flat iron is worth the investment and will give you great results in the long run, while saving you money since you’ll no longer have to pay salon prices to get your hair done. From materials to heating and performance, the pricier flat irons are more favorable and have the technology to prevent long term damage to your tresses.

Different hair types respond to different temperatures so it is important to know what heat range to use on your hair when using a flat iron. Normal hair should stay within the 360-380 degree range. Thick, curly and coarse hair types should stay within 380-410 degrees and fine, bleached and damaged hair types will want to take it easy and go no hotter than 360 degrees.

Taking proper care of your flat iron will also guarantee great results after every use, not to mention a longer shelf life. To make sure your flat iron has lasting power, make it a habit to gently clean your flat iron plates after each use with a styling iron cleaner. Avoid wrapping the cord around the iron and be sure to unplug it when you’re not using it.

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