A ceramic hair straightener is any tool designed to straighten the hair using specialized ceramic plates. It's believed that the ceramic technology on these tools, typically flat irons and curling irons, is less damaging to the hair than traditional metal heat-styling tools. For anyone with curly, kinky, or wavy hair who wants to straighten it, gentler tools are essential for keeping the hair healthy and damage-free. A ceramic hair straightener typically glides smoothly down the hair shaft, which makes it easy to use.
Flat irons are available in a range of widths, including 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) to 2 inches (5.1 cm). Shorter hair requires smaller widths, but anyone with long hair can still use flat irons with small plates. Smaller irons allow the user to focus on small sections of hair, which makes it easier to completely straighten. For the best results, hair sections should be no wider or thicker than 1 inch (2.5 cm).
A good ceramic hair straightener should have adjustable temperatures instead of simply an on/off switch. Regulating the temperature based on the thickness and curliness of the hair can help the user avoid using heat that is too high. When using a flat iron, it is a good idea to apply a heat protectant product before placing the iron on the hair. Even though ceramic hair straighteners are designed to be less damaging than metal straighteners, they still get hot enough to potentially damage the hair if preventive steps are not taken.
It is best to use a ceramic hair straightener on hair that is freshly shampooed, conditioned, and thoroughly dry. A heat protectant product should be applied all over the hair, and the hair should be worked in small sections. The iron should be used from the roots all the way to the ends. After all of the hair is straightened, a serum or hair spray can be added for additional styling benefits.
A lower temperature should be used for straightening fine, thin hair. Higher temperatures are suitable for thick and/or coarse hair, but it's a good idea to make as few passes down each hair section as possible. The more heat that is applied to the hair, the greater the potential for dryness and damage.
A flat iron should be chosen based on recommendations from a professional stylist or friends who have experience with various ceramic straighteners. The price range will vary widely; anyone who plans to use her ceramic hair straightener often should select a quality brand, as it will typically last longer. If a ceramic flat iron will only be used occasionally, it is usually not as important to spend a lot of money for it.
