A Pro's Use Of The Ceramic Hair Straighteners

There are so many hair straighteners on the market; it is difficult to determine which is best. There are professional models and drug store varieties, metal plates or ceramic plates, how do you choose? Of course, professional models are typically a better choice and ceramic plates certainly have some great advantages, but even then there are differences between models.

Ceramic plates are ultra smooth and do a great job of straightening the hair. They are less prone to causing damage than metal plates because metal plates are microscopically rough which can damage hair. There is more even heat distribution across the surface of ceramic plates. This means that the entire plate is an even temperature. This allows you to control the temperature of the plates, reducing the likelihood of scorching your hair or causing damage. Ceramic plates also cool down and heat up quickly. This means that the temperature is more easily controlled.

Temperature control is particularly important if you have fine hair or hair that is dry or processed because it is much easier to damage. This is where cheap straighteners and professional straighteners differ. Cheap straighteners have heating elements that have poor control and the heat distribution is not as even. Additionally, if you exceed the desired temperature, your straightened may not cool down as quickly or as evenly so you could wind up with hot spots that scorch your hair.

Another consideration in favor of professional hair straighteners is the temperature that is required. Most of the cheaper straighteners do not reach high enough temperatures for the straightener to work and for the style to hold. Professional straighteners get hot enough and produce a style that will last all day. A general rule for straightening is the curlier the hair, the higher the heat. Hair that is damp or damaged requires lower heat.

Even when using a professional straightened you should take steps to protect your hair, especially with repeated use. Using ceramic hair oils can protect your hair from the heat and replace the moisture that is lost through heat appliances. Make sure that you don't increase the heat too high because the results can be disastrous, at the very least you could end up with damaged, frizzy hair.

Caring for your straightened is simple. Turn it on and allow it to heat up. Once it is heated, turn it off and allow it to cool down. While it is still warm, wipe the ceramic plates with a warm cloth. This removes product build up and keeps your straightener working as it should. Product buildup can cause uneven heating of the plates, leave old product deposits on your hair and can actually cause your straightener to not work as efficiently.

While the cheaper drug store varieties of hair straighteners may work, their professional, ceramic plated counterparts are a far better choice. You may spend a few extra dollars, but it is well worth it. Your hair will be healthier, will hold a style better and your hair styling will be far more efficient.