Contrary to what it may seem like, achieving straight, smooth hair doesn’t involve subjecting your hair to high temperatures. Cranking up the heat to 450°C on your curly hair can do more harm than good in the long term. Therefore, experts recommend reconsidering the straightener plates you use. Choosing the right straightener can significantly improve the sleekness and shine of your finished look.
How to choose the right flat iron?
The primary difference between titanium and ceramic plates lies in their heating techniques. Ceramic plates utilise infrared technology, heating the hair from the inside out, whereas titanium plates heat the hair shaft externally. Due to this technology, ceramic plates take longer to heat up as compared to titanium, thus preserving more moisture and proving to be gentler in the long run.
When it comes to the finish, ceramic plates provide a softer, more natural look, whereas titanium plates leave the hair shinier and sleeker.
If you’re considering a straightener for professional use, or if you always have limited time and need a quick, effective tool, a titanium straightener is what you may need on your dresser.
However, for daily use, generally ceramic straighteners are preferred. They’re gentler and more effective, especially for those with thin or fine hair. If you have thick, coarse hair, you can either change the settings on a ceramic straightener or go for a titanium alternative.
Tira recommends
Titanium hair straighteners:
Ikonic Professional Pro Titanium Shine Hair Straightener
Philips BHS738/00 KeraShine Titanium Wide Plate Straightener
BBlunt Pro Titanium Hair Straightener
Berina Professional Titanium Hair Straightener
Ceramic hair straighteners:
Alan Truman AT100 Tourmaline Ceramic Straightener
Ikonic Professional S3+ Ceramic Hair Straightener
How to use your preferred option the right way?
Once you’ve picked the right tool for your hair type and lifestyle requirements, the first step is using a heat-protection spray. Moroccanoil Protect and Prevent Hair Spray is a great option. Avoid spraying it on the roots to prevent your scalp from looking sticky; instead, apply it along the length of your hair.
When you begin straightening your hair, keep a distance of one to two fingers between the scalp and the straightener to prevent heat from affecting your roots and scalp. Hold the straightener firmly and glide it down. For curly or wavy hair, work in small sections. If your hair tends to be frizzy, finish with an anti-frizz serum, like the L'occitane Aromachologie Intensive Repair Anti-Frizz Serum, for added shine and a fresher look.
Cover Image: Instagram/@aditiraohydari
