BOTTOM LINE
Thanks to three ceramic layers, this flat iron from Mixed Chicks evenly distributes heat down the length of the two plates to give you the great look that you want without burning your hair. The one-inch plates work on a variety of styles too.
BOTTOM LINE
BOTTOM LINE
BOTTOM LINE
BOTTOM LINE
Shopping for beauty supplies often requires a lot of trial and error. When you need something as simple as a new foundation, you might try multiple shades and products before finding one that matches your skin tone. We took some of the guesswork out of shopping for a flat iron because we found the top five products for 2023. Though our list includes some models that came out a few years ago, we also included some newer models that work well.
As we do with all our shopping guides, we turned to actual customers for help creating our list. Not only did we look at the star ratings for products, but we also looked at the reviews that customers posted. Once we weeded our flat irons with a lower rating, we eliminated the products with a middle of the road rating. That helped us identify the top products based on both reviews and ratings.
While we did take cost into account, we didn’t use cost when listing those products. Some models cost a little more and are like the hair irons used in salons, but other models are much cheaper and will fit smaller budgets. We found flat irons for all types of users.
The bright orange color of this flat iron will catch your eye instantly, but all its impressive features will make you stick around. This styling tool features three different ceramic layers that evenly distribute the heat along the entire iron. Not only do those layers eliminate any hot spots, but the design also reduces the risk of you burning your hand or hair.
Many shoppers like the variable temperature range on this model because they like using different temperatures when creating different styles. That temperature range also makes this a suitable option for shared homes because those with short, long, thick, thin or curly hair can all use the iron at a different temperature. You can use this model at a maximum temperature of 450-degrees Fahrenheit.
Customers also like the swivel cord, which helps them move the iron through their hair and move around their bathrooms or homes at the same time. Mixed Chicks recommends using this flat iron on one layer of your hair at a time and working your way from the top layer to the bottom layer. It works on both thick and kinky hair as well as thinner and shorter hair.
Though not all models come with a display, many feature a digital display that lets you double check on the temperature that you want to use and to keep an eye on that temperature while working with the tool. Manufacturers can include a basic handle or one with an ergonomic design that reduces tension in your hands. Flat irons have plates that you run through your hair and a cord that plugs into an outlet.
Many men and women use flat irons because they want to straighten their hair. The high temperature and the slick plates work together to smooth out any curls or waves. You’ll get hair that looks as flat as a board. While some assume that these tools are only for straightening hair, you can also use one to enhance the curls or waves you already have and to make your hair look curlier or wavier. Manufacturers usually include booklets that walk you through the steps of achieving these styles.
Setting the temperature that is right for your hair is easy with this flat iron, which features a digital display on the handle. The manufacturer used a neon design to ensure that you can see the setting regardless of the light available. With a minimum temperature range of 265-degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum temperature of 450-degrees Fahrenheit, this model is suitable for both thick and thin hair. You can use it when creating a sleek look, adding some body or making perfect curls.
Instead of using the same ceramic plates that other irons do, this one uses titanium plates. Titanium will last longer and does a better job of spreading the heat through each plate than ceramic materials can. This model will work on dry hair as well as damp hair.
Each plate features a small arched area at each end that is just the right size for use on smaller sections of hair like your bangs. The larger section of the plates allows you to move the whole iron from the roots down to the edges of your hair. Isa Professional includes a gift box in this model for those who purchase the iron as a gift.
Professional styling and hair irons can easily cost $400 or more, but the G3 provides the same results at a fraction of the price. Designed for those who want to save time, it has a temperature sensor that brings the iron up to the maximum temperature setting in only 30 seconds after you plug it in and turn it on. Weighing just 12-ounces, this model helps you work on longer and thicker hair without feeling the pressure and discomfort in your hands that occur when you use a heavier tool. Its temperature range makes it suitable for use on all types and textures of hair too.
Unlike other plates that have a small gap in the center, the plates on the G3 form a tight seal when closed on your hair. This keeps strands from sticking out and prevents your hair from catching or tangling inside the styling tool. Other flat irons do not shut off automatically, but this one does, which saves you some worries. After you set the tool down and walk away, it will keep track of that inactivity and shut itself off without requiring that you turn the power off or unplug the device.
1. Place the flat iron on a flat surface like your bathroom counter. Plug the end of the cord into an outlet.
2. If you use a model with a variable temperature range, press the power button and select the temperature that you prefer.
3. Use hair clips to separate your hair into multiple layers. You should start with the layers on the top and work your way towards the bottom.
4. Remove one of the clips from your hair. Place the flat iron as close as possible to your scalp to reach your roots. Close the flat iron down on this section of hair until the plates clamp down on the hair.
5. Using a light amount of pressure, slowly pull the iron down along your hair until you reach the ends. If your hair isn’t as straight as you would like, you can go over this section a second time.
6. Move that section of hair off to the side and secure with a clip.
7. Repeat these steps with each section of hair and with each layer until you use the iron on each section of your hair. You can then remove the clips and put them away for the next time you want to change your style.
HSI Professional gives you a number of accessories with its Glider that make this model perfect for travelers. The included pouch protects the plates from damage and allows you to store the iron in your bag or your home. You also get a glove that you can wear on one hand as you apply a product to your hair. This glove also helps you soothe flyaway spots without transferring static electricity onto your hair.
Suitable for use on curly hair and frizzy spots, the Glider has a temperature range of between 150-degrees and 450-degrees Fahrenheit that also makes it suitable for use on thin and normal hair. HSI Professional puts a trial sample of argan oil in each box that can further tame frizzy hair.
Inside the flat iron are two ceramic plates with a balanced design. As you move the iron through your hair, those plates move effortlessly to prevent tangles. It also has an ergonomic design and a textured handle on the base to keep you from using too much pressure as you work on your hair. Whether or not you use products, the Glider seals in natural moisture to make your hair look softer and shinier.
Those priced in the range of $20 to $50 are budget models that are best for beginners and those who want to see how hair irons work. Many of these models do not have any type of temperature range. You can also use the iron on one setting. The manufacturer generally picks a setting that will work for most hair types.
Hair irons in the $50 to $100 price range come with more features like an automatic shut off and a small temperature range. The temperature range lets you use the flat iron at a temperature of around 200-degrees Fahrenheit to more than 400-degrees Fahrenheit.
When you can afford to spend $100 or more on a flat iron, you’ll find some of the top models around. These products come with all the same features as the ones your stylist uses in the salon. More expensive flat irons typically reach your temperature setting in less time than cheaper models will.
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