Choosing a flat iron is difficult especially with the wide variety available in the market today. However, going over the basic features that are essential when deciding to buy a flat iron are important.
1. Which is the type of heater is installed inside?
While choosing a flat iron, you should pay attention to the most important feature, the heater or heating element. Of all the heating elements available, the most advanced technology is of the ICHS or Integrated Ceramic Heating System which is a tungsten element embedded inside 6 layered ceramic plates, which are handcrafted. The heating element is placed between the second and third plate for effective and fast heat recovery for styling even damp to dry hair. While PTFC heaters are another much sought after heaters usually found in most ceramic flat irons.
2. Is the heater powerful in a flat iron?
The strength of the heater varies according to its heat up time and sustains that temperature. Usually, a flat iron loses 80 degrees in between each application, due to heat transfer from the iron to your hair. Reheating after each application to the optimized temperature is known as Recovery Time. Flat irons with a good heater will have a very short recovery time to give you constant heating. All irons come with a heating element of 40 to 60 watts, except CHI flat irons which have 20 to 25 watts. Less wattage means they do not hold the set temperature well.
All irons are 110-120 volts and cannot be used overseas i.e apart from USA and Canada, even with converters.
3. What should be the heating temperature for my hair texture?
Everyone has a different requirement according to their hair length and textures. However, it has been fund out through tests and research that on an average, you get optimum results at 370 degrees F. For thick hair you might require higher temperature while for thin, fragile hair less temperature would do.
4. Does it make any difference to have an iron with adjustable heat control?
As hair textures differ, with an adjustable heat control you can set the temperature according to your requirement. We would recommend a flat iron with adjustable heat control for your safety and comfort.
5. Irons are available in different sizes, how do I choose the best one for my hair?
Usually flat irons are available in a variety of sizes ranging from standard 1’ to ½’ to broad 1 ¼” to suit a variety of hair textures. It depend upon your personal choice and your hair texture requirements. The slimmer flat irons are best for versatile hair styles and easy to work with while thicker ones are best for long, thick hair textures.
6. What is the warranty or guarantee on my iron?
The warranty or guarantee on a flat iron depends upon the manufacturer. You should check out the areas which are covered and which are not. Generally, manufactures don’t include a warranty on the products. My Hair Tools offers a 1 year warranty with all FHI Heat products.
7. I still cannot decide which might be the best iron for me!
If you are still doubtful about the iron that would be the best for you, call us toll free at 1-888-830-9181 or email us at customerservice@my-hair-tools.com
We will be happy to assist you choose the best flat iron, for all your hair styling requirements. |
