argan oil for hair straightening

15 BEST FLAT IRONS FOR THICK HAIR

Taming thick hair can be a battle, but with the right flat iron, you can achieve sleek, straight locks that last. In this guide, we’ll unveil the best flat irons designed to conquer thick hair, so you can ditch the frizz and achieve salon-worthy smoothness at home.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FLAT IRON FOR THICK HAIR

PLATE MATERIAL

Selecting the ideal flat iron tailored to your hair type can transform your styling routine. For those with dry, thin, or damaged hair, ceramic plates or ceramic-coated plates are recommended. These plates heat up evenly from within, gliding smoothly without pulling or causing frizz. Conversely, if you have thicker or curlier hair, titanium plates are the go-to option, capable of reaching high temperatures and distributing heat evenly. Tourmaline is another excellent choice, enhancing ceramic plates for seamless gliding while reducing tension and minimizing damage. Hence, it’s essential to choose your plate material wisely to suit your hair’s unique needs.

TEMPERATURE SETTINGS

Temperature settings play a crucial role when using hot tools on thick or textured hair. Look for flat irons with higher temperature settings to effectively smooth and style coarse strands. Adjustable and precise heat settings are essential to avoid damage from excessive heat exposure. Starting with a lower heat setting and gradually increasing it is recommended to prevent potential hair damage. Finding the right temperature balance is key to achieving optimal styling results while protecting your hair.

PLATE SIZE

Consider the plate size when shopping for a flat iron for thick hair. Wider plates, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, cover more surface area for quicker and more efficient styling. Larger plates ensure superior heat distribution, reducing the risk of damage from hot spots. Opting for broader plates is especially beneficial for those with thicker hair, allowing for flawless, smooth results without subjecting your strands to excessive heat.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

When choosing the best flat iron for thick hair, consider additional features that can enhance your styling experience. A swivel cord prevents tangling and makes maneuvering effortless, ensuring every hair section receives the necessary heat treatment. An auto shut-off function is essential for safety, automatically turning off the flat iron after a period of inactivity to minimize fire hazards or burns. Opting for a model with universal voltage ensures consistent heat performance while traveling internationally, catering to different voltage systems in various countries and ensuring effective styling results wherever you go.

TOP FLAT IRONS FOR THICK HAIR

BABYLISS PRO NANO TITANIUM OPTIMA 3000 1.25″ FLAT IRON WITH TITANIUM PLATES

The BABYLISS PRO Nano Titanium Optima 3000 is the best flat iron for both thick and fine hair. Its titanium plates heat up quickly and stay warm for efficient straightening. You can also use it to create waves or curls easily.

Safety is essential with this flat iron. It has silicone tips to protect your hair, and there’s a special attachment that works like a curling iron, perfect for making curls or waves. Plus, it has five heat settings from 300 to 465 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can choose the right temperature for your hair type. It’s a great choice for taming thick hair because of its versatility and safety features.

T3 LUCEA FLAT IRON

T3’s Lucea flat iron has received enthusiastic praise for its ability to effortlessly transform thick hair into smooth, glossy, straight strands with just one pass. Engineered with wider ceramic plates measuring one-and-a-half inches, it’s specifically tailored to tackle the challenges of thick hair without causing breakage. Its integrated microchip technology oversees rapid start-up, ensures even heating across the plates, and maintains stability across its nine temperature settings.

With a maximum temperature of 410 degrees Fahrenheit and ceramic plates, it offers optimal heat for effective styling. The inclusion of an auto shut-off feature enhances safety, while the nine heat settings cater to various hair types and preferences. Designed with the needs of thick, curly, and voluminous hair in mind, its microchip technology guarantees precise heat control and uniform heat distribution throughout the tool. Additionally, its 360-degree 8-foot swivel cord enhances maneuverability during styling sessions.

HSI PROFESSIONAL CERAMIC TOURMALINE IONIC FLAT IRON

The HSI Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron stands out as an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-performing hair straightener. It comes with valuable accessories like a heat protective glove and argan oil, adding further value to its affordable price point. Users have praised its performance, reflected in its high ratings on Amazon.

Equipped with multiple heat settings and the ability to create both straight and wavy styles, this flat iron offers versatility comparable to more expensive models. However, some users have noted that the LCD screen can be confusing when powering down, presenting a minor drawback to an otherwise commendable device.

Despite this minor issue, the HSI Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron stands out as a top choice on Amazon, offering a balance of affordability and performance that makes it a standout option for users seeking quality styling results without breaking the bank.

CHI LAVA 2.0 FLAT IRON

If you have wavy hair that tends to frizz easily, then Drybar’s flat iron might be the perfect solution for you. This ergonomic straightener features ionic technology to fight frizz and 0.5-inch titanium plates that heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The separate temperature controls for each plate allow for customized styling to minimize damage.

Despite the smaller plate size, which may seem like a drawback for straightening speed, you only need one or two passes to achieve your desired look.  This flat iron also doubles as a curling iron thanks to its rounded plates, giving you the option to add waves or movement to your hair after straightening. While the price tag might be a bit steep at $190, this versatile tool offers two styling options in one and boasts a convenient, compact design that’s perfect for travel.

CHI ORIGINAL CERAMIC HAIR STRAIGHTENER

The Chi Original Ceramic Hair Straightener offers a compelling combination of features that make it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable styling tool. Boasting ceramic plates, it ensures even heat distribution, safeguarding against potential hair damage, particularly beneficial for those with color-treated or heat-sensitive hair. Its adjustable heat settings, reaching up to 400°F (204°C), provide versatility in styling while minimizing the risk of heat-related harm. The straightforward design simplifies the styling process, catering to both novices and seasoned users alike. Moreover, its budget-friendly price point makes it an attractive option compared to pricier alternatives, offering quality performance without breaking the bank.

DRYBAR RESERVE DUAL-PLATE STYLING IRON

Eva NYC introduces a specialized flat iron tailored for individuals with fine, color-treated, or delicate hair, offering a gentler alternative to high-heat styling. Crafted with ceramic plates, it ensures even heat distribution, safeguarding fragile strands from potential damage caused by hot spots. The adjustable heat settings, spanning from 200°F to 450°F, provide flexibility in styling while minimizing the risk of heat-induced harm. Additionally, the flat iron emits negative ions as it glides through the hair, smoothing the cuticle and reducing frizz for a healthy, shiny finish. Its compact 1.25-inch plate size facilitates easy maneuverability, especially for styling shorter hair sections. However, some users have noted challenges with adjusting the temperature dial, and the floral print design may not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.

CONAIR THE KNOT DR. ALL-IN-ONE SMOOTHING DRYER BRUSH, HAIR DRYER & HOT AIR BRUSH

With a height of just eight inches, this compact flat iron has earned nearly four thousand enthusiastic reviews across various online platforms. Its half-inch ceramic plates can reach temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, making it versatile for adding volume at the roots, straightening hair, or creating waves. One of its standout features is its convenient size, perfect for slipping into your travel tote alongside your makeup essentials for your next journey.

In terms of specifications, it boasts a fixed temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit and utilizes ceramic plates measuring 0.5 inches. While it lacks an auto shut-off feature, it compensates with a power indicator light, a 6-foot cord, and dual voltage capabilities, ensuring practicality and adaptability for travelers.

Priced at $26.99 upon publication, this flat iron has garnered praise for its ease of use and lightweight design. However, it’s worth noting that it offers only one heat setting, which may be a limitation for users with specific styling preferences or hair types.

GHD PLATINUM+ STYLER

The Dyson Airstrait Straightener is new but already popular for its great performance. It’s special because it uses airflow to help style hair. It can dry and straighten your hair at the same time, saving you from using two different tools.

This straightener is smart too. It keeps track of how hot it’s getting and makes sure it doesn’t get too hot by checking every 30 seconds. It also fights frizz and keeps hair looking healthy by using negative ions. You can do more than just straighten your hair with it. You can use it to add volume by using it on the roots. It’s also easy to use with its different temperature options and cordless design. Plus, it turns off by itself when you’re not using it, which is handy.

People who have it say they can style their hair in just 10-15 minutes, which is super quick. Even though it’s a bit expensive, it’s worth it for how well it works and how easy it is to use.

BEACHWAVER CO. CATWALK COÁT PRO CERAMIC FLAT IRON

If your hair is damaged but you still want it to look smooth and straight, you might find the YA-MAN flat iron helpful. It’s different from regular flat irons because it uses red light therapy and moisture pulse technology, which are gentle on dry and damaged hair. Instead of just using high heat like most flat irons, this one is gentler and helps keep your hair moisturized while straightening it in just one go. The plates on the flat iron spread the heat evenly, and they’re designed to not snag or pull on your hair. It costs $149, but it’s worth it if you want to take care of your damaged hair. Plus, it can work anywhere in the world and has a safety shut-off feature, which is handy for traveling.

BED HEAD PIXIE1/2 TOURMALINE + CERAMIC FLAT IRON TURQUOISE

The Beachwaver flat iron is popular because it combines titanium and ceramic plates, making it great for straightening curly hair. The titanium spreads heat evenly, while ceramic plates gently straighten hair without causing damage. It has three heat settings to protect your hair from getting too hot. Plus, the long cord makes it easy to reach all parts of your hair. It can get as hot as 450 degrees and has a 1-inch plate size. It also has features like an automatic shut-off after 30 minutes and an LCD display to show the temperature. While it’s easy to use and switch between temperatures, some people might find it pricey.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THICK HAIR WHEN USING FLAT IRON

Thick hair is beautiful, but it can also present a challenge when it comes to straightening.  Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve sleek, frizz-free locks with your flat iron:

Prep is Key:  Don’t underestimate the power of prepping your hair for heat styling.  Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products designed for thick hair.  Once your hair is towel-dried, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your strands from heat damage.

Blow Drying Makes a Difference:  For the smoothest results, blow dry your hair partially before flat ironing. Use a round brush to pull your hair taut as you dry, which will help to pre-straighten it and make the flat ironing process easier.

Sectioning is Your Friend:  Thick hair requires a section-by-section approach.  Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. This will ensure you don’t accidentally miss any strands and will prevent you from overheating a single section.

Thicker Plates, Faster Results:  For thick hair, wider flat iron plates are your best friend.  Opt for plates that are at least 1.5 inches wide. Wider plates allow you to straighten larger sections of hair at once, minimizing straightening time and heat exposure.

Lower Temperature, Higher Success:  Thick hair can typically handle higher heat settings, but it’s always better to start with a lower temperature and gradually increase it if needed. This helps to prevent heat damage and protects the health of your hair.

Multiple Passes with Care:  While thicker hair might require multiple passes with the flat iron to achieve the desired straightness, avoid going over the same section repeatedly.  Each pass should be slow and controlled to minimize heat damage.

Ionic Technology for the Win:  Consider a flat iron with ionic technology. Ionic technology emits negative ions that help to neutralize positive ions in the hair, reducing frizz and static and leaving your hair smoother and shinier.

Cooling Down is Crucial:  Once you’ve finished straightening your hair, let it cool down completely before styling it further. This allows the hair cuticle to close properly and helps to lock in the straight style.

CONCLUSION

Keep in mind that finding the perfect flat iron depends on factors like your hair type, styling choices, and budget. Additionally, regular clean your flat iron after use is crucial. With the guidance provided, mastering the technique of flat ironing thick hair becomes achievable, resulting in the smooth, frizz-free look you desire. Embrace the process with confidence and take control of your mane!

12 WAYS TO FIX FRIZZY HAIR

Are you tired of dealing with uncontrollable frizz that seems to have a mind of its own? Frizzy hair can be a common and frustrating issue for many individuals, but fear not – there are effective solutions to help you achieve smooth and sleek locks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 12 proven ways to tackle frizz and restore the natural beauty of your hair. From simple adjustments to your hair care routine to innovative styling techniques, we’ve compiled a range of strategies to address frizz at its roots. Say goodbye to the constant with unruly hair and say hello to a smoother, more manageable mane. 

WHAT CAUSES FRIZZY HAIR?

Frizzy hair is often caused by a lack of moisture. When the hair is dry and deprived of moisture, the cuticle layer (the outermost layer of the hair shaft) becomes rough and raised. This allows the hair to absorb moisture from the air, causing it to swell and creating a frizzy appearance. Several factors contribute to this lack of moisture, including:

Humidity: High humidity levels in the environment can lead to increased moisture absorption by the hair, resulting in frizz.

Heat Styling: Excessive use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz.

Harsh Hair Products: Certain shampoos and conditioners containing sulfates and alcohol can contribute to dryness and frizz. Additionally, using products with silicones without proper cleansing can lead to product buildup, making hair appear frizzy.

Overwashing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to frizz.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as wind and sun, can contribute to frizz by depleting the hair’s moisture.

Hair Type: Some individuals naturally have hair that is more prone to frizz due to its texture, such as curly or wavy hair.

HOW TO TREAT FRIZZY HAIR

USE SULFATE- AND SILICONE-FREE PRODUCTS

Using hair care products containing silicones and sulfates may lead to dryness in your hair. Opt for products that explicitly state “silicone and sulfate-free” on the bottle. Seek alternatives with ingredients such as essential oils, biotin, and herbal extracts.

Be cautious about products containing alcohol, as it can contribute to dryness and frizz. If your sulfate-free shampoo doesn’t produce much foam or bubbles, don’t worry. Sulfates are responsible for creating the foaming effect, and your new products may not lather as much.

WASH YOUR HAIR WITH WARM WATER

When you shower with hot water, the oils needed to keep your hair healthy are lost. This can leave your hair dry and frizzy after showering. To prevent this situation, when washing your hair, use warm water instead of water that is too hot. If you notice steam rising in the shower, it’s a sign that the water may be too hot and can strip your hair of its natural oils. Adjusting the water temperature to warm instead of hot can help keep your hair more moisturized and less prone to frizz. Besides, consider using the best shampoos for dry and frizzy hair.

USE A CONDITIONER AFTER WASH YOUR HAIR

Nourish your hair with essential moisture to keep frizz at bay. After washing your hair, use a quarter-sized amount of leave-in conditioner specifically designed for frizzy hair. Apply it from the middle to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots to prevent a greasy appearance. Allow the leave-in conditioner for frizzy hair to work its magic for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing.

When washing your hair, be gentle with the shampooing process to avoid causing frizz and dryness. After washing, a leave-in conditioner for frizzy hair becomes your ally in taming unruly strands and maintaining moisture.

TRY A DEEP CONDITIONER ONCE A WEEK

For an extra boost of hydration and control over dry, frizzy hair, consider incorporating the best leave-in conditioner for dry frizzy hair into your routine. Once a week, treat your locks to a deep conditioning session using a high-quality leave-in conditioner. Apply a generous amount of the deep conditioner, ensuring thorough coverage from roots to tips. Allow the product to penetrate your hair for an extended period, ideally following the recommended time on the product label. 

This weekly ritual will not only infuse your hair with much-needed moisture but also work to combat frizz, leaving your locks looking smoother and more manageable.

SQUEEZE MOISTURE OUT WITH A TOWEL

Rubbing or scrubbing your hair with a towel can cause a lot of friction and make your hair frizzy. It might even damage or break the ends of your hair. After showering, take your towel and gently pat your hair until it’s not super wet. Wrap your hair in the towel to soak up the remaining water and keep it wrapped for about 5 minutes. If you can, use a microfiber towel instead of a regular one because they are softer on your hair and can help prevent frizz.

COMB THROUGH YOUR HAIR WHEN IT’S MOSTLY DRY

When your hair is mostly dry, it’s a good time to comb through it. Using a comb on semi-dry hair helps to detangle without causing unnecessary breakage or damage. Wet hair is more prone to breakage, so waiting until your hair is mostly dry reduces the risk. Start by combing from the ends and work your way up to the roots to gently remove any knots or tangles. This simple practice contributes to maintaining the health of your hair, leaving it smoother and more manageable.

LIMIT YOUR USE OF HEAT STYLING TOOLS

Try not to use heat styling tools too often. Things like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can make your hair dry and frizzy. If you can, let your hair air dry instead of using a blow dryer. Save straightening or curling for special times, and when you do use them, use a heat protectant to keep your hair safe. Using heat styling tools too much can lead to damage and more frizz in the long run. So, limit how often you use them to keep your hair healthy and happy.

TOUCH YOUR HAIR AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE

Whether your hair is wet or dry, it’s crucial to avoid touching it excessively. Regardless of your hair type, constant touching can lead to increased frizz and puffiness. This is because your fingers can absorb the natural oils from your hair, disrupting its texture. Unless you’re styling your hair, refrain from running your hands through it. This advice is particularly crucial for individuals with curly or wavy hair. Disturbing the natural curl pattern can result in loose, frizzy curls. Therefore, minimize unnecessary touching to maintain the integrity and definition of your hair’s texture, especially if you have curly or wavy locks.

APPLY ARGAN OIL TO THE ENDS OF YOUR HAIR

To address dry hair frizz, try using the best hair oil for frizzy hair, such as argan oil. Apply a few drops of argan oil to your palms and gently run it through the ends of your hair, focusing on smoothing out frizz. This not only helps combat frizz but also imparts a sleek and shiny finish to your hair. Avoid applying the oil directly to your scalp to prevent a greasy appearance, particularly if it has been a few days since your last wash. Concentrate on the ends for a polished look without the risk of greasiness.

TAMP DOWN FRIZZ WITH HAIR WAX

Dealing with flyaways at the crown of your head can be quite bothersome. Take a quarter-sized amount of hair wax and use two fingers to gently smooth down individual flyaways. You can continue using hair wax throughout the day to manage your hairstyle and control frizz. The good thing about hair wax is that it’s not oily or greasy, making it safe to apply near your roots.

SLEEP ON A SILK PILLOWCASE

If you’re dealing with frizzy hair, consider making a simple change in your bedtime routine by sleeping on a silk pillowcase. Unlike cotton, silk causes less friction, which can help reduce frizz. Cotton pillowcases can be harsh on your hair, causing it to tangle and become frizzy overnight. The smooth surface of a silk pillowcase allows your hair to glide easily, minimizing the risk of frizz and breakage. 

Additionally, silk helps retain the natural oils in your hair, keeping it moisturized and less prone to dryness. Making this small adjustment can contribute to waking up with smoother, more manageable hair.

TRIM YOUR SPLIT ENDS REGULARLY

Regularly trimming your split ends is a crucial step in maintaining healthy and beautiful hair. Split ends can make your hair look frizzy and dull, so getting rid of them is essential for a smoother and more polished appearance. Make it a routine to trim your split ends every few months to prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft and causing more damage. This simple practice not only helps in managing frizz but also promotes overall hair health, ensuring that your locks look their best.

FAQ

1. Is frizzy hair unhealthy?

No. Frizzy hair is not necessarily unhealthy; it is often a result of dryness or lack of moisture. 

2. What makes frizzy hair worse?

Frizz results from hair lacking moisture, leading it to absorb moisture from the surrounding air, especially in humid conditions.

3. Why is my hair so frizzy even after using conditioner?

Frizz post-conditioning may result from not applying conditioner on wet hair. To address dryness and prevent frizz, use a deep conditioning masque for added moisture.

CONCLUSION

These 12 effective ways to combat frizzy hair provide a comprehensive guide to achieving smoother and more manageable locks. Whether through proper moisture maintenance, gentle hair care practices, or strategic styling techniques, incorporating these tips into your routine can help you tame frizz and promote overall hair health. Experiment with these suggestions to discover the combination that works best for your hair type, ensuring that you can confidently say goodbye to frizz and hello to sleek, beautiful hair.