travel hair dryer straightener set

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!

10 BEST HOT ROLLERS FOR CURLS, TESTED AND REVIEWED 

Hot rollers are making a comeback! Ditch the curling iron and rediscover the ease and long-lasting curls that hot rollers provide. This guide dives deep into the 8 best hot rollers on the market, putting them to the test to find the perfect fit for your hair type, desired curl size, and budget. Whether you crave bouncy waves, tight ringlets, or effortless volume, we uncover the top hot rollers that deliver salon-worthy results from the comfort of your home.

WHAT IS HOT ROLLER?

Hot rollers are a type of hair styling tool used to create curls and waves in hair. They consist of cylindrical rollers that are heated, either electrically or by immersing them in hot water, and then rolled into sections of hair. The heat helps to set the hair in the desired curl or wave shape. Once the rollers cool down, the hair is released, leaving behind curls or waves. Hot rollers come in various sizes to create different types of curls, from tight curls to loose waves, and they are commonly used in hair salons and by individuals at home for styling purposes.

OUR TOP PICKS

BABYLISS PRO 20 ROLLER HAIRSETTER

The BaByliss Pro 20 Roller Hairsetter is a professional-quality hot roller set designed for long-lasting curls and volume. It features 20 Nano Titanium ceramic rollers that heat up quickly and distribute far-infrared heat gently, minimizing hot spots and potential hair damage.

This set includes a variety of roller sizes: 6 small, 6 medium, and 8 large, allowing you to create different curl shapes, from tight ringlets to loose waves. Additionally, it comes with 20 butterfly clips and 20 color-coded metal clips for easy and secure hold while styling.

With its fast heat-up time and user-friendly design, the BaByliss Pro 20 Roller Hairsetter is a strong contender for those seeking a high-quality hot roller experience.

BABYLISS BOUTIQUE SALON CERAMIC ROLLERS

The BaByliss Boutique Salon Ceramic Rollers offer a simpler, yet effective hot roller experience. This set features 12 large, thermo-ceramic heated rollers, ideal for creating voluminous waves or loose curls. The ceramic barrels distribute heat evenly, minimizing hot spots and potential hair damage. 

These rollers come with 12 contoured heat clips that secure the hair in place while styling. They boast a fast heat-up time with a ready dot indicator, so you can get started quickly. Additionally, the anti-slip, soft-touch finish on the rollers provides a comfortable grip during use. 

While they may not offer the range of roller sizes as some other high-end sets, the BaByliss Boutique Salon Ceramic Rollers are a solid choice for those seeking a user-friendly and affordable option for achieving voluminous waves and curls.

CARUSO IONIC MOLECULAR STEAM SETTER

For those with heat-damaged hair, the Caruso Ionic Molecular Steam Setter offers a revolutionary and gentle styling solution. This innovative hot roller set ditches the traditional dry heat approach, instead utilizing the power of steam to create beautiful curls and waves without further harming your delicate strands.

Unlike conventional hot rollers, this setter uses steam to infuse moisture into the rollers. This unique approach helps prevent heat damage, leaving your hair feeling soft, hydrated, and revitalized. The rollers boast ionic technology, which actively works to reduce frizz and static while promoting shine and manageability. This creates long-lasting, smooth, and polished curls. The set comes with 30 rollers in five different sizes, allowing you to achieve various curl shapes and styles, from tight ringlets to loose, voluminous waves.

Compared to traditional hot rollers that rely solely on dry heat, the Caruso Ionic Molecular Steam Setter provides a gentler and more hair-friendly styling experience, making it ideal for those with heat-damaged hair.

T3 VOLUMIZING HOT ROLLERS

T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers are a popular styling tool designed to add volume and texture to hair. These hot rollers are known for their advanced technology and high-performance features. The set typically includes a range of roller sizes to accommodate different hair lengths and styles. The rollers themselves are infused with Tourmaline, a gemstone that emits negative ions, helping to seal the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and enhance shine. 

The ceramic heating elements heat up quickly and evenly, ensuring consistent heat distribution throughout the rollers. This results in long-lasting, bouncy curls or waves that hold their shape well. The T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers are favored by hairstylists and individuals alike for their ease of use, efficiency, and ability to create voluminous, salon-quality hairstyles at home.

REMINGTON IONIC CONDITIONING HAIR SETTER

If you have fine hair or want to add volume to your hair, the Remington Hair Setter is a great choice. It’s not only affordable but also creates flawless curls without any awkward bends. The set includes ceramic rollers with color-coded metal pins that match different roller sizes and hold the curls securely. You’ll start seeing results in just five minutes of having the rollers in your hair. When you take them out, you’ll be amazed by the long-lasting volume and definition they provide.

REMINGTON PROLUXE HEATED ROLLERS

The Remington PROluxe Heated Rollers are specifically designed to deliver big, bouncy curls that last. Featuring Dual Heat Technology, both the rollers and clips heat up, ensuring even heat distribution and perfectly formed curls throughout your hair. This 20-piece set includes a combination of medium and large rollers, allowing you to customize the size and volume of your curls.

Several features contribute to its success in creating voluminous, bouncy styles. Grip Technology prevents hair from slipping out of the rollers, minimizing frustration during styling. Heated clips further secure the curls and prevent kinks for a flawless finish. The fast heat-up time (around 90 seconds) gets you styling quickly, with curls setting in just 5 minutes.

If you crave voluminous, long-lasting curls with a bouncy texture, the Remington PROluxe Heated Rollers are a strong contender, offering a user-friendly and effective hot roller experience.

CHI SMART MAGNIFY CERAMIC ROLLERS

The CHI Smart Magnify Ceramic Rollers offer a unique and innovative hot roller experience. These rollers feature ceramic barrels that heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly, ensuring consistent and long-lasting curls.

What truly sets them apart is the LED lighting platform that comes with the set. This platform provides better visibility while styling, making it easier to precisely place the rollers for optimal curl definition. Additionally, the rollers are available in various sizes, allowing you to customize the volume and curl size you desire.

While further details on specific features like number of rollers and clip types might be needed for a more comprehensive description, the CHI Smart Magnify Ceramic Rollers stand out for their innovative LED lighting platform and promise of consistent, long-lasting curls.

NICKY CLARKE HEATED 25 MM ROLLERS

The Nicky Clarke Heated 25mm Rollers are a versatile hot roller set designed to create voluminous curls and waves. These rollers feature a 25mm barrel size, which is ideal for achieving medium to large curls.

Ceramic barrels ensure even heat distribution, minimizing hot spots and potential damage. The heated rollers help set the curls firmly, reducing the risk of kinks or loose waves. The overall design is likely user-friendly, making the styling process convenient.

CONAIR INFINITIPRO 20-ROLLER ION GENERATOR SETTER WITH CORD REEL

Nicky Clarke, a renowned hairstylist with a prestigious reputation, brings his expertise to the Nicky Clarke Heated 25mm Rollers. This brand, known for its high-quality hair styling tools like straighteners, hairdryers, and hot brushes, offers hot rollers designed for effortless styling on the go.

These compact rollers boast a user-friendly design, perfect for travel or quick touch-ups. Their innovative “heat-tech” feature takes the guesswork out of styling, changing color from red to white when ready to use. Additionally, the rollers incorporate ionic technology, a favorite among stylists, to combat frizz and ensure a smooth, polished finish.

CONAIR MULTI-SIZE ROLLERS

Forget bulky hot rollers that eat up precious luggage space! Conair’s compact hot roller set is a travel game-changer. This convenient kit features 20 rollers neatly packed in a case the size of a small purse, making it a breeze to fit into your carry-on.

But the real innovation lies in the roller design itself. Tiny grippers throughout the rollers effortlessly secure your hair, preventing snags and tangles while you style and remove them. With a fast heat-up time of just 85 seconds, these rollers create voluminous waves in a mere 10 minutes. While a single heat setting might be a limitation, the overall size, price, and impressive performance make this Conair set a winner for travelers seeking gorgeous curls on the go.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN HOT ROLLERS

Choosing the right hot rollers can make all the difference in achieving the desired curls and overall styling experience. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the perfect set:

HAIR TYPE AND DESIRED CURL SIZE

  • Roller Size: The size of the rollers determines the curl size. Smaller rollers create tighter curls, while larger rollers create loose waves or voluminous lift. Consider your hair type and the look you want to achieve. If you have thick hair, you might need more rollers or larger sizes to accommodate all your hair.
  • Hair Length: For shorter hair, smaller rollers are generally easier to use and style.

HEATING TECHNOLOGY AND FEATURES

  • Material: Ceramic or tourmaline barrels are popular choices as they distribute heat evenly, minimizing hot spots and potential heat damage.
  • Heat Settings: Multiple heat settings allow you to adjust the temperature for different hair types and styling needs.
  • Cool-Touch Ends: This feature prevents accidental burns while handling the hot rollers during styling.
  • Additional Features: Look for features like ionic technology to combat frizz, velvet flocking for gentle grip, or anti-slip designs for easier handling.

OTHER IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

  • Number of Rollers: The number of rollers in a set determines how much hair you can style at once. Consider the amount of hair you have and how much time you’re willing to spend styling.
  • Clip Type: Different sets use clips or pins to secure the rollers. Choose a clip type that is comfortable and secure for your hair type.
  • Travel-Friendliness: If you travel frequently, consider a compact set that fits easily in your luggage.

CAN HEATED ROLLERS BE USED ON ALL HAIR LENGTHS AND TYPES?

When it comes to using heated rollers, the results can vary depending on your hair type. Short hair can benefit from heated rollers by adding volume, but achieving defined curls may be more challenging. Hair stylists typically suggest using heated rollers on straight or slightly straight hair to achieve a smoother and kink-free finish. If you have curly hair, heated rollers can help in loosening the curls for a softer and more relaxed hairstyle.

HOW TO USE HOT ROLLERS ON LONG HAIR

STEP 1: ENSURE YOUR HAIR IS COMPLETELY DRY AND SMOOTH

For optimal results with hot rollers, it’s best to start with clean and dry hair that is relatively straight. If you have naturally curly hair, you’ll need to blow-dry it beforehand. If your hair falls under type-3 or type-4, begin by washing and conditioning it, followed by applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner to avoid weighing down your blowout. The crucial step is to protect your hair from heat damage by using a heat-protecting serum or oil to seal in moisture. Finally, proceed with blow-drying your curly hair.

STEP 2: SECTION YOUR HAIR INTO MANAGEABLE PARTS

To create sections for hot rolling, you can use the arch of your eyebrows as a guide. Take a tail comb and separate a strip of hair from the top-front to the top-back of your head. This will be the first area you roll, so secure it with a hair clip to keep it separate from the rest of your hair. Depending on the thickness of your hair, divide the remaining hair into quadrants, securing each section separately.

STEP 3: START WRAPPING YOUR HAIR AROUND THE HOT ROLLERS

The way you position your hair on the rollers will determine how it falls and flows. Start with the section of hair at the crown of your head and roll it under the roller to create more volume and body. You should feel a slight tension at the root of your hair, indicating a secure hold. When it comes to styling bangs, the approach varies based on their length. For longer bangs, roll them over the roller, while for shorter bangs, roll them under the curler.

STEP 4: LET THE ROLLERS COOL COMPLETELY TO SET THE CURLS

To ensure your hair retains its shape throughout the day, avoid removing the curlers too early. This is a common mistake that can result in flat hair instead of long-lasting curls. It’s recommended to leave the rollers in for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 60 minutes. Wait until the hair feels cool to the touch before removing the rollers, as this indicates that the hair has properly set. By following this guideline, you can achieve hairstyles that maintain their shape for an extended period.

STEP 5: STYLE YOUR HAIR

After removing the rollers, gently run your fingers through your hair to adjust and arrange it. Take the opportunity to correct any kinks or imperfections caused by the roller clips, especially if you’re new to hot rolling. If time permits and you’re not in a rush, you can use a straightening iron to smooth out any areas that didn’t set properly. Once you’re satisfied with the position of your hair, apply hairspray, texturizing product, or hair oil (for type-3 or type-4 curls) to add moisture and hold the style in place.

CONCLUSION

With this diverse range of hot rollers to explore, it’s clear that achieving salon-worthy curls at home is easier than ever. Whether you seek luxurious volume, tight ringlets, or loose waves, there’s the perfect set of hot rollers waiting to transform your hair. In addition to having thick, bouncy hair thanks to these supporting tools, supplementing foods for thicker hair can also be beneficial. Hope you have interesting experiences with your hair!