Straight Talk on Straight Irons: What You Need to Know About Ceramic and Ionic Technology

Gone are the days of achieving straight strands with an iron and ironing board. Thankfully, hair straightening has since revolutionized by incorporating ceramic and ionic technology. Contemporary flat irons make sleek looks possible for any hair type without causing major damage.

Flat irons can have various plate coatings – from chrome to gold. Originally, gold was the plate of choice among hair stylists. Professionals now use only ceramic plated straightening tools because they produce such smooth, silky hair. Despite the claims that ceramic flat ions can repair hair, heated styling tools of any kind are always potentially detrimental. Ceramic plates are less harmful because they provide a smooth surface, so there is never any tugging or pulling on the hair. Also, this preferred material allows for even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots and leaving strands stick-straight from root to tip.

Some flat irons utilize ionic technology to reduce damage and seal in moisture. The science behind this lies in the positive charge of dry, brittle hair met with the iron’s negative ions. With this ionic combination, hair receives the negative ion needed to neutralize its charge, thus creating smoother, shinier hair.

Certain styling ions pair ceramic plates with ionic technology, creating the sleekest looks while maintaining hair health. The FHI Ceramic Flat Iron , from the famous CHI manufacturers, is one such with a reputation for being one of the best styling tools on the market. Currently, Frizzy2Silky.com is offering a free 6oz tube of ISH Ionic One-Minute Treatment with every FHI Ceramic Flat Iron purchase. This deal is an effective way to achieve straight hair effectively and safely by treating heat-styled hair to a boost of ionic moisture.

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Read This Before Choosing a Hair Dryer

Once a basic appliance with a single on-off setting, hair dryers today include more attachments and functions than a cell phone. It is no wonder consumers find it difficult to choose a dryer suitable for their needs. Professional stylists and beauticians recommend the following criteria:

* Higher wattage dryers, 1800 and above, work best for most. This reduces drying time and overall stress to the hair.

* At least 4-6 heat/speed settings with an extra button for cool air. The blast of low temperature air helps set styles.

* Nozzle attachment to concentrate air flow

* Curly haired individuals must choose a dryer with a diffuser

Price Range
Choosing a dryer based on price is never a good idea. Shelling out $100 on a dryer for those who rarely heat style is just as bad as spending $10 on an appliance that will fry strands.

Inexpensive models range $5 - $20, but uncontrolled heat will cause severe damage if used regularly. This type is suitable for those who heat-style just a few times a year or for short hair. Shorter styles require frequent cuts, removing brittle ends caused by a cheap dryer.

A moderately priced dryer, costing $20 - $80, comes equipped with multiple heat settings and a cooling feature. Consumers who heat-style daily and have normal to oily hair should look for a dryer in this price range.

Professional dryers run $80 - $100+, but yield better results in half the time due to a more powerful motor. Usually, high-end dryers are quieter and longer lasting. Certain models infuse moisture and repair damaged tresses using ionic and ceramic technology. Those with brittle hair due to chemical processes or otherwise should invest in a professional dryer. Consumers who use any other heated appliance, such as a styling iron, in combination with a dryer must purchase a professional dryer.

Technological Considerations
Ionic dryers submit negatively charges ions to counteract the positive charged in each hair strand, sealing the cuticle and trapping moisture. The result is less frizz and more body due to static electricity reduction. Ionic technology works best for those with normal hair who use minimal styling products. Try: Helen of Troy Hot Tools Ionic A/C Motor Dryer .

Ceramic dryers provide even heating, reducing “hot spots” and hair damage. The internal ceramic heater is self-regulating and adjusts accordingly to the surrounding temperature. Multiple heat settings are usually not necessary for these dryers. Ceramic dryers are also residue and humidity resistant, so hair is left feeling silky, clean, and freshly conditioned. Try: CHI Professional Hair Dryer.

Tourmaline dryers dramatically reduce drying time by using ground crystalline silicate to boost ionic power. Tourmaline technology is sometimes combined with the ceramic heating system for truly optimum hair results. This type of dryer is used among professionals and is recommended for heavy-duty daily usage. Try: T3 Tourmaline Evolution Hair Dryer.

Choosing the correct dryer is critical to hair health and maintenance. Price alone is never a solid factor in making a wise selection. One must also consider the various technological advantages in today’s heated appliances. Make sure to spend some time evaluating specific needs and expectations before purchasing a hair dryer.

If you would like to receive the latest hair and beauty tips from me, please be sure to sign up for my mailing list by sending an email to kristenbeauty@gmail.com