Most irons go up to 430-450✯,” but that doesn't mean you should crank up the heat all the way! We recommend always starting off at a lower temperature and increase temperature as needed since temperatures above 450✯ can cause decomposition of hair's protein content, causing irreparable damage. Our expert testers preferred having an option of a temperature range for their flat irons, and Hughes agrees: “It is a must for all hair types. ✔️ Heat settings: A flat iron with multiple heat settings allows for more customization and flexibility when styling since you’re able to select a temperature that works for your hair type/needs. "The best flat irons are ones that sit comfortably in your hands, have an even heat distribution and selection of temperatures so that you don't damage your hair," adds Porsche. a good visual digital thermometer, the quality of the plates and the length of the cord," says Toye. "Most ceramic flat irons provide faster results in less time, meaning less heat on your hair." That said, our Beauty Lab pros have found great flat irons come in all sorts of materials, from ceramic to titanium and beyond, so don't get too caught up in material claims and focus on other important aspects like adjustable heat settings, cord length and budget.īeyond material, "some of the aspects that make a great flat iron include the heating element. "These plates are safe for thin/fine hair and don't get extremely hot," says Porsche. "It heats up quickly and is a very even heat, which translates to better results and less time go over the same strands of hair."Īnother great pick: Ceramic or tourmaline (which is actually "a high grade of ceramic," says Toye). "Titanium is ideal as a flat iron plate," agrees Kevin Hughes, celebrity stylist and artistic director for Moroccanoil. According to stylist Sabrina Porsche, titanium has even heat distribution, which makes for smooth, silky hair. "Titanium is preferred among stylists because to get hot really quickly," says Eugene Toye, stylist at celebrity-favorite hair salon Rita Hazan.
When it comes to material, professionals tend to favor titanium flat irons. Some flat irons claim to prevent damage, others claim to be made with the best material for healthy shine, but as a shopper, it can be confusing to tell which is best.
Temperature settings: Three heat settings (330☏, 365☏, 410☏).
However, in Lab tests, hair struggled to maintain straightness after 24-hour humidity exposure, and our experts found it pulled and snagged hair more than other irons during styling. Unlike traditional flat irons that have a solid surface, the Dyson's plates are flexible so hair doesn't get squished flat which "left a bit voluminous like a blowout" and a style that testers said "retained volume," yet "stayed straight and kept its body." It's heavy and bulky, but experts found that “it didn’t seem to matter during use.” From the operational standpoint, the Dyson excelled: It heated up to 95% of its claimed temperature in 60 seconds and maintained a steady plate temperature for 15 minutes, while the outside surface temperature stays cool to the touch. Perfect for travel (or inconveniently placed outlets in the bathroom), this Dyson flat iron can be used cord-free: The brand claims one 70-minute charge grants 30 minutes of cordless styling.