It is no secret that hair straighteners damage hair.  However, if hair straighteners damage hair, then why do so many people use them, including celebrities?   Hair straighteners damage hair, as do other hot items that touch your sensitive hair.   This does not stop people from using hair dryers and curling irons.  It is important to learn the best methods to prevent extensive damage.

Hair straighteners must reach an extremely high degree in order to work effectively.  In fact, they generally reach a range of 100 to 180 plus degrees.  While these temperatures are high, the temperature your hair needs will depend on your hair type and the health of your hair.   It takes at least 100 degrees to completely dry your hair with a hairdryer.  The more damaged your hair is, the hotter the hair straightener will need to be.  Slightly damaged hair may need temperatures reaching 140 degrees.  Curly hair needs a hotter iron, reaching 180 degrees.  If your hair is very thick and curly, you will need temperatures to reach around 200 degrees.

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Obviously, temperatures in these ranges are going to damage your hair.  Hair straighteners damage hair more often when used on a regular basis and using the wrong type.  If you intend on using a hair straightener on a regular basis, then you will want to use high quality ceramic hair oil.  This hair oil helps to lock in more moisture that is lost.

Tips to Prevent Damage from Hair Straighteners

• Buy one that has Infra Red radiation that is created by high temperature ceramic plates or Tourmaline, which is a type of stone.  Tourmaline has ionic properties that reduce the heat damage risk.  These plates help to seal in moisture in your hair.
• Buy a product that has exact control settings.  Make sure you have control of what temperature you use on your hair.  The correct temperature is important.  Hair straighteners damage hair when it is not hot enough for your hair type, leaving you to use it longer than necessary.
• Just because a hair straightener is expensive, does not mean it is the best one for your hair.  Check the reviews before you decide on one to purchase.   However, cheap hair straighteners damage hair more often because they do not have the necessary components to protect your hair.  The cheaper models seem to stick to your hair.
• Choose a model that is best for your hair length.  The most common plate width is 1.5” and can be used on most hair lengths.  However, if you have very long hair, you will want to buy one with wider plates.
• Hair straighteners damage hair when used too much.  If possible, allow a week after each use to give your hair a break from the extensive heat.
• Never use a hair straightener when your hair is wet.  This can burn your hair, as well as increase your risk of electrocution.

While it is true that hair straighteners damage hair, technology has improved significantly reducing the risk of extensive damage caused by heat.

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