Using hair straighteners to create spectacular hair styles is no new thing. It's been around for many years although improvements have been made to the methods and techniques used. Even though straighteners are very popular, you should be aware of the potential dangers of hair straighteners. Not all hair straightening devices and/or chemicals are created equal.
Read below to learn the potential dangers of each type of hair straightener and how to safely straighten your hair.
Ceramic Plates versus Metal Plates
Heated flat iron straighteners come with one of two types of plates. Note the differences below.
1. Ceramic Plates
Ceramic plates heat using ions with infrared heat, so the temperatures are spread out evenly in the plates. Hair is less likely to be damaged using ceramic plates. Beware of ceramic flat irons that are poorly or cheaply made. The heating distribution might not be even, thus, causing damage to your hair or delaying your progress when styling your hair.
2. Metal Plates
Metal plates are usually found on cheaper brands of straighteners and can be harsh on the hair. The plates can have a "grabbing" effect on the hair without your realizing it, causing the hair texture to become damaged. Metal plates usually work just fine with thick healthy hair, but for thin fine hair, ceramic plates might be your best bet.
Tips: Use special oils to protect your hair during the straightening process for better results. Flat irons come in many different varieties, shapes and sizes. You'll need to choose the style and size that's right for your hair texture and length. Whether using a flat iron straightener with metal or ceramic plates, follow the instructions carefully and always use basic safety rules as your guide. You could be injured or burned if not used properly.
Chemical Straightener Dangers
Using chemicals to straighten your hair can be risky. Not only are the chemicals strong and sometimes irritating to the skin or eyes, but also can damage certain types of hair. The strongest of chemicals, called the lye mixture, can be very harsh on the hair and cause drying. Chemicals also need to be used with extreme caution because there are four critical steps when applying the straightener (similar to giving a curly perm).
Tip: It's wise to consult with your personal beautician before attempting to straighten your hair using chemicals. Everyone's hair is unique and requires a different level of strength when it comes to chemical straighteners.
Anytime you make major changes to your hair using chemicals or styling units, there will be risks. Use the information above to choose a straightening method or hair straightener that's safe and effective for you.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
