If you invest in only one hair tool, let it be the hair straightener. Since their introduction to the styling game many moons ago, these hot tools have evolved to be magic multi-purpose gems.
These days, hair straighteners not only straighten but create curls, beachy waves and cascading Scandi-girl curtain bangs. (Just be sure you’re using good quality heat protectant and oil treatments to keep your tresses intact.) To get the most out of them, it’s important to select the right one for you.
What to look for in the best hair straightener
First, consider the type of styling you wish to achieve. If you want your straightener to double as a curling wand, opt for a tool with rounded edges that can add waves and curls. Then, take into account the type of hair you have. If you’re working with thicker strands, you’ll want a model with wider plates that can cover more volume at once.
And lastly, don’t just opt for the straightener with the most powerful heat setting. Yes, higher temps mean faster styling, but that may not be ideal for your hair type — especially if you have damaged or thinner, sensitive strands.
Best overall
Remington Shine Therapy argan oil and keratin-infused straightener
If you’re looking for a no-fuss choice that reliably works, this Remington straightener is a winner. With a wide plate design, it’s crafted to straighten thick, full tresses with ease.
It’s also infused with argan oil and keratin, meaning it releases conditioning upon application, for a smoothing effect. (Think of it like micro-dosing conditioner for your hair!)
Pros
- Thick wide plate design that is suitable for thicker hair
- Conditioning treatment that reduces risk of damage
- Technology that promises 2x the shine
Cons
- Some reviewers report that it pinches hands if held at the wrong angle, so just be mindful of your hand positioning when using
Best budget
Remington 1″ anti-static flat iron
With over 47,000 reviews and a stellar rating to matching, this budget-friendly straightener is perfect if you’re looking for an affordable hot tool that gets the job done.
Priced at under $30, it doesn’t skimp on heat — reaching up to 450 degrees for fast and efficient styling. Using anti-static technology and ceramic plates that prevent damage, it promises results you can count on.
Pros
- Anti-static technology helps with styling success
- Heats in just 30 seconds with adjustable temperature settings
- Comes with a hinge lock that helps protect the plats for safe storage
- One of our favourite ceramic flat irons that protects against heat damage
- Rivals our fave expensive titanium flat irons at a fraction of the cost
Cons
- Some reviewers note that the display screen doesn’t come with a light that alerts you when it’s reached the desired temperature
Best rated
Chi G2 ceramic and titanium hairstyling iron
The jury’s in — and this Chi straightener is a top-rated fave. Designed to have smooth rounded edges, it doubles as a curling iron if you prefer to switch up your styling.
Plus, with snag-free hot plates, it comes with colour coded settings that indicate which temperatures are best for which hair type. Reviewers especially love that it is gentle but effective on fine, thin strands.
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Red thermal mat included
- Dual voltage for international travel
Cons
- Some reviewers note that it heats quicker than they expected, so be careful when heating
Best Dyson
Dyson Airstrait wet-to-dry straightener
We could write a whole dissertation on why Dyson’s revolutionary wet-to-dry hair straightener is a game changer. (Oh, wait — we did.) This fan-favourite innovation simplifies your getting ready routine by acting as a dryer and straightener in one.
With three pre-set temps, you can adjust the level of heat you want and style right out of the shower. You can also use it like a regular straightener to touch up your locks when they’re dry. Plus, the airflow is projected downwards to create perfect styling with less damage and breakage.
Pros
- Can be set to Wet, Dry or Cool mode (each with varying heat settings) to style as preferred
- Comes with a non-slip heat matt
- Airflow technology prevents breakage
Cons
- Pricier than others
Best luxury
Ghd Platinum+ styler
This award-winning straightener is the hot tool of choice for treating yourself. It is suitable for all hair types with technology that increases shine and reduces frizz.
With versatile styling options, you can create everything from loose waves to flawless straight strands. Plus, the technology works to offer two-times more colour protection than other hot tools.
Pros
- Using predictive technology, this straightener predicts which temperature is best for styling your hair
- Suitable for all hair types
- Heats quickly and straightens efficiently for no-fuss styling
Cons
- Pricier than others
Best for travel
T3 – SinglePass compact styling iron
This fun-sized straightener is tiny but mighty. With a lightweight feel and compact design, it’s crafted to add a sleek straightened effect to your hair anywhere you go.
It’s made to be portable for on-the-go styling with its dual voltage for travel and heat-resistant cap. It works on coarse hair, damaged hair and color-treated hair thanks to protective flat iron plates that heat efficiently without snagging.
Pros
- Pros for curling and straightening
- Heats quickly
- Dual voltage for international travel
- Makes grabbing a tiny section of hair simple (like bangs)
Cons
- No way to adjust the temperature
Best for kinky hair
Ghd Max styler
When you’re blessed with a thick head of hair, using hot tools can take a whole lot more work. Enter: Ghd’s Max Styler straightener, with 70% larger plates for covering more hair.
It comes with a predictive technology that sets to the right temperature range for your strands, so there’s no need to stress over setting it too high and risking burning. Consider applying a heat protectant before use anyway.
Pros
- Designed for long, thick, coily and curly hair
- Suitable for straightening and curling
- Designed to maintain a consistent temperature for minimal damage
- Quick and easy straightening on long hair
Cons
- Because this is designed for longer hair, it might not be the best for those with shorter cuts
Best for fine hair
L’Ange Hair Le Duo 360 airflow styler
If you’ve got fine hair, you know how important it is to avoid overheating your hot tools. As opposed to thicker strands, fine hair types are much for at risk for damage. That’s why this hair straightener is an internet favourite. It’s easy to use, lightweight and adds volume to locks.
As a two-in-one tool, this flat iron straightens and curls. Reviewers rave that it adds much volume to hair while also keeping hair shiny and healthy-looking. We think it’s a good alternative to the Dyson Corrale.
Pros
- Dual voltage that is suitable for international travel
- Versatile styling for straightening, adding waves and curling even to extra long hair
- Adjustable temperature from 280°-430°, with a fan and vented airflow that cools hair upon contact and increases shine
Cons
- While the compact size is ideal for travelling, some reviewers say it’s not ideal for longer, thicker hair
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The post The Best Hair Straightener Picks for 2024 appeared first on FASHION Magazine.
