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Flat irons

Premium flat irons differ in plate material, plate width, heat control and how the plates float. ghd uses one fixed temperature; T3, BaBylissPRO and Bio Ionic let you set it.

Typical plate width
1 in (25 mm)
Common plate materials
ceramic, titanium, tourmaline coated
Close-up of a hairdresser styling a client's hair using a straightener in a barbershop
Photo: Davis Sánchez on Pexels

The plates do the work. Ceramic heats evenly and is common in mid and premium irons. Titanium heats quickly and is common in professional irons such as the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium line. Many plates are coated or infused with tourmaline or other minerals; the makers describe what they claim for each.

Floating plates sit on springs or cushions so they keep even pressure on the hair. Heat control ranges from one fixed setting, as on ghd stylers, to digital dials that go up to 450 F on many professional irons.

For most hair a 1 inch plate is the all-rounder. Go narrower for short hair, bangs and curling, and wider for very long or thick hair. The choosing a tool page shows which width fits which length.

Common mistakes

  • Using the highest setting on fine or color-treated hair because the iron allows it.
  • Passing the iron over damp hair: plate tools are meant for dry hair.
  • Going over the same section many times instead of one slow, even pass.

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