A flat iron that heats fast and gives shiny, silky straight hair without drying it out is a girl’s dream. For girls with curly hair types who use a flat iron regularly, finding a suitable flat iron can leave them baffled, especially with products vehemently claiming they are better than others.
I know how hard it is to choose a styling tool, even for a hairstylist like myself, so let’s try to discover: Is ceramic or titanium better for curly hair? Read on Curlies to know more!
Finding The Best Flat Iron for Curly Hair
A titanium flat iron is the best for thick, curly hair. Thick hair can be tricky to iron out, and though one can still achieve great results with a ceramic flat iron, I’d still go for a titanium flat iron.
With the fastest heating time, titanium flat irons heat hair quickly to follow your desired style.
Flat Irons for Curly Hair – What to Consider
Before heading out to the store for a hair straightener, bear these things in mind.
Temperature control is key.
If you have curly hair, you should look for an adjustable temperature setting on your straightener. Curly hair is more prone to heat damage, so finding a flat iron that lets you control the heat is essential. I would recommend looking for a ceramic or titanium flat iron with adjustable settings of 400 degrees.
Hair type.
Know your hair type and hair texture before choosing a flat iron. For example, thin hair is prone to damage, so you’ll benefit from an iron with adjustable temperature settings.
One that heats hair from the inside instead of the hair’s surface is also an excellent option for very thick hair. Choosing flat irons like these will help you avoid damage to your hair while having frizz control on stubborn hair.
Material.
The material of the flat iron plates also makes a difference in how effective it is at straightening hair. Ceramic and titanium are two popular materials used in flat irons.
Ceramic heats evenly, which helps reduce moisture loss. Titanium also heats evenly and gets hotter faster than ceramic. It’s ideal for thick or coarse hair.
Choosing an iron with a wider plate width allows faster, more effortless straightening without too much heat exposure for long hair. A flat iron that heats fast would be great for styling fine hair quickly.
Hair damage level.
Damaged hair worsens with heat, so choose hair straighteners that are kinder to hair, like ceramic. It produces negative ions. Even heat distribution is key to lessening heat damage as all hair spots get the right temperature.
Ceramic vs. Titanium
Ceramic and titanium flat irons go head to head in making hair straight and beautiful. Let’s uncover each of their pros and cons.
Ceramic Flat Irons
Ceramic flat irons were invented first before titanium flat irons entered the market. Here’s what you need to know about a ceramic flat iron:
Pros:
- A ceramic hair straightener heats hair from the inside out. Have you got fine hair? This flat iron is perfect for you.
- The ceramic plates used in flat ironing hair are easy to find and are cheaper than titanium plates.
- Ceramic hair straighteners have even heat distribution. No need to worry that one section is more heated than the other!
- A ceramic straightener utilizes ionic technology. The plates heat hair and produce negative ions, which bind to the positive ions in hair (ICYDK, which makes hair rough and unmanageable).
- It is less damaging to your hair since it heats up gradually, not to a high temperature in a short time.
Cons:
- Ceramic flat irons have ceramic plates that wear down faster than other flat iron materials (such as tourmaline or titanium). You may replace your ceramic flat iron at least once every 2-3 years.
- Ceramic flat irons need to be used with a heat protectant spray to avoid damaging hair with too much heat exposure.
Titanium Flat Irons
On the other hand, here’s what you need to know about titanium flat iron:
Pros:
- Titanium is a strong and durable material that can withstand high temperatures. This means using a titanium hair straightener at a higher temperature helps you achieve your straight hairstyle in no time.
- Titanium plates conduct heat better than ceramic, making it easier to achieve the desired temperature faster. If you have thick or coarse hair, this is the best material.
- Titanium straighteners are highly durable and last way longer than ceramic ones. They transfer high heat to the hair efficiently.
Cons
- Titanium hair straighteners can be very expensive. You might find it challenging to find one that’s affordable and of good quality.
- Like ceramic flat irons, titanium ones also need a heat protectant when used on your hair.
- Titanium plates can get too hot, damaging your hair if you’re running your hair repeatedly (it can fry your hair).
Wrap Up
So, is ceramic or titanium better for curly hair? If you have fine or thin hair, go for a flat ceramic iron. If you have thick or coarse hair, go for a titanium flat iron.
If you want to save money, choose a ceramic one since it’s cheaper than titanium. But if you want durability and faster styling time, go for a titanium flat iron.
Now that you’ve known the better material for curly hair check out our article on the best flat iron for curly hair. We’re sure you will find your favorite tool here!
Remember, Curlies, to use heat protectants and deep conditioners no matter what material you choose! Heat damage is real, and it’s not worth the risk of damaging your hair. Happy styling!
