A straightener is a straightener, right? Not exactly, my friend. While there are tons of different hair straighteners on the market that promise to give you the best results, the reality is that not all of them are created equally, and the biggest difference that you’ll notice comes down to the type of plate material that is used. Another factor to consider is that these different materials are also suited to different hair types. So, how do you know which plate material is best for straightening your hair?
What are the different types of plate materials used for hair straighteners?
There are three main types of plate materials that you’ll find on hair straighteners:
Ceramic plates
Ceramic plates are one of the most user-friendly options for hair straighteners on the market, as they’re great with all hair types. Ceramic plated straighteners, like GHD straighteners,can reach optimal temperatures and allow for even heat distribution along the plate, which makes them a wonderful option for people with thick or curly hair but are also gentle on finer hair. Ceramic straighteners are known for their smoothing effect thanks to the fact that they emit negative ions.
Tourmaline plates
Another type of material that people are totally hot for when it comes to hair styling is tourmaline. Tourmaline is a gemstone with a crystalline appearance and is typically used for the plates of hair straighteners due to its ability to become electrically charged when heated. So, like ceramic-plated straighteners, tourmaline straighteners also emit negative ions that allow you to get a sleek and smooth hairstyle. They’re also suitable for anyone with any type of hair to use but are especially good for anyone with fine hair
Titanium plates
Last but definitely not least, we have straighteners that feature titanium plates. When you think of a titanium-plated straightener, you should think about high intensity and a straightener that can endure high temperatures to give you beautiful hairstyles. This type of material is best suited to anyone with really thick, curly and difficult-to-manage hair, thanks to its ability to operate under such high temperatures. It allows users to straighten their hair with fewer passes.
It’s important to be aware of your high type and not assume that you would need to use a titanium-plated hair straightener and many professionals advise that it is not necessary to use such high heat for most people as you have a higher chance of causing irreversible damage.
What is the difference between pure and coated plates?
One thing you need to know when buying a hair straightener is the difference between one that has a pure plate and one that is coated, as it will impact the outcome of your hairstyle and your hair’s health. When you see that your straightener is “pure”, that means the plates are made entirely from a specific material — generally ceramic, tourmaline, titanium or tourmaline-ceramic. On the other hand, a coated straightener means that the base will be made with a material like aluminium and feature a top coat of ceramic or tourmaline.
A coated tool typically does not compete well against a pure straightener as it tends to distribute heat unevenly and it does not do much to fight against frizz. Yes, the benefit of a coated straightener is that they can be quite inexpensive, but the coating will eventually flake off or crack and this makes them more likely to cause irreparable damage to your hair or just be ineffective. Therefore, always check to see whether your straightener is pure-plated or just coated.
Which type of hair straightener should you buy?
At the end of the day, going for a pure-plated straightener will always be better than a coated straightener — so read the fine print when you buy one. But when choosing between ceramic, tourmaline and titanium-plated straighteners, your decision will ultimately rest on your hair type. Ceramic-plated straighteners are wonderful for all hair types and leave a smooth and glossy finish. Tourmaline-plated straighteners are generally recommended for those with fine or damaged hair. Titanium-plated straighteners are the trusty ones that can handle even the thickest and most difficult hair, but always be careful that you don’t overdo it.
The best way to get beautiful results when straightening your hair is to know what products are made of and if they are going to suit your hair type. Generally, straighteners with ceramic plates are a good all-rounder, but hopefully, with the help of this guide, you’ll be able to identify which type of hair straighter is going to help you achieve sleek and pin-straight hair with minimal damage.
Please Note: I always strive to provide accurate and helpful information, but just a quick heads-up—I’m a blogger, not a doctor, lawyer, CPA, or any other kind of certified professional. I’m here to share my experiences and insights, but please make sure to use your own judgment and consult the right professionals when needed.
Also, I accept monetary compensation through affiliate links, advertising, guest posts, and sponsored partnerships on this site, however I am very particular about the products I endorse and only do so when I am truly a fan of the quality and result of the product.
