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.
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.
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!)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Natalie Michie is the social media & market editor at FASHION Magazine. With a pop culture obsession, she is passionate about exploring the relationship between fashion, internet trends and social issues. She has written for Elle Canada, CBC, Chatelaine and Toronto Life. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and over-analyzing movies on TikTok.
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