Infrared hair straighteners: description of models and selection rules

Infrared hair irons are a miracle of technology, helping to transform home hair care into a salon experience. But in order to purchase a high-quality iron, it will be useful to familiarize yourself with the description of the models and study the selection rules.

An infrared hair straightener is a unique device consisting of two plates that close on a strand and let it pass through themselves. One of the sides of the device has an IR emitter, the other works in the ultrasonic range. Together they form a molecular vaporizer, which, when in contact with healing substances, turns them into steam, ensuring deep absorption of the necessary ingredients. Such a device is not suitable for styling, but is used in cosmetology as part of a comprehensive hair care.

Infrared and ultrasonic waves are not visible to the eye - in this they are similar to ultraviolet radiation. Externally, the iron is similar to a similar device for straightening hair. A lock of hair is passed between the plates, being exposed.

The use of IR irons allows to increase the permeability of the hair structure. With normal application, oil masks and applications are absorbed by no more than 20%, and this process takes quite a long time. The use of an infrared iron makes it possible to guarantee 100% absorption of nutrients.

The principle of operation of the technique is based on a two-stage action. Infrared light allows the scalp of the hair to open, similar to heat exposure, prepares it for the intake of nutrients. Ultrasound breaks down large molecular structures into smaller ones, making them easier to penetrate deeply. In physiotherapy, this is called phonophoresis. It works especially well with serum, silicone, keratin formulations.

The simple application of the device helps to achieve some improvement in the general condition of the hair. But the effect of the use of ultrasonic ironing is most clearly visible on clean, slightly dried strands, with a cosmetic applied to them. If there is too much moisture, the device may squeak during operation, the hair will slightly heat up - this should be taken into account. In salon procedures, it is quite smooth and slow to pass through the strand 1 time, home use allows repeated processing to enhance the effect.

After repeated processing with an infrared iron, it is possible to close the previously opened hair scales, sealing them. It is at this stage that tangled hair, lack of shine, and fragility are eliminated.

Among the popular models of cold irons with ultrasound, there are some options that deserve attention.

• Happy Hair Molecule Professional. Professional model to enhance the efficiency of salon treatments. The device in a stylish case looks quite impressive, it is not equipped with an information display, the controls are placed on the side panel. The device does not support the operation of each of the plates separately; there are versions with narrow and wide working surfaces. This iron has an optimal wave frequency, it is successfully used in lamination, keratin hair straightening in a hairdressing salon.

• KIKI Ultrasonic. Inexpensive infrared iron for home use. The set includes a power adapter, a digital display with adjustable parameters, there is a russified instruction. The iron does not imply the use of plates separately - when connected to the network, the device is immediately ready for use, with continuous operation for more than 40 minutes, slight heating of the case may be observed. The model is sold on Chinese trading floors and has a low build quality.

• BB One Technology Ultrasonic & Infrared. Professional grade infrared iron with information display, there is an adjustment of the exposure time from 2 to 18 seconds. The model is compact, has a stylish body, looks solid and presentable. Professional status affects the duration of continuous operation of the device, helps to use it longer without disconnecting from the network.

In order for the infrared iron to be effective enough in work, its choice must be treated as carefully as possible. In Russia today there is not a very large range of such products, and they are intended mainly for professional use. But do not be afraid of possible difficulties, mastering the use of the device will not be difficult at all. You just need to choose the right device in terms of parameters, and for this you should consider important points.

In order for the use of an infrared iron to be comfortable enough, you need to take care of the correct choice of an ergonomic device. It is imperative to choose a model with a non-slip handle and a pliers length of no more than 40 cm. All controls should be positioned so that they can be pressed with one touch and effortlessly.

The weight of the device also matters. It is optimal if it does not exceed 400 g. Professional models weigh about 900 g, but they are not intended for independent use. It is worth paying attention to the length of the cord - it is good if it reaches 2-2.5 m and does not greatly depend on the location of the outlet.

The presence of a function by which the operating mode is adjusted is an important point in the operation of the device. With the help of switches, it is possible to activate each of the plates separately or use them together. In addition, it is possible to select the heating mode for each of the panels. This functionality is usually only possessed by devices equipped with an information display. By adjusting the parameters, the exposure time is also set - usually the range is 3, 5, 10 or 18 seconds.

By using the regulation of the radiation power in the ultrasonic plate, it is possible to change the size of the molecules and regulate the intensity of absorption. If a care product is being tested for the first time or there is doubt about the quality level, a minimum level should be set. In the case of adjusting infrared radiation, it is imperative to monitor the condition of the hair. The more they are damaged, the higher the power should be. The wave frequency considered to be optimal:

• 25000-40000 Hz for ultrasound;
• 650-700 nanometers for infrared radiation.

Since ultrasonic irons are not yet very common, problems with their warranty service arise quite often. When buying, it is worth checking the availability of service centers authorized by the manufacturer on the territory of the place of purchase. These can be large repair centers or private workshops. If there is no developed service network, the warranty must include the possibility of exchanging broken goods within 12, 24 or 36 months after purchase.

An infrared iron should be checked for proper functioning after purchase, before it comes into contact with hair for the first time. It is enough to put a little water on the ultrasonic part (a few drops) and turn on the device. After that, you can put it into working mode and bring the plates closer together. Within a short time, the moisture should "boil" and evaporate completely from the surface, turning into a cold fog visible to the eye. If this effect is not observed, you need to contact the seller to check the serviceability of the equipment.

In order for the infrared iron to demonstrate high efficiency during operation, it is imperative to follow certain rules.

• Choose the right hair product. It can be a leave-in mask, balm, serum, spray, oil, nourishing emulsion. The composition should have a medicinal base, preferably without parabens or silicone. The greatest effect can be achieved in combination with products that have a smoothing, thickening effect on the hair.
• It is imperative to apply the selected composition to clean, dried hair. Distribute the composition with fingers or a fine comb, paying special attention to problem areas. It should take 10-15 minutes before you start working with the iron.
• The hair needs to be divided into 2 parts. The top is first secured at the top with a hairdressing clip. Processing begins from the bottom strand, in the back of the head. Its width should be about 30 mm.
• The strand is clamped between the plates of the included apparatus in the root area, and the working surface of the iron is stretched along it. Processing should take no more than 18 seconds, this is the time for long strands. 1 curl is processed 2-5 times. The procedure is performed from the back of the head to the face, on each side.
• After treating all hair at the bottom from the top, you need to gradually separate one strand and carry it out with an iron.

According to most buyers, infrared irons are really useful and necessary devices that every hairdresser needs. In home care, they are relevant for women and girls with long hair - damaged, tired, brittle and fragile. If you do not want to regularly spend money on paying for keratin recovery, it is enough for the price of one such procedure to purchase a technical tool with which you can perform home care. Customers note that with an infrared iron, the oil absorption time is reduced from 6 hours to 30 minutes.

But not all reviews are positive. Most often, the problems are associated with the fact that the goods are purchased in random stores, often with shipment from China, and sometimes does not even have a Russified instruction. Sometimes buyers are not happy with the results of the first procedures. But experienced users of this technique know that the effect is cumulative, and after 3-4 treatments, the impression often changes. According to fans of cold vaporizers, they solve many problems - eliminate dryness, help enhance the effect of masks, oils, serums in ampoules, which are necessary for deep restoration of the hair structure.

In the next video, you will find a review of the Molecule Professional infrared ultrasonic iron.