Hair straightening tongs: features and choices

A beautiful hairstyle is one of the main components of the image of a modern girl. To make unruly hair smooth and even, the fair sex uses various devices, while curling tongs are especially popular with them. This device allows you to speed up the hair styling process. It is presented on the market in a huge range of models, each of which differs in functionality and design features.

The straightener is a unique tool for straightening strands. Its principle of action is aimed at ridding hair of excess moisture, which is often hidden deep in layers and can change the structure of curls depending on weather conditions. Due to heating, water molecules evaporate, wavy strands acquire a beautiful, even appearance.

The main elements in this device are the pliers with heated flat plates and the regulator, which is responsible for heating and maintaining a certain temperature level. The width of the plates can be different and depends on the technical characteristics of the device. As for the thermostat, it is built into the handle of the device and has a protective function against overheating in many models.

Smoothing curls largely depends on how the tool works. For example, dry forceps are the most effective, but they attack the hair aggressively. The high temperature of the plates makes it easy to align the strands in one go, since the moisture curling the strands comes out of their rods instantly.Electric tongs level the strands not with plates, but with special metal teeth, which must be well heated before laying.

Tongs for straightening strands are available in various types, each of which differs in the principle of operation, has its own pros and cons. Distinguish between simple and professional models, while the latter type is intended for both straightening and curling. Depending on the mechanism of action on the curls, devices are divided into three main types.

Plain tongs are the most popular. Their construction consists of special plates made of metal. They heat up quickly and can burn your hair. To protect the strands from damage, experts recommend purchasing devices with plates with anodized or tourmaline coating. They have a softer effect and smooth hair well.

Simple pliers, on the plates of which a ceramic layer is applied, have proven themselves very well. This device is small and evenly straightens the strands along their entire length, it is suitable even for medium-length strands. The main advantages of simple rectifiers include the following:

• convenient and easy-to-use design;
• fast process of creating a hairstyle due to the high heating of the plates;
• a huge selection of modifications with different types of plates;
• long-lasting leveling effect, which lasts up to 3-4 days;
• the presence of a thermostat that allows you to select the appropriate temperature regime.

In addition, some modifications of such irons are available with an ionization function, which provides additional care for the curls. As for the shortcomings, then simple tongs are not recommended for wet hair. They often damage hair. Also, products with a protective coating are expensive.

Straighteners with steam are also in great demand among ladies. Steam mini-devices allow you to make a gentle styling, as their plates are heated to a low temperature. They are great for daily use. With these models, you can choose any operating mode, the steam gives the strands a chic look (they become smooth and shiny).

Multifunctional devices such as multi-stylers are also available on the market. This is a modern curling iron, which includes many different attachments, the iron itself and a round comb. The main element of the design is the handle, it is on it that all attachments are put on. The advantages of the device include the following:

• uniform but accelerated heating of the plates;
• the possibility of widespread use due to a variety of useful attachments;
• protection of plates with modern ceramic coating.

In addition, manufacturers often supplement this type of rectifier with a travel bag and a cooling mat. The disadvantages of the device are the absence of a temperature regulator and a rather high price.

The most budgetary option is considered to be a 2-in-1 curling iron, which is also often called comb-straightener. Outwardly, the device resembles an ordinary massage comb, but it is equipped with a heater, under the influence of which the hair is not only combed, but also straightened. Thanks to the constant use of these irons, the curls acquire a well-groomed look. The advantages of the device include - compact size, long service life and the ability to straighten hair from root to tip. Flaw - the device does not cope well with thick and wavy strands.

Household hair straighteners are available for both household (home) and professional use in beauty salons. The latter options are much more expensive than the simple ones, and they also act on the hair less aggressively. Cheaper models provide excellent styling results, but since they can "burn" the hair, it is recommended to purchase them for infrequent use.

This is a budget type of ply with good characteristics. The forceps plates are protected from overheating by a ceramic coating and can operate at a maximum temperature of + 180 ° C. The power of the tool is 25 W, the dimensions of the plates are 26x87 mm.

It is an inexpensive version of the rectifier, which, in addition to versatility, has a beautiful design and ceramic coating of the heating elements. As for the disadvantages, such a curling iron has insufficient length.

These are quality pliers that are sold at an affordable price. This model can be used both at home and by professional craftsmen in salons. It is equipped with overheating protection, 5 operating modes and can heat plates up to + 230 ° C. In addition, the package includes an ionization function, LCD display and a convenient carrying case. There are no downsides.

Provides fast and high-quality hair straightening. This appliance is great for daily use as it has a temperature regulator and a protective cover. In addition, the model is equipped with a convenient display and can be used for curling strands. The device has no drawbacks, except for its high cost.

It is considered one of the best models, since it ideally combines quality with price. The plates of the device are heated up to + 210 ° С, their length is 10 cm, width - 28 mm. The plates are covered with a tourmaline layer, which protects the hair from damage during styling. The design is complemented by a long cord (1.8 m) and a convenient indicator light. The only drawback of the model is the lack of an ionization function.

To purchase high-quality straightening tongs, you need to pay attention to the main characteristics of the device, since they may be different for each model. Therefore, when going shopping, it is important to consider several indicators.

• The material from which the heating elements are made. Pliers are usually made of metal, but they can also be coated with marble, Teflon, ceramic, or tourmaline. Since the material of the plates is in direct contact with the hair, models with a protective coating should be preferred. They keep the strands healthy and safe by preventing damage while straightening.

• The presence of a temperature controller... Many models of devices are capable of heating the work surface up to + 240 ° C in 10 seconds, but for weak hair, a lower temperature is required when styling. Therefore, it is necessary to choose devices with a special mode regulator, it will allow you to select the optimal temperature level depending on the type of strands and the desired effect. Thermoregulators are electronic and mechanical.The first option is characterized by precise control of the effect on the hair, excluding unnecessary overheating, and the second requires constant adjustment, which is inconvenient during the operation of the device.
• Laser ionization. This function neutralizes positively charged particles during heat exposure of the hair, during which negative ions are formed. Due to the presence of such opportunities, the strands lose natural moisture less and no static charge appears on them. The cuticle is straightened, and the curls acquire a natural shine.
• The weight of the device. The convenience of using the tool depends on this indicator, since with a large weight, the tension of the muscles of the hands will increase. Irons, depending on the design, can weigh from 270 to 800 g. Therefore, when buying tongs, you need to take them in your hand and determine whether they will be convenient for use. It is important to remember that you will have to hold the iron in your hand for 15 to 40 minutes during installation, in this regard, it is recommended to give preference to models with light weight.
• Cord length. It should be comfortable, a short electric wire will complicate the process of hair straightening and may cause excessive tension in the muscles of the hands, while a cord that is too elongated, on the contrary, will interfere and get confused. The optimal length is considered to be 3 m. This indicator should be chosen taking into account the distance of the outlet from the planned installation site.
• The shape and width of the heating plates. For short hair, it is best to purchase tongs with narrow plates, since wide ones when styling can cause a lot of inconvenience and cause burns. As for the long hair, then devices with wider thermoplates are suitable for it, they will reduce the performance time, covering the entire length of the strand. Experts recommend choosing the width of the plates in this way: for curls up to 12 cm long - from 1.5 to 2 cm, for medium haircuts - up to 2.5 cm, for long curls - 5 cm. The plates can be rounded and straight in shape.

In addition to all of the above, when purchasing a hair straightener, you also need to check with the store about the availability of service and warranty for the product. Of course, when buying a quality product, you will rarely have to contact a service center.

Once you have purchased your hair straightening tongs, you can easily do any type of styling at home. But in order to destroy the hair structure less and extend the life of the device, it must be used correctly. If such a procedure is done for the first time, then a few simple recommendations will help novice masters in this.

• You should start straightening the curls with their preparation., which will provide them not only with a beautiful view, but also preserve their health. Curls should be well washed and dried, since curling or flattening with an iron on wet spinning wheels is prohibited. Straightening wet curls, you can harm them, since a lot of moisture will evaporate from the depth of the rod. To achieve the perfect shine and smoothness of your hair, you can use special conditioners and shampoos that contain plant-based ingredients before styling. They greatly facilitate alignment, as they help smooth the cuticle.
• It is good to apply a foam or mousse before styling on damp curls, after which they are dried with a hairdryer. This type of thermal protection is suitable for all types of hair. As for products in the form of light sprays, they are usually used on damaged and thin hair that is devoid of volume. Such preparations contain unique ingredients that give the curls density. They should be applied immediately after drying the hair and before laying with a curling iron, the composition should dry well.Weak and damaged hair, which is often colored, especially needs heat protection. To do this, they should be treated with rich lotions and creams with a high level of protection. They are applied to previously washed and dried strands, give time to dry and proceed to leveling.
• After the strands are ready for heat treatment, the alignment procedure itself begins. The hair must be divided into separate strands, starting from the parietal zone. So that the rest of the curls do not interfere, they are fixed with clamps. Only the occipital and lateral zones remain free. Hair is pulled in small strands using heated tweezers. At the same time, in the process of straightening, the strands must be slightly supported, and uniform movements must be performed with an iron.
• When the occipital and lateral parts are straightened, they proceed to the parietal zone. Each treated strand is given time to cool down. When the length of the hair reaches the shoulder line, it is necessary to additionally walk along the ends with an iron. To do this, the curls are divided into a straight parting and with the help of an ordinary comb, the tips are raised, after which they are leveled.

After each procedure for straightening the curls, the device must be cleaned, since a contaminating layer may appear on the plates, and it is harmful. The tongs should be cleaned in the disconnected state with complete cooling. It is recommended to wipe the device with a damp cloth previously moistened with soapy water. Do not clean the device with products containing abrasive components.

Today, many women have appreciated such a household appliance as straightening tongs. Thanks to this unique device, they have an excellent opportunity to do their own styling at home. The main advantages of the girl's device include convenient use, the ability to create different hairstyles. But most professional models equipped with various functions and additional thermal protection are expensive, so not everyone can afford them.

For information on how to choose a hair straightener, see the next video.